Simplicity VRX14538G-A User manual

Not for

Reproduction

SIDE DISCHARGE MODELS

REAR CATCH MODELS

IMPORTANT

READ THIS BOOK CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATING THIS MACHINE

OPERATOR MANUAL

VRX SERIES RIDE LAWNMOWER RANGE

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2

Dear Customer,

Thank you for having chosen one of our products.

We hope that you will get complete satisfaction

from using your new machine and that it will fully

meet all your expectations.

This manual has been written to help you become

familiar with the machine and use it safely and

efficiently. Do not forget that this manual is an

integral part of the machine, so keep it close at

hand for future reference and pass it on to the

purchaser if you sell the machine.

This new lawnmower has been designed & built in

compliance with international standards (Machinery

Directive 2006/42/CE), & is safe & reliable if used

for cutting grass following the instructions given in

this manual (proper usage). If you use the machine

in any other way or ignore the instructions for safe

use, maintenance and repair, it is considered

"incorrect usage" (

5.1). In this case, the

warranty is automatically voided & the Manufacturer

is not held responsible for damage or injury to

oneself or others.

Note that some models will progressively update in

compliance with new standard ISO 5395 & may

include additional features that will affect normal

usage.

INTRODUCTION

INTENDED USE

This machine was designed & built to cut grass.

The use of special accessories provided for by

the Manufacturer as original equipment or

which may be purchased separately, allows this

work to be done in various operating modes,

illustrated in this manual or the instructions that

accompany the single accessories.

Likewise, the intended use can be amplified to

include other functions by applying

supplementary tools (if provided for by the

Manufacturer), abiding by the restrictions &

conditions indicated in the instructions

accompanying the equipment.

IMPROPER USE

Any other usage not in keeping with the

abovementioned ones may be hazardous &

harm persons and/or damage things. Examples

of improper use may include, but are not limited

to:

– transporting people, children or animals on

the machine or on a trailer;

– towing or pushing loads without the use of

the specific accessory for towing;

– use of the machine for riding over unstable,

slippery, icy, stony, rough, marshy ground or

puddles that do not allow the consistency of

the ground to be assessed;

– use the blades on surfaces other than grass.

– use of the machine for leaf or debris

collection.

Improper use of the machine will invalidate the

warranty, relieve the Manufacturer from all

liabilities, and the user will consequently be

liable for all and any damage or injury to

himself or others.

AFTER-SALES SERVICE

This manual gives all the necessary instructions

for using the machine & carrying out basic

maintenance.

Any adjustments or maintenance operations

not described in this manual must be

carried out by your Dealer or a specialized

Service Centre. Both have the necessary

knowledge and equipment to ensure that

the work is done correctly without affecting

the safety of the machine.

If you wish, you can ask your dealer to prepare

a maintenance programme personalised to

your needs. This will help you keep your new

purchase in peak performance and maintain its

value over time.

To contact your closest Victa Authorised Service Centre, you will find the latest

Service Centre listing on the Victa website, www.victa.com.au or by contact

Victa Customer Service on 1800 356 632.

This may include limitations with regards

to reverse movement operations and can

be identified in the addition of the reverse

button (4.4) located on the dashboard of

some models.

4.4

Since we regularly improve our products, you may

find slight differences between your machine and

the descriptions contained in this manual.

Modifications can be made to the machine without

notice and without the obligation to update the

manual, although the essential safety and function

characteristics will remain unaltered. If in doubt, do

not hesitate to contact your dealer.

This machine is a garden tool & precisely a ride-on

mower.

The machine is equipped with an engine which

drives a cutting unit protected by a casing, as well

as a transmission unit that moves the machine.

The operator is able to operate the machine and

use the main controls, always seated in the

operator’s position.

The devices fitted on the machine stop the engine

and the cutting device within a few seconds, should

the operator behave in a manner that does not

comply with the necessary safety precautions.

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1. SAFETY ....................................................................................................................

Regulations for using the machine safely

2. IDENTIFICATION OF THE MACHINE AND COMPONENTS ..................................

How to identify the machine and its main components

3. UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY .................................................................................

