This document serves as an operator's manual for the Poulan PRO PB145G38 Lawn Tractor, providing essential information for safe and proper operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Function Description
The Poulan PRO PB145G38 is a riding lawn tractor designed for mowing grass. It features a cutting deck with blades that can be engaged and disengaged, and an engine that provides power for both the blades and ground drive. The tractor is equipped with various controls for steering, speed, direction, and cutting height adjustment. Safety features, such as an operator presence sensing switch and a Reverse Operation System (ROS), are integrated to prevent accidents. The tractor is capable of towing attachments, provided they are recommended by the manufacturer and comply with specifications.
Important Technical Specifications
- Gasoline Capacity and Type: 1.50 Gallons / 5.67 Liters, Regular Unleaded. The manual explicitly states that gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable, but using gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.
- Oil Type (API: SG-SL): SAE 30 (above 32°F/0°C) and SAE 5W30 (below 32°F/0°C).
- Oil Capacity: 56 Oz. / 1.65 Liters with filter, 48 Oz. / 1.4 Liters without filter.
- Spark Plug: Champion RC12YC with a gap of 0.030 inches / 0.76 mm.
- Charging System: 3 Amps Battery, 5 Amps Headlights.
- Battery: 28 Amp/Hr, Minimum CCA: 230, Model Size: U1R.
- Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55 Ft. Lbs. / 62-75 Nm.
- Cutting Height Range: Approximately 1-1/2 to 4 inches (38.1 to 101.6 mm), measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running.
- Maximum Recommended Operation Angle: 15 degrees for loading/unloading and slope operation.
Usage Features
The tractor is designed for ease of use with several operational controls:
- Steering Wheel: Used to control the direction of the tractor. Assembly involves sliding the extension shaft onto the lower steering shaft, placing the steering boot over dash slots, and securing the steering wheel with a hex bolt, large flat washer, and lock washer.
- Clutch/Brake Pedal: Used for declutching, braking, and starting the engine. Depressing it fully and engaging the parking brake is required before leaving the operator's seat.
- Gearshift Lever: Selects the speed and direction (forward, neutral, reverse) of the tractor. It is crucial to bring the tractor to a complete stop before shifting gears to prevent damage to the transaxle.
- Attachment Clutch Lever: Engages and disengages the mower blades or other attachments.
- Attachment Lift Lever: Raises, lowers, and adjusts the mower deck or other attachments. It has a plunger to release the lever when changing its position.
- Ignition Switch: Used for starting and stopping the engine. Leaving the key in any position other than "STOP" will discharge the battery.
- Throttle/Choke Control: Used for starting and controlling engine speed. Full throttle is recommended for best bagging and mowing performance and battery charging.
- Parking Brake: Locks the clutch/brake pedal in the brake position, essential for safety when dismounting.
- Reverse Operation System (ROS) "ON" Position: Allows the mower deck or other powered attachments to operate while in reverse.
- Slope Operation: Emphasizes extreme caution on slopes. Mowing should be done up and down slopes, not across, at a low ground speed, avoiding sudden changes in speed or direction. The maximum recommended slope angle is 15 degrees.
- Towing: Only recommended attachments should be towed, operating at the lowest possible speed on slopes.
- Starting the Engine: Requires the operator to be seated, clutch/brake pedal depressed, parking brake set, gearshift in neutral, and attachment clutch disengaged. The throttle/choke control is used for cold and warm starts.
- Mowing Tips: Operate at full throttle for best performance. Mow dry grass, and for tall grass, make two passes with the first cut being relatively high. The left side of the mower can be used for trimming.
Maintenance Features
The manual outlines a comprehensive maintenance schedule and procedures to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the lawn tractor.
- Maintenance Schedule: Includes checks and services at various intervals: before each use, every 8 hours, every 25 hours, every 50 hours, every 100 hours, every season, and before storage.
- Tire Pressure: Reduce to PSI shown on tires for best cutting performance.
- Deck Levelness: Check and adjust the mower housing for proper levelness (side-to-side and front-to-rear) for best cutting results.
