Page 2 - IMPORTANT - READ CAREFULLY
2 IMPORTANT - READ CAREFULLY The Dixon® ZTR® mower is both easy andfun to operate. However, any power mowermust be operated properly to be safe. It isnot a toy or a recreational vehicle. Beforeyou start to use the mower, read thisOperator’s Manual carefully. It containsvaluable information that is n...
Page 3 - TABLE OF CONTENTS; Page
3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page SAFETY & WARNING....................................4-15 WARRANTY........................................................16 SPECIFICATIONS.............................................17 SEAT ADJUSTMENT........................................18 CONTROLS......................
Page 4 - SAFETY; Blade Contact; RIDING LAWN MOWERS,
SAFETY 4 Blade Contact Tip Over Run Over Back Over RIDING LAWN MOWERS, IF IMPROPERLY OPERATED CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH Pictured below are the most common causes of injury tothe operator or bystander. Please read and understandthis manual to prevent injuries.
Page 5 - Safety Alert Symbol; When you see this symbol, BE ALERT; DANGER
SAFETY 5 Safety Alert Symbol When you see this symbol, BE ALERT to the potential for injury. Follow the recommended safety precautions and safe operating practices. DANGER (highlighted in red) indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. ...
Page 6 - WARNING; Failure to observe the following safety instructions
WARNING 6 Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. GENERAL OPERATION: Read, understand, and follow all instructions in this manualand on the mower before starting. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with theinstructions, to operate th...
Page 7 - Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
WARNING 7 GENERAL OPERATION (continued): Never leave a running mower unattended. Always turn offblades, set parking brake, stop engine and remove keybefore dismounting. Turn off blades when not mowing. Injury could occur fromcontact with moving parts. Under no circumstances should you place hands or...
Page 8 - Maintain or replace safety & instruction labels as needed.
WARNING 8 Protect your eyes. Always wear safety goggles or safetyglasses with side shields when operating mower. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above,are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-relatedinjuries. These operators should evaluate their ability tooperate the ridin...
Page 11 - DO NOT
WARNING 11 SLOPE OPERATION (continued): DO NOT Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turnslowly and gradually downhill, if possible. Rapid uphillturns may cause tip-over. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.The mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel isover the edge of a...
Page 12 - Do not smoke while refueling or operating the mower.
WARNING 12 FIRE HAZARDS: Use extra care when handling gasoline and otherfuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive. Store all fuel in approved containers specificallydesigned for that purpose. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Never removefuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Do not...
Page 13 - To prevent fire and explosion caused by static electricity:
WARNING 13 FIRE HAZARDS (continued): To prevent fire or explosion, keep sparks and open flamesaway from battery. Keep electrical connections clean and tight. Inspect themoften. Loose connections and corrosion increase fire risk. Before disconnecting the negative ground cable, make sureall switches a...
Page 14 - Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.
WARNING 14 CHILDREN: Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are attracted to lawn mowers and the mowing activity. NEVER assume children will stay where they were last seen. Be alert to avoid accidents. Keep children out of the mowing area and un...
Page 17 - SPECIFICATIONS; BLACK BEARTM
SPECIFICATIONS 17 SPECIFICATIONS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE Additional information may be provided elsewhere in this manual. BLACK BEAR™ CHASSIS: 11 GA - rectangular tube SEAT: Designed for operator comfort by use of high-densityclosed cell foam padded back and arm rests, upholsteredwith Cordu...
Page 18 - SEAT ADJUSTMENT INSTRUCTIONS; Grasp seat slide adjuster and move it
18 SEAT ADJUSTMENT INSTRUCTIONS 1. Grasp seat slide adjuster and move it into adjustment position. 2. Slide seat forward or backward. 3. Release seat slide adjuster.
Page 19 - CONTROLS; CONTROL LEVERS; Note: For access to the seat, move control levers to neutral
CONTROLS 19 CONTROL LEVERS Note: For access to the seat, move control levers to neutral position and swing them outward. TO GO FORWARD•From neutral position, gently push control levers for- ward. •To increase speed, move levers further forward. TO GO BACKWARDS•From neutral position, gently pull cont...
