OPERATOR’S

MANUAL & PARTS LIST

RIDING MOWER
MODEL 124/52

Form 172247-140613
Printed in U.S.A.
 INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your selection of Grasshop- ATTENTION:
per equipment. We believe you have exercised
excellent judgment in the purchase of Grasshop- • Read the instructions and warnings care-
per equipment. We are most appreciative of your fully before using this machine.
patronage. • Read your Grasshopper warranty en-
closed with the tractor manual. To validate
We recommend that you carefully read this en- warranty, fill in the required information
tire manual before operating the unit. Time spent and return the warranty form within 10
becoming fully acquainted with its performance days of purchase to:
features, adjustments and maintenance will THE GRASSHOPPER CO.
add a longer and more satisfactory life to your P.O. Box 637
Grasshopper. Moundridge, Kansas 67107

The Grasshopper equipment you have purchased Use only genuine Grasshopper service parts.
has been carefully engineered and manufactured Substitute parts will void the warranty and may
to provide dependable and satisfactory use. Like not meet standards required for safe and satis-
all mechanical products, it will require clean- factory operation. Record the model and serial
ing and upkeep. Lubricate it as specified in the number of your mower.
manual. Observe all safety information in this
manual and all safety decals on the tractor and MODEL:
attachments.
SERIAL NUMBER:
The illustrations and data used in this manual
were current at the time of printing, but due (Serial tag is located on tractor frame bottom,
to possible in-line production changes, your left of engine.)
machine may vary slightly in detail. The manu-
facturer reserves the right to make changes or Provide this information to your dealer to obtain
add improvements to its products at any time correct repair parts.
without incurring any obligation to make such
changes to products manufactured previously.

As with all lawn and grounds equipment, if han-

dled carelessly this machine is a dangerous piece
of equipment. If used incorrectly this machine
can cause severe injury. You, the operator, are
responsible when operating it. Therefore, safety
is of the utmost importance.

The engine exhaust from this product

contains chemicals known to the State
Copyright © 2013 by The Grasshopper Company. All rights reserved.
of California to cause cancer, birth
defects or other reproductive harm.

2
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE

SPECIFICATIONS 5

SAFETY SYMBOLS 6

SAFETY & INSTRUCTIONAL DECALS 7-11

SAFETY INFORMATION
Training ....................................................................................................................................12
Preparation ...............................................................................................................................12
Fuel Handling Safety ......................................................................................................... 12-13
Operational Safety ............................................................................................................. 13-14
Maintenance Safety ..................................................................................................................14
Storing Safely...........................................................................................................................14

GENERAL INFORMATION
General Information .................................................................................................................15
Measurement Conversion ........................................................................................................16
Bolt Size and Tightening Recommendations ...........................................................................16

OPERATION
Controls and Switches........................................................................................................ 17-18
Pre-start Check List............................................................................................................ 18-19
Mounting and Dismounting the Mower...................................................................................20
Starting the Engine...................................................................................................................20
Cold Weather Starting Tips ......................................................................................................20
Steering Lever Operation ................................................................................................... 20-22
Cutting Height Adjustment ......................................................................................................23
Mowing ............................................................................................................................. 23-24
Blades.......................................................................................................................................24
Uneven Terrain .........................................................................................................................25
Stopping the Engine .................................................................................................................25
Moving Machine Without Power .............................................................................................26
Transporting Machine ..............................................................................................................26
Loading Machine .....................................................................................................................26
Storing Safely...........................................................................................................................27

LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE

Lubrication ...............................................................................................................................28
Capacities .................................................................................................................................28
Tire Air Pressure ......................................................................................................................28
Drive System............................................................................................................................28
Crankcase Oil and Air Filter ....................................................................................................28
Cooling System .................................................................................................................. 28-29
Battery Maintenance ................................................................................................................29
Checking Drive System Fluid Level ........................................................................................29
(continued)

3
 TABLE OF CONTENTS - (CONTINUED)
Drive System Fluid and Filter Maintenance ............................................................................29
Changing Drive System Fluid..................................................................................................29
Deck Cleaning ..........................................................................................................................30
Blade Inspection.......................................................................................................................30
Blade Sharpening .....................................................................................................................30
Blade Removal .........................................................................................................................30
Blade Installation .....................................................................................................................31

ADJUSTMENTS AND TROUBLESHOOTING

Loss of Power in the Drive System..........................................................................................32
Drive Belt Replacement ...........................................................................................................32
No Positive Neutral Position....................................................................................................32
Neutral Adjustment ............................................................................................................ 32-33
Steering Lever Adjustment ......................................................................................................33
Engine Troubleshooting ...........................................................................................................34
Park Brake Adjustment ............................................................................................................34
Clutch/Brake Burnishing .........................................................................................................34
Clutch Removal/Replacement .................................................................................................35
Mower Deck Leveling Adjustment ................................................................................... 35-36
Mower Deck Cut Height Setting Adjustment ..........................................................................36
Deck Belt Adjustment ..............................................................................................................37
Deck Belt Replacement............................................................................................................37
Blade Spindle Assembly Removal ...........................................................................................38
Blade Spindle Assembly Repair/Replacement................................................................... 38-39

PARTS LIST AND ILLUSTRATION

Tractor Assembly .............................................................................................................. 40-41
Drive & Steering Assembly ............................................................................................... 42-43
Brake & Linkage Assembly ............................................................................................... 44-45
Seat Assembly & OPS Tube .............................................................................................. 46-47
Optional Molded Seat Assembly ....................................................................................... 48-49
Wiring Diagram ................................................................................................................. 50-51
Deck Carrier Linkage ......................................................................................................... 52-53
Deck Assembly - Model M252 .......................................................................................... 54-55
Blade Spindle Assembly ..........................................................................................................56

4
 SPECIFICATIONS
124/52
Engine Briggs & Stratton two cylinder, 4 cycle, air cooled

Displacement 724 cc
No-load r.p.m. 3600
Charging System 12VDC 16 amp.
negative ground
Starter Electric
Electrical System Safety interlocked

Deck Drive Electric clutch

Drive System Dual path hydrostatic direct drive

Steering Dual levers independently control speed and direction of travel

Zero turning radius

Speed
Forward (variable) 0-12.1km/h
Reverse (variable) 0-9.6km/h

Fuel Tank Capacity 11.35 liter

Tire Sizes
Drive Wheels - 4 ply rated 20 x 10 x 10
Front Wheels - 4 ply rated 13 x 6.5 x 6 rib

Dimensions of Tractor

Seat Back Height 1.14 m

Seat Cushion Height 0.71 m
Tractor Width 1.12 m
Tractor Length 1.91 m
Wheel Base 1.14 m

Weight - Uncrated 379 kg

Weight - Crated 463 kg

Hour Meter Standard

5
 SAFETY SYMBOLS

This Safety Alert Symbol means ATTENTION! Throughout this manual the word IMPORTANT
BECOME ALERT! YOUR SAFETY IS IN- provides special mechanical specifications or in-
VOLVED! In this manual, the safety alert symbol formation and is used to indicate that failure to
identifies potential hazards and alerts the reader to observe can cause damage to equipment. The
safety messages. These hazards may cause serious word NOTE emphasizes general information
injury or death if you do not follow the recom- requiring special attention.
mended precautions in the safety messages.

6
 SAFETY DECALS
Replace Immediately If Damaged

15°
165367 165366

Part No. 165367 Part No. 165366

165365
165365

Part No. 165365 Part No. 165365

165435

165381
Part No. 165435
Part No. 165381

165373

Part No. 165373

(under seat)
165369

Part No. 165369

(under seat) 12066

165380
165368
165370
Part No. 165380
Part No. 165370 Part No. 165368
(under seat)

Fig. 1

7
 SAFETY DECALS

1 2

165365

Part No. 165365

1. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hand or foot, mower blade - Stay away from moving parts.
2. Thrown object hazard - Keep bystanders a safe distance from the machine.

1 2 3 4

15°
165366

Part No.165366
1. Warning - Read Operator's Manual.
2. Thrown object hazard - Keep bystanders a safe distance from the machine.
3. Tipping hazard - Do not operate machine on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
4. Tipping hazard - Wear seatbelt.

1 2 3 4

165367

Part No.165367
1. Warning - Remove the ignition key and read the Operator's Manual before servicing or performing
maintenance.
2. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of toes or foot - Wait until moving parts have stopped completely.
3. Machine runover hazard with cutting/severing, blade - No riders.
4. Machine runover hazard with cutting/severing, blade - Keep bystanders a safe distance from machine.

8
 SAFETY DECALS
1

1 165380

Part No. 165380

1. Hot surface - Keep a safe distance.

165368

Part No.165368
1
1. Dust/Fumes inhalation hazard - Read the
Operator's Manual.
2 3

1
165381

Part No.165381
165369

1. Fire hazard.
Part No. 165369
2. Read the Operator's Manual.
1. Hand/Arm Entanglement hazard, belt - Stay
3. No smoking.
away from moving parts.

1 2 3 4 5
1

165435

165370
Part No.165435
Part No. 165370
1. Thrown object hazard - Keep bystanders a
1. Hand/Arm Entanglement hazard, fan - Stay safe distance from the machine.
away from moving parts. 2. Always operate mower with the Discharge
Shield in place.
or
3. Always operate mower with the Vacuum
Blower Assembly in place and the complete
1 grass catcher attachment installed.
or
4. Always operate mower with the Discharge
165373 Opening Restriction Plate in place.
5. Do Not operate mower without the Discharge
Part No.165373
Shield, the Vacuum Blower Assembly or
1. Electrocution hazard - Do not modify the the Discharge Opening Restriction Plate in
electrical system. place.

9
 INSTRUCTIONAL DECALS

1
1 STEERING LEVERS
Forward 2

2
Neutral 3
3

Right 4
4 Turn

Left 5
Turn
Part No.162320
1. Fuse I.D.
2. Regulator - 30 AMP Neutral 6
3. Start - 7.5 AMP
4. PTO - 10 AMP
5. Light / Auxiliary - 7.5 AMP 7
Reverse
162814

Part No.162814
OFF 1 1. Steering Levers 5. Left Turn
2. Forward 6. Neutral
2 3. Neutral 7. Reverse
4. Right Turn
3
ON
165421

Part No.165421
1. Off
2. Parking Brake
3. On

10
 INSTRUCTIONAL DECALS

OFF 1 PULL OUT TO ENGAGE

RUN 9
2 1.5

START .875
3 HOURS
8
IGNITION PTO CLUTCH

4 CHOKE 7 10 11

BRAKE
ON OFF
5 6
161121
FAST THROTTLE SLOW LIGHTS

Part No.161121
1. Ignition Switch - Off 7. Choke
2. Ignition Switch - Run 8. PTO Clutch - Pull Out to Engage
3. Ignition Switch - Start 9. Hour Meter
4. Parking Brake Indicator Light 10. Work Lights - On
5. Throttle - Fast 11. Work Lights - Off
6. Throttle - Slow

Sound Pressure Level Vibration Acceleration Levels

Note: The data contained in this section only Note: The data contained in this section only
pertains to units marked with the CE logo ( ). pertains to units marked with the CE logo ( ).