How to remove the packing and assemble loose parts

4. CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS ............................................................................

Position and functions of all the controls

5. HOW TO USE THE MACHINE ..................................................................................

Instructions for working efficiently and safely

5.1 Safety recommendations ......................................................................................

5.2 Why the safety devices cut in ..............................................................................

5.3 Preliminary operations before starting work ........................................................

5.4 Using the machine ...............................................................................................

5.5 Using on slopes ...................................................................................................

5.6 Transporting the machine .....................................................................................

5.7 Lawn maintenance ................................................................................................

6. MAINTENANCE .........................................................................................................

All the information for maintaining the machine in peak efficiency

6.1 Safety recommendations ......................................................................................

6.2 Routine maintenance ............................................................................................

6.3 Interventions on the machine ...............................................................................

7. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ............................................................................

Advice on machine use and respecting the environment

8. TROUBLESHOOTING ...............................................................................................

A help in quickly solving problems

9. ACCESSORIES ON REQUEST ................................................................................

A description of the accessories available for special requirements

10. SPECIFICATIONS ......................................................................................................

A summary of the main specifications of your machine

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1

5

6

13

16

17

21

25

26

27

28

32

34

35

37

38

WARRANTY - NOTE PRODUCT WARRANTY DETAILS ARE NOT WRITTEN WITHIN

IN THIS OPERATORS MANUAL. REFER TO OTHER DOCUMENTS SUPPLIED WITH

MACHINE FOR PRODUCT WARRANTY DETAILS.

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1.1 HOW TO READ THE MANUAL

Some paragraphs in the manual containing important information regarding safety and

operation are emphasized in the following ways:

NOTE

or

IMPORTANT

These give details or further information

on what has already been said, in the aim to prevent damage to the machine.

WARNING!

Non-observance will result in the risk of injury to oneself

or others.

DANGER!

Non-observance will result in the risk of serious injury or death to

oneself or others

This manual describes various versions of the machine, which mainly differ as follows:

– type of transmission: with either mechanical gear change or hydrostatic continuous

speed adjustment. The models with hydrostatic transmission are identified by the word

"HYDRO" on the identification label (

2.1);

– the inclusion of components or accessories which are not widely available;

– special equipment fitted.

The symbol “

” highlights all the differences in usage and is followed by the

indication of the version to which it refers.

The symbol “

” refers to another part of the manual where further information can be

found.

1. SAFETY

NOTE

Positions on the ma chine, such as “front”, “back”, “left” or “right”

hand side, refer to the direction of forward travel.

IMPORTANT

For all operations regarding the use and

maintenance of the engine or the battery not described in this

manual, refer to the relevant manuals which form an integral

part of all the documentation supplied with the machine.

1.2 GENERAL SAFETY REGULATIONS

WARNING!

Read carefully before using the machine.

A) TRAINING

1) Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls

and how to use the equipment properly.

2) Never let children or people unfamiliar with these instructions use the machine.

Local regulations can restrict the age of the user.

3) Never mow while people, especially children, or pets are nearby.

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4) Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards

oc curring to other people or their pro perty.

5) Do not carry passengers.

6) All drivers should seek and obtain professional and practical instruction. Such

instruction should emphasise:

– the need for care and concentration when working with ride-on machines;

– you cannot use the brake to regain control of a ride-on machine sliding down a

slope. The main reasons for loss of control are:

– insufficient wheel grip;

– overspeeding;

– inadequate braking;

– the type of machine is unsuitable for its task;

– unawareness of the effect of ground conditions, especially slopes;

– incorrect hitching and load distribution.

B) PREPARATION

1) While mowing, always wear sturdy footwear and long trousers. Do not operate

the equipment barefoot or wearing open sandals.

2) Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and remove all

objects which can be ejected from the machine.

