Cub Cadet SC 500 ez - User Manual

CUB CADET LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-0019
Printed In USA
OperatOr’s Manual
Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty
WARNING
READ AND FOLLOW ALL SAFETY RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS MANUAL
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO OPERATE THIS MACHINE.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE INSTRUCTIONS MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.
Self Propelled Mower — Models SC 500 Z/ SC 500 EZ
Form No. 769-09324
(October 16, 2013)

Cub Cadet SC 500 ez Specifications

General

Engine Displacement	159cc
Drive System	Self-Propelled
Deck Width	21 inches
Deck Material	Steel
Mulch Capable	Yes
Side Discharge	Yes
Rear Bag	Yes
Wheel Size (Front)	8 inches
Weight	82 lbs
Self-Propelled Speed	Variable
Mulching Capability	Yes
Warranty	3-year limited
Engine Type	Cub Cadet® OHV
Starting System	Recoil
Cutting Height	1.25-3.75 inches
Fuel Capacity	1.3 quarts
Cutting Height Range	1.25-3.75 inches
Grass Discharge	Side discharge and rear bag
Engine	Cub Cadet® OHV
Wheel Size (Rear)	11 inches
Wheel Size (Front/Rear)	Front: 8 inches, Rear: 11 inches

Summary

To The Owner

Thank You

Expresses gratitude for purchasing the Cub Cadet mower and highlights its engineering.

Record Product Information

Instructions to record model and serial numbers for support and service needs.

Customer Support

Provides contact options for technical assistance, troubleshooting, and locating dealers.

Important Safe Operation Practices

General Operation Safety

Outlines essential rules and precautions for safe lawn mower operation and user conduct.

Slope Operation and Safety

Slope Operation Guidelines

Details safe mowing practices on slopes, including what to do and avoid.

Children Safety

Emphasizes precautions to ensure children's safety around the operating mower.

Service and Maintenance

Safe Handling of Gasoline

Provides critical safety instructions for handling gasoline to prevent fires and explosions.

General Service Recommendations

Covers general maintenance tasks and precautions for the mower and engine.

Engine Modification Warning

Warns against modifying the engine, which can lead to unsafe operating speeds.

Spark Arrestor Information

Spark Arrestor Requirements

Explains the need for and use of a spark arrestor, especially in dry conditions.

Safety Symbols and Warnings

Understanding Safety Symbols

Explains the meaning of various danger and warning symbols found on the mower and in the manual.

Slope Gauge Usage

Using the Slope Gauge

Instructions on how to use the provided slope gauge to determine safe mowing angles.

Assembly & Set-Up

Contents of Carton

Lists the items included in the mower's packaging for user verification.

Handle Assembly

Step-by-step instructions and diagrams for attaching the mower handle.

Grass Catcher Assembly

Instructions for assembling and attaching the grass catcher to the mower.

Side Discharge Chute Installation

Steps to convert the mower from mulching to side discharge.

Adjustments

Cutting Height Adjustment

How to adjust the mower's cutting height for all four wheels for optimal lawn care.

Handle Pitch Adjustment

How to adjust the handle angle for user comfort during operation.

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

Instructions for adding essential fuel and oil before first use and during operation.

Controls and Features

Blade Control Operation

Explains the function and operation of the blade control lever for safety.

Premium Drive Control

Details how to engage and adjust the self-propel speed using the drive control.

Cutting Height Adjustment Lever

Locates and explains the function of the lever used to set the cutting height.

Deck Wash System

Describes the deck wash port and how to use it for cleaning the mower deck.

Electric Starter Button (If Equipped)

Explains the location and function of the electric starter button.

Recoil Starter Operation

Instructions on how to start the engine using the recoil starter.

Operation

Starting and Stopping the Engine

Procedures for safely starting and stopping the mower's engine, including warnings.

Using as Mulcher

How to configure the mower to mulch grass clippings for lawn health.

Using Grass Catcher

How to attach and use the grass catcher for collecting clippings effectively.

Maintenance Procedures

General Maintenance Recommendations

Key safety rules and general checks required for mower maintenance.

Lubrication Points

Details pivot points and wheels requiring lubrication for smooth operation.

Deck Wash Procedure

Step-by-step guide for cleaning the mower deck using the water port.

Engine Care and Drive Adjustment

Engine Maintenance

Essential engine care tasks including oil, air filter, and spark plug service.

Drive System Adjustment

How to adjust the mower's drive linkage for proper self-propel operation.

Service Procedures

Blade Care and Balancing

Instructions for inspecting, sharpening, and balancing the mower blade.

Belt Inspection and Replacement

Guidance on checking the mower belt and when to seek professional replacement.

Battery and Fuse Service

Replacing the Battery

Steps for safely removing and replacing the mower's battery.

Charging the Battery

Instructions on how to properly charge the mower battery for optimal performance.

Replacing the Fuse

How to check and replace the fuse protecting the electric starter circuit.

Storage and Other Maintenance

Off-Season Storage Preparation

Steps to prepare the mower for long-term storage to prevent damage and ensure easy starts.

Troubleshooting Engine Issues

Engine Fails to Start

Common causes and remedies for the engine not starting.

Engine Runs Erratic

Troubleshooting steps for an engine that runs inconsistently or poorly.

Engine Overheating

Identifying and resolving issues that cause the engine to overheat.

Excessive Vibration

Causes and solutions for excessive vibration during mower operation.

Troubleshooting Mower Performance

Mower Will Not Mulch Grass

Reasons why the mower may not be mulching effectively and how to fix it.

Mower Will Not Self Propel

Diagnosing and fixing problems preventing the mower from self-propelling.

Replacement Parts Guide

Common Replacement Parts

Lists essential components like spark plugs, filters, and blades with part numbers.

Attachments & Accessories

Blade Removal Tool

Description of a tool to assist with faster and safer blade removal.

Spark Plug Wrench

Details a dual-ended wrench for spark plug servicing.

Oil Siphon

An accessory that simplifies transferring oil and other liquids.

Side Discharge Blower

An attachment for blowing leaves and debris, eliminating the need for a separate blower.

Mower Kick Stand

A stand that stabilizes the mower for maintenance tasks.

Warranty Information

SureStart Guarantee Provisions

Details the terms and conditions of the SureStart engine warranty.

Items and Conditions Not Covered

Lists exclusions from the SureStart guarantee and general warranty coverage.

Owner Responsibilities

Outlines the owner's duties regarding maintenance and proper usage for warranty validity.

General Warranty Conditions

Explains general terms, service provider requirements, and liability limitations.