This unit has an equivalent continuous A- Vibration acceleration levels are based on mea-
weighted sound pressure level at the operator surements of identical machines per EN 1032 &
ear of 92dBA, based on measurements of identi- EN 1033.
cal machines per EN 11201.

Sound Power Level Hand/Arm, Steering 1.82 m/s

2

Note: The data contained in this section only Whole Body, Foot 0.86 m/s
2

pertains to units marked with the CE logo ( ). Whole Body, Seat 0.35 m/s
2

Model 124/52 has a guaranteed sound power

level of 105 dBA, based on measurements of
identical machines per EN 11094. All values are meters per second squared (m/s2)
and represent the Mean Value of X, Y, Z Aeq.

11
 WORK SAFELY - FOLLOW THESE RULES
must be replaced.
• Check brake action before you operate. Adjust
The designed and tested safety of this or service brakes as necessary.
machine depends on it being operated • Ensure all safety decals are installed and in
within the limitations as explained good condition.
in this manual. Read manual before • Remove accumulated debris from machine to
operating. avoid fire hazard.
• Inspect area to be cut removing stones, branches
TRAINING and other debris that might be thrown causing
• Safety instructions are important! READ THIS injury or damage.
MANUAL AND ALL SAFETY RULES. • Evaluate the terrain to determine what acces-
• Know your controls and how to stop machine, sories and attachments are needed to properly
engine and mower deck quickly in an emer- and safely perform the job.
gency. • Low-hanging branches and similar obstacles
• To avoid accident or injury, do not allow anyone can injure the operator or interfere with mowing
to operate this machine without proper instruc- operation. Before mowing, identify potential
tion. Any person who operates this machine obstacles such as low-hanging branches, and
MUST be instructed in and capable of the safe trim or remove those obstacles.
operation of the unit and all controls. • Never permit any person, other than the opera-
• Do not allow children or unqualified individu- tor, to ride or board the mower at any time.
als to operate machine. • Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.

PREPARATION FUEL HANDLING SAFETY

• Always wear relatively tight and belted • In certain conditions, gasoline, ethanol, die-
clothing to avoid entanglement in moving sel and other types of fuel are extremely
parts. Wear sturdy, rough soled work shoes. flammable and highly explosive. A fire or
Never operate machine in bare feet, sandals or explosion from fuel can burn you and others
sneakers. and can damage property.
• This machine produces sound levels in excess • Fill the fuel tanks outdoors, in an open area,
of 85 dBA at the operator ear and can cause when the engine is cold. Wipe up any fuel
hearing loss through extended periods of expo- that spills.
sure. Wear hearing protection when operating • Do not remove the fuel cap if the engine or
this machine. fuel tank is hot. Allow several minutes to
• Walk around machine and visually inspect for cool.
damaged, loose, or missing components. Do • Remove the fuel cap slowly to release any
not operate unless all components are properly pressure from the fuel tank.
mounted, adjusted and in good working condi- • Do not fill the fuel tanks completely full.
tion. Add fuel to the tank until the level is .25" to
• Ensure all safety switches function properly. .5" (6 mm to 13 mm) below the bottom of
See Operation section for details. the filler neck. This empty space in the tank
• Ensure all safety shielding is in good condition allows fuel to expand.
and properly installed. • Never smoke when handling fuel, and stay
• Ensure either the discharge shield, restriction away from an open flame or where fuel
plate, or complete vacuum attachment is in- fumes may be ignited by a spark.
stalled. • Store fuel in an approved container and keep
• Ensure OPS is in good condition and installed it out of the reach of children. Never buy
properly. Never modify OPS with holes, more than a 30-day supply of fuel.
notches or welding. If OPS is damaged, it • Always place fuel containers on the ground

12
 away from your vehicle before filling. clear of all moving parts on machine.
• Do not fill fuel containers inside a vehicle • Wear suitable hearing protection when oper-
or on a truck or trailer bed because interior ating this machine.
carpets or plastic truck bed liners • Do not operate in reverse unless absolutely
may insulate the container and slow the loss necessary and then only after careful obser-
of any static charge. vation of the entire area behind you.
• When practical, remove equipment from the • If operator must dismount to make adjust-
truck or trailer and refuel the equipment with ments the engine must not be running.
its wheels on the ground. • Do not move steering levers from forward to
• If this is not possible, then refuel such equip- reverse or reverse to forward position rapidly.
ment on a truck or trailer from a portable The sudden direction change could cause loss
container, rather than from a fuel dispenser of control, especially on slopes.
nozzle. • Reduce speed on slopes and sharp turns to min-
• Keep the dispenser nozzle in contact with imize tipping and avoid loss of control.
the rim of the fuel tank or portable container • The operator is responsible for safe operation
opening at all times until fueling is com- on slopes, even slopes of 15 degrees (27%) or
plete. less. Only the operator can determine the sta-
• Never use cellular phones or other portable bility of the mower on a given slope based on
electronic devices when handling fuel. existing conditions like: machine speed and di-
rection, slope variation, slipperiness, drop-offs,
OPERATIONAL SAFETY holes, obstacles, etc.
• Read “Operation” section of this manual be- • Stay alert for holes, rocks, roots and other hid-
fore attempting to operate this unit. den hazards in the terrain. Keep away from
• This machine is equipped with an Operator drop-offs and soft embankments.
Protective Structure (OPS) and a seat belt. • Stop machine and mower deck immediately
Do not operate this machine without the upon striking an obstruction. Turn engine off,
OPS installed and in good condition. inspect machine and mower deck. Repair any
• Always wear the seatbelt. damage before resuming operation.
• Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 • Disengage PTO, stop engine, set park brake,
degrees (27%). remove key and wait for all movement to stop
• To determine the angle of a slope, an angle before dismounting, making adjustments,
measuring device (inclinometer) is readily cleaning, or unclogging the machine.
available at your local hardware store. • Never transport mower with blades running.
• Fenders serve as shields. Do not operate Disengage PTO before crossing streets, side-
without them. walks, driveways, etc.
• DO NOT drive machine without mower • Watch for traffic when operating near or cross-
deck installed. The proper stability of the ing roadways.
machine depends on the weight of the mow- • This machine is not equipped for highway use,
er deck. especially when safety lighting and marking is
• Keep bystanders away from equipment required. It is not a recreational vehicle.
while it is in operation. • This unit is not equipped with a drawbar. Do
• Keep children and pets a safe distance away. not pull loads.
Never direct discharge toward anyone. • Take all possible precautions when leaving
• Start engine from operator’s seat after disen- machine unattended: disengage PTO, lower
gaging PTO and placing steering levers into mower deck, place steering levers in neutral,
the swing-out (neutral lock) position. set parking brake, stop engine and remove key
• Keep hands and feet away from underneath from ignition.
mower deck while engine is running. Stay • Never carry passengers.

13
• Never run engine indoors or in an enclosed ant, and batteries can harm the environment
area, unless exhaust gases are safely removed and people. Dispose of waste products prop-
to the outdoors with an exhaust pipe extension/ erly.
hose combination. Exhaust gases contain car- • Never attempt to disconnect or alter any part
bon monoxide, an odorless and deadly poison. of the safety interlock systems.
• Do not change engine governor settings.
MAINTENANCE SAFETY • Keep engine free of grass, leaves, or excess
• Always perform maintenance with the ma- grease to reduce fire hazard and minimize
chine parked on a hard level surface; with engine overheating.
the engine stopped and the PTO disengaged; • Keep machine and mower deck in good op-
with the park brake set; and with the key erating condition and all safety devices in
removed from the ignition. place.
• Always remove the grounded (-) clamp from • Periodically tighten all bolts, nuts and
the battery when performing maintenance screws. Check that all locking pins are prop-
on the engine, clutch, or any other electri- erly installed and in good condition.
cal system. The battery is located under the • Check brake operation frequently. Adjust
seat. and service as required.
• Always wear close fitting clothing and safe-
ty equipment appropriate for the job. Keep STORING SAFELY
work area clean and dry. • Never store machine with fuel in the tank
• Never work under the machine without jack inside a building where fumes may reach
stands or other equivalent safety blocks. Do an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a
NOT rely solely on mechanical or hydraulic furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, or other
jacks or lifts for support. Always use ad- gas appliance. Allow engine to cool before
equate wheel chocks on tires remaining on storing in an enclosure.
the ground. • If engine is to be unused for 30 days or more,
• Hydraulic hoses can fail due to physical add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel system. Fuel
damage, kinks, age, and exposure. Check stabilizer (such as STA.BIL®) is an accept-
hoses regularly. Replace damaged hoses. able additive in minimizing the formation of
• Escaping fluid under pressure can penetrate fuel gum deposits during storage. Add stabi-
the skin causing serious injury. Avoid the lizer to fuel in fuel tank or storage container.
hazard by relieving pressure before discon- Always follow mix ratio found on stabilizer
necting hydraulic or other lines. Tighten container. Run engine at least 10 minutes
all connections before applying pressure. after adding stabilizer to allow it to reach the
If an accident occurs, see a doctor immedi- carburetor or injectors.
ately. Any fluid injected into the skin must • If draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an ap-
be surgically removed within a few hours or proved container outdoors and away from
gangrene may result. open flame.
• Search for leaks with a piece of cardboard. • Never run engine indoors or in an enclosed
Protect hands and body from high pressure area, unless exhaust gases are safely re-
fluids. moved to the outdoors with an exhaust pipe
• Never run engine indoors or in an enclosed extension/hose combination. Exhaust gases
area, unless exhaust gases are safely re- contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and
moved to the outdoors with an exhaust pipe deadly poison.
extension/hose combination. Exhaust gases • Remove all accumulated debris from mower
contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and deck and tractor.
deadly poison. • Sand areas where paint is chipped and re-
• Waste products such as used oil, fuel, cool- paint to prevent rust. Lubricate all locations
to prevent moisture damage during storage.
14
 GENERAL INFORMATION
The purpose of this manual is to assist the operator
in maintaining and operating GRASSHOPPER
mowers. Read it carefully. It furnishes informa-
LEFT RIGHT
tion and instructions that will help you achieve
years of dependable performance.

These operating and maintenance instructions

have been compiled from extensive field experi-
ence and engineering data. Some information
may be general in nature due to unknown and
varying conditions. However, through practice
and these instructions you should be able to
develop operating procedures suitable to your
particular situation.

The illustrations and data used in this manual

were current at the time of printing, but due
to possible in-line production changes, your
machine may vary slightly in detail. GRASS-
HOPPER reserves the right to redesign and
change the machine as necessary without noti-
fication.

Fig. 2
Some illustrations in this manual show
the machinery with safety shields re-
moved to provide a better view. The Throughout this manual, references are made to
machine should never be operated right and left directions. These are determined
with any safety shielding removed. by standing at the rear of the equipment and fac-
ing the direction of forward travel.