3) DANGER! Petrol is highly flammable:

– store fuel in containers specifically designed for this purpose;

– refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while refuelling;

– add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove the cap of the fuel tank or

add petrol while the engine is running or when the engine is hot;

– if you spill petrol, do not start the engine and move the machine away from the area

of spillage. Do not create any source of ignition until the petrol vapours have evapo-

rated;

– put back and tighten all fuel tank and container caps securely.

4) Replace faulty silencers.

5) Before use, always inspect the machine to check that the blades, blade bolts and

cutter assembly are not worn or damaged. Replace worn or damaged blades and bolts

in sets to preserve balance.

6) On multi-bladed machines, remember that the rotation of one blade can cause

other blades to rotate.

C) OPERATION

1) Do not start the engine in a confined space where dangerous carbon monoxide

fumes can collect.

2) Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

3) Before starting the engine, disengage the blades and shift into neutral.

4) Do not use on slopes of more than 10 Degrees.

5) Remember there is no such thing as a “safe” slope. Travelling on grass slopes

requires particular care. To guard against overturning:

– do not stop or start suddenly when going up or downhill;

– engage the drive slowly and always keep the machine in gear, especially when

travelling downhill;

– machine speeds should be kept low on slopes and during tight turns;

– stay alert for humps and hollows and other hidden hazards;

– never mow across the face of the slope.

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6) Use care when pulling loads or using heavy equipment:

– use only approved drawbar hitch points;

– limit loads to those you can safely control;

– do not turn sharply. Use care when reversing;

7) Disengage the blades before crossing surfaces other than grass.

8) Never use the machine with damaged guards, or without the safety

protective devices in place.

9) Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine as it

may void engine & product warranty. Operating the engine at excessive speed can

increase the risk of personal injury and may void warranty.

10) Before leaving the driving seat:

– disengage the blades and lower the attachments;

– go into neutral and apply the parking brake;

– stop the engine and remove the ignition key.

11) Disengage the blades, stop the engine and remove the ignition key:

– before clearing blockages or unclogging the discharge chute (side eject models) or

the rear bag grass collector chute;

– before cleaning, checking or servicing the machine;

– after striking a foreign object. Inspect the machine for damage and make repairs

before restarting and operating the machine;

– If the machine starts to vibrate abnormally (check for the causes immediately).

12) Disengage the blades for transport or whenever they are not in use.

13) Stop the engine and disengage the blades:

– before refuelling;

– before removing the grass catcher (rear bag collect models)

14) Reduce the throttle during engine r un-out. If the engine is provided with a shut-off

valve, cut off the fuel when you have finished mowing.

D) MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

1) Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working

condition.

2) Never store the equipment with petrol in the tank inside a building where fumes

may reach an open flame or spark.

3) Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.

4) To reduce fire hazards, keep the engine, silencer, battery compartment and petrol

storage area free of grass, leaves, or excessive grease.

5) Replace worn or damaged parts for safety purposes. Check the grass catcher

frequently for wear or deterioration (rear bag collect models). The catcher fabric is a

high wear item and may need to be replaced when worn. Always clean and empty

catcher before storing.

6) If the fuel tank has to be drained, this should be done outdoors.

7) On multi-bladed machines, remember that the rotation of one blade can cause

other blades to rotate.

8) When the machine is to be stored or left unattended, lower the cutting deck.

1. SAFETY (cont.)

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1.4 REGULATIONS FOR TOWING

A kit for towing a small trailer is supplied on some models.

This accessory is to be fitted following the instructions

provided.

When using the towing kit, do not exceed the

recommended loads stated on the label & follow the safety

instructions (

1.2, C-6).

1

Warning: Read the instructions before operating this machine.

2A

Danger! Ejected objects: Do not operate without the stone-guard in place.

(Side discharge models only)

Danger! Ejected objects: Do not operate without either the rear discharge guard or the

grass-catcher being in place. (Rear catch models only)

3

Danger! Ejected objects: Keep bystanders away.

4

Warning: Disconnect the ignition key and read the instructions before carrying out any

repair or maintenance work.

5

Danger! Machine rollover: Do not use this machine on slopes steeper then 10°.

6

Danger! Dismemberment: Make sure that children stay clear of the machine at all time

when engine is running.

