CLASSEN TRS-20 20 inch 163cc Hydro Drive User Manual

CLASSEN TRS-20 20 inch 163cc Hydro Drive

Product Information

• The TRS-20 Turf Rake and TSS-20 Turf Seeder are products manufactured by Classen Mfg., Inc. The Turf Rake and Turf Seeder are designed for use in lawn care and maintenance.
• This manual contains important information regarding the assembly, operation, maintenance, and adjustment of the TRS-20/TSS-20. It also includes a parts list for easy reference.
• The TRS-20/TSS-20 is equipped with safety precautions to ensure user safety during operation. It is important to read and follow all safety instructions provided in this manual to avoid personal injury or equipment damage.
• The product is measured using U.S. units of measure.
• The TRS-20/TSS-20 comes with a warranty. Please refer to the last page of this manual for warranty information.
• The serial number sticker plate is located near the left rear corner of the TRS-20/TSS-20 frame.
• It is important to write down the frame and engine serial numbers, as well as the model numbers in the Owner’s Record section for future reference, especially when ordering parts.

Product Usage Instructions

Preparation

1. Before delivering the TRS-20/TSS-20 to the customer, perform a pre-delivery check:
   • Ensure that all guards and shields are fastened in place.
   • Check that decals are fastened and legible.
   • Turn on the gas lever on the engine.
   • Grease all lubrication points.
   • Check the air cleaner.
   • Touch up any scratches.
   • Add engine oil as per the Engine manual.
   • Add fuel, start the engine, and perform a test run.
2. Review the Operator’s Manual with the customer during the delivery:
   • Explain the Classen Mfg., Inc. warranty.
   • Demonstrate safe operation and service procedures.
   • Explain how to use controls correctly.
   • Show the proper way to operate the machine.
   • Explain how to transport the TRS-20/TSS-20.
   • Specify the correct fuel and lubricants to use.
   • Instruct on daily and periodic inspections.
   • Explain the process of changing oil after the break-in period.
   • Advise regular and correct servicing of the TRS-20/TSS-20.
   • Inform about Classen Mfg., Inc. parts and service availability.
   • Provide the customer with the Operator’s Manual and encourage them to read it.

Please refer to the specific sections in this manual for detailed instructions on operating, changing blade assemblies, replacing shaft assembly, and recommended height adjustments.

INTRODUCTION

THANK YOU

• Thank you for purchasing a CLASSEN TRS-20/TSS-20.

READ THIS MANUAL

• Read this manual carefully in its entirety. It contains assembly, operating, maintenance, adjustment instructions and a parts list for your TRS-20/TSS-20. By following the operating and maintenance instructions you will prolong the life of your equipment and maintain its maximum efficiency. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or equipment damage. This manual should be considered a permanent part of your TRS-20/TSS-20 and should remain with it if you sell it.

WARRANTY

• Refer to last page.

MEASUREMENTS

• U.S. Units of measure are used in this manual.

SERIAL NUMBERS

• Write frame and engine serial numbers, plus model numbers in “Owner’s Record” section below. You may need these numbers when you order parts. The serial number sticker plate is located near
  the left rear corner of the TRS-20/TSS-20 frame.

ORDERING PARTS

• When ordering parts, always give the serial number and model of your TRS-20/TSS-20 as well as the quantity, part number and description of the part needed.

DIRECTIONS

• Right Hand” and “Left Hand” sides of the  TRS-20/TSS-20 are determined by facing the “back” of the unit as you would operate the machine.

PRE-DELIVERY CHECK LIST

CHECK THE FOLLOWING BEFORE YOU DELIVER THE TRS-20/TSS-20 TO THE CUSTOMER.

1. Guards and shields fastened in place.
2. Decals fastened and legible.
3. Gas lever on engine turned on.
4. All lubrication points greased.
5. Air cleaner.
6. Touch up scratches.
7. Add engine oil (refer to Engine manual)
8. Add fuel, start engine, test run.

DATE SET UP __/__/__

DELIVERY CHECK LIST

REVIEW THE OPERATORS MANUAL WITH THE CUSTOMER.