Mower blade rotation is clockwise as viewed

from the top of mower.

15
MEASUREMENT CONVERSION
Measurements expressed in this manual are
decimal values. Use the chart below if you are
unsure of a measurement to obtain the fractional
equivalent.

Conversion Table - Inches

Decimal Fraction Decimal Fraction
0.062 1/16 0.562 9/16
0.125 1/8 0.625 5/8
0.187 3/16 0.687 11/16
0.250 1/4 0.750 3/4
0.312 5/16 0.812 13/16
0.375 3/8 0.875 7/8
0.437 7/16 0.937 15/16
0.500 1/2 1.000 1

BOLT SIZE AND TIGHTENING

RECOMMENDATIONS
The chart below lists the correct tightening
torque for bolts used on Grasshopper machin-
ery. When bolts are to be tightened or replaced
refer to this chart to determine the grade of bolt
and proper torque (except when speci f c torque
values are assigned in the manual text).

Bolt Head Markings

SAE Grade 2 SAE Grade 5 SAE Grade 8

(no dashes) (3 radial dashes) (6 radial dashes)
Recommended Bolt Torque
Bolt Diameter in Inches SAE Grade 2 SAE Grade 5 SAE Grade 8
Decimal Fraction ft lb (Nm) ft lb (Nm) ft lb (Nm)
0.250 1/4 6 (8) 11 (15) 14 (19)
0.312 5/16 13 (18) 21 (28) 25 (34)
0.375 3/8 23 (31) 38 (52) 55 (75)
0.437 7/16 37 (50) 55 (75) 80 (108)
0.500 1/2 57 (77) 85 (115) 120 (163)
0.562 9/16 82 (111) 125 (170) 180 (244)
0.625 5/8 111 (151) 175 (237) 230 (312)
0.750 3/4 200 (271) 300 (407) 440 (597)
0.875 7/8 280 (380) 450 (610) 720 (976)
1.000 1 350 (475) 680 (922) 1035 (1403)
16
 OPERATION
The safe operation of this machine is the re- must be held against spring pressure in this
sponsibility of the operator. Any person who position).
operates the machine MUST be instructed in • The Choke Control (C) is the small black
and capable of the safe operation of the machine push/pull knob located on the console. The
and all controls. Read all safety information on choke is used to aid in starting a cold en-
pages 6 through 14. gine. Pull the choke knob "up" to activate
the choke on the engine. Push the choke
knob "down" for the choke to be off. DO
CONTROLS AND SWITCHES NOT run a warm engine with the choke on.
(Refer to Fig. 3) • The Throttle Control (D) is the large black
Know your controls and how to stop the ma- lever located beside the console to the right
chine, engine, and mower deck quickly in an of the seat. The throttle is used to control
emergency. Do not operate this machine until engine speed. Move the throttle lever for-
you are completely familiar with the controls ward to increase engine speed and rearward
and comfortable with your ability. We recom- to decrease engine speed.
mend you practice in a flat open area at half • The PTO switch (E) is the red push/pull
throttle until you are comfortable with all the knob located on the console. Pull PTO knob
controls. “up” to engage the electric clutch that drives
the belt connected to the mower deck that
The two Steering Levers control speed, motion, drives the cutting blades. Push the PTO
and direction of the machine and are located on knob “down” to disengage the electric clutch
each side of the seat. The left lever controls flow that stops the blades from turning within a
of hydraulic oil from the left pump to the left few seconds.
drive wheel motor. The right lever controls flow • The Hour Meter (F) is the number indica-
of hydraulic oil from the right pump to the right tor located on the console. The electric hour
drive wheel motor. This allows left and right meter is connected to the ignition circuit and
drive wheels to turn independently, which pro- is provided to record the number of hours the
vides the “zero turn” ability. Each lever has two engine runs. If the ignition switch is left on,
positions: The swung “out” neutral lock posi- without the engine running, the hour meter
tion, where the lever will not activate the pump; will continue to record.
and the swung “in” operation position, where
the lever will activate the pump. For details of The Park Brake Lever is the lever located on
steering lever operation, refer to the “Steering the left side of the footrest. The brake lever en-
Lever Operation” section, page 20-22. gages compression style parking brakes on the
drive tires. Pull the brake lever up and rearward
The following controls are located on or beside until the lever over centers and locks to set the
the Operator’s Console which is located to the brakes “on”. Push the brake lever forward and
right side of the seat. down to release the brakes “off”.

• The Ignition Switch (A) is the key switch lo- Several Safety Switches are incorporated in this
cated on the console. The ignition switch is machine’s design to prevent the engine from
used to start and stop the engine. The switch being started in certain conditions and to kill
has three positions OFF, RUN, and START. the running engine in certain conditions. These
Insert the key into the switch and rotate circuits should be checked before each operation
clockwise to the RUN position. The Brake to ensure they are working properly. See page
Light (B) should be on at this point. Rotate 19 for check list on these circuits.
the switch clockwise to the next (START)
position to engage the engine starter (key

17
The Start Circuits will keep engine from start- PRE-START CHECK LIST
ing unless: Maintain desirable operational standards and
• Both steering levers are swung out in their help ensure the safety of the operator by rou-
neutral locked position, and tinely checking the following on a daily basis:
• The PTO switch is down in it’s disengaged • Walk around the machine and visually check
position. for loose or missing components. Make sure
all components are mounted properly and
The Kill Circuits will stop the running engine are in good working condition.
if: • Make sure all fenders, guards and shields are
• The operator raises off the seat any time safely and securely attached.
during operation of the machine with PTO • Make sure the discharge shield or restriction
engaged or steering levers in operating posi- plate is installed at the discharge opening on
tion. the mower deck.
• The steering levers are in their operating po- • Make sure all safety decals are clearly read-
sition and the park brake lever is moved into able (see page 7).
engaged locked (up) position. • Check hydrostatic transmission fluid level.
• The park brake is set and the steering levers DO NOT operate machine with low fluid.
are moved into their operating position. Low fluid could cause damage to transmis-
• The operator is off the seat and the steering sion and loss of control of the machine.
levers are moved into their operating posi- • Check engine oil level (refer to “Engine
tion. Manual” for proper level and type of oil
• The operator is off the seat and the PTO used).
switch knob is pulled up to its engaged posi-
tion.

Never attempt to check oil while en-

Do not operate this machine unless all gine is running.
safety systems are working properly
as described above.
• Check for oil and fuel leaks.
• Clean rotating air intake screen on engine.
When mowing in dusty conditions, dry grass
or long grass, it may be necessary to fre-
quently clean rotating air intake screen to
prevent engine overheating.

Never attempt to clean rotating air

intake screen while engine is running.

• Check air cleaner (refer to “Engine Manu-

al”). When mowing in dusty conditions, dry
grass or long grass, it may be necessary to
frequently clean the foam pre-cleaner and
paper cartridge.
Fig. 3

18
• Make sure the engine is free of dirt and de- • Check tire pressure (see page 28). Improper
bris. pressure will adversely affect traction, steer-
• Check fuel level. Refer to “Engine Manual” ing and level cutting height.
for correct fuel for your requirements. • Check tires for damage or cracking.
• For best results, use only clean, fresh, unleaded • Check hydrostatic pump drive belt for dam-
gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher age or cracking.
((R+M)/2 rating method). • Check mower deck belt for damage or crack-
• Do Not use ethanol blends of gasoline (such ing.
as E15 or E85) with more than 10% ethanol • Check mower deck level.
by volume. Performance problems and/or • Check to ensure blades are sharp and se-
engine damage may result which may not be cure; the cutting edge should be positioned
covered under warranty. in the direction of blade rotation (clockwise
• Do Not use gasoline containing methanol. as viewed from top of mower deck).
• Adjust cutting height if necessary.
• Check operation of park brake (see "Park
Brake Adjustment" page 34).
Do not fill fuel tank while engine is • Remove grass and debris from machine.
running. Allow engine to cool several • Test safety interlock systems (see chart be-
minutes before adding fuel. If fuel is low). Perform these tests in a clear open
spilled, do not start engine and avoid area and keep bystanders away. If there is a
creating a source of ignition until the malfunction during one of these procedures,
fuel is wiped clean and evaporated. DO NOT operate machine. (See your Grass-
hopper dealer).

Test Safety Interlock System Daily

Left Right
Action Steering Steering PTO Parking Proper
Lever Lever Switch Brake Result
Start Circuits
Try starting engine Out Out Off On Engine Cranks
Try starting engine In Out Off On Engine will not crank
Try starting engine Out In Off On Engine will not crank
Try starting engine Out Out On On Engine will not crank
Kill Circuits (with engine running at 1/2 throttle)
Raise off seat Out Out Off On Engine does not stop
Raise off seat In Out Off Off Engine Stops
Raise off seat Out In Off Off Engine Stops
Raise off seat Out Out On On Engine Stops
Move left steering
lever in Out Off On Engine Stops
Move right steering
lever in Out Off On Engine Stops

19
MOUNTING AND DISMOUNTING position.
THE MOWER • Set the throttle at 1/3 open.
• Insert the key into the ignition switch and
Always mount and dismount the mower from the turn to “RUN” position.
left side, with the brake on, the PTO disengaged • Check to see that the brake lamp is on.
(down), the engine off, and the steering levers in • Turn the key to “START” position. Choke
their swung out (neutral lock) position. Mount the as necessary to start. When engine starts,
mower by stepping from the ground to the left side release key immediately. Push choke knob
of the deck with your left foot, then step over the down gradually until choke is completely off
deck carrier frame to the footrest with your right and engine is running smoothly.
foot. Anti-skid material is provided on the top of • Warm the engine up at medium speed for
the deck and footrest. Always keep these surfaces several minutes.
clean and dry. Replace anti-skid material when
necessary. Wait for all moving parts to stop before You will enhance the starter life by using short
dismounting. Dismount the mower by standing up starting cycles of several seconds. Engaging
on the footrest, then turn to the left and step from the starter motor more than 15 seconds per minute
footrest, over the deck carrier frame, to the left side can result in damage to starter.
of the deck with your right foot, and then step to the
ground with your left foot. The left steering lever COLD WEATHER STARTING TIPS
can be used to stabilize your movement; however, Use proper viscosity oil for temperature expect-
it is not strong enough to support all your weight. ed (see “Engine Manual”).
Never leave the mower unattended with the key in
the ignition. Set throttle at half open.
STARTING THE ENGINE A warm battery has better starting capacity than
a cold one.
Never start the engine in confined Use fresh winter grade fuel. It is better for win-
rooms. Exhaust gases contain carbon ter starting than leftover summer grade fuel.
monoxide, an odorless and deadly poi-
son.

Do not allow children to approach the STEERING LEVER OPERATION

machine while the engine is running. (Refer to page 22, Fig. 4)
Do not operate the machine around
open flames such as trash fires. Do not move steering levers from for-
ward to reverse or reverse to forward
Do not operate the engine when an position rapidly. Sudden direction
odor of fuel is present or other explo- changes could cause loss of control or
sive conditions exist. damage the machine.