Danger of cutting yourself. Blades in movement.

Do not put hands or feet near or under the opening of the cutting plate.

Warning! - Keep away from hot surfaces.

max 245 N (25 kg)

max 980 N (100 kg)

1.3 SAFETY LABELS

Your machine must be used with care. This is why labels with illustrations have

been placed on the machine, to remind you of the main precautions to take during

use.

These labels are to be considered an integral part of the machine.

Should a label come off or become illegible, contact your dealer to replace it.

Their meaning is explained below.

1

2A 3

4 5 6

1 2A 3

4 5

6

1 2A 3

4

5

6

1 2A 3

4

5 6

1 2A

3

4 5 6

7

8

7

8

2B

7

8

1

2A

3

4 5 6

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1

8

2

3

4

5

6

7

2.1 IDENTIFICATION OF THE MACHINE

The label located near the battery housing

has the essential data of each machine.

** Rear catch bag illustrated

(only available on selected models.)

1. Brand Marking

2. Model Number

3. Barcode Number

4. Date of Manufacture

5. Serial Number

6. Article Number

7. Noise Rating according to

Manufacturer test standard

2. IDENTIFICATION OF THE MACHINE & COMPONENTS

Write your machine’s serial number here (5)

2.2 IDENTIFICATION OF MAIN COMPONENTS

The main components of the machine have the following functions:

11. Cutting deck: this is the guard housing

the rotating blades.

12. Blades: these are what cut the grass.

The wings at the ends help convey the

cut grass towards the collector channel.

13A. Stone-guard or deflector: It is a

safety guard which prevents objects

drawn up by the blades from being

thrown outside of the machine.

(Side discharge models only)

13B. Collector channel: this is the part connecting the cutting deck to the grass-

catcher. (Rear catch models only)

13C. Grass-catcher: as well as collecting the grass cuttings, this is also a safety

element that stops any objects drawn up by the blades from being thrown

outside of the machine. (Rear catch models only)

14. Engine: this moves the blades and drives the wheels. Its specifications and

regulations for use are described in a specific manual.

15. Battery: provides the energy for starting the engine.

16. Driving seat: this is where the machine operator sits. It has a sensor

connected to safety devices for detecting the presence of the operator.

17. Regulation and safety labels: give reminders on the main regaulations for

working safely, each of which is explained in chapter 1.

18. Front Bumper: This is a safety guard and must be fitted to all machines.

16

13C**

17 14

13A**

11

15

12

18

13B**

**

** ITEMS ONLY ON SELECT MODELS

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3. UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY

6

For storage and transport purposes, some components of the machine are not

installed in the factory and have to be assembled after unpacking. Follow the

instructions below.

IMPORTANT

The machine is supplied without engine oil or fuel. Before

starting the engine, fill with oil and fuel following the instructions given in the

engine manual.

WARNING!

Unpacking and completing the assembly should be

done on a flat and stable surface, with enough space for machine handling

and its packaging, always making use of suitable equipment.

3.1 UNPACKING

When unpacking the machine, take care to gather all individual parts and fittings,

and do not damage the cutting deck when taking the machine off the pallet.

The packaging contains:

– the machine;

– the steering wheel;

– the dashboard cover;

– the seat;

– the battery;

– the front bumper

( 2.2, #18) If not preassembled in factory,

Check front of machine. Must be fitted.

– the stone-guard;

(Side discharge models only)

– the grass catcher (with instructions) (Rear catch models only)

– the lower part of the rear plate, the grass catcher brackets and accessories

necessary for completing and assembly (Rear catch models only)

NOTE

Only some model are supplied inclusive of some kits

such as the Mulching Plug, Tow Hitch and Battery Charger. These kits will

require assembly according to the instructions and are not factory fitted.

NOTE

To prevent damage to the cutting deck, raise it to its

maximum height and take upmost care when taking the machine off the pallet.

Hydrostatic transmission

To make it easier to get the machine off

the pallet and to move it, the drive disengage lever should be put in position

«B» (

4.33).