Page 20 - TO SET PARKING BRAKE:; CAUTION
CONTROLS 20 PARKING BRAKE: The parking brake is designed to holdthe mower from moving and is notintended for use in stopping the mowerwhile it is in motion. The engine willstop if the parking brake is engagedwhile the control levers are in the driveposition. Engage parking brakebefore starting engin...
Page 21 - MOWER DECK CUT HEIGHT LIFT LEVER:
CONTROLS 21 MOWER DECK CUT HEIGHT LIFT LEVER: • Located to the right and front of the operator. • Controls the cutting height. • 17 positions of adjustment • Depress trigger and move lever forward to lower deck. • Pull lever back to raise deck. • Set desired cut height with pin. • Use foot pedal to ...
Page 23 - OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS; NEVER; BEFORE OPERATING MOWER:
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 23 The safe and successful operation of the BLACKBEAR™ will depend upon the operator having thecorrect knowledge of all controls used on the mowerand making good judgements about the terrain to bemowed. NEVER allow anyone to operate the mower without complete knowledge of all ...
Page 24 - STARTING INSTRUCTIONS:
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 24 CAUTION Failure to follow these instructions mayresult in personal injury. STARTING INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Parking brake must be on, control levers in outward position and blade drive disengaged. 2. Position throttle to desired speed setting. If engine is cold, position throttle ...
Page 25 - PARKING BRAKE SWITCH TEST:; TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS:
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 25 PARKING BRAKE SWITCH TEST: a) Swing control levers to outward positionb) Disengage blade drive switchc) Put parking brake in OFF positiond) Turn ignition switch to START Engine should not turn over or attempt to start. CONTROL LEVER SWITCH TEST: a) Disengage blade drive swi...
Page 26 - BLADE DRIVE SWITCH TEST:
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 26 TESTING OF SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEMS: BLADE DRIVE SWITCH TEST: a) Put parking brake in ON position.b) Swing control levers to outward position.c) Engage blade drive switch.d) Turn ignition switch to START. Engine should not turn over or attempt to start. SEAT SWITCH TEST: a)...
Page 27 - MOWING WITH A MULCHING ATTACHMENT:; Do not attempt to cut grass when it is wet.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 27 MOWING WITH A MULCHING ATTACHMENT: Mulching or recycling the grass clippings requires atotally different mowing approach than would be normalwhen side discharging or bagging the grass. Theremay be instances or conditions where it is not possibleto hide all the recycled or m...
Page 28 - MOWING WITH A MULCHING ATTACHMENT; Keep the underside of the mower deck clean.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 28 MOWING WITH A MULCHING ATTACHMENT (continued): 7. Keep the underside of the mower deck clean. Remove all grass and dirt build-up from theunderside of the pan, the baffles and deflectorsafter each use. Never, under any circumstances, should you place hands or feet under them...
Page 29 - MOWING WITH A GRASS CATCHER
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 29 MOWING WITH A GRASS CATCHER ATTACHMENT: In order to achieve optimum performance whenmowing with a grass catching attachment, pleaseread and follow the tips listed below. 1. Read and follow the installation instructions that are included with your grass catcher. 2. Set engin...
Page 30 - Some grass catching attachments require a
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 30 MOWING WITH A GRASS CATCHER ATTACHMENT (continued): 7. Maintain sharp blades throughout the cuttingseason. Some grass catching attachments require a “high-lift” blade. See your dealer for advice on thetype of blade(s) needed for your mower. 8. Use of grass catchers requires...
Page 31 - SIDE DISCHARGE OF THE CLIPPINGS:; Set engine speed control to the wide open or full
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 31 SIDE DISCHARGE OF THE CLIPPINGS: In order to achieve optimum performance when sidedischarging the grass clippings, please read and followthe tips listed below. Additional information can befound in the Troubleshooting guide. CAUTION To avoid personal injury, be sure that th...