• Position yourself on the tractor seat. Help prevent personal injury. Learn
• Engage the park brake. use of the steering levers and prac-
• Place both steering levers in swing-out neutral tice at half throttle until becoming
position. proficient and comfortable with the
• Place electric clutch switch in “OFF” (down) operation of the machine.
20
The steering levers control speed, motion and Turning:
direction of the machine. The steering levers • While moving forward, turn gently right by
have two positions: (1) Neutral Lock, where pushing the left lever further forward than
the lever(s) are swung completely outward and the right.
cannot be moved fore and aft; (2) Operating, • While moving forward, turn gently left by
where the lever(s) are swung in and can be pushing the right lever further forward than
moved fore and aft. the left.
• Make a sharp turn right by pushing the left
Neutral Lock Position: lever forward and pulling the right lever
• Forward and reverse movement of the mo- rearward at the same time.
tion control levers is prevented when levers • Make a sharp turn left by pushing the right
are in the swung out (neutral lock) position. lever forward and pulling the left lever rear-
Machine should not move with the steering ward at the same time.
levers in the swung out (neutral lock) posi- • DO NOT turn the machine by leaving one
tion and the park brake released. If machine lever in neutral and moving the other lever.
does move, see “Neutral Adjustment” sec- This will cause damage to the turf under the
tion page 32-33. tire that is not rotating.
• Steering levers must be in the swung out
(neutral lock) position to start the engine. Stopping:
• Steering levers must be in the swung out • To stop motion, move both steering levers
(neutral lock) position to safely enter and back to neutral. Machine is equipped with
exit the operator seat. springs to automatically return both levers to
• Operator can exit mower with the engine neutral. If levers do not automatically return
running when the steering levers are in the to neutral, see your authorized Grasshopper
swung out (neutral lock) position, PTO dealer for adjustment.
switch is disengaged, and the park brake is
engaged.
IMPORTANT
Operating Position: If you become confused during op-
• Machine speed, motion and direction can be eration, release both steering levers.
controlled when the engine is running, park They will automatically return to the
brake is released, and steering levers are in centered neutral position and the ma-
the swung in (operating) position. chine will stop.

Neutral
• When the steering levers are swung in and
centered fore and aft, they are in operating
(neutral). In operating (neutral), the hydro-
static pumps do not deliver fluid to the wheel
motors.
Forward and Reverse Motion:
• Pushing both levers forward at the same time
will move the machine forward.
• Pulling both levers to the rear at the same
time will move the machine in reverse.
• The further forward or rearward the steering
levers are moved, the faster the machine will
move in that direction.
21
 STEERING LEVER OPERATION

FORWARD REVERSE

SHARP SHARP
LEFT RIGHT

GENTLE GENTLE
LEFT RIGHT
07033B

Fig. 4

22
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
(Refer to Fig. 5) F
1. The mower deck cutting height adjustment E B
mechanism is located to the right front of A
the operator seat on the deck carrier frame. C
2. When adjusting cutting height always come
to a complete stop, disengage (down) the Right D
PTO and wait for blades to stop rotating. Side
3. Pushing down on the foot lever (A) with
your foot will raise the deck and take pres-
sure off the height adjustment pin (B).
4. To change cutting height, push down on the 12067
Fig. 5
foot lever (A) and rotate the deck latch (F)
behind the latch tube guide (E) to support MOWING
the deck. This puts the deck in the transport
(5 inch cut) height position.
5. With the deck supported by the deck latch Walk area before mowing, picking
(F), place the height adjustment pin (B) in up all rocks, twigs and other debris.
the hole indicated by the cutting height de- Enter new areas carefully. Cut grass
cal for the desired cutting height. higher the first time to allow mower to
6. To set the deck at this cut height, push down clear unseen objects. Never assume an
on the foot lever (A) until pressure on the area is clear - always check!
deck latch (F) is released and lift the deck
latch (F) out from behind the latch tube Clear mowing area of all people when
guide (E). Then slowly decrease pressure operating mower. Thrown objects
on the foot lever (A) to allow the deck to could injure bystanders.
lower and the adjustment tube (C) to move
backward through the latch tube guide (E)
until the height adjustment pin (B) contacts Before starting to mow, position the ma-
the end of the latch tube guide (E) and sup- chine in the area to be mowed with the
ports the deck. mower deck set at the desired cutting
7. Holes provided in the adjustment tube (C) height. With the engine at half throttle,
allow for cutting height adjustment in 1/2 pull up on the PTO switch knob to start
inch increments. A height adjustment spac- the blades turning. Accelerate to full
er (D) is provided to allow for cutting height throttle to begin mowing.
adjustment in .25 inch increments.
8. To set cutting height at a .25 inch increment,
the height adjustment spacer (D) should be To avoid serious injury or death from
located between the height adjustment pin thrown objects or contact with blades,
(B) and the end of the latch tube guide (E). NEVER operate mower without dis-
9. To set the cutting height at a .5 inch in- charge shield or restriction plate
crement, the height adjustment spacer (D) installed.
should be located forward of the height ad-
justment pin (B). Keep hands and feet away from dis-
charge opening.

23
Before mowing, analyze the area to determine BLADES
the best mowing procedure. Consider height,
type of grass and terrain type (rolling, level or
rough).
HI-LOW MULCHING BLADE
Proper ground speed for mowing will depend on
the height, type and density of grass to be cut.
Normally, ground speed will range from three Hi-Low mulching blades are recommended with
to six miles per hour. Tall dense grass should the discharge restriction plate and front shrouds
installed (down discharge mulching option).
be mowed at a low speed, while thin medium
height grass can be cut at a faster ground speed. MEDIUM LIFT BLADE
Always operate engine at full governed rpm
when mowing. This is necessary to maintain
Medium lift blades are recommended when
proper blade speed to produce a clean cut.
the optional vacuum attachment is installed.
Follow local recommendations for the suitable CONTOUR BLADE
cutting height in your area. Avoid mowing grass
too short to increase mowing intervals. This may
Contour blades are designed for operation
stress the grass during hot weather and encour-
with the side discharge shield and may be
age weed growth during the growing season.
used when the optional vacuum attachment
is installed.
Mow with uncut grass to the left. This will HIGH LIFT NOTCHED BLADE
distribute the clippings over the cut area. Dis-
charging clippings over the uncut area will cause
a grass buildup and may prevent uniform cut- High lift notched blades should be used when
ting. the side discharge shield has been installed.
These blades are recommended for mowing
Remember that sharp blades produce cleaner tall and/or lush areas.
cuts and use less power.
Extremely tall grass should be mowed twice. Fig. 6
Cut grass higher on first pass. Cut the second
time at desired height and 90° to the first pass.

24
UNEVEN TERRAIN ual. Do not make sudden changes in speed
or direction.
• Follow manufacturer’s recommendation
Be careful when operating mower on for counterweights for added stability when
uneven ground. operating on slopes or using front or rear
mounted attachments. Remove weights
Do not operate on steep slopes. Op- when not required.
eration on a steep slope could cause • Use extra care with grass catchers or other
loss of control, machine to overturn attachments. These can change the stability
and personal injury or death. of the machine. Do not use grass catcher on
• Do not operate on slopes over 15 degrees steep slopes.
(27%). This machine was not specifically • Do not operate without OPS installed.
designed to operate on steep slopes. • Always wear seatbelt.
• The operator is responsible for safe opera- • Be certain that the seatbelt can be released
tion on slopes, even slopes of 15 degrees quickly if the machine is driven or rolls into
(27%) or less. Only the operator can deter- ponds or water.
mine the stability of the mower on a given • Check carefully for overhead clearances
slope based on existing conditions like: ma- such as, branches, doorways, or electrical
chine speed and direction, slope variation, wires, before driving under any objects and
slipperiness, drop-offs, holes, obstacles, etc. do not contact them.
• To determine the angle of a slope, an angle
measuring device (protractor/inclinometer) STOPPING THE ENGINE
is readily available at your local hardware • Set the throttle at 1/3 open. Allow engine to
store. idle at this setting for several minutes.
• Always start mowing at the bottom of slopes. • Move ignition switch to “OFF” position (up-
Traveling up slopes, this machine has more right) and remove key.
traction traveling forward than reverse. Be • Never use carburetor choke to stop engine.
careful on slopes to avoid driving forward
into a position where there is not enough
traction to enable backing out or stopping. Always remove key from ignition
• Tires may lose traction on slopes even switch when leaving machine unat-
though the brakes are functioning properly. tended or when not in use.
• Avoid sudden starts and acceleration when
traveling forward uphill as mower may tip
backwards.
• Do not mow slopes when grass is wet because
slippery conditions will reduce traction and
braking which in turn affects steering.
• Use caution when making turns. Slow the
mower down before making sharp turns. Unit
can spin very rapidly by positioning one lever
too much ahead or behind the other.
• Look around you to be sure the area is clear
before turning or backing up.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades and
proceed slowly straight down the slope.
• Keep all movement on slopes slow and grad-

25
MOVING MACHINE WITHOUT TRANSPORTING MACHINE
POWER
(Refer to Fig. 7) Always back machine onto trailer to
The integrated transmissions are equipped with a avoid accidental upset.
bypass valve that allows the machine to be moved
without power by deactivating the transmission. Use a heavy-duty trailer to transport your
With the bypass valve in normal operating posi- machine. Trailer must have signs and lights re-
tion, the fluid in the transmission will make it quired by law.
difficult to move the unit (even with the steering
levers in neutral position). The bypass valve is 1. Raise mower deck to the transport (highest)
located on the front of each transmission. Be- height position.
fore activating the bypass valve, set the park 2. BACK machine onto trailer. See "LOAD-
brake. Raise the seat and activate the bypass ING MACHINE".
valve by rotating lever toward the left side of 3. Stop the engine, engage the park brake and
unit. When BOTH transmissions are deactivat- remove the key.
ed, the unit becomes “freewheeling”, allowing it 4. Lower the mower deck to the lowest position.
to be moved. Before the transmissions become 5. Securely fasten machine to trailer with
operational, the bypass valves must be returned heavy-duty straps, chains or cables. Both
to their normal operating position. front and rear straps must be directed down
and outward from machine.

Be careful activating bypass valves

when machine is on a slope. Ma- LOADING MACHINE
chine could “freewheel” out of control
causing serious injury or damage to
equipment. Loading a machine onto a trailer or
truck increases the possibility of back-
ward-tip-over and could cause serious
injury or death.

1. Use extreme caution when operating a ma-

LEFT chine on a ramp. Move slowly.
SIDE
2. Avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration
when operating a machine on a ramp.
3. BACK machine up ramp and drive forward
down ramp.
4. Use only a single, full width ramp; DO NOT
use individual ramps for each side of the
machine.
12068 ROTATE LEVER
5. If individual ramps must be used, BACK
TO ACTIVATE machine up ramp and drive forward down
("FREEWHEELING") ramp.
6. DO NOT exceed a 15 degree angle between
BYPASS VALVE ramp and ground or between ramp and trail-
(SHOWN IN NORMAL
OPERATING POSITION) er or truck.

