CLASSEN HSC18HD Pro Sod Cutter User Manual

CLASSEN HSC18HD Pro Sod Cutter

Product Information

• Product Name: Pro Sod Cutter
• Model: HSC18HD
• Manufacturer: Classen
• Address: Classen 1028 Street Road Southampton, PA 18966

This product is a high-quality and well-designed sod cutter manufactured by Classen. It comes with Parts and Operator Manuals to ensure proper usage and maintenance. Classen replacement parts are manufactured with the same precision and quality as the original parts, ensuring reliable service and performance.

Product Usage Instructions
Safety
Before operating the Pro Sod Cutter, it is important to read and understand the safety instructions provided in the manual (pages 4-7). These instructions will help ensure your safety and the safe operation of the equipment.

Labels
Refer to page 8 of the manual for important labels that are placed on the Pro Sod Cutter. Familiarize yourself with these labels and their meanings to ensure proper operation and safety.

Maintenance / Storage
Detailed maintenance and storage instructions can be found on page 9 of the manual. Follow these guidelines to keep the Pro Sod Cutter in good repair and prolong its lifespan.

Pre-Delivery Checklist / Delivery Checklist
Before using the Pro Sod Cutter, refer to page 10 of the manual for pre- delivery and delivery checklists. These checklists will guide you through important steps to ensure everything is in order before operation.

Specifications
Page 10 of the manual provides detailed specifications for the Pro Sod Cutter. Refer to these specifications for information on engine power, cutting width, weight, and other important details.

Controls
Page 11 of the manual explains the various controls and their functions on the Pro Sod Cutter. Familiarize yourself with these controls before operating the equipment.

Operation
Pages 12-14 of the manual provide step-by-step instructions on how to operate the Pro Sod Cutter. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper and efficient sod cutting.

Adjustments
Refer to pages 15-16 of the manual for information on making adjustments to the Pro Sod Cutter. These adjustments will help you achieve optimal performance and desired cutting results.

Maintenance
Page 17 of the manual provides maintenance instructions for the Pro Sod Cutter. Follow these instructions to keep the equipment in good working condition and extend its lifespan. For any service or parts needed, it is recommended to visit a Classen dealer to ensure the best results and compatibility with the Pro Sod Cutter.

CALIFORNIA
Proposition 65 Warning Diesel engine exhaust and some of its constituents are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, and other reproductive harm.

WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

CALIFORNIA
Proposition 65 Warning Battery posts, terminals, wiring insulation, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. WASH HANDS AFTER HANDLING.

PRO SOD CUTTER

IMPORTANT MESSAGE
Thank you for purchasing this Classen product. You have purchased a world- class product, one of the best designed and built anywhere. This product comes with Parts and Operator’s Manuals. The useful life and good service you receive from this product depends to a large extent on how well you read and understand this manual. Treat this product properly and adjust it as instructed, and it will give you many years of reliable service. See a Classen dealer for any service or parts needed. Classen service ensures that you continue to receive the best results possible from Classen products. You can trust Classen replacement parts because they are manufactured with the same high precision and quality as the original parts. Classen designs and builds its equipment to serve many years in a safe and productive manner. For the longest life, use this product only as directed in the manual, keep it in good repair, and follow safety warnings and instructions. You’ll always be glad you did.
Classen 1028 Street Road Southampton, PA 18966

SAFETY

NOTICE !!!
Unauthorized modifications may present extreme Safety hazards to operators and bystanders and could also result in product damage. Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. strongly warns against, rejects, and disclaims any modifications, add-on accessories, or product alterations that are not designed, developed, tested, and approved by the Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. Engineering Department. Any Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. product that is altered, modified, or changed in any manner not specifically authorized after original manufacture–including the addition of “after-market” accessories or component parts not specifically approved by Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. will result in the Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. Warranty being voided.

Any and all liability for personal injury and/or property damage caused by any unauthorized modifications, add-on accessories or products not approved by Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. will be considered the responsibility of the individual(s) or company designing and/or making such changes. Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. will vigorously pursue full indemnification and costs from any party responsible for such unauthorized post-manufacture modifications and/or accessories should personal injury and/ or property damage result. This symbol means:

ATTENTION! BECOME ALERT!
Your safety and the safety of others is involved. Signal word definitions: The signal words below are used to identify levels of hazard seriousness. These words appear in this manual and on the safety labels attached to Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. machines. For your safety and the safety of others, read and follow the information given with these signal words and/or the symbol shown above.

DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, WILL result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, COULD result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, COULD result in minor or moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices or property damage.

CAUTION Using without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, MAY result in property damage.

MODEL NUMBER: This number appears on sales literature, technical manuals, and price lists.
SERIAL NUMBER: This number appears only on your machine. It contains the model number followed consecutively by the serial number. Use this number when ordering parts or seeking warranty information.