Page 33 - TOWING TRAILERS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS:; The hydro release valves are located below the seat, on the; front; side of the hydro pumps. To access the release valves,
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 33 TOWING TRAILERS AND OTHER ATTACHMENTS: Towing a trailer or other attachment that is too heavy coulddamage the drive or cause the mower to become unstable.Limit loads to 250 pounds or less with this mower. TO FREE WHEEL MACHINE (Unlock Transmission): Always turn off engine b...
Page 34 - Before performing any maintenance, turn off engine,; MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 34 WARNING Failure to observe the following instructions may result in personal injury. Before performing any maintenance, turn off engine, allow to cool & remove key. Use extreme care when working on machinery. Do not wear watch or jewelry. Do not wear loose fitting clothes...
Page 35 - CARE AND MAINTENANCE; CUTTER BLADE MAINTENANCE:; CAUTION Stop engine and remove ignition key; Hold or block blade from
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 35 CUTTER BLADE MAINTENANCE: CAUTION Stop engine and remove ignition key for safety. Wear heavy, thick gloveswhen holding onto cutter blade, avoidthe sharp edge of the blade. Blades should be discarded when worn excessively. DANGEROUS! DO NOT USEBLADE IN THISC ONDITIO N! Whe n n...
Page 36 - •Charge battery if required.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 36 ENGINE: For complete maintenance and operating information ofthe engine, please refer to the maintenance instructionsfurnished by the engine manufacturer included in yourZero Turn Radius mower information packet. BATTERY: This is a maintenance-free battery and the fluid level...
Page 37 - Front tires; grease zerks
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 37 TIRES: Correct tire pressure is essential for efficient operationof the mower. Check tire pressure periodically. Inflatetires to the pressure listed below. Front tires 13 x 5.00 - 6 16-21 lbs. Rear tires 23 x 8.5 - 12 8-14 lbs. Lug nuts or lug bolts should be checked regularl...
Page 38 - Note: Belt deflection or movement should be approximately
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 38 BELTS : Check belts every 50 hours. Replace any belts found tobe in poor condition. BELT TENSION: Engine to Mower Deck Belt: P/N 10669 Manual adjustment. Turn nut on deck eyebolt to adjustbelt tension. Note: Belt deflection or movement should be approximately 1/4” when measur...
Page 39 - CHANGING THE ENGINE OIL:; The “Dapco” oil drain valve is located on either side
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 39 CAUTION HOT oil may cause burns. Allowengine to cool before draining oil. Hex Head Valve Stem CHANGING THE ENGINE OIL: 1. The “Dapco” oil drain valve is located on either side of the engine crankcase (depending on the type ofengine installed on your ZTR®). 2. Place a suitable...
Page 40 - Clean any spilled oil from engine and chassis.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 40 HOT oil may cause burns. Allowengine to cool before draining oil. OIL FILL: 1. Clean any spilled oil from engine and chassis. 2. Refill engine with type, and quantity of oil recom- mended by the engine manufacturer in engineliterature. NOTE: Engine oil changes on the BLACK BE...
Page 41 - HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID &; Dirt or water in fluid can ruin the hydrostatic transmissions.; Normal Operating Temperatures - 20W50 engine oil; Dixon BlueTM 15W-50 Synthetic Hydrostatic Fluid; is
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 41 HYDROSTATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID & FILTER SERVICE: Dirt or water in fluid can ruin the hydrostatic transmissions. SERVICE INTERVALS: 1. Initial filter service - 100 hours 2. Every 500 hours or once a year thereafter. RECOMMENDED FLUID: All temperatures - Dixon Blue™ 15W-50 ...
Page 42 - HYDROSTAT OIL MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE:; Hydrostatic Fluid or a quality SAE 20W-50 motor oil.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 42 HYDROSTAT OIL MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE: Check the oil level in hydrostatic transmisison oil reservoirafter every 25 hours of usage. Clean the oil reservoir capand the area around it prior to removal. Check the oil level.Oil should be approximately 1/4” below top of oil tankbaffl...