Fig. 7

26
STORING SAFELY

Never store machine with gasoline in

the tank inside a building where fumes
may reach an open flame, spark or pi-
lot light as on a furnace, water heater,
clothes dryer, or other gas appliance.
Allow engine to cool before storing in
an enclosure.

Never run engine indoors or in an en-

closed area, unless exhaust gases are
safely removed to the outdoors with
an exhaust pipe extension/hose combi-
nation. Exhaust gases contain carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly poi-
son.
• If engine is to be unused for 30 days or more,
add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel system. Fuel
stabilizer (such as STA.BIL®) is an accept-
able additive in minimizing the formation
of fuel gum deposits during storage. Add
stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage
container. Always follow mix ratio found on
stabilizer container. Run engine at least 10
minutes after adding stabilizer to allow it to
reach the carburetor.
• Remove all accumulated debris from mower
deck and tractor.
• Sand areas where paint is chipped and re-
paint to prevent rust. Lubricate all locations
to prevent moisture damage during storage.

27
 LUBRICATION AND MAINTENANCE
Apply 1/2 to 1 Stroke
Always perform maintenance with the Every 8 Hours of Usage
machine parked on a hard level sur- Front Wheel Bearings (A) (two fittings)
face; with the engine stopped and the
PTO disengaged; with the park brake
set; and with the key removed from
the ignition.

Always remove the grounded (-) clamp

from the battery when performing
maintenance on the engine, clutch, or
A
any other electrical system. Battery is
located under the right fender. A
12070

Fig. 8
Always wear safety glasses and ear
protection when performing any CAPACITIES
maintenance function that could cause Fuel Tank.....................................................11.3 liter
injury to eyes or ears. Drive System...............................................2.37 liter
(Each Transmission)...................................1.66 liter
Read all safety information on pages 6 through
14. TIRE AIR PRESSURE
Drive Tires 20 x 10 x 10...............55 kPa (8 psi)
(Refer to decal on wheel for correct tire air
LUBRICATION pressure)
(Refer to Fig. 8) Front Tires.................................83 kPa (12 psi)
Do not let excess grease collect on or around
parts, particularly when operating in sandy areas. DRIVE SYSTEM
See accompanying illustrations for lubrication Fluid Change.....................................300 hours
frequency points. Severe or unusual conditions Filter Change.....................................300 hours
may require more frequent lubrication.
CRANKCASE OIL AND AIR FILTER
In addition to these lubrication points, lightly oil Refer to the “Engine Manual” for the timetable
all linkage pivot points. for changing or service.

Use SAE multipurpose type grease for all loca- COOLING SYSTEM
tions shown. Be sure to clean fitting thoroughly Inspect the engine cooling fins periodically for
before using grease gun. buildup of grass and debris. Buildup on the
cooling fins will cause the engine to overheat.
Removal of engine cowling may be required to
clean the fins, especially if cleaned infrequently.

Do not use high-pressure water or

steam to clean the engine or drive
compartment. Water and cleaning

28
 detergent may damage electrical
components and terminals, possibly
leading to component and safety cir- LEFT
cuit failure. SIDE
BREATHER/
Use a vacuum cleaner or air blower to remove DIPSTICK
foreign material from the engine and drive com-
partment.

BATTERY MAINTENANCE
Battery is located under the right fender. Follow
the procedure below for battery maintenance.
12069
• Clean battery.
• Inspect cables for loose connection.
• Clean terminals.
• Inspect battery tray and hold-down.
• Inspect battery case for cracks or leaks. FILTER AND PLUG &
O-RING ASSEMBLY
REMOVE PLUG TO
CHANGE FILTER
Batteries contain sulfuric acid. Avoid
Fig. 9
contact with skin, eyes and clothing.
Batteries produce a highly explosive DRIVE SYSTEM FLUID AND
hydrogen gas while being charged. FILTER MAINTENANCE
Always keep cigarettes, sparks, open
flame and other sources of ignition For Drive System, use CoolTemp Hydro-Max™
away from battery. Always shield Extended-Life Hydrostatic Fluid, part no.
eyes and face from battery. In the 345044 for 1 quart (.94 l) container or part no.
event of accident, flush with water and 345046 for 2 gallon (7.52 l) container. Use part
call a physician immediately. Keep no. 130605 high efficiency oil filter.
batteries and acid out of the reach of CHANGING DRIVE SYSTEM
children.
FLUID
CHECKING DRIVE SYSTEM
(Refer to Fig. 9)
FLUID LEVEL Raise the seat. Place a drip pan under the
Check fluid level with the engine turned off transmission reservoir and filter (at the front of
and fluid at normal operating temperature. The the transmission). Remove plug and filter and
transmission fluid reservoirs are located at the front drain fluid into the pan. Allow transmission
of each transmission. To check the fluid level, raise to drain completely. Install a new fluid filter
the seat and remove the breather/dipstick from and plug. torque plug to 115-135 in. lbs. Fill
the reservoir. The fluid level should be equal to reservoir with fluid. Let engine idle a few
the "hot" mark on the dipstick (Refer to Fig. 9). minutes. Check fluid level and refill if needed.
If fluid is required, use CoolTemp Hydro-Max™ Repeat procedure for other transmission.
Extended-Life Hydrostatic Fluid (Grasshopper part
no. 345044 for 1 quart [.94 l] container).
DO NOT operate machine with low
fluid. Low fluid could cause damage
to drive system and loss of control of
the machine.
29
DECK CLEANING BLADE SHARPENING

IMPORTANT IMPORTANT
After each use remove grass buildup When sharpening blades, be sure to
from under the mower deck. Exces- balance them. Unbalanced blades
sive grass buildup will interfere with will cause excessive vibration that can
the operation and performance of the damage blade spindle bearings. Vi-
mower deck. Excessive grass buildup brations may also cause structural
may also cause component failure. cracks in mower housings.

1. Park machine on hard level surface, stop Follow original sharpening pattern. Do not
engine and set the park brake. Remove key sharpen backside of blade. Do not sharpen
from the ignition switch. blade to a razor edge, but leave approximately
2. Position the mower deck in the transport (all .016 inch (.4 mm) blunt edge.
the way up) setting.
3. Lift the front of the machine, and support the BLADE REMOVAL
machine using jack stands or other equiva- (Refer to Fig. 10)
lent safety blocks. Do NOT rely solely on Remove bolt (A), which has right hand threads.
mechanical or hydraulic jacks or lifts for Remove washer (B), flat washer (C), fiber wash-
support. Always use adequate wheel chocks er (D) and blade.
on tires remaining on the ground.
4. Use a long flat bar to clean under the deck,
to avoid positioning yourself under the ma-
chine.
5. Clean out all grass and debris build-up from Blade
the underside of the deck, around blade spin- Spindle
dles and the deck discharge chute. Housing

Washer
BLADE INSPECTION

Do not handle mower blades with bare

hands. Use heavy leather gloves or Deflector
wrap blade with protective material Cone
and block securely when removing
12080
blades. Careless or improper han-
dling may result in serious injury.
D

Inspect blades before each use to determine C

that they are mounted securely and are in good
condition. Replace any blade that is bent, exces- B
sively nicked, worn, or has any other damage.
Small nicks can be ground out when sharpening. A
Lift of Blade

Fig. 10

30
BLADE INSTALLATION

Your dealer can supply Grasshopper

replacement blades. They are made
of special steel alloys and subjected
to rigid heat-treat and inspection re-
quirements. Substitute blades may
not meet these rigid specifications and
MAY BE DANGEROUS.

Reverse the removal procedure. Be

sure fiber washer and cone are in-
stalled as shown.

IMPORTANT
When installing a blade, the lift of the
blade must be toward blade spindle
housing (refer to Fig. 10). Tighten bolt
(item A, Fig. 10) into blade spindle
housing to 50-55 ft lbs (68-75Nm).

31
 ADJUSTMENTS AND TROUBLESHOOTING

Always make adjustments with the

machined parked on a hard level sur-
face; with the engine stopped and the
PTO disengaged; with the park brake
set; and with the key removed from
the ignition.

A
Always remove the grounded (-) clamp
F
from the battery when performing
maintenance on the engine, clutch, or B
any other electrical system. Battery is D
C E
located under the right fender. 1/2" SQ.
HOLE
LOSS OF POWER IN THE DRIVE 12071
SYSTEM Fig. 11

Check the fluid level and make sure the proper NO POSITIVE NEUTRAL POSITION
amount of fluid is in the reservoir. Make sure all If drive wheels travel forward or backward when
hydraulic connections are tight and not leaking. the steering lever is in swing-out position (neu-
Make sure drive belt is tight and not slipping. tral), adjustment is required.
Check park brake adjustment. Make sure pump
bypass valve is tight so pump does not free- NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT
wheel. (Refer to Fig 12)
1. Block up under tractor frame so both drive
DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT wheels are off the ground.
(Refer to Fig. 11) 2. Make sure parking brake is released.
1. Remove the deck belt (A) as described in 3. Remove linkage rods (A) from transmission
“Deck Belt Replacement” section (page 37). neutral return arm (B).
2. Remove the clutch center bolt (B) and slide 4. Place steering levers in the neutral swing-out
the clutch (C) off the engine's crankshaft. position and start engine.
3. Loosen the .375" idler arm pivot bolt (D) 5. If either of the drive wheels turn, proceed
and remove the .312" bolt (E) securing belt with the following adjustment.
tensioner bracket in place. Using a half 6. With a .25" allen wrench loosen the socket
inch drive break-over bar or racket, inserted head cap screw (C) directly below the control
in half inch square hole, rotate idler pulley lever (D). Rotate the neutral return assem-
away from belt, relieving belt tension. bly left or right until neutral is achieved.
4. Remove the belt (F) from pulleys. Tighten socket head cap screw.
5. Install the new belt with the idler tension 7. Repeat procedure for transmission on the
bracket loose. Using the break-over bar, other side.
reinstall the .312" bolt (E) (normally in 8. Reinstall linkage rod (A) in neutral return
center hole) in the idler tensioner bracket arm (B). If ball joint does not reinstall into
and secure. Do not over tighten belt. Belt neutral return arm without moving the return
should only be tight enough to prevent belt arm, adjust length of linkage rod until it does
from slipping. Retighten .375 idler arm to assure neutral adjustment will be main-
pivot bolt (D). tained when linkage is connected.
6. Install the deck belt as described in “Deck 9. Test-drive machine for straight-line travel
Belt Replacement” section (page 37).
32
 with both levers full forward. If travel is the levers are allowed to lean toward the center
not in a straight line, adjust the steering le- when the mounting bolts are tightened, free play
ver stop on the side that is the fastest, i.e., in the mounting holes may allow the levers to
if machine goes to the left, adjust the right hit each other.
steering stop to slow down the right trans-
mission until travel is straight ahead.
When completing a maintenance
function, make sure all shields are in
good condition and are installed be-
fore placing unit back into use.

