OPERATOR’S MANUAL 250 Z Series (Snapper) Mfg. No. 7800009 7800010 Description RZT185380BVE, 18.5HP Zero-Turn Rider with 38” Mower RZT20420BVE2, 20HP Zero-Turn Rider with 42” Mower Javelin Series (Simplicity) Mfg. No. 2690476 Description RZT20380KH, 20HP Zero-Turn Rider with 38” Mower Form No. 7100313 Revision 02 Rev.
Table of Contents Safety Rules & Information.................................2 Identification Numbers........................................5 Safety Decals .......................................................6 Safety Interlock System ......................................7 Features & Controls ............................................8 Troubleshooting, Adjustments & Service .......21 Troubleshooting the Rider .....................................21 Troubleshooting the Mower ..........................
Safety Rules & Information ! IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ! WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine.
Safety Rules and Information ! IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS PREPARATION OPERATION (Continued From Previous Page) 6. Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with mowing. 7. Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately STOP blades, STOP engine, and STOP machine if anyone enters the area. 8.
Safety Rules and Information IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ! ! TOWING MAINTENANCE 1. (Continued From Previous Column) 6. Always provide adequate ventilation when running engine. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly poison. 7. Disconnect negative (black) cable from battery before performing maintenance or service. Cranking engine could cause injury. 8. DO NOT work under machine without safety blocks. 9. Service engine and make adjustments only when engine is stopped.
Identification Numbers Identification Numbers SA Snapper M PL Models E Unit ID Tag SA Simplicity PRODUCT M Models REFERENCE DATA Model Description Name/Number PL E When contacting your authorized dealer for replacement parts, service, or information you MUST have these numbers. Record your model name/number, manufacturer’s identification numbers, and engine serial numbers in the space provided for easy access. These numbers can be found in the locations shown.
Safety Decals SAFETY DECALS This unit has been designed and manufactured to provide you with the safety and reliability you would expect from an industry leader in outdoor power equipment manufacturing. All DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and instructional messages on your rider and mower should be carefully read and obeyed. Personal bodily injury can result when these instructions are not followed. The information is for your safety and it is important! The safety decals below are on your rider and mower.
Safety Decals (Cont.) & Interlock System Checks SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEM This unit is equipped with safety interlock switches. These safety systems are present for your safety, do not attempt to bypass safety switches, and never tamper with safety devices. Check their operation regularly. Operational SAFETY Checks TEST 1 — ENGINE SHOULD NOT CRANK IF: • PTO switch is engaged, OR • Motion control levers are not locked in their NEUTRAL LOCKED positions.
Features & Controls CONTROL FUNCTIONS The information below briefly describes the function of individual controls. Starting, stopping, driving, and mowing require the combined use of several controls applied in specific sequences. To learn what combination and sequence of controls to use for various tasks see the OPERATION section. Engine Speed Control Motion Control Levers The engine speed control controls engine speed.
Features & Controls Fuel Tank Cap Ignition Switch To remove the cap, turn counterclockwise. The ignition switch starts and stops the engine; it has three positions: OFF RUN Mower Cutting Height Adjustment Lever Stops the engine and shuts off the electrical system. The mower cutting height is adjustable from 1-1/2” to 4”, in 1/2” increments. See CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT for adjustment information. Allows the engine to run and powers the electrical system.
Operation GENERAL OPERATING SAFETY CHECKS BEFORE STARTING Before first time operation: • Check that the crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick. See the engine owner’s manual for instructions and oil recommendations. • Be sure to read all information in the Safety and Operation sections before attempting to operate this rider and mower. • Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in place and secure. • Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop the unit.
Operation STARTING THE ENGINE 9. Stop the engine (see STOPPING THE RIDER AND ENGINE). 1. While sitting in the operator’s seat, make sure the PTO switch is disengaged and the motion control levers are locked in the NEUTRAL LOCKED position. PUSHING THE RIDER BY HAND 1. Disengage the PTO, lock the motion control levers into their neutral locked positions, turn the ignition OFF, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop. 2. Set the engine speed control to FAST position.
Operation ZERO TURN DRIVING PRACTICE Smooth Travel The motion control levers of the zero turn rider are responsive . The motion control levers of the zero turn rider are responsive, and learning to gain a smooth and efficient control of the rider’s forward, reverse, and turning movements will take some practice. The BEST method of handling the ground speed levers is in three steps — as shown in Figure 3.
Operation Practice Turning Around a Corner Practice Turning In Place While traveling forward allow one lever to gradually return back toward neutral. Repeat several times. To turn in place, “zero turn,” gradually move one motion control lever forward from neutral and one lever back from neutral simultaneously. Repeat several times. NOTE: To prevent pivoting directly on the tire tread, it is best to keep both wheels going at least slightly forward.