1. Classen Mfg., Inc. warranty.
2. Safe operation and service.
3. How to use controls.
4. Operating the machine correctly.
5. Transporting the TRS-20/TSS-20.
6. Correct fuel and lubricants.
7. Daily and periodic inspections.
8. Changing oil after break-in period.
9. Servicing the TRS-20/TSS-20 regularly and correctly.
10. Classen Mfg., Inc. parts and service.
11. Give the customer the Operator’s Manual and encourage customer to read it.

• DATE DELIVERED __/__/__
• SIGNATURE ___

OWNER’S RECORD

• DATE PURCHASED
• TRS-20/TSS-20 SEEDER MODEL NUMBER
• ENGINE MODEL NUMBER
• TRS-20/TSS-20 SERIAL NUMBER
• ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

TRAINING

1. Regard the unit as a piece of power equipment and teach this regard to all who operate this unit.
2. Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment.
3. Never allow children, teenagers or people unfamiliar with these instructions to use this piece of equipment.
4. Avoid operating unit while people, especially children or pets, are nearby. Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or their property.
5. Be sure you know how to stop the TRS-20/TSS-20 at a moment’s notice.
6. When using the TRS-20/TSS-20, make certain frame plate is attached at all times when not bagging.

PREPARATION SAFETY

1. The use of personal protective equipment, such as (but not limited to) protection for the eyes, ears, feet and head is recommended.
2. While operating, always wear substantial foot wear and long trousers. Do not operate the equipment when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
3. Area should be free of all obstacles and debris.

ENGINE SAFETY

1. Handle gasoline with care; it is highly flammable.
2. Use an approved gasoline container.
3. Always add fuel before starting the engine.
4. Fill the fuel tank outdoors.
5. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine. Move away from the area of the spill and avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated.

WARNING

• DO NOT FILL TANK COMPLETELY FULL.
• DO NOT SMOKE WHILE YOU FILL FUEL TANK.
• DO NOT REMOVE GAS CAP IF ENGINE IS RUNNING.
• DO NOT OPERATE ENGINE IN A CONFINED SPACE WHERE DANGEROUS CARBON MONOXIDE FUMES CAN COLLECT.

OPERATIONAL SAFETY

1. Carefully read and follow all caution stickers.
2. Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.
3. Do not operate machine unless all guards, shields and covers are in place and in proper working condition.
4. It is essential all operator safety mechanisms be connected and in operating condition prior to use.
5. Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. Operating an engine at excessive speed may increase the hazard of personal injury.
6. Disengage all blade and drive clutches (release bail) before starting.
7. Start the engine carefully with feet well away from the blades.
8. Do not put hands, feet or clothing near rotating parts while the unit is being operated.
9. Travel up and down slopes at a 45° angle rather than across, to prevent unit from tipping over.
10. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes. Do not get too close to sharp drop-offs or operate unit on excessively steep slopes.
11. Use caution when backing up or pulling the unit towards you.
12. Stop the blades if unit has to be tilted for transportation, when crossing surfaces (i.e. sidewalks, driveways, stepping stones, etc.) or when transporting the unit to and from the area being worked on.
13. Never pick up or carry a TRS-20/TSS-20 while the engine is running.
14. Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire:
    • a ) before checking, cleaning or working on unit
    • b ) after striking a foreign object (inspect the unit for damage and make repairs before restarting and operating)
15. Stop the engine:
    • a) whenever you leave the unit
    • b) before refueling
    • c) before clearing blockages.
16. Reduce the throttle setting during engine run-out and, if the engine is provided with shut-off valve, turn the fuel off at the conclusion of operating.
17. Before shutting off, put drive lever in neutral.

OPERATION PREPARATION

1. Carefully read this manual and operate TRS-20/TSS-20 correctly.
2. Always check machine on level ground.
3. Visually check all moving parts and all fasteners, if loose or broken, tighten or replace. Check for broken or bent blades, replace if necessary.
4. Lubricate all fittings after every four hours of using machine, using a pressurized gun with standard lithium base lubricant (see “General Maintenance” section). Wipe off fittings before and after lubricating.
5. Add oil to the engine crankcase with engine resting in a level position (refer to engine manufacturer’s Owner’s Manual for the correct type and amount of oil).
6. Fill the fuel tank according to engine manufacturer specifications.
7. Police lawn area for obstacles and debris (i.e. sprinklers, hoses, toys, etc.)
8. Mark underground sprinkler heads and other hidden obstacles to prevent damage.

