Poulan Pro PB175A42LT

This document is an operator's manual for a Poulan PRO PB175A42LT Lawn Tractor, providing essential information for safe operation, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

The Poulan PRO PB175A42LT Lawn Tractor is a ride-on mowing machine designed for cutting grass in residential settings. Its primary function is to provide efficient and effective lawn maintenance. The tractor is equipped with an internal combustion engine and a cutting deck that houses rotating blades. It is designed for single-operator use and features various controls to manage engine speed, motion, and attachment operation.

Usage Features:

The tractor's operation involves several key controls and safety considerations. To start, the operator must read and understand all instructions and safety rules in the manual. The tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch, which means the engine will shut off if the operator attempts to leave the seat without first setting the parking brake.

Before starting, the operator must ensure the freewheel control is in the "TRANSMISSION ENGAGED" position, sit on the seat, depress the clutch/brake pedal, set the parking brake, place the motion control lever in neutral, and move the attachment clutch to "DISENGAGED." The throttle control is used to manage engine speed, with full speed (fast) recommended for optimal mowing performance. The ignition switch is used to start and stop the engine, and the key should always be removed when leaving the tractor unattended to prevent unauthorized use.

The tractor's motion is controlled by a motion control lever, which allows for forward and reverse movement. Operators are advised to move this lever slowly and gradually. For safety, the manual strongly discourages mowing in reverse unless absolutely necessary, and if done, the ignition key must be placed in the "ROS ON" position, and the operator must look down and behind before and while backing.

The attachment lift lever is used to raise and lower the mower deck, allowing for adjustment of cutting height. Gauge wheels on the mower deck should be adjusted so they are slightly off the ground when the deck is at the desired cutting height, which helps prevent scalping on uneven terrain. The mower blades are engaged using the attachment clutch control. For safety, the mower should not be operated without the grass catcher or deflector chute in place.

Slope operation requires extra caution. The manual advises mowing up and down slopes, not across them, and avoiding slopes greater than 15 degrees. Operators should choose a low ground speed, avoid stopping or turning on slopes, and keep the machine in gear when going down slopes. If traction is lost, the blades should be disengaged, and the tractor should proceed slowly straight down the slope.

When towing attachments, only recommended equipment should be used, and common sense should be exercised, especially on slopes, where heavy loads can cause loss of traction and control.

Maintenance Features:

Regular maintenance is crucial for the tractor's safe and proper operation and to ensure its longevity. The manual provides a detailed maintenance schedule, outlining tasks to be performed before each use, every 8, 25, 50, and 100 hours, every season, and before storage.

Key maintenance tasks include:

Brake Operation: Regularly check and adjust the brake system to ensure the tractor stops within the specified distance.
Tire Pressure: Maintain proper air pressure in all tires for best cutting performance and to prevent tire damage.
Operator Presence & ROS Systems: Verify that these safety systems are functioning correctly.
Loose Fasteners: Periodically check and tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws.
Mower Blades: Keep blades sharp for best cutting results and replace bent or damaged blades. The manual provides instructions for blade removal and installation, emphasizing the importance of using approved replacement blades and proper tightening torque.
Lubrication: Follow the lubrication chart to grease specific pivot points, such as spindle zerks, front wheel bearings, and steering sector gear teeth, using general purpose grease. Nylon bearings should not be oiled or greased with viscous lubricants.
Battery: Keep the battery and terminals clean, bolts tight, and vent holes open. The battery should be periodically recharged, especially during storage, to extend its life. Instructions for cleaning terminals and proper cable connection (positive first, negative last) are provided.
Engine Oil: Check the engine oil level before each use and change the oil after every 25 hours of operation or at least once a year. The manual specifies the type of oil (API service classification SG-SL) and viscosity grade based on expected operating temperature. Instructions for draining and refilling oil are included.
Air Filter and Screen: Clean the air screen to prevent engine overheating and service the air filter more often in dusty conditions to ensure proper engine function.
Muffler: Inspect and replace corroded mufflers and spark arresters (if equipped) to prevent fire hazards.
Spark Plugs: Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing season or every 100 hours of use.
Fuel Filter: Replace the in-line fuel filter once per season or if it becomes clogged.
Cleaning: Keep the tractor free of grass, leaves, and other debris, especially from the engine cooling system and steering plate, to prevent overheating and ensure proper control movement. Avoid using a garden hose or pressure washer directly on the engine or transmission.
Belt Maintenance: Check V-belts for deterioration and wear and replace them if necessary. Instructions are provided for replacing both the mower blade drive belt and the motion drive belt.
Mower Deck Levelness: Periodically check and adjust the mower deck for side-to-side and front-to-back levelness to achieve the best cutting results.

For storage, the tractor should be prepared by removing the mower, thoroughly cleaning the entire unit, inspecting and replacing worn parts, lubricating, and touching up paint. The fuel system should be emptied by running the engine until the fuel lines and carburetor are dry, or a fuel stabilizer should be used. The engine oil should be drained and replaced with clean oil, and spark plugs should be removed to add a small amount of oil to the cylinder(s) before reinstallation. The battery should be fully charged, cleaned, and disconnected. The tractor should be stored indoors, covered with a breathable protective cover.

The manual also includes a troubleshooting guide to help operators diagnose and resolve common issues such as the tractor not starting, hard starting, engine not turning over, loss of power, excessive vibration, poor cut, mower blades not rotating, and engine problems. For complex repairs or adjustments, contacting an authorized service center is recommended.