- Belt Inspection: Verify proper routing and condition of mower and drive belts.
- Brake System Check: Regularly check brake operation and adjust as required.
- Battery Maintenance: Keep terminals clean, ensure connections are tight, and charge periodically. The manual provides instructions for checking battery charge, cleaning terminals, and emergency starting with jumper cables.
- Engine Oil: Check oil level before each use and every 8 hours. Change oil after the first 25 hours of operation or at least once a year. The manual provides a viscosity chart based on temperature and detailed instructions for changing the oil, including using an oil drain extension.
- Air Screen and Air Filter: Clean the air screen regularly to prevent engine overheating. Service the air filter more often in dusty conditions.
- Muffler: Inspect and replace corroded mufflers and spark arresters (if equipped) to prevent fire hazards.
- Spark Plugs: Replace at the beginning of each mowing season or every 100 hours of use.
- Engine Cooling System: Clean debris from the blower housing and surrounding areas to prevent overheating.
- In-Line Fuel Filter: Replace once each season or if clogged.
- Cleaning: Clean the engine, battery, seat, and exterior surfaces regularly. Protect painted surfaces with automotive wax. Avoid using a garden hose or pressure washer unless the engine and transmission are covered.
- Transaxle Gear Shift Lever Neutral Adjustment: Instructions are provided for adjusting the gear shift lever to ensure it is in neutral when the transaxle is in neutral.
- Steering Wheel Alignment: Instructions for realigning the steering wheel if crossbars are not horizontal when front wheels are straight.
- Front Wheel Toe-in/Camber: Factory set and not adjustable; contact a service center if damaged.
- Wheel Removal: Instructions for safely removing wheels for repair, including handling the square key for rear wheels.
- Replacing Battery: Detailed steps for disconnecting and connecting battery cables, emphasizing safety precautions to prevent accidental grounding.
- Replacing Fuse: Use a 20 amp automotive-type plug-in fuse.
- Removing Hood and Grill Assembly: Steps for accessing internal components.
- Replacing Headlight Bulb: Instructions for changing the headlight bulb.
- Interlocks and Relays: Advise checking wiring if the tractor runs poorly or stops.
- Throttle and Choke Control Adjustment: Factory preset, but engine manual should be consulted if adjustment is needed.
- Storage: Detailed instructions for preparing the tractor for storage, including fuel system preparation (draining fuel or using a fuel stabilizer), engine oil change, cylinder lubrication, and battery charging/disconnection.
Safety Rules
The manual prominently features a "Safety Rules" section, emphasizing safe operation practices for ride-on mowers. Key warnings include:
- Amputation Hazard: The machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects.
- Accidental Starting: Always disconnect the spark plug wire before setup, transport, adjustment, or repairs.
- Slope Operation: Do not coast down hills in neutral. Mow up and down slopes, not across. Avoid slopes greater than 15 degrees.
- Towing: Only tow recommended attachments at the lowest possible speed on slopes.
- Bystanders and Children: Keep children and bystanders out of the mowing area. Never carry passengers. Look behind and down before and while backing.
- Discharge Material: Never direct discharged material toward anyone.
- Safety Devices: Do not operate without the grass catcher, discharge chute, or other safety devices in place and working.
- Unattended Operation: Never leave a running machine unattended.
- Eye Protection: Always wear eye protection during operation.
- Alcohol/Drugs: Do not operate under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Hot Surfaces: Be aware of hot exhaust/engine parts that can cause burns.
- Gasoline Handling: Use extreme care, as gasoline is flammable and its vapors are explosive. Extinguish all ignition sources, use approved containers, do not refuel with the engine running or indoors, and never overfill the fuel tank.
- Battery Safety: Lead-acid batteries generate explosive gases; keep sparks, flame, and smoking materials away. Wear eye protection.
- Ethanol Warning: Gasoline exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) will void the product warranty.
- California Proposition 65 Warning: Engine exhaust, some constituents, and certain vehicle components contain chemicals known to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Battery posts and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds.
The manual also includes a "Suggested Guide for Sighting Slopes for Safe Operation" to help operators identify safe mowing angles.
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