STARTING ENGINE

• CAUTION
• TO AVOID INJURY, DO NOT PLACE YOUR FEET OR OTHER BODY PARTS UNDER THE BLADES WHILE STARTING THE ENGINE.

1. Turn fuel cock to the “open” position
2. Turn choke on (closed).
3. Turn ignition switch to “on”.
4. Move throttle control to high RPM setting. Do not exceed 3600 rpm.
5. Pull recoil starter rope until engine starts.
6. After engine is warm, turn off choke (open).
7. Allow engine to run one minute before operating.
8. Check engine rpm setting before operating, DO NOT exceed 3600 rpm.

TRANSPORTING THE TRS-20/TSS-20

1. Position height adjustment lever to the start/transport position (see Fig. 1).
2. Start Engine, drive up ramps, make sure the blades do not hit the ramps or vehicle.
3. Slow the throttle to desired speed for loading.
4. To clear sidewalks, driveways, etc., press down on handle, raising front of the TRS-20/TSS-20.

OPERATING THE TRS-20/TSS-20

1. Put speed lever in neutral position.
2. Start engine.
3. Engage bail.
4. Move speed lever forward, to move forward.
5. Move speed lever backwards, to reverse.
6. Drive TRS-20/TSS-20 to area to be raked or seeder.
7. Move height adjustment lever to the appropriate setting for the shaft assembly being used. (see “Optional Shaft Assemblies” section)
8. Lift bail to engage the main shaft. Release bail to stop.

OPTIONAL BLADE ASSEMBLIES

CHANGING BLADE ASSEMBLIES
Within minutes your machine can be converted to a turf rake, turf seeder or turf slicer by purchasing the optional blade assemblies available complete with side plates, bearings and drive pulley. Changing the blade assembly can be done quickly as described below.

1. Set unit up on block allowing enough distance beneath machine to change blade assembly.
2. After removing the belt shield, remove the twelve bolts on the left side and three on the right side which hold the blade assembly to the main body (see Fig. 3).
3. Remove the belts from both sides and remove the entire blade assembly. There is no need to loosen any set screws.
4. Next install the optional blade assembly and fasten with six 1/4” x 5/8” bolts on each side. Tighten all bolts on both shields. Center the shaft and tighten the two set screws in each bearing using Pro Lock (nut type, medium strength).
5. When changing back to the original shaft it will not be necessary to loosen any set screws. Only the bolts in the belt shields and the eight bolts holding the shaft will need to be removed.

CAUTION

BE CERTAIN THAT THE SET SCREWS ARE TIGHTENED PROPERLY IN BEARINGS AND PULLEY WHEN REASSEMBLING.

REPLACING SHAFT ASSEMBLY ONLY

If replacing the existing shaft assembly, only follow steps 1 through 3 above. Proceed with the following steps.

1. Remove the two drive pulleys and bearing plates from the main shaft (one on each side). Replace with new shaft. Reinstall the bearing plates and drive pulleys on the new shaft using Pro Lock (retaining 1, medium strength) on the shaft and Pro Lock (nut type, medium strength) on the set screws. The pulleys will be positioned on the shaft by bolts, the 1/4” lock washer and the pulley retainer washer.
2. Route the belt behind the idler pulleys and roll the belts onto the lower pulleys then reinstall the belt shields.

WARNING

CAUTION: BE CERTAIN THAT THE SET SCREWS ARE TIGHTENED PROPERLY IN BEARINGS AND PULLEY WHEN REASSEMBLING.

RECOMMENDED HEIGHT ADJUSTMENTS

Raking Height

When using the Turf Rake with its raking (flail) blade assembly adjust the raking height as follows. Normal height is set by placing the Turf Rake on a hard surface making sure one satellite shaft is at dead bottom. Adjust the wheels so the raking fingers on the bottom shaft just touch the ground. DO NOT set the fingers so that they will penetrate the ground as this will counteract the centrifugal force of the fingers and prevent the from raking properly.
With repeated use, raking side of the fingers will begin to wear. To give the fingers a new square raking edge, remove the end plates and turn the entire main shaft assembly 180° and replace it on the Turf Rake. NOTE: Use Pro-Lock (retaining 1, medium strength) on the 7” pulley on the main shaft.
To prolong the life of the main shaft, extra holes are provided. If the circular holes holding the satellite shafts become distorted, rotate all four satellite shafts to the next set of holes.

