Scag Power Equipment Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX User Manual (English)

Questions and Answers:

N
Nancy FreemanAug 12, 2025
Why is my Scag Power Equipment Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX leaving strips of uncut grass in the cutting path?
- J
  jocelyngriffinAug 12, 2025
  Streaking, or strips of uncut grass in the cutting path, can occur for several reasons. The blades may be dull or worn, or they may have been sharpened incorrectly; in this case, sharpen the blades. The engine RPM might be too low, so ensure the engine is running at full RPM. A slipping belt can also be the cause, so adjust the belt tension. Check for grass accumulation under the deck and clean it if necessary. If you are mowing too fast for the conditions, try slowing down. Cutting wet grass can also cause this issue, so wait until the grass is dry. Bent blades can also cause this problem, so replace them.
G
gatesjamesAug 16, 2025
What to do if my Scag Power Equipment Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX is scalping, hitting dirt, or cutting too close to the ground?
- A
  Anthony DunnAug 16, 2025
  Scalping, where the blades hit the dirt or cut very close to the ground, can be caused by several factors. Check and adjust the tire pressures, as low tire pressures can cause this. If your ground speed is too fast, slow down to adjust for conditions. You might be cutting too low, so consider raising the cutting height. Rough terrain can also cause scalping, so you may need to reduce ground speed, raise the cutting height, or change the direction of cut. Also, avoid cutting wet grass.
D
David SolisAug 20, 2025
How to fix occasional blades of uncut grass with my Scag Power Equipment Lawn Mower?
- D
  David MunozAug 20, 2025
  If your Scag Power Equipment Lawn Mower is leaving occasional blades of uncut grass, it could be due to several reasons. Ensure the engine is running at full RPM. If your ground speed is too fast, slow down. Avoid cutting wet grass and wait until it has dried out. Dull blades can also cause this, so sharpen them. Check for grass accumulation under the deck and clean it if necessary. Finally, check the belt tension and adjust if the belts are slipping.
T
Terry MaloneAug 25, 2025
Why is my Scag Power Equipment Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX leaving an uneven cut on flat ground?
- M
  Monica GarciaAug 25, 2025
  An uneven cut on flat ground, resulting in a wavy, high-low appearance, scalloped cut, or rough contour, can be due to several issues. If the lift is worn from the blade, replace the blade. Ensure the blade is mounted correctly with the cutting edge toward the ground. Clean any grass accumulation from the underside of the deck. Adjust the deck pitch and level if there is too much blade angle. If the deck is mounted improperly or the spindle area is bent, see your authorized SCAG dealer. Dull blades can also cause this, so sharpen the blade.
V
vincent63Aug 27, 2025
Why is my Scag Power Equipment Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX Lawn Mower leaving a sloping ridge across the width of the cutting path?
- B
  Bridget FloresAug 28, 2025
  A sloping ridge across the width of the cutting path can be caused by several factors: * Unequal tire pressures. Check and adjust tire pressure. * Uneven wheels. Check and adjust tire pressure. * Incorrectly mounted deck. See your authorized SCAG dealer. * Deck not level side-to-side. Check for level and correct.
K
kjohnsonAug 31, 2025
How to fix streaking with my Scag Power Equipment Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX Lawn Mower when there are strips of uncut grass between cutting paths?
- U
  uedwardsAug 31, 2025
  If your Scag Power Equipment Lawn Mower is leaving strips of uncut grass between cutting paths, the issue is likely due to not enough overlapping between rows. Increase the overlap of each pass to resolve this.
H
Hector WilsonSep 3, 2025
What causes an uneven cut on uneven ground with my Scag Power Equipment Lawn Mower?
- B
  burgessdanielSep 4, 2025
  If you're experiencing an uneven cut (wavy appearance, high-low scalloped cut, or rough contour) while mowing on uneven ground with your Scag Power Equipment Lawn Mower, the primary cause is the uneven ground itself. To mitigate this, you may need to reduce ground speed, raise the cutting height, and/or change the direction of cut.
J
Jennifer PhillipsSep 7, 2025
What causes a step cut (ridge in center) when using my Scag Power Equipment Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX Lawn Mower?
- E
  Edwin FisherSep 7, 2025
  A step cut, characterized by a ridge in the center of the cutting path, can be caused by several issues. The blades may not be mounted evenly, so adjust the pitch and level. A bent blade can also cause this, so replace the blade. In case of internal spindle failure or incorrect mounting of the spindle, see your authorized SCAG dealer.

Scag Power Equipment Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX Specifications

General

Model	Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX
Engine	Kawasaki FX921V
Engine Displacement	999cc
Horsepower	31 HP
Deck Size	61 inches
Cutting Width	61 inches
Speed	Up to 16 mph
Deck Type	Velocity Plus™
Transmission	Hydro-Gear ZT-5400 Transaxles

Summary

Section 1 - General Information

1.1 Introduction

Explains the importance of reading the manual for optimal mower performance and efficiency.

1.2 Direction Reference

Defines directional terms (Right, Left, Front, Rear) relative to the operator's position.

1.3 Servicing Engine and Drive Train Components

Outlines routine maintenance for engine/drivetrain, directing users to dealers for major repairs.

1.4 Symbols

Lists and explains various symbols used throughout the operator's manual.

Section 2 - Safety Information

2.1 Introduction to Safety

Emphasizes operator safety, training, and responsibility for preventing accidents and understanding signal words.

2.3 Before Operation Safety

Details critical checks, safe operating practices, and precautions before operating the mower.

2.5 Roll-Over Protection System Safety

Explains the importance and proper use of the Roll-Over Protection System (ROPS) and seat belt.

