Tractor Set-Up
Moving The Tractor Manually
Your tractor’s transmission is equipped with a hydrostatic 
relief valve for occasions when it is necessary to move the 
tractor manually. Opening this valve permits the fluid in the 
transmission to bypass its normal route, allowing the rear tires 
follows:
 Locate the hydrostatic bypass rod in the rear of the tractor. 
See .
Figure 3-1
2.  Pull the hydrostatic bypass rod outward, then down, to lock 
it into place.
NOTE: Bypass rods may vary by model, however the basic 
operation is still the same. The bypass rod must be pulled 
On some Tractors:
 Locate the hydrostatic bypass rod in the rear of the tractor. 
2.   Pull the hydrostatic bypass rod outward until you feel it 
NOTE: The transmission will NOT engage when the hydrostatic 
bypass rod is pulled out. Return the rod to its normal position 
prior to operating the tractor.
CAUTION: Never attempt to move the tractor 
manually without first opening the hydrostatic relief 
valve. Doing so will result in serious damage to the 
tractor’s transmission. 
Shipping Brace Removal
WARNING! Make sure the lawn tractor’s engine is 
off, set the parking brake and remove the ignition 
key before removing the shipping brace.
 Locate the shipping brace, if present, and warning tag 
found on the right side of the cutting deck. See .
Figure 3-2
2.  While holding the discharge chute with your left hand, 
remove the shipping brace with your right hand by 
grasping it between your thumb and index finger and 
rotating it clockwise.
WARNING! The shipping brace is used for 
packaging purposes only. Remove and discard the 
shipping brace before operating your lawn tractor.
WARNING! The mowing deck is capable of 
throwing objects. Failure to operate the riding 
mower without the discharge cover in the proper 
operating position could result in serious personal 
injury and/or property damage.
Contents of Crate
 One Lawn Tractor  One Oil Drain Tube  One Deck Wash Hose Coupler
 One Lawn Tractor Operator’s Manual  One Engine Operator’s Manual
Assembly & Set-Up
3
9