Disposal of the packaging should be done in

accordance with the local regulations in force.

3.2 FITTING THE STEERING WHEEL

Put the machine on a flat surface & straighten up

the front wheels.

Mount the hub (1) on the shaft (2), making sure

that the plug (3) is correctly fitted into the hub seat.

Fit the dashboard cover (4) clicking the seven

fasteners into place.

1

2

3

4

– an envelope containing:

– the operator’s manuals & documents,

– steering wheel assembly parts & seat

assembly bolts & screws

– stone-guard fasteners

(Side discharge models only)

– the connection screws for the battery

cables

– 2 starter keys,

– 1 spare 10 A fuse.

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First connect the red wire (3)

to the positive pole (+) and

then the black wire (4) to the

negative pole (–), using the

screws supplied as shown.

Apply silicone grease to the

terminals and check that the

protective cap for the red wire

(8) is in place.

IMPORTANT

Always fully charge the battery according to the instructions

in the battery’s manual (

6.2.3).

IMPORTANT

To prevent the safety device in the electronic circuit board

from cutting in, never start the engine until the battery is fully charged!

WARNING!

Do not use the machine without the spring (2) or with the

battery incorrectly fixed in its housing.

2

3

1

5

1

6

7

8

1

2

3

4

5

3. UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY (cont.)

Fit the steering wheel (5) onto the

hub (1) with the spokes directed

towards the seat.

Fit the spacer (6) and fasten the

steering wheel in place using the

screws supplied (7), in the indicated

order.

Fit the steering wheel cover (8)

clicking the three fasteners into place.

3.3 FITTING THE SEAT

Mount the seat (1) on the plate (2)

using the screws (3).

3.4 ASSEMBLY & CONNECTING

THE BATTERY

The battery (1) is housed under the

seat and secured by a spring (2).

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2b

1

3

2b

1

4

3

2

4a

5

4

5a

1

2

2a

2

8

3.6.1 FITTING THE SIDE DISCHARGE CHUTE - STONE GUARD

(SIDE DISCHARGE MODELS ONLY)

Inside the stone-guard (1), fit the spring (2) by inserting

the terminal (2a) into the hole and turning it so that both

the spring (2) and the terminal (2a) are securely

positoned in their seatings.

Position the stone-guard (1) in line with the cutting deck

brackets (3). Using a screwdriver, turn the second terminal

(2b) of the spring (2) to bring it outside the stoneguard.

Fit the pin (4) in the holes on the brackets (3) & on the stone-guard, so that it passes

thrugh the coils of the spring (2) & the drilled end comes out of the inner most bracket.

Fit the cotter pin (5) in the hole (4a) of the pin (4) & turn the pin until the two ends (5a)

of the split pin can be bend (using pliers), so that it cannot slip out and let the pin fall

out (4).

WARNING!

Check that the spring works correctly and keep the stone-guard securely lowered.

Make sure that the pin is fitted properly to prevent it from falling out accidently.

Do not use the machine without the Side Discharge Chute (Stone -Guard) (1)

correctly fitted. The Side Discharge Chute must be fitted at all times, regardless of

the use of a mulching plug.

3.5 FITTING THE FRONT BUMPER

Fit the Front Bumper (1) onto the chassis

mounting holes (5) and fasten in place

using screws (2) four places.

Note that access can be improved by

temporarily removing the Hood Bonned from

the Hinge (3), or by turning the steering

wheel to adjust the position of the wheel (4).

WARNING!

Do not use the

machine without the Front Bumper (1)

correctly fitted to the chassis (5)!

171505434/0

2

3

5

4

1

2b

1

3

2b

1

4

3

2

4a

5

4

5a

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2a

2

2b

1

3

2b

1

4

3

2

4a

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4

5a

1

2

2a

2

2b

1

3

2b

1

4

3

2

4a

5

4

5a

1

2

2a

2

2b

1

3

2b

1

4

3

2

4a

5

4

5a

1

2

2a

2

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3. UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY (cont.)