Operation ATTACHING A TRAILER A The maximum weight of a towed trailer should be less than 200 lbs (91kg). Secure the trailer with an appropriately sized clevis pin (A, Figure 9) and clip (B). Excessive towed loads can cause loss of traction and loss of control on slopes. Reduce towed weight when operating on slopes. The surface being driven on greatly impacts traction and stability. Wet or slippery surfaces can greatly reduce traction and the ability to stop or turn.
Operation 4. Remove the hairpin clips (D, Figure 11) and clevis pins (C) securing the rear deck brackets (A) to the rear hanger arms (B). B 5. Remove the hairpin clips (C, Figure 12) from the front hanger bar (A) and slide the washers (D) in away from the front deck bracket (B). Retain all removed hardware. D 6. Slide the mower deck forward slightly and unhook the front hanger bar (A, Figure 12) from the slots in the front deck bracket. A C 7.
Regular Maintenance MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE & PROCEDURES The following schedule should be followed for normal care of your rider and mower. You will need to keep a record of your operating time. Determining operating time is easily accomplished by observing the elapsed time recorded by the hour meter.
Regular Maintenance LUBRICATION Lubricate the unit at the points shown in Figure 13, as well as the others listed in this section. Grease: Oil: • front caster wheel axles • motion control lever pivot points • front caster spindle bosses • discharge chute hinge • front axle center pivot • deck lift pivot points • mower deck arbors (blade spindles) * Generally, all moving metal parts should be oiled where contact is made with other parts. Keep oil and grease off belts and pulleys.
Regular Maintenance WARNING For your personal safety, do not handle the sharp mower blades with bare hands. Careless or improper handling of blades may result in serious injury. WARNING For your personal safety, blade mounting hardware must be installed with supplied blade washers, then securely tightened to noted torque. LOOSEN Figure 14. Blade Removal SERVICING THE MOWER BLADES Service Interval: Every 10 Hours or As Required 1. Remove mower deck (see “Mower Deck Removal”). Workbench 2.
Regular Maintenance CHECK TIRE PRESSURES Tire pressure should be checked periodically, and maintained at the levels shown in the chart. Note that these pressures may differ slightly from the “Max Inflation” stamped on the side-wall of the tires. The pressures shown provide proper traction, improve cut quality, and extend tire life. CHECKING / ADDING FUEL Tire Pressure To add fuel: Front 25 psi (1,72 bar) 1. Remove the fuel cap. 2. Fill the tank to the bottom of the filler neck.
Regular Maintenance BATTERY MAINTENANCE Cleaning the Battery and Cables 1. Disconnect the cables from the battery, negative cable first (C, Figure 19). 2. Clean the battery terminals and cable ends with a wire brush until shiny. B A 3. Reinstall the battery and reattach the battery cables, positive cable first (A). C 4. Coat the cable ends and battery terminals with petroleum jelly or non-conducting grease. 5. Be sure to replace the terminal cover (B) over the positive battery terminal.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service TROUBLESHOOTING WARNING While normal care and regular maintenance will extend the life of your equipment, prolonged or constant use may eventually require that service be performed to allow it to continue operating properly. To avoid serious injury, perform maintenance on the rider or mower only when the engine is stopped and the parking brake engaged.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service Rider Troubleshooting Continued. PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY Engine runs, but rider will not drive. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 1. 2. 1. 2. 1. 2. 1. Unlock roll release rod(s). 2. See Drive Belt Replacement. 3. See problem and cause below. 4. See Brake Adfjustment. 5. See authorized service dealer 1. Clean as required. 2. Replace belt. 1. See Brake Adjustment. 2. See authorized service dealer. 1. Check and tighten any loose connections. 2. See Regular Maintenance Section.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service A A B C B Figure 21. Motion Control Lever Adjustments A. Lever Height Adjustment Hardware B. Lever Placement Adjustment Hardware C. Forward Adjust Plate Figure 20. Seat Adjustment A. Adjustment Knobs B. Support bolts SPEED BALANCING ADJUSTMENT If the rider veers to the right or left when the motion control levers are in the maximum forward position, the top speed of each of these levers can be balanced. Only adjust the speed of the wheel that is traveling faster.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service MOTION CONTROL LEVER FRICTION ADJUSTMENT F B E D The motion control levers should be tight when moving in and out of their neutral locked positions. If the levers are loose, the lever friction should be adjusted. C To adjust friction: Loosen the outside nut (C, Figure 21a) securing the motion control lever (A) to the control bracket weldment (B). Tighten the inner nut (D) against the bellville washer (E) to 10 ft-lbs.