Seeding/Multipurpose Height

• The seeding/multipurpose blades are used for cutting grooves for over-seeding and can also be used for verticutting grasses. To set the height properly place unit on the lawn surface and adjust the wheel height up (see Fig. 4 ). Adjusting the wheel height up lowers the blades.

Seeding

• The proper height setting for over-seeding is approximately 1/4” into the ground. Adjust the wheel height up approximately one notch. If
  set deeper, grass seed being applied may not germinate.

• For best results, over-seed in two passes of 1/2 application rate at right angles or in a criss-cross pattern. Water heavily immediately after seeding then lightly for 10-14 days keeping soil moist.

Slicing

• The proper height setting for slicing or aerating is 1/2” to 3/4” into the ground. Adjust the wheel height up one or two notches.
• For crawling grasses such as Zoysia, Bermuda, Bahia, etc. raise the wheels only one notch. Crawling grasses should not be sliced too deeply. For single strand grasses like Bluegrass or Rye, aerate in perpendicular directions for more even slicing. For example, slice in a North-South direction on the first pass, switching to an  East-West direction on the second pass.
• As the seeder/multipurpose blades wear they may be rotated to provide a new cutting edge. The wheels may be raised to allow the blades to penetrate deeper into the ground.

CAUTION

• BE CERTAIN THAT THE SET SCREWS ARE TIGHTENED PROPERLY IN BEARINGS AND PULLEY WHEN REASSEMBLING.

Slicing Height

• The slicer blade assembly is recommended for slicing, verticutting or aerating when a thinner blade is preferred. This is the recommended blade for use on golf course greens. To set the height properly place unit on the lawn surface and adjust the wheel height up (see Fig. 4). Adjusting the wheel height up lowers the blades.
• The proper height setting for slicing or aerating is 1/2” to 3/4” into the ground. Adjust the wheel height up one or two notches.
• For crawling grasses such as Zoysia, Bermuda, Bahia, etc. raise the wheels only one notch. Crawling grasses should not be sliced too deeply. For single strand grasses like Bluegrass or Rye, aerate in perpendicular directions for more even slicing. For example, slice in a North-South direction on the first pass, switching to an  East-West direction on the second pass.
• As the slicer blades wear they may be rotated to provide a new cutting edge. The wheels may be raised to allow the blades to penetrate deeper into the ground.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

TO KEEP THE TRS-20/TSS-20 IN GOOD OPERATING CONDITION, PERFORM THE FOLLOWING:

• When replacement parts are required, use genuine Classen parts or parts with equivalent characteristics including type, strength, and material. Failure to do so may result in product malfunction and possible injury to the operator and/or bystanders.
• • Keep all safety decals legible. Remove all grease, dirt and debris from decals. Any safety decal that becomes illegible should be replaced immediately (see ‘Safety Decals” section). Safety decals can be affixed by peeling off the backing and applying to clear, dry surface. Smooth out to remove any air bubbles.
• Do not operate equipment without shields in place.
• Do not make any adjustments or perform any maintenance while the engine is running.
• Check engine mounting bolts frequently to maintain proper tightness.
• Thoroughly clean off blades when application is completed and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust on blades.
• Keep belt free of oil and dirt.
• Check for worn or deteriorating components that could create a hazard. When new components are installed, be sure that current safety decals are affixed to the replaced components. Safety decals can be affixed by peeling off the backing and applying to clear, dry surface. Smooth out to remove any air bubbles.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE

• Refer to engine manufacturer’s Owner’s Manual.
• Check engine oil level with engine resting in a level position.
• Inspect air filter element and replace if necessary.
• If carburetor adjustment is necessary, stand to one side and keep feet and hands clear while making adjustments.