1" minimum

C D

B
A
(Left Side Shown)
12077
Fig. 12 Nuts

STEERING LEVER ADJUSTMENT

(Refer to Fig. 13) Bolts
Steering levers are secured to the lever mount
blocks with mounting bolts and nuts. A .5 inch
wrench is required to adjust the levers.
To adjust steering lever position, loosen nut on
the top mounting bolt. In the swung in (neutral) 12079
Fig. 13
position, the lever can now move forwards and
backwards without moving the lever mount. If
the lever mount moves with the steering lever,
the bottom mounting bolt may need to be loos-
ened. Set both levers in line and in a comfortable
position for the operator. Move levers to the
swung out (neutral lock) position and tighten top
nuts and bottom nuts if loosened. Both mount-
ing bolts MUST be tight to assure steering lever
control of the machine.
Steering levers must line up in the swung in
(neutral) position. Maintain one inch (25mm)
minimum clearance between ends of levers. If

33
ENGINE TROUBLESHOOTING the safety switch, adjust the switch in the
Should you experience trouble in starting the mounting slots so it does.
engine, use the following guide to locate pos-
sible causes.

Engine will not crank:

• Battery is discharged.
• Blown starter fuse. .25" to .5"
• PTO switch in “ON”.
• Steering levers are not out in neutral.
• Steering lever switches are out of adjustment
(listen for the switch “click”).
• A loose wire or connection.

Engine cranks, but will not start:

• Fuel tank is empty. LINKAGE
• Restricted fuel line or fuel filter. ROD
• A loose wire or connection.
BRAKE
If the above points do not locate the problem, ARM
contact your authorized Grasshopper dealer for
repair.
06006

PARK BRAKE ADJUSTMENT Fig. 14

IMPORTANT
The performance of this parking
brake depends on the tire used. Tire
size, tread pattern, and tire pressure CLUTCH/BRAKE BURNISHING
are important. Use only Factory sup- IMPORTANT
plied tires and wheels. Make sure tires A new clutch, or one that has not been
are inflated to the proper pressure. used for three months, will require
1. Stop engine, wait for all moving parts to stop, burnishing to dress drive surfaces.
The clutch could fail if you do not ac-
and remove key.
complish the following procedure.
2. Disengage the park brake.
3. Adjust the linkage rod attached to the left brake Place tractor in neutral, start engine and run at
until the clearance between the brake arm and half throttle. Turn clutch switch on 30 seconds
the tire tread measures .25 inch to .5 inch (6mm and off 30 seconds, five times at half-throttle
to 13mm) with the park brake disengaged (see and repeat five times at full throttle. The time
Fig. 14). interval allows the clutch surface to cool.
4. Repeat step 3 for the right side.
5. Engage and disengage park brake to check
for proper engagement and disengagement.
Readjust if necessary.
6. Be sure all cotter pins and jam nuts are secured.
7. Make sure the brake light is on when the park
brake is set. If the brake lever does not contact

34
CLUTCH REMOVAL/
REPLACEMENT
(Refer to Fig. 15) Measure Measure
99101
1. Remove the deck belt (A) as described in “Deck Level Surface
Belt Replacement” section. Fig. 16
2. Remove the center bolt (B) and slide the clutch
(C) off the engine crankshaft.
3. To install clutch, reverse order and install deck
belt as described in “Deck Belt Replacement”
section.
4. Tighten center bolt (B) to 50 ft lbs (68Nm).
After 15 minutes of clutch usage retighten the
bolt to 50 ft lbs (68Nm).

A
D
A

B B
C C
12076
D
Fig. 17
12075

Fig. 15 3. Position left blade in the side to side position

and measure from the outside blade tip to the
level surface (refer to Fig. 16).
MOWER DECK LEVELING
4. Position right blade in the side to side
ADJUSTMENT position and measure from the outside blade
(Refer to Fig. 16 & 17) tip to the level surface.
NOTE: The object is to have the mower blades 5. If the difference between both measurements
cutting level side to side and cutting slightly is greater than .125 inch (3mm), adjustment
lower in the front, with about the same weight is necessary.
on each mower deck hanger chain. 6. Locate the level adjust screw (A) on the right
rear mower deck hanger (refer to Fig. 17).
7. Slightly loosen the .438 chain bolt (C) on
Mower blades are sharp. Wear heavy the right rear mower deck hanger and level
gloves or cover sharp edges of blades. adjust bracket (B).
1 Check air pressure on all four tires and adjust 8. Adjust the right rear of the mower deck up
to the correct pressure if necessary. or down as required to match the left rear by
2. Mower deck can be leveled at any cut height turning the level adjust screw (A) clockwise
position. If blade heights do not match cut to raise and counter-clockwise to lower.
height setting, do not adjust at this time. 9. Adjust the level adjust screw (A) until blades
Mower deck must be leveled side to side on both sides are the same height above the
and front to rear before cut height setting is level surface.
adjusted. See appropriate sections below. 10. With blades leveled side to side, tighten the

35
 .438 chain bolt (C) securely.
11. Position left blade in the front to rear position.
Measure from the left front blade tip to the
level surface. With the blade in the same
position, measure from the left rear blade tip A + .125 to .25 A
to the level surface. Level Surface 99103

12. The distance measured at the rear blade tip Fig. 18

should be .125 to .25 inch (3mm to 6mm)
higher than at the front blade tip (Refer to MOWER DECK CUT HEIGHT
Fig. 18). SETTING ADJUSTMENT
13. If the front to rear adjustment is not within
NOTE: Adjust side to side and front to rear
the given tolerance, then either adjustment is
mower level before adjusting cut height.
necessary or the left blade may be bent.
1. Check air pressure on all four tires and adjust to
14. Check to see if the left blade is bent by
the correct pressure if necessary.
turning it 180° and measure from the left
2. With foot pedal, set the cut height at the notch
rear blade tip to level surface again. If the
marked 3.
result is different by more than .125 inch
3. Position left blade in the side to side position
(3mm), the left blade is bent and should be
and measure from the outside blade tip to the
replaced.
level surface (refer to Fig. 18).
15. If the blade is straight and adjustment is
4. Position right blade in the side to side position
necessary, locate the level adjust screw on
and measure from the outside blade tip to the
the left front mower deck hanger.
level surface.
16. Slightly loosen the .438 chain bolt on the left
5. If the difference between both measurements
front mower deck hanger and level adjust
is greater than .125 inch (3mm), side to side
bracket.
adjustment is necessary (see previous section).
17. Adjust the left front of the mower deck up
6. If both measurements are between 2.875 inches
or down by turning the level adjust screw
(73mm) and 3.125 inches (79mm), adjustment
clockwise to raise and counter-clockwise to
is not necessary.
lower until the front blade tip is .125 to .25 inch
7. If both measurements are less than 2.875 inches
(3mm to 6mm) higher than the rear blade tip.
(73mm) or greater than 3.125 inch (79mm),
18. Tighten the .438 chain bolt securely.
adjustment is necessary.
19. Repeat steps 11 through 18 above on the right
8. To adjust the cut height, place blocks under
side.
both sides of the deck so there is slack in the
20. Check that each of the mower deck hanger
hanger chains. The actual cut height is .5"
chains (D) are tight and are carrying weight. If
(13mm) above the sides of the deck.
a chain is loose, adjust as necessary.
9. Loosen the 2 bolts that secure the cut height
indicator.(Refer to page 23, Fig 5)
10. If the deck cut height needs raised, slide the
cut height indicator forward.
11. If the deck cut height needs lowered, slide
the cut height indicator back.
12. With blade cut height correct, securely
tighten the bolts.
13. Make sure foot pedal still engages in upper
most position.

36
DECK BELT ADJUSTMENT DECK BELT REPLACEMENT
(Refer to Fig. 19) (Refer to Fig. 20)
The belt tension is set at the factory, but may Major causes of belt failure are improper instal-
need adjustment after the first hour of initial use. lation and tension. Before installing a new belt,
Periodically belt should be checked for proper check spindle shafts and bearings for excessive
tension, following the procedure below: endplay and wear by moving each spindle shaft
1. Position the mower deck in the lowest (1.5 side to side and up and down. Be sure they turn
inch) cut height setting. smoothly and freely. Make sure idler is still
2. Loosen the lock nut (A) and adjust the draw aligned with spindle sheaves. Check sheave
nut (C) to change belt tension. grooves for cleanliness and wear. If grooves
3. Increase belt tension by turning the draw nut require cleaning, use a cloth moistened with
(C) clockwise and decrease belt tension by a nonflammable nontoxic degreasing agent or
turning the draw nut counterclockwise. commercial detergent and water.
4. The idler spring (B) body length should Avoid excessive force during installation. Do
measure approximately 5.75" for proper belt not use tools to pry belt on or roll belt over
tension. sheaves. This can cause hidden damage and
5. Tighten the lock nut (A) when the proper premature belt failure.
belt tension is achieved. 1. Position the mower deck in the lowest (1.5
inch) (38mm) cut height setting and remove
the left and right belt shields.
2. Loosen the lock nut (A) and back off (coun-
terclockwise) the draw nut (B) until tension
is released from the old belt (C) and it can be
lifted off the deck sheaves.
3. Install the new belt following Fig. 20 for
proper belt routing.
4. Reset the belt tension using the procedure in
the “Deck Belt Adjustment”.
5. Re-install the left and right belt shields.

B
A

C
BELT TO CLUTCH

12074

Fig. 19 A
C B
12072

52 DECK

Fig. 20

37
BLADE SPINDLE ASSEMBLY BLADE SPINDLE ASSEMBLY
REMOVAL REPAIR/REPLACEMENT
(Refer to Fig. 21) (Refer to Fig. 21)
1. It is not necessary to raise machine to re- 1. Remove blade spindle assembly as described
move the blade spindle assembly. previously.
2. Raise the mower deck to the highest position. 2. Press spindle shaft (9) down through bearings
3. Remove blade. Be careful handling sharp (6) and spindle housing (7).
blades. Use protective material and block 3. Press bearings (6) out of housing (7) or
securely when removing blades. remove from shaft (9) as necessary.
4. Lower mower deck to the lowest (1.5 inch) 4. Visually inspect parts for excessive wear,
cut height. corrosion, or damage. Feel parts and rotate
5. Remove belt shields. bearing races to check for rough spots or
6. Remove deck belt. See Deck Belt excessive wear.
Replacement section above. 5. Replace with new parts as necessary.
7. Remove the top bolt (2) and cup washer (3) 6. Install lower bearing (6) on spindle shaft (9).
from the spindle sheave (1). 7. Install bearing spacer (8) on shaft.
8. Mark spindle sheave (1) on the topside so it will 8. Install this assembly into housing (7).
not be installed upside down on re-assembly. 9. Press top bearing (6) onto shaft (9) down
9. Remove the spindle sheave (1) with a wheel against bearing spacer (8).
puller. Make note if you remove any spacers 10. Rotate assembly to make sure shaft moves
or washers not shown in the illustration, as freely.
they will need to be reinstalled as they were 11. Secure spindle assembly to the mower deck
removed. Spindle shaft (9) may fall out of the with the six nuts or bolts (17 or 18). Torque
spindle assembly to the ground after removing to 21 ft lbs.
sheave. 12. Install bearing shield (4), square key (16),
10. Remove square key (16) and bearing shield (4) sheave (1), cup washer (3) and bolt (2) in
and save for re-assembly. same sequence as removed. Place a block
11. Remove spindle assembly by removing the six under the spindle shaft (9) if necessary to
bolts or nuts (17 or 18) that attach the spindle hold it up in the spindle housing.
housing (7) to the mower deck. Spindle 13. Make sure the concave side of the cup washer
assembly will fall to the ground if not supported. (3) is down toward the sheave and torque top
Protect spindle housing as necessary. bolt (2) to 38 ft lbs.
14. Rotate assembly to check for free movement.
15. Install deck belt and belt shields.
16. Install blade and tighten bolt (15) to 50-55
ft lbs.