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENTS If the machine creeps while the motion control levers are locked into their neutral locked positions, then it may be necessary to adjust the link rods. A Perform this adjustment on a hard level surface such as a concrete floor. IMPORTANT NOTE: This adjustment should be performed with the engine OFF. Perform the adjustment, then start the engine to check the adjustment.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service PARKING BRAKE ADJUSTMENT D E Brake Adjustment 1. Disengage the PTO, stop the engine, block the front wheels, remove the ignition key, and lock the motion control levers into their neutral lock positions. F C 2. Elevate the rear end of the unit, making sure it is safely supported. 3.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service A B B B C B Figure 26. Adjust PTO Clutch A. Window B. Adjustment Nut C. .016”-.018” (0,40-0,45mm) Feeler Gauge A Figure 25. PTO Clutch Adjustment A. Adjustment Window (Qty. 3, one shown) B. Adjustment Nut PTO CLUTCH ADJUSTMENT WARNING Check the PTO clutch adjustment after the initial 25 hour break-in period and then after every 250 hours of operation.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service A B C Figure 27. Orient Blades Side-to-Side Figure 28. Measure Blade Tips to Ground A. Mower Deck C. Level Ground B. Blade Tip MOWER DECK LEVELING Perform these adjustments on a flat level surface. Be sure to check and adjust tire pressures before leveling the mower deck SIDE-TO-SIDE LEVELING 1. With the mower installed, place the rider on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor. Turn the front wheels so they are straight. 2.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service 8. To adjust the front of the mower deck, use the adjusting nuts on the front hanger bar (A, Figure 31) until the desired measurement is achieved. Be sure to adjust both nuts the same amount. 9. Re-check the blade measurement then repeat steps 7 - 9 as necessary. A Figure 31. Mower Leveling - Front-to-Back A. Front Leveling Nuts ROLLER BAR LEVELING (If Equipped) A 1. First level the mower deck using the procedure found in MOWER DECK LEVELING. 2.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service TRANSMISSION DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT E 1. Park the rider on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor. Disengage the PTO, lock the motion control levers into their neutral locked positions, turn off the engine, and remove the ignition key. C F C 2. Remove the mower belt from the PTO pulley (see MOWER BELT REPLACEMENT for instructions). 3.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service D C E B D C E B A A Figure 34. Mower Belt Routing - 38” & 42” Decks A. Right Arbor Pulley B. Left Arbor Pulley C. PTO Pulley D. Stationary Idler E. Belt Tensioning Idler Figure 35. Belt Guide Locator Tab (38” Mower Deck Belt Tensioning Idlers) A. Belt Guide B. Locator Tab C. Idler Arm D. Alignment Hole E. Idler Pulley MOWER BELT REPLACEMENT To avoid damaging belts, DO NOT PRY BELTS OVER PULLEYS. 38” & 42” Decks: 1.
Troubleshooting, Adjustments, & Service FUSE REPLACEMENT 1. Park the rider on a smooth, level surface such as a concrete floor. Disengage the PTO, lock the motion control levers into their neutral locked positions, turn off the engine, and remove the ignition key. 2. Raise the seat. The fuse holders are located on the right side of the rear seat support. 3. Remove and check the suspected fuse (or fuses). If blown, replace with a fuse with a rating equal to the ratings indicated in Figure 36.
Specifications NOTE: Specifications are correct at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. * Actual sustained equipment horsepower will likely be lower due to operating limitations and environmental factors. ENGINE: TRANSMISSIONS: 18.5 HP* Briggs & Stratton Make Model Horsepower Displacement Electrical System Oil Capacity Hydro-Gear ZA-DHBB-2D5A-2DCX (LH) ZA-AHBB-2D5A-2DCX (RH) Briggs & Stratton 18.5 hp Intek 18.5 @ 3400 rpm 30.59 Cu. in (501 cc) 12 Volt, 16 amp.
Parts & Accessories REPLACEMENT PARTS TECHNICAL MANUALS Replacement parts are available from your authorized dealer. Always use genuine Simplicity/Snapper Service Parts. Additional copies of this manual are available, as well as fully illustrated parts lists. These manuals show all of the product’s components in exploded views (3D illustrations which show the relationship of parts and how they go together) as well as part numbers and quantities used.
PRODUCTS, INC. McDonough, GA., 30253 www.snapper.com M A N U FA C T U R I N G , I N C . 500 N Spring Street / PO Box 997 Port Washington, WI 53074-0997 www.simplicitymfg.com © Copyright 2006, Simplicity Manufacturing, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Printed in USA.