3.6.2 ASSEMBLY AND COMPLETING

THE REAR PLATE (Rear Catch

Models Only)

Assemble the two lower brackets (1) and

(2), following the assembly direction as

shown in the illustration, and fasten them

with the screws (3) and nuts (4), tightening

them completely.

Remove the two screws (8), which will be

used later.

Assemble the lower part (5) of the rear plate

and fasten it to the lower brackets with the

screws (6) and bolts (7), without tightening

them completely.

1

2

3

4

8

5

7

6

7

6

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Insert the lever (11) of the “grass-catcher

full” indicator into its seat (12) and push

it down until you hear a click.

Assemble the two grass-catcher

brackets (21) and (22), following

the assembly direction as shown

in the illustration, and fasten them

with the screws (23) and snap

washers (24), tightening them

rmly.

Finish fastening the lower part (5) of the

rear plate, completely tightening the two

central screws (8) that you previously

removed and the four upper screws (9);

then tighten the two lower nuts (7) com-

pletely.

5

8

9 9

99

11

12

24 23

21

24 23

22

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3.7 REPOSITIONING THE

ANTI-CHIPPING WHEELS

For transport reasons, on some

select models the anti-chipping

wheels (1) are fastened on the top

hole. In order for them to work

properly, the anti-chipping wheels (1)

must be repositioned in the hole

which is most suited for the type of

ground (

5.4.5).

3.8 FITTING & USING THE MULCHING PLUG (OPTIONAL) (SIDE DISCHARGE

MODELS ONLY)

NOTE

The mulching plug

kit is not supplied as standard on all

models. The mulching plug kit is not

factory assembled. Additional brackets

or other parts may be required if

Ordering Mulch Kits for models that do

not have the Mulch Plug supplied as

standard.

WARNING!

Always fit &

dismantle the accessory with the

engine off, after removing the ignition

key and engaging the parking brake.

You always need to work with the

stone-guard fitted properly even when

using the mulching plug accessory.

To fit, lift the stone-guard & place the

mulching plug over the cutter deck

opening.

Ensure the inner rib (2) of the Mulching

Plug locates inside the opening of the

cutter deck.

Roll the mulching plug into place so that

the rib (1) inserts beneath the stone guard

hinge (3).

Insert bolt from underside of cutter deck,

through the plug and secure on topside

using pin clip.

Before use or turning on the machine,

check that the plug is secure.

1

3. UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY (cont.)

1

2

3

4

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For a sound operation, mow the lawn frequently and regularly to reduce the height

of the grass.

Always avoid removing a large

quantity of grass, to avoid

blocking the cutting deck or

overloading the engine and the

cutting parts.

Regulate the forward speed

depending on the lawn

conditions and the quantity of

grass removed. The cutting

deck mulching plug recycles

grass inside the cutting deck,

chopping it into fine strands

and strewing them evenly on

the lawn.

The grass cuttings are left on the lawn, protecting it from drying out during

heatwaves. These finely chopped grass cuttings decompose quickly, nourishing

the soil.

3.9 FITTING THE TOW HITCH

(OPTIONAL)

When using the towing kit, do not

exceed the recommended loads (

1.4) & follow the safety

instructions (

1.2, C-6 & 1.4).

NOTE

The tow hitch kit is not supplied as

standard on all models.

The tow hitch kit is not factory

assembled.

To fit, remove two mounting hole caps

(1) by knocking out with a hammer &

pin.

Insert two mounting bracket studs (2)

through each mounting hole so that the

stud protrude outwards from the rear of

the machine.

Mount the main tow hitch bracket (3)

over the two mounting bracket studs (2)

and secure in place with nuts (4).

max 245 N (25

k

g)

max 980 N (100 kg)

1

2

3

4

MULCHING

SIDE EJECT

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4.1 STEERING WHEEL

Turns the front wheels.

4.2 THROTTLE

This regulates the engine's r.p.m.

