This document describes the RedMax YT2448F riding lawn mower, an internal combustion engine-powered machine designed for residential lawn maintenance.
Function Description
The RedMax YT2448F is a riding lawn mower primarily used for cutting grass. It is equipped with an internal combustion engine, a cutting deck with blades, and controls for steering, speed, and attachment engagement. The machine features an Operator Presence System (OPS) and a Reverse Operation System (ROS) for enhanced safety during operation. The OPS ensures the engine shuts off if the operator leaves the seat with the engine running and the parking brake not set. The ROS allows the mower or other powered attachments to operate in reverse only when specifically engaged by the operator, discouraging mowing in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Important Technical Specifications
- Gasoline Capacity and Type: 4 Gallons / 15.14 L, Regular Unleaded (up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable; exceeding 10% ethanol (E10) voids warranty).
- Oil Type (API: SJ-SN): SAE 10W30 (above 32°F/0°C) or SAE 5W30 (below 32°F/0°C).
- Oil Capacity (W/Filter): 64 Oz. / 1.89 L.
- Spark Plug: 25 132 03 (Gap: .030" / 0.76 mm).
- Charging System: 12 Amps @ 3600 RPM.
- Battery: 28 Amp/Hr, 230 Min. CCA, U1R Case size.
- Blade Bolt Torque: 45-55 Ft. Lbs. / 62-75 Nm.
- Maximum Recommended Operation Angle (Slopes): 15 degrees.
Usage Features
The mower is operated by sitting on the seat and using a combination of pedals and levers.
- Throttle Control: Used to control engine speed, typically operated at full speed (fast) for optimal cutting and bagging performance.
- Choke Control: Engaged for starting a cold engine, disengaged as the engine warms up.
- Ignition Switch: Used for starting and stopping the engine.
- Clutch/Brake Pedal: Used for braking and starting the engine. Depressing it fully and setting the parking brake is required before leaving the operator's position.
- Parking Brake: Locks the clutch/brake pedal in the brake position.
- Attachment Lift Lever: Raises and lowers the mower deck or other attachments.
- Attachment Clutch Lever: Engages the mower blades or other powered attachments.
- Forward/Reverse Drive Pedals: Control the tractor's forward and reverse movement.
- Cruise Control Lever: Sets forward movement at a desired speed without continuously holding the forward drive pedal.
- Freewheel Control: Disengages the transmission for pushing or slowly towing the tractor when the engine is off.
- Service Minder/Hour Meter: Displays total engine hours and indicates when service is due.
- Slope Operation: Mowing on slopes requires caution. The manual advises mowing up and down slopes, not across, and not exceeding a 15-degree slope. Slow speeds and gradual turns are recommended.
- Transport: When pushing or towing, the transmission must be disengaged using the freewheel control. Maximum transport speed is 2 mph (3.2 km/h).
- Towing: Only recommended attachments should be towed, adhering to weight limits. Caution is advised on slopes due to potential loss of traction.
Maintenance Features
The RedMax YT2448F requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Engine Oil: Check oil level before each use. Change oil (and filter for models with one) every 50 hours or more frequently under heavy load or dusty conditions. The manual provides an oil viscosity chart based on ambient temperatures.
- Fuel System: Use fresh, regular unleaded gasoline (up to 10% ethanol). For storage longer than 30 days, the fuel system should be emptied, or a fuel stabilizer should be used. The fuel filter should be replaced once per season.
- Air Filter and Air Screen: Clean the air filter and air screen regularly, more often in dusty conditions, to prevent engine damage from overheating.
- Spark Plugs: Replace spark plugs at the beginning of each mowing season or every 100 hours.
- Battery: Check battery level, clean terminals, and ensure proper charge. Fully charge the battery for storage.
- Mower Blades: Inspect and replace blades as needed (more often in sandy soil). The blade bolt torque specification is provided.
- Mower Deck Levelness: The deck should be properly leveled side-to-side and front-to-back for best cutting results.
- Deck Washout Port: The deck is equipped with a washout port for easy cleaning after each use. This involves connecting a garden hose, running the engine, and engaging the cutting deck to clean the underside.
- Belts: Check all belts for proper routing and wear. Replace as necessary.
- Brake System: Check brake operation regularly. Service if the tractor requires more than five feet (1.5 m) to stop at highest speed.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the engine, battery, seat, and other surfaces of foreign matter. Clean debris from the steering plate to prevent belt slip.
- Storage: Prepare the tractor for storage at the end of the season or if unused for 30 days or more. This includes cleaning, lubricating, and addressing the fuel system and battery. The manual warns against storing the tractor with gasoline in a building where fumes could reach an open flame or spark.