This document is an operator's manual for a Husqvarna SC18 sod cutter, specifically models SC18/968981201 and SC18/968999352.
The function of this machine is to cut sod. It is explicitly stated that "This machine was designed for sod cutting only. It is not intended for any other use."
Important technical specifications are provided:
- Engine: Honda, 5.5 hp (3.8 kW)
- Net Weight: 328 lbs (149 kg)
- Shipping Weight: 360 lbs (164 kg)
- Width: 24 in (61 cm)
- Height: 36 in (91 cm)
- Length: 54 in (137 cm)
- Cutting Depth (max): 2.5 in (6.3 cm)
- Cutting Width: 18 in (46 cm)
- Blade: 18-inch blade
- Tires: 10-inch Tractor Tread Tires/Powered by 4-wheel Drive
- Maximum RPM: 3000 RPM
- Idle RPM: 1,400 (+200/-150) RPM
- Clutch Engagement RPM: 1,800 RPM
The manual also includes sound and vibration statements:
- Sound Test (Lwa): 105.5 dB(A)
- Sound Test (LpA operator): 93 dB(A)
- Vibration Level (operator handles): 2.0g
Usage features of the Husqvarna SC18 sod cutter include:
- Controls:
- Single Clutch/Throttle
- Antivibration Handle
- Depth Adjustment Knob
- Depth Lock Knob
- Blade Engagement Lever
- Shift Control Lever
- Engine Guard
- Engine Start
- Drive System: 4-wheel drive
- Weight: Built-in weight for stability and cutting performance.
- Gears: Slow, Fast, Reverse. The shift lever has a "turtle icon" for slow gear.
- Starting: The machine must be in neutral before starting. The blade should be in the transport position.
- Transporting:
- Push the blade engagement lever forward to raise the blade.
- Select the desired gear (slow-fast-reverse).
- Pull the throttle while maintaining a firm grip on the handlebar.
- To make turns, push down on the handlebar to do "a wheelie," then turn.
- Loading into a truck or trailer should be done by driving up ramps in low gear. The manual explicitly states "DO NOT LIFT! This 330lb machine is not intended to be lifted by hand."
- Sod Cutting Operation:
- Position the sod cutter at the starting point with the blade out of the ground.
- Engage the blade by pulling the blade engagement lever toward you with one hand while lifting the handlebar with the other hand.
- Place the shift lever in slow gear.
- Pull the throttle while maintaining slight down pressure on the handlebar to cut a short distance, then stop and put the shift lever in neutral.
- Check the cut depth by lifting the edge of the sod.
- Adjust depth by pushing the blade engagement lever forward, unlocking the depth lock knob (red knob), and turning the depth adjustment knob (clockwise for less depth, counterclockwise for more depth), then locking the knob.
- End cuts by pushing the blade engagement lever forward while holding the throttle to cut the end of the sod strip as the blade rises.
- Operator Tips:
- To engage reverse, it may be necessary to push the machine back and forth while pulling the shift lever.
- Stop before shifting gears.
- Cut downhill on unlevel ground.
- Soil conditions affect cutting depth, requiring readjustment when moving from hard to soft or moist soil.
- Do not attempt sharp turns while cutting.
- Operating on Hills:
- WARNING: Do not operate on hills exceeding 35% grade to prevent machine from rolling over.
- Operating on hills may require greater effort to steer and maintain balance.
- Uneven cutting depth may occur when operating across a hill due to shifted center of gravity.
- It is more effective to cut down rather than across hills for even depth and enhanced stability.
- Avoid hillside turns; back up hills in reverse gear, then cut going down.
- Watering before cutting: Generally not necessary. A simple test involves pushing a hand spade, weed tool, or large screwdriver 2-3 inches into the ground with little effort. If difficult, watering the day before may be advisable. Allow grass to dry for adequate traction.
Maintenance features and schedules are detailed:
- Preventative Maintenance Schedule (Inspection):
- Each Use: Engine Oil (refer to engine manual), Clutch Tension, Chain Tension, Decals and Warnings, Fasteners and fittings, Blade condition and wear, Excessive vibration, Engine air cleaner (refer to engine manual), Depth adjuster.
- Every 20 hrs: Throttle cable, Frame condition (rust, cracks, etc.), Clutch and cable.
- Preventative Maintenance Schedule (Lubrication):
- Every 20 hrs: Engine Oil (refer to engine manual), Chain (30W Motor oil or Chain lubricant), Linkage (30W oil), Grease depth adjust screw.
- Every 60 hrs: Engine Oil.
- As Required: Chain (30W Motor oil or Chain lubricant), Linkage (30W oil).
- Storage: Engine Oil, Chain (30W Motor oil or Chain lubricant), Linkage (30W oil).
- Engine Service and Warranty: Contact an authorized engine manufacturer's servicing dealer. Follow engine manufacturer's maintenance instructions. Do not tear down the engine during the warranty period.
- Oil Types:
- Engine (gray cap): Refer to engine manual for type, viscosity, weight, and capacity.
- Clutch/Gear Box (yellow cap): Refer to engine manual for type, viscosity, weight, and capacity.
- Transmission grease: Tecumseh Bentonite Grease part #788067B or equivalent. Servicing is generally not needed; contact Tecumseh or a servicing dealer if required. The transmission is behind the front axle under the engine and has no dipstick.
- Blade Wear: Replace blade when worn to 1 1/2" (3.8cm) or less from the cutting edge to the back edge. Maintain the lower blade surface. Sharpen from the top only, and from the outside only for the sides.
- Cleaning and Washing: Regular cleaning prolongs service. Use care with power washers to avoid damaging warning decals, instruction labels, bearings, chain, and engine. Do not exceed 1000 PSI water pressure.
- Adjusting Chain Tension:
- Upper Chain: No adjustment required.
- Lower Chain: Remove chain guard, tilt sod cutter forward onto the front weight. Tighten the 1/2” lock nut on the chain idler until the #40 chain flexes approximately 1/4" (6mm) at mid-span. Install chain guard, set sod cutter back to level.
- Storage:
- Refer to engine manufacturer's instructions.
- Clean the machine.
- Cover scratches with touch-up paint.
- Lubricate according to the schedule.
- Lightly oil or paint the blade to inhibit rust.
- Covered or indoor storage is recommended.
Safety Procedures:
- DO: Start only with the shift lever in neutral. Read all maintenance and service instructions. Follow engine manufacturer instructions. Inspect the area for hazards (rocks, wire, string, etc.). Identify and mark in-ground objects (sprinkler heads, stakes, water valves, etc.). Use only for sod cutting.
- DO NOT: Start in gear. Cut at high transport speeds. Use on any surface other than grass. Operate on slopes exceeding 35% grade. Place hands or feet near moving parts. Run engine in an unventilated area. Shift with throttle engaged. Run engine while servicing (remove spark plug wire). Remove guards when operating. Lift the machine (330 lbs).
Troubleshooting Guide: The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting section covering issues such as:
- Transmission shaft broken
- Drive wheels not engaging
- Unit jumps out of gear
- Bushings on depth control assembly wearing quickly or oozing out
- Right Angle T-drive leaking
- Incorrect engine RPM
- Transmission chain wearing prematurely or coming off
- Pulleys not staying tight or coming off
- Blade doesn't move or stops cutting
- Blade not cutting full depth or inconsistent depth
- Blade not disengaging
- Belt coming off
- Belt glazed or slipping
- Depth Control Rod broken or frozen
- Unit creeping
- Handle Stand Off Kit bolts loose
- Bolts breaking
- Tires wearing too quickly
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