The positions are indicated on a

plate showing the following sym-

bols:

«CHOKE» cold starting

«SLOW» for minimum engine

speed

«FAST» for maximum engine

speed

4. CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS

4.21-4.31

4.31

4.3

1

4.22

4.1

4.2

4.6

4.32

4.4

4.2a

4.5

4.2

4.2a

– The «CHOKE» position enriches the mixture so must

only be used for the time necessary when starting

from cold.

– When moving from one area to another, put the lever

in a position between «SLOW» and «FAST».

– When cutting, shift into «FAST».

4.2a CHOKE CONTROL (if fitted)

It enriches the mixture and must only be used for the necessary time for cold

starting.

4.3 KEY IGNITION SWITCH

This key operated control has four positions:

«OFF» everything is switched off;

«HEADLIGHTS ON» (if fitted);

«ON» activates all parts;

«START» connects the starter motor.

– If you release the key on «START», it will automatically return to «ON».

– After turning the engine on, turn the lights on

(if fitted) by turning the key to the

«HEADLIGHTS ON» position.

– to switch them off, turn the key to «ON».

4.3

Not for

Reproduction

14

4.5 BLADE ENGAGEMENT AND BRAKE CONTROL

The mushroom switch allows you to engage the blades using the electromagnetic

clutch:

«A» Pressed = Blades disengaged

«B» Pulled = Blades engaged

– If you engage the blades without taking the

necessary safety precautions, the engine shuts

down and cannot be restarted (

5.2).

– Blade disengagement (Pos. «A»), simultaneously

activates a brake which stops their rotation in a few

seconds.

4.4 PARKING BRAKE

This brake stops the machine from moving when it has been parked.

There are two positions:

«A» = Brake off

«B» = Brake on

– The brake is applied by pressing the pedal right

down (4.21 or 4.31) and moving the lever to

position «B». When you take your foot off the

pedal it will be blocked by the lever in the

lowered position.

– To disengage the parking brake, press the pedal (4.21 or 4.31). The lever will

return to position «A».

B

A

4.4

4.5

4.7

A

B

4.6 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LEVER

There are seven positions for this lever (shown as

«1» to «7» on the label), which correspond to

various heights between 3 and 8 cm.

– To go from one position to another, move the lever

sideways and put it back in one of the stop

notches.

4.7 LIGHT AND SOUND WARNING DEVICE (Rear catch

models only)

– The sound warning indicates that the grass-catcher is full

(

5.4.6).

This light comes on when the key (4.5) is in the “ON” position

and stays on while the machine is running

.

– When it flashes, this means the engine is not ready to be

started (

5.2).

4.8 LEVER FOR TIPPING THE GRASS-CATCHER (if present on Rear catch

models only)

This pull-out lever tips and empties the grass-catcher. This means less work for the

operator.

4.6

1

7

4.7

Not for

Reproduction

15

Mechanical transmission

4.21 CLUTCH / BRAKE PEDAL

This pedal has two functions: during the first part of

its travel it acts as a clutch, engaging & disengaging

drive to the wheels, and in the second part it acts as

a brake on the rear wheels.

IMPORTANT

Do not keep the pedal halfway between clutch

engagement or disengagement, as this can cause overheating and damage the

transmission belt.

NOTE

When the machine is moving, keep your foot off the pedal.

4.21

4.22 SPEED CHANGE LEVER

This lever has seven positions for the 5 forward

speeds, the neutral position «N», and reverse «R».

To go from one speed to another, press the pedal

(4.21) halfway and shift the lever as shown on the

label.

WARNING!

Only shift into reverse when

the machine has stopped moving. Always

disengage the Blades when reversing & check

behind you.

Hydrostatic transmission

4.31 BRAKE PEDAL

This pedal works the brake on the rear wheels.

4.32 DRIVE PEDAL

This pedal engages drive in the wheels &

controls the machine’s forward & reverse speeds.

– To engage forward drive, press it towards «F»

with your toecap. As you increase the pressure

on the pedal, the speed of the machine

increases.

– Reverse is engaged by pressing the pedal with

the heel towards «R».

– The pedal automatically goes into neutral «N»

when released. speeds.

WARNING!