38
 2
3
1 16

4
5
6
17 7

18

10

11

12

13
14
10128
15

Fig. 21

39
 TRACTOR ASSEMBLY
Item Order Description Item Order Description
No. No. No. No.
1 645376 Frame 23 254450 Nut
2 100153 Engine 24 253043 Whiz Nut
3 100919 Air Filter - Cyclonic 25 821760 Fuel Hose
4 100803 Oil Filter 26 821768 Fuel Hose
5 101197 Muffler 27 366560 Fuel Filter
101043 Gasket - Muffler 28 280260 Hose Clamp – Spring
6 243016 Tap Screw 29 751043 Shield - Heat
7 424319 Hose Assembly - Drain 30 644410 Bracket - Console
8 365515 Plug 31 645102 Console
9 254431 Speed Nut 32 253176 Whiz Bolt - Truss
10 729734 Shield – Rear Guard 33 253025 Whiz Nut
11 142250 Mechanical Choke 34 253177 Whiz Bolt - Truss
12 603854 Throttle Assembly 35 483924 Wheel & Tire
323643 Cable Assembly 483420 Wheel Without Tire
722009 Throttle Lever Stop 482474 Tire
722736 Throttle Stop – Heavy Duty 36 248565 Lug Bolt
13 422150 Handle Grip 37 645238 Fender – Rt.
14 723062 Mount - Battery 38 645239 Fender – Lt.
15 420610 Hold Down Stra 39 822631 Trim – Fender Edge
16 424250 Grommet 40 422079 Hole Plug – Work Lamp
17 605791 Fuel Tank Assembly 41 150225 Cup Holder
(includes items 18-21) 42 259030 Cap Screw - Hex
18 100212 Cap – Fuel Sealed Tether 43 254436 Nut - Nylon
19 363925 Fuel Tube 44 253173 Whiz Bolt - Hex
20 101875 Bushing – Fuel Tube 45 782898 Strap - Tension
21 100216 Valve – Fuel Tank 46 253067 Flange Nut - Spirol Loc
22 730451 Rod – Fuel Tank Mount 243565 Bolt

Item not pictured:

605363 Decal Set - 124 Mower
01-12058
40 Rev. 06-13
 TRACTOR ASSEMBLY

28
22
18 23
19
25 20
27 21
35
23
26
10 17 36
42
28
8 38
6 3 44
5 2 7 41

16 24
39
44 24
33 29
33 13 44 40
9 9 43
15 32 12
4
1
14 34
44
37
35 9
32
44 39 31 11

32
40
30
33
36 46
45 12058
46

41
 DRIVE & STEERING ASSEMBLY
Item Order Description Item Order Description
No. No. No. No.
1 391491 Integrated Transmission Rt. 36 243575 Bolt
(includes items 3-12) 37 253066 Whiz Nut
2 391490 Integrated Transmission Lt. 38 776158 Arm – Neutral Return
(includes items 3-12) 39 253191 Whiz Bolt
3 130630 Pulley 40 253035 Whiz Nut
4 281668 Square Key 41 780175 Rod – Steering Linkage
5 130431 Fan 42 265615 Ball Joint - RH Thread
6 130632 Fan Spacer 43 254441 Nut - RH Thread
7 253070 Whiz Nut 44 265616 Ball Joint - LH Thread
8 130618 Control Lever 45 254444 Nut .- LH Thread
130619 Spring - Return 46 253038 Whiz Nut
9 130610 Breather/Dipstick 47 605741 Steering Lever Assembly
10 130605 Filter (includes items 48 & 49)
130606 Filter Plug 48 422179 Lever Grip - Foam
11 281845 Woodruff Key 49 422095 Vinyl Cap
12 253992 Lock Nut 50 643926 Mount – Steering Lever
13 824458 Hub - Tapered 51 253195 Whiz Bolt
14 776156 Bracket – Tension Strap 52 253470 Nut - Nylon Insert
15 902293 Spacer - Integrated 53 604856 Steering Pivot Assembly Rt.
16 243575 Bolt (includes items 55-58)
17 253067 Flange Nut - Spiral Loc 54 604857 Steering Pivot Assembly Lt.
18 253203 Whiz Bolt (includes items 55-58)
19 253043 Whiz Nut 55 422559 Bearing Sleeve w/Flange
20 381942 Belt 56 422556 Bearing Sleeve w/Flange
21 415545 Sheave 57 422557 Bearing Sleeve
22 281582 Square Key 58 243197 Bolt
23 388750 Clutch 59 283324 Spring – Compression
24 257422 Lock Washer 60 257063 Nylon Washer
25 243470 Bolt 61 720160 Mount – Steering Switch Rt.
26 725123 Bracket – Anti Rotation 62 720161 Mount – Steering Switch Lt.
27 422088 Cover – Clutch Bracket 63 183860 Safety Switch
28 824478 Idler Arm Assembly 64 250318 Machine Screw
(includes items 29 & 30) 65 254400 Nut
29 121756 Oilite Bearing 66 253176 Whiz Bolt
30 121650 Bearing Pedestal 67 253025 Whiz Nut
31 284428 Spring – Torsion LH 68 729730 Bracket – Damper Mount Rt.
32 257040 Washer 69 729731 Bracket – Damper Mount Lt.
33 243360 Bolt 70 265680 Ball Stud
34 257062 Washer - SAE 71 285032 Damper
35 393195 Idler Pulley 72 253192 Whiz Bolt
73 729733 Bracket - Belt Tensioner

12062
42
 DRIVE & STEERING ASSEMBLY

16
72 63
40 64 62
48
67 49
19 47
65 60 59
72 46 40
52 56 54
55 51 40
19 70
57
66 48 58
50
5255 58
47
19 71 69
16 72 61 52 40
46 53 70 70
64 60 40 68 71
70 40
63 52 12062
59 55
67
7 65 56 58 57
6 55 51
36 58
34 7 6 50
5
22 5
21
4
3
35
4

26 3 73 20
44
31 45
72 13 39
40 30 12 40
27 29
34 11 38
28 17 41
23
24
29 32 8 43
25 37 46
9 42
33
17 17 2
17
13 11 9
18 10
16
12
17
40 44
39 45 15 1 10 15 18
41 14
8 14
38
16
43 18
46 42

43
 BRAKES & LINKAGE ASSEMBLY
Item Order Description Item Order Description
No. No. No. No.

1 645104 Brake Tube 14 253035 Whiz Nut

2 645103 Brake Lever 15 782331 Strap – Brake Linkage
3 422155 Handle Grip 16 257030 Washer
4 902314 Spacer 17 260608 Ring Cotter
5 263500 Retainer - External 18 183894 Switch - Brake
6 776212 Bracket – Brake Support Rt. 19 250258 Machine Screw
7 776213 Bracket – Brake Support Lt. 20 253020 Whiz Nut
8 644398 Brake Arm Rt. 21 780179 Rod – Brake Linkage
9 644399 Brake Arm Lt. 22 265615 Ball Joint - RH Thread
10 243590 Bolt .- Full Thread 23 254441 Nut - RH Thread
11 257062 Washer - SAE 24 265616 Ball Joint .- LH Thread
12 253930 Lock Nut 25 254444 Nut - LH Thread
13 253192 Whiz Bolt 26 253038 Whiz Nut

12059
44
 BRAKES & LINKAGE ASSEMBLY

26
10
8 19
18
22 13 11
25 23
24

21 13
12
20 6

10
5 14 11
14 7
16 13 26
4 17
26 9
15
16 17 12
13
2
1 22
3
25 21 23
12059
26 24

45
 SEAT ASSEMBLY & OPS TUBE
Item Order Description Item Order Description
No. No. No. No.
1 321518 Seat Cushion 20 253025 Whiz Nut
2 321519 Back Cushion 21 324200 Seat Belt
3 321523 Arm Rest Cushion 22 243551 Bolt
4 723433 Seat Side – Raised Rt. 23 257063 Nylon Washer
5 723434 Seat Side – Raised Lt. 24 257062 Washer - SAE
6 822630 Trim – Seat Edge 25 253470 Nut - Nylon Insert
7 643898 Seat Pan 26 253191 Whiz Bolt
8 722884 Seat Reinforcement - Raised 27 253193 Whiz Bolt
163295 Decal - Grasshopper Emblem 28 729736 Cross Member – Seat
9 183871 Seat Switch - Twist 29 283516 Seat Spring – Compression
10 644401 Bracket – Seat Pivot Rt. 30 422127 Cap – Seat Spring
11 644402 Bracket – Seat Pivot Lt. 31 253203 Whiz Bolt
12 422565 Sleeve Bearing w/Flange 32 253043 Whiz Nut
13 253175 Bolt - Hex 33 751042 Shield – Fan
14 724930 Latch - Switch 34 253173 Whiz Bolt - Hex
15 724929 Mount Bracket – Seat Latch 35 729734 Shield – Rear Guard
16 730229 Pivot Pin – Seat Latch 36 324111 OPS Tube
17 284408 Spring Torsion 165092 Decal - Warning OPS
18 260606 Ring Cotter 37 243600 Bolt
19 253176 Whiz Bolt - Truss 253930 Lock Nut

12060
46
 SEAT ASSEMBLY & OPS TUBE

25
27
9 24 26
14
18 6
5
36 17 13
3 16 19 23

15
7 22
27 11
23 22 12 21
27 27 34

25 24 26 20 34
21 13 27
10
6 12 30 31
4 30 31
31 27 29
37
29 31 33
31
37
20
32 28 32
35 20 32
37