2.6 Maintenance and Storage Safety

Provides guidelines for safe maintenance procedures, storage, and use of spark arrestors.

2.9 Safety and Instructional Decals

Lists and describes various safety and instructional decals found on the machine.

Section 3 - Specifications

3.1 Engine Specifications

Details engine specifications including model, displacement, type, cylinders, and carburation.

3.2 Electrical Specifications

Lists electrical system components like battery, charging system, and fuses.

3.3 Power Head Specifications

Describes the power head, drive system, steering, parking brake, and wheels.

3.4 Cutter Deck Specifications

Details cutter deck specifications like type, construction, width, and blade engagement.

3.5 Hydraulic System Specifications

Specifies the hydraulic oil filter and reservoir.

3.6 Weights and Dimensions

Provides weight and dimensional data for different mower models.

3.7 Productivity Estimates

Estimates cutting productivity in acres per day based on speed and cutting width.

Section 4 - Operating Instructions

4.1 Tiger Eye Instrument Identification

Identifies and explains the functions of indicators on the Tiger Eye Advanced Monitoring System.

4.2 Controls Identification

Identifies and explains the function of various controls and instruments on the mower.

4.3 Safety Interlock System

Explains the safety interlock system and its function in preventing operation under unsafe conditions.

4.4 Initial Run-In Procedures

Outlines the initial maintenance and checks required for the first 20 hours of operation.

Engine Starting and Operation

Covers starting the engine, ground travel, steering, and engaging the deck drive for safe operation.

Specific Operation Scenarios

Details procedures for hillside operation and parking the mower safely.

Post-Operation and Troubleshooting

Provides instructions for after operation cleaning, removing clogs, moving the mower, and mowing recommendations.

Adjustments and Settings

Guides on adjusting cutting height, pedals, steering levers, speed control, and suspension.

4.19 Towing (Optional Hitch Accessory)

Provides safety guidelines and precautions for towing the mower or towed equipment.

Section 5 - Troubleshooting Cutting Conditions

Stringers - Occasional Blades of Uncut Grass

Addresses issues causing uncut grass blades or stringers in the lawn.

Streaking - Strips of Uncut Grass in Cutting Path

Identifies causes and cures for streaking or uncut grass lines in the cutting path.

Streaking - Strips of Uncut Grass Between Cutting Paths

Explains how to resolve issues with uncut grass between mowing passes.

Uneven Cut on Flat Ground - Wavy High-Low Appearance, Scalloped Cut, or Rough Contour

Addresses causes and solutions for uneven cutting on flat or contoured ground.

Uneven Cut on Uneven Ground-Wavy Appearance, High-Low Scalloped Cut, or Rough Contour

Details how to fix uneven cutting on uneven or wavy terrain.

Sloping Ridge Across Width of Cutting Path

Explains how to resolve issues causing ridges across the cutting path.

Scalping - Blades Hitting Dirt or Cutting Very Close to the Ground

Addresses scalping issues where blades hit dirt or cut too close to the ground.

Step Cut - Ridge in Center of Cutting Path

Explains how to fix a step cut or ridge forming in the center of the cutting path.

Slope Cut - Sloping Ridges Across Width of Cutting Path

Describes how to resolve sloping ridges across the cutting path.

Section 6 - Adjustments

6.1 Parking Brake Adjustment

Provides instructions for adjusting the mower's parking brake linkage.

6.2 Travel Adjustments

Covers adjustments for neutral creep and tracking to ensure straight travel.

6.3 Speed Control Adjustment

Details how to adjust the speed control linkage for proper range changes.

6.4 Throttle & Choke Adjustments (Dealer Service)

States that throttle and choke adjustments must be performed by a Scag dealer.

6.5 Belt Adjustments and Alignment

Provides warnings and guidelines for checking and adjusting drive belts and their alignment.

Deck and Component Adjustments

Guides on adjusting cutter deck level, pitch, baffle height, steering dampeners, and electric clutch.

Section 7 - Maintenance

7.1 Maintenance Chart and Intervals

Presents a chart outlining recommended maintenance tasks and their service intervals.

7.2 Lubrication

Provides a grease fitting lubrication chart with locations, intervals, and lubricants.

7.3 Hydraulic System Maintenance

Details procedures for checking and changing hydraulic oil and filter.

7.4 Engine Maintenance

Covers engine oil, fuel system, and air cleaner maintenance procedures.

7.7 Battery and Belt Maintenance

Provides safety, charging, and inspection guidelines for batteries and drive belts.

7.9 Cutter Blades and Tires

Guides on inspecting, sharpening, replacing cutter blades, and checking tire pressure.

7.11 Body, Deck, and Upholstery Care

Provides instructions for washing the mower, cleaning electrical components, and seat.

Section 8 - Illustrated Parts List

8.1 Scag Approved Attachments and Accessories

Lists Scag-approved attachments and accessories, noting others are not approved.

Cutter Deck Components

Exploded views and parts lists for 61V, 72V, 61RD cutter decks, and deck controls.

Body and Chassis Components

Exploded views and parts lists for sheet metal, ROPS, seat, suspension, and notes sections.

Steering and Brake Components

Exploded views and parts lists for steering and brake systems.

Drivetrain and Hydraulic Components

Exploded views and parts lists for hydraulic, fuel, engine, and transaxle systems.

Electrical System Components

Exploded views and parts lists for electrical systems, including EFI and harness schematics.

Limited Warranty - Commercial Equipment

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Scag Power Equipment Cheetah SCZ61V-31FX User Manual

Table of Contents