MACHINE STORAGE

SAFETY WARNING

• TO PREVENT POSSIBLE EXPLOSION OR IGNITION OF VAPORIZED FUEL, DO NOT STORE EQUIPMENT WITH FUEL IN TANK OR CARBURETOR OR NEAR OPEN FLAME (I.E. FURNACE, WATER HEATER, PILOT LIGHT).

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

• Before the TRS-20/TSS-20 is put into storage for any period exceeding 30 days, the following steps should be taken.

1. Drain all fuel from fuel tank and fuel lines.
2. Start engine and run until all fuel is used from carburetor float bowl.
3. While engine is still warm, drain the crankcase oil and replace with the proper weight oil corresponding to the season the TRS-20/TSS-20 will next be used (refer to engine manufacturer’s Owner’s Manual).
4. Remove the spark plug and squirt a small quantity of engine oil into the cylinder. Turn the engine over a few times to distribute that oil.

OPERATION AFTER EXTENDED STORAGE

To put TRS-20/TSS-20 into operation after an extended storage:

1. Check for loose parts and tighten if necessary.
2. Check for cracked or broken blades and replace,
3. Check that all safety decals are in place and legible.
4. Fill fuel tank.
5. Check engine oil level with engine in level position (refer to engine manufacturer’s Owner’s Manual).
6. Start engine.
7. Check for fuel leaks.

CARE FOR HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

• To keep the hydraulic system in working order, there are a few steps needed to take place. If synthetic oil were used we would suggest a full synthetic oil such as Mobil 1 15W50, Quaker State Full Synthetic 5W50, or a similar oil.
• Oil viscosity is very important to transmission life. For optimum performance the oil viscosity should maintain a viscosity of 13 cSt [70 SUS]. The minimum oil viscosity to prevent component wear is 9 cSt [55 SUS]. These Viscosity requirements are for an oil temperature of 110 degrees Celsius [230 degrees Fahrenheit] Typically; standard SEA 20W-50 multi-viscosity motor oils will meet this requirement. If the operating temperature is elevated then synthetic oil with greater viscosity index, or more viscosity at elevated temperatures, may be needed to meet viscosity requirements.
• System Start-up: (purging air from system). Factory Fills unit with SAE 20W-50 multiviscosity motor oil. This will need to be checked when setting up with instructions below.
• At system start-up, several things need to be accomplished to ensure a properly running system.

1. Fill the BDU case and expansion level and ensure they do not empty during the following procedure.
2. Start engine and increase throttle to at least 2/3 speed.
3. Open bypass valve by depressing bypass plunger and holding.
4. Adjust control linkage such that transmission control is stroking full forward.
5. Move and hold control in forward for 3 seconds; repeat two additional times.
6. Close bypass valve be releasing bypass plunger.
7. With engine still at same speed, repeat step 5.
8. Move control to neutral.
9. Check engine speed. Adjust to recommended maximum engine speed.
10. Adjust neutral position.
11. Adjust forward control stop to recommended axle speed.
12. Adjust reverse control stop to recommended axle speed.
13. If axle speed is not achieved ensure linkage allows proper movement of transmission control.
14. If transmission control lever is rotating fully but recommended axle speed is not achieved, repeat start-up procedure.
15. Refill expansion tank oil to recommended level.

PARTS MAIN FRAME ASSEMBLY

PARTS SELF PROPELLED ASSEMBLY

PARTS HANDLE ASSEMBLY

SEEDER/MULTIPURPOSE BLADE ASSEMBLY

SLICER BLADE ASSEMBLY (OPTIONAL)

TSS-20 SEED BOX ASSEMBLY

SEEDER TIRE SCRAPE INSTALLATION

SEED BOX INSTALLATION

• For shipping purposes only, the seed box assembly is attached to machine improperly.
• To set your machine correctly for operation, remove hairpin clip (A) from upper connecting rod (B). Slide upper rod out, allowing “A shaped” stabilizing bracket (C) on seed box to sit over lower connecting rod. (When mounted properly, wheels of seed box should be resting on front wheels of machine.) Reinsert rod and clip.

SAFETY DECALS

Schiller-Pfeiffer, Inc.
1028 Street Road • Southampton, PA 18966 Telephone: 1-800-366-6268

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