Only shift into reverse when the machine has stopped

moving. Always disengage the Blades when reversing & check behind you.

NOTE

If the drive pedal is used, whether forwards or for reverse,

the engine stops as soon as the parking brake (4.4) is engaged.

4.22

5

R

2

3

4

N

1

4.31

4.32

R

N

F

4. CONTROLS (cont)

Not for

Reproduction

16

4.33 HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION DISENGAGEMENT LEVER

This lever has two positions:

«A» = Transmission engaged: for all

uses, when moving & during cutting;

«B» = Transmission disengaged: this

makes it much easier to move the

machine by hand, with the engine

turned off.

IMPORTANT

To avoid damage to the transmission unit, this operation

must be carried out only when the engine has stopped with the pedal (4.32)

on position «N».

4.4 REVERSING

Some select models have been updated with the additional safety

features to standards that affect reversing functions. These models are

fitted with a Reverse button (4.4) on the dashboard, which must be

pressed prior to and held down whilst reversing. Failure to Press the

Reverse button whilst reversing may cutout stop the engine.

4.33

A

B

5.1 SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS

DANGER!

The machine must only be used for the purpose for which it

was designed (cutting grass). Using the machine in any other way is considered

“improper use” which will invalidate the warranty, relieve the manufacturer from all

liabilities, and the user will consequently be liable for all and any damage or injury to

himself or others. Examples of improper use may include, but are not limited to:

– transport people, children or animals on the machine or on a trailer;

– tow or push loads without the use of the specified accessory for towing;

– use of the machine for moving over unstable, slippery, icy, stony, rough, marshy

ground & puddles that do not allow for evaluation of the consistency of the ground;

– use of the blades on surfaces other than grass.

DANGER!

Do not tamper with or remove the safety devices fitted on the

machine. REMEMBER THAT THE USER IS ALWAYS RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGE

AND INJURY TO OTHERS. Before using the machine:

– read the general safety regulations (

1.2), paying particular attention to driving

and cutting on slopes;

– carefully read the instructions for use, make sure you are familiar with the

controls and know how to stop the blades and the engine quickly;

– never put your hands or feet next to or beneath the rotating parts and always

keep away from the exit.

5. HOW TO USE THE MACHINE

4.4

Not for

Reproduction

17

WARNING!

This machine must not be used on slopes steeper than 10

Degrees (

5.5).

IMPORTANT

All the references relating to the positions of controls are

described in chapter 4.

5.2 WHY THE SAFETY DEVICES CUT IN

The safety devices work in two ways:

– they prevent the engine from starting if all the safety requirements have not been met;

– they stop the engine if even just one of the safety requirements is lacking.

a) To start the engine, it is necessary that:

– the transmission is in “neutral”;

– the blades are not engaged;

– the operator is seated or the parking brake is engaged.

b) The engine stops when:

– the operator leaves his seat when the blades are engaged;

– the operator leaves his seat when the transmission is not in “neutral”;

– the operator leaves his seat with the transmission in “neutral” but without applying

the parking brake;

– the parking brake is engaged without disengaging the blades.

– the speed change is activated (

4.22) or the drive pedal ( 4.32) with the

parking brake on.

– reversing without pressing & holding the reversing button (only fitted to some

models with a reversing button on the dashboard)

5.3 DIRECTIONS BEFORE STARTING WORK

Before starting to mow, it is necessary to carry

out several checks and operations to ensure

you can work efficiently and in maximum

safety.

5.3.1 Seat adjustment

To change the seat position, loosen the four

fixing bolts (1) and slide it along the slots.

Once you have found the right position, tighten

the four screws (1).

1

Do not use the machine when in a precarious state of health or under the effect

of medicine or any other substances that can reduce your reflex actions and

your ability to concentrate.

It is the user’s responsibility to assess the potential risk of the area where work is

to be carried out, and to take all the necessary precautions to ensure his own

safety and that of others, particularly on slopes or rough, slippery & unstable

ground.

Do not leave the machine on high grass with the engine running to avoid the risk

of starting a fire.

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