Page 43 - NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 43 NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT 1. Lift seat. 2. Block up the unit so that the drive wheels are off the ground. Remove rear tires. 3. Loosen jam nuts on both ends of the control rod coupler. Note: The rear jam nuts are left handthreads. 4. With steering control arms in the “out” neutral p...
Page 44 - MOWER DECK LEVELING PROCEDURE:; A. Place the mower on a smooth level surface with front
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 44 MOWER DECK LEVELING PROCEDURE: There are a total of (4) slots which will control the attitudeor pitch of the mower deck. Deck should be level or pitchedslightly higher in rear. A. Place the mower on a smooth level surface with front casters positioned t owards deck. Check tir...
Page 45 - MOWER DECK LEVELING PROCEDURE; D. Turn both outer blades to align with the deck in front-
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 45 MOWER DECK LEVELING PROCEDURE (continued): D. Turn both outer blades to align with the deck in front- to-rear manner. Reposition rear mounting bolts upor down until rear of mower deck is positioned levelto 1/8” higher in the rear than the side-to-sidemeasurement. E. Confirm m...
Page 46 - Keep all connections clean and tight.; CLEANING THE MOWER:; The serial number is located on frame at rear of engine.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 46 ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS: Keep all connections clean and tight. CLEANING THE MOWER: Wash mower periodically. Clean above and belowdeck. High pressure washing and alkaline based soaps cancause damage to bearings and other parts of themower. After washing your mower, start the engine...
Page 47 - MOWER DECK REMOVAL:; Remove mower deck drive belt from clutch. To relieve
CARE AND MAINTENANCE 47 MOWER DECK REMOVAL: 1. Remove mower deck drive belt from clutch. To relieve belt tension, loosen nut on tensioner eyebolt. 2. Move deck into lowest cut position and support deck with blocks. 3. Remove nut from each of the four hanger bolts (suspended from chains). Remove hang...
Page 48 - TROUBLESHOOTING
48 1. ENGINE WON’T TURN OVER Mower blades engaged- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - disengage bladesParking brake not on- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - engage parking brakeCircuit breaker trips- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -reset breakerDead battery- - - - - - - - - - - - - ...
Page 49 - ENGINE RUNS BUT MOWER WON’T MOVE FORWARD; MOWER LOSES POWER OR TRANSMISSION OVERHEATS; ENGINE STALLS WHEN BLADES ARE ENGAGED
49 TROUBLESHOOTING 6. ENGINE RUNS BUT MOWER WON’T MOVE FORWARD Drive belt broken or slipping- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - replace drive beltTransmission oil low- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - add oilDamaged transmission- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -consult deal...
Page 50 - ENGINE AIR AND OIL FILTERS; STANDARD SERVICE PARTS LIST; Blades
50 ENGINE AIR AND OIL FILTERS Refer to Engine Operator’s Manual for correctservice intervals for engine oil changes and air filtermaintenance. Protect your engine investment, use only originalequipment filters. Refer to the Engine Operator’sManual or ask your dealer for correct replacementparts. STA...
Page 51 - OWNER’S INFORMATION; Date of Purchase
OWNER’S INFORMATION Date of Purchase Mower Model Number Mower Serial Number Purchased From Name Address DATE OIL CHANGED DATE ENGINE TUNED Dixon Industries, Inc.~P.O. Box 1569~Coffeyville, Ks~620-251-2000~Fax 620-251-4117
Page 52 - Dixon® and ZTR® are registered trademarks of
Dixon® and ZTR® are registered trademarks of Dixon Industries, Inc. DIXON INDUSTRIES, INC.P.O. Box 1569Coffeyville, Ks 67337-0945620-251-2000 BLACK BEAR™ Part No. 11249-0605 The engine exhaust from this product containschemicals known to the State of California to causecancer, birth defects or other...