12060

47
 OPTIONAL MOLDED SEAT ASSEMBLY
Item Order Description Item Order Description
No. No. No. No.
1 321570 Seat Assembly - Molded 12 253176 Whiz Bolt - Truss
2 183870 Switch - Seat 13 253025 Whiz Nut
3 243026 Bolt - Washer Head Tap 14 324200 Seat Belt
4 643898 Seat Pan 15 243551 Bolt
5 253193 Whiz Bolt 16 257063 Washer
6 422565 Sleeve Bearing with Flange 17 257062 Washer - SAE
7 724929 Mount Bracket – Seat Latch 18 253470 Nut - Nylon Insert
8 724930 Latch – Seat 19 770160 Decal Plate - Seat
9 730229 Pivot Pin – Seat Latch 163295 Decal – Grasshopper Emblem
10 284408 Spring - Torsion 20 246975 Push Stud - Plastic
11 260606 Ring Cotter

12065

48
 OPTIONAL MOLDED SEAT ASSEMBLY

19

20

1 14

15

8 16
11
14
10 2
9 3
3
12
15 5 4
7 6

16
17 5
18
5 5
13
6

12065

49
 WIRING DIAGRAM
Item Order Description Item Order Description
No. No. No. No.

605913 Wiring Assembly 11 184271 Relay w/Mount

161121 Decal - Console 12 181720 Fuse Block
1 183806 Ignition Switch 162320 Fuse I.D. Decal
254498 Nylon Nut - Ignition Switch 13 181470 Fuse 30 Amp Auto
2 182326 Indicator Light - Brake 181462 Fuse 10 Amp Auto
3 184179 Light Switch (optional) 181460 Fuse 7.5 Amp Auto
4 183925 Clutch Switch 14 141551 Hour Meter
5 183860 Safety Switch - Rt. Steering 15 183894 Brake Switch
720160 Rt. Steering Switch Mount 16 180120 Battery 12 Volt
6 183860 Safety Switch - Lt. Steering 723062 Mount - Battery
720161 Lt. Steering Switch Mount 17 420610 Battery Hold Down Strap
7 183871 Seat Safety Switch 18 423690 Spacer - PC Board Support
183870 Seat Safety Switch (Optional Seat) 19 180290 Battery Cable 30" Black
8 182253 Work Lamp Assembly (optional) 20 180322 Battery Cable 24" Red
(includes item 9) 425220 Battery Terminal Boot
9 182005 Light Bulb (optional) 425216 Alternator Terminal Boot
10 182251 Bezel (optional) 21 184251 Solenoid Switch 4 Post

OFF PULL OUT TO ENGAGE

RUN
1.5

START .875

HOURS
1 4 14
IGNITION PTO CLUTCH

3
CHOKE
2

BRAKE
ON OFF

161121
FAST THROTTLE SLOW LIGHTS

01-05113A / 05115
50 Rev. 06-13
 WIRING DIAGRAM
YELLOW

6
10
9 3 10 9
5
LT
STRG
8 RT
STRG
8
GREEN/YELLOW
BLACK
BLACK
GREEN/YELLOW
RED W/WHITE BLACK GREEN
YELLOW
YELLOW
BLUE
BROWN BROWN
BLACK W/WHITE
2
S L
BLACK BROWN
BRAKE
M
13 4
B G BROWN
BROWN

1 WHITE
14
BLACK
12
YELLOW W/BROWN
BLACK 00 0 0 0
+ -
11
18
WHITE

18

YELLOW
YELLOW

GREEN
18
GREEN
WHITE
7
YELLOW
SEAT
RED

NC NO YELLOW/BROWN
GREEN
GREEN/YELLOW
BLACK
15 GREEN
YELLOW
BLUE

RED W/WHITE

BLACK
4

17 16
3
2
1

1
4
YELLOW

2
-

14
12
4

+ 19
3
2
1

3
20
GROUND
TO REG.
ENGINE
05115 MAG.
GREEN
SOLENOID
LIGHT / AUX FUSE
7.5 AMP STARTER CLUTCH
PTO FUSE 21
10 AMP
START FUSE 05113A
7.5 AMP 20
REGULATOR FUSE
30 AMP
Rev. 06-13 51
 DECK CARRIER LINKAGE
Item Order Description Item Order Description
No. No. No. No.

1 645316 Footrest 29 253058 Whiz Nut

2 424074 Vibration Isolator 30 732811 Strap – Carrier Linkage
3 253035 Whiz Nut 31 260608 Ring Cotter
4 776214 Radius Arm 32 123522 Bearing Cup
5 243805 Bolt 33 122522 Bearing – Tapered
6 253970 Lock Nut 34 257320 Washer – Spring
7 645274 Guide – Latch Tube 35 254505 Jam Nut - Nylon Top lock
8 645845 Tube – Height Adjust 36 481432 Dust Cap
9 730434 Deck Pin – Height Adjust 37 125855 Seal
10 253215 Flange Bolt 38 282615 Spacer
11 253043 Whiz Nut - Lg Flange 39 645221 Fork
12 423643 Lift Bearing Block 40 247725 Carriage Bolt
13 774064 Plate – Lift Bearing 41 257051 Washer - SAE
14 645650 Pivot – Front Carrier 42 603975 Wheel & Tire Assembly
15 604762 Spring & Plug Nut Assembly w/Bearings & Spacer
16 243399 Bolt - Full Thread 43 902429 Bearing Spacer
17 902280 Spacer 44 120048 Wheel Bearing
18 881154 Shaft – Spring Mount 45 902422 Spacer
19 644644 Pivot Carrier 46 729685 Mount – Height Adjust
20 243360 Bolt 47 821516 Washer – Nylon
21 902412 Spacer 48 243560 Bolt
22 603741 Rocker Assembly Rt. 49 253470 Nut - Nylon Insert
121764 Oilite Bearing 50 775147 Latch – Deck
23 603728 Rocker Assembly Lt. 51 253192 Whiz Bolt
121764 Oilite Bearing 52 253450 Nut - Nylon Insert
24 263529 Retainer - External 53 243340 Bolt
25 732586 Adjusting Strap 54 253460 Nut - Nylon Insert
26 243205 Bolt 55 423696 Spacer – Height Adjustment
27 820331 Chain – 5 Links
28 243458 Flange Bolt

12061
52
 DECK CARRIER LINKAGE
3
1
3 3

3
20 36
35
20
20 10 34
2
2
20 2 33 32
20 49 10 4 12
10
50 46
47 32
52
51 33
2 5 37
11 6 3
11 6
48 7 9 38
12 40
55 8 54 39
26 19 5
29
3 45
3 6 44
25 53
28 31
41 21 11 28
29 24 22
29 43
27 30 44
31
27 45
30 29
26
24 3 29
31 21 23 41 31 42
19 28
11 29 27
15
3 25 12061

15 14
3 12
26
3 29 16
18 17
25
18 13
28 41 16
29 12 17 11
27 13
11

53
 DECK ASSEMBLY - MODEL M252
Item Order Description Item Order Description
No. No. No. No.

1 645189 Deck 37 484230 Wheel – Anti-Scalp

2 824473 Idler Arm Assembly 38 942137 Bearing Tube
(includes items 3-5) 39 247310 Carriage Bolt
3 121756 Bearing - Oilite 40 247130 Carriage Bolt
4 257319 Washer - Spring 41 257059 Cupped Washer
5 121651 Bearing Pedestal 42 243590 Bolt
6 257160 Washer 43 424163 Deck Flap
7 393250 Idler 6.0 44 774219 Strap - Deflector
8 257062 Washer SAE 45 253179 Bolt - Phil. Truss
9 243575 Bolt 46 382111 Belt
10 423670 Stabilizer Cap 47 643632 Pivot Mount
11 253067 Nut Flange Spiral Lock 48 604317 Discharge Shield Assembly
12 784057 Tube - Guide (includes items 49-53)
13 243038 Bolt 49 422042 Discharge Shield
14 253025 Whiz Nut 50 644570 Mount – Discharge Shield
15 422520 Nylon Bearing 51 284406 Spring - Torsion
16 283852 Spring - Extension 52 780650 Pin
17 257040 Washer 53 260608 Ring Cotter
18 253043 Whiz Nut 54 252821 Stud – 3 Prong Head
19 393225 Idler 4.75 55 820331 Lift Chain – 5 Links
20 902313 Spacer 56 243458 Bolt
21 730391 “J” Bolt – Idler Adjustment 57 253058 Whiz Nut
22 254450 Nut 58 254431 Speed Nut
23 776214 Radius Arm 59 254448 Speed Nut
24 243800 Bolt 60 320239 Blade 18” High Lift Notched
25 253970 Lock Nut 320240 Blade 18” Hi-Low Mulching
26 415902 Sheave 320236 Blade 18” Medium Lift
27 603725 Center Roller Assembly 320238 Blade 18” Contour
28 644512 Lock Pin - Roller 61 751046 Shield – Belt Rt.
29 253192 Whiz Bolt 62 751047 Shield – Belt Lt.
30 253035 Whiz Nut 63 253175 Whiz Bolt
31 754203 Roller Mount – Formed Rt. 64 724588 Auxiliary Front Shroud
32 776231 Spacer – Roller Mount 65 253176 Whiz Bolt - Truss
33 426122 Roller 66 644608 Mulch Plate Rt. (Optional)
34 902284 Spacer – Roller Mount 67 644609 Mulch Plate Lt. (Optional)
35 243365 Bolt 68 644058 End Cap (Optional)
36 645579 Mount – Anti-Scalp Roller Lt.

12063

54
 DECK ASSEMBLY - MODEL M252

63

61 62 63
63
18
11 2 17
3
14 16
63 15
12 6
46 13 7 4
11

45 8
43 14 5 24
7 9 23
24
45 44 6 6 10 11
33 34
19
58 35
14 20 30
6 58
44 18
55 29
1 21 22 26
22
55 57 30
56 25 56
57 57 30 57
18 26 26 36 30
34 30
33
58 25 29
30 30
40 30 39
68 35 59
32 30 29
53 47
30 29 18
49 40
31 18 28 38 37
30 27
54 41 41 33 35
51 50 42 65 12063
35 34
42 64 40
52
53 67
65
48
40

40
40 60
66 40
60
60

55
 BLADE SPINDLE ASSEMBLY
2
3
20

4
5
6 7
19 8

9
10
11

6
1

12

13

14

15
16

17

18
10115

Item Order Description Item Order Description

No. No. No. No.
1 623750 Blade Spindle Assembly 10 259305 Set Screw - Nylon
(includes items 2-15) 11 903643 Bearing Spacer
2 243331 Bolt 12 604775 Spindle Shaft Assembly
3 257041 Cupped Washer 13 772061 Washer
4 721167 Bearing Shield 14 423680 Deflector Cone
5 257106 Washer - 18 Ga. 15 421200 Fiber Washer
6 110081 Ball Bearing – Double Seal 16 257061 Flat Washer
7 604413 Spindle Housing 17 257057 Washer – Hardened
(includes items 8 & 9) 18 243583 Bolt - Grade 8
8 280705 Plug – Relief 19 253035 Whiz Nut
9 247141 Stud Bolt 20 281580 Square Key
10115
56