This document is an operator's manual for a Dixon D20KH42 ride-on mower, providing comprehensive instructions for safe operation, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Function Description
The Dixon D20KH42 is a ride-on mower designed for cutting grass and can also be used with various attachments. It features an internal combustion engine and a transmission system that allows for forward and reverse movement. The mower is equipped with a cutting deck and blades that can be engaged and disengaged via a clutch lever. It includes safety features such as an operator presence sensing switch, which shuts off the engine if the operator leaves the seat without setting the parking brake, and a Reverse Operation System (ROS) that controls mower operation in reverse. The tractor is designed for use on level ground and slopes up to 15 degrees, with specific instructions for safe slope operation.
Usage Features
The manual details how to prepare the tractor for operation, including checking the battery, installing the steering wheel, and adjusting the seat. It emphasizes the importance of reading and understanding all safety rules before starting the machine.
To start the engine, the operator must ensure the freewheel control is in the "transmission engaged" position, depress the brake pedal, set the parking brake, and place the attachment clutch in "DISENGAGED." The throttle control is then moved to the choke position for starting, and to the fast position once the engine is running. The manual provides specific procedures for warm and cold weather starting, including transmission warm-up for cold conditions.
For movement, the tractor uses forward and reverse drive pedals, with speed controlled by how far the pedal is depressed. Stopping the mower blades involves placing the attachment clutch control in the "DISENGAGED" position. To stop the engine, the throttle control is moved between half and full speed (fast) position, and the ignition key is turned to "STOP" and removed.
The cutting height of the mower is adjusted using an attachment lift lever, with a range of approximately 1" to 4". Gauge wheels are adjusted to be slightly off the ground when the mower is at the desired cutting height, preventing scalping. The manual provides detailed instructions for adjusting the mower deck levelness, both side-to-side and front-to-back, to ensure optimal cutting performance.
The Reverse Operation System (ROS) allows for mower operation in reverse when the ignition key is placed in the ROS "ON" position, but this is strongly discouraged unless absolutely necessary and only when certain no bystanders are in the mowing area.
For transport, the freewheel control must be placed in the "transmission disengaged" position, and the attachment lift raised to its highest position. The manual also advises on towing carts and other attachments, stressing the importance of using recommended attachments and exercising caution on slopes.
Mowing tips include driving so clippings are discharged onto areas that have already been cut, mowing large areas by starting with right turns, and cutting extremely tall grass twice. It is recommended to operate the engine at full throttle for best mowing performance and to avoid mowing wet grass.
Maintenance Features
The manual includes a comprehensive maintenance schedule, outlining tasks to be performed before each use, every 8, 25, 50, and 100 hours, every season, and before storage.
General maintenance recommendations include keeping all nuts and bolts tight, regularly checking safety devices, and keeping the machine free of debris. It advises against operating the machine in closed areas and emphasizes the importance of wearing eye protection.
Specific maintenance tasks covered include:
- Brake Operation: Checking and adjusting the brake system to ensure the tractor stops within five feet at highest speed.
- Tires: Maintaining proper air pressure, keeping tires free of damaging chemicals, and avoiding hazards that could cause damage. Tire sealant is suggested for punctures and slow leaks.
- Operator Presence System and ROS: Regularly checking that these safety systems are functioning correctly.
- Blade Care: Keeping mower blades sharp and replacing bent or damaged ones. Detailed instructions are provided for blade removal and installation, emphasizing the use of manufacturer-approved blades and proper tightening torque.
- Battery: Keeping terminals clean, bolts tight, and vent holes open. Periodic charging with an automotive charger is recommended to extend battery life. Instructions for cleaning terminals and jump-starting with a weak battery are also provided.
- V-Belts: Checking for deterioration and wear after 100 hours of operation and replacing them if necessary.
- Transaxle Cooling: Keeping the transmission fan and cooling fins clean to ensure proper cooling, with a warning against using high-pressure water or steam.
- Engine Lubrication: Checking engine oil level before each use and changing oil after every 50 hours or once a year. Instructions for draining and refilling engine oil are provided, along with an SAE viscosity grade chart.
- Engine Oil Filter: Replacing the engine oil filter every season or every other oil change.
- Air Filter: Servicing the air cleaner more often in dusty conditions.
- Air Screen: Keeping the air screen free of dirt and chaff to prevent overheating.
- Engine Cooling System: Ensuring the grass screen, cooling fins, and external engine surfaces are clean.
- Spark Plugs: Replacing spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing season or after every 100 hours.
- Muffler: Inspecting and replacing corroded mufflers and spark arresters to prevent fire hazards.
- In-Line Fuel Filter: Replacing the fuel filter once each season or if it becomes clogged.
- Deck Washout Port: Using the washout port after each use to clean the underside of the mower deck, with detailed instructions for connecting a garden hose and running the engine.
- Cleaning: Cleaning the engine, battery, seat, and other surfaces of foreign matter. It is recommended to use compressed air or a leaf blower instead of a garden hose or pressure washer for cleaning the tractor to prevent water damage to the engine and transmission.
The manual also includes troubleshooting guides for common issues such as the engine not starting, hard starting, engine not turning over, loss of power, headlights not working, battery not charging, loss of drive, engine backfiring, and excessive vibration. Each problem is listed with its possible causes and corresponding corrections.
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