Machine Preparation

Operator preparation and  training
Read the Operation & Safety Manual

• If an operator or mechanic cannot read English, it is the owner’s responsibility to explain this material to them. If any portion of this material is unclear, contact your factory representative for clarification.
• Become familiar with the safe operation of the equipment, operator controls, and safety signs. Be prepared to stop the engine quickly in an emergency.
• Do not operate or allow another person to operate this machine if there are any questions about safety.
• All operators and mechanics should be trained. The owner is responsible for training the users.
• Wear appropriate clothing, including safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating.
• Do not operate barefoot or wear open sandals.
• Long hair, loose clothing, or jewelry may get tangled in moving parts.
• Wear hearing protection.
• Wear safety glasses.
• Never allow underage children or unskilled or improperly trained people to operate this equipment. Local regulations can restrict the age of the operator.
• Keep warning labels and this operator’s manual legible and intact. Replacement labels and manuals are available from the factory.
• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• The owner/user can prevent and is responsible for accidents or injuries occurring to themselves, other people or property. Site preparation and circumstances
• Evaluate the terrain to determine how to safely perform the job. Only use accessories and attachments approved by the manufacturer.
• Clear the area to be cut of objects such as rocks, toys, wire or other debris that may be thrown or get tangled in the sod cutter.
• Identify and mark objects to be avoided such as sprinkler heads, stakes, water valves, etc.
• Be sure the area is clear of pets and people, especially young children. Never assume they will remain where you last saw them. Stop the machine if any enter the area.
• Cut sod only in daylight or in good artificial light. Machine Preparation
• Do not tamper with or defeat safety devices. Keep guards, shields, and interlock safety devices in place and in proper working condition. They are for your protection.
• Keep all fasteners such as nuts, bolts, and pins well secured.
• Visually inspect blade and blade bolts for wear or damage. Replace worn or damaged blades and bolts.
• Verify that the machine and attachments, if any, are in good operating condition.
• Do not engage the blade until ready to cut sod.

OPERATING SAFELY
In General

• Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.
•  Use caution when making turns and crossing roads and sidewalks. Stop the blade when not cutting sod.
• Do not run the engine in an enclosed area where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
• Never leave a machine unattended. Always turn off the blade and stop the engine when leaving the operator position.
• When leaving the machine be sure the wheel
• The drive clutch is engaged.
• Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the machine towards you.

Storage Safety

• Stop the engine and allow it to cool before storing.
• Drain the fuel tank outdoors only.
• Store fuel in an approved container in a cool, dry place.
• Keep the machine and fuel containers in a locked storage place to prevent tampering and to keep children from playing with them.
• Do not store the machine or fuel container near the heating appliances with an open flame, such as a water heater, or an appliance with a pilot light.
• Keep the gasoline storage area free of grass, leaves, and excessive grease to reduce fire hazards.
• Clean grass and debris from cutting units, drives, mufflers, and engines to help prevent fires.

Storage Safety

• Start according to instructions in this manual or on the machine.
• Before attempting to start the engine, make sure the master clutch is disengaged.
• When starting the engine, make sure your hands and feet are clear of the blade.
• Do not change engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed can increase the hazard of personal injury.
• Operating On Slopes
• Use Extra Care When Working On Slopes
• Do not operate on slopes if uneasy or uncertain. The ultimate responsibility for safe operation on slopes rests with the operator.
• Do not operate on steep slopes.
• Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual.
• Do not cut sod near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments.
• The machine could suddenly turn over if a
• wheel runs over the edge or an edge caves in.
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then turn slowly and downhill when possible.
• Be sure of your footing on slopes.

Interrupting Operation

• Before leaving the operator’s position:
• Park on level ground.
• Disengage the master clutch.
• Shut off the engine.
• Disengage the master clutch and wait until the blade starts moving then disengage the blade clutch:.
• when not cutting sod;
• for transport;
• when crossing surfaces other than grass.
• Stop the engine, disengage the master clutch and
• Wait until the blade stops moving: before refueling
• before making blade adjustments.
• Stop the engine, disengage the master clutch, and disconnect the spark plug wire(s)
• before clearing blockages;
• before checking, cleaning or working on the machine;
• after striking a foreign object. Inspect the machine for damage and make repairs before restarting;
• if the machine begins to vibrate abnormally: shut off the machine immediately. Inspect and make repairs as needed before restarting;
• except for repairs or adjustments as specifically noted, such as for carburetor adjustment, where the engine must be running. Keep hands and feet clear of moving parts in these circumstances.
• Allow the blade to come to a complete stop when stopping operation to clear blockages, unclog, inspect the machine, do maintenance or repair.
• Reduce the throttle setting during engine shut-down and, if the engine is provided with a shut-off valve, turn the fuel off at the conclusion of operation.

MAINTENANCE SAFETY

In general

• Maintain the machine according to the manufacturer’s schedule and instructions for maximum safety and best results.
• Park the machine on level ground.
• Never allow untrained personnel to service the machine.
• Guards should only be removed by qualified maintenance technicians for maintenance/service. Replace when work is complete.
• Adjust or repair only after the engine has been stopped and the blade has stopped moving.
• Disconnect spark plug wire(s) before doing any maintenance.
• Replace parts if worn, damaged, or faulty. For best results, always replace with parts recommended by the manufacturer.
• Do not dismantle the machine without releasing or restraining forces which may cause parts to move suddenly.
• Provide adequate support, e.g. jack stands for lifted machine or parts if working beneath.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
•  Replace faulty mufflers.
• To reduce fire hazards, keep the engine, muffler, and fuel storage area free of grass, leaves, debris buildup, or grease.

Blades! WARNING
The sod cutter blade is sharp and can cut. Use extra caution when handling. Remove obstructions with care. Wrap the blade or wear gloves.

• Only replace the blade. Never straighten or weld.
• Keep other persons away from blades. Fuel
• Petrol (gasoline) and diesel fuels are flammable; petrol (gasoline) Vapors are explosive. Use extra care when handling.
• Store only in containers specifically designed for fuel.
• When refueling or checking fuel level:
• Stop the engine and allow to cool;
• Do not smoke;
• Refuel outdoors only;
• Use a funnel;
• Do not overfill;
• If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine until the spill is cleaned up and the vapors have cleared.
• Replace caps on fuel containers and tanks securely.
• Sparks from static electricity can start fires or cause explosions. Flowing fuel can generate static electricity.
• To prevent static electricity sparks:
• Keep fuel containers electrically grounded. Do not fill containers in a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Fill containers on the ground away from the vehicle.
• When practical, remove petrol (gas) powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If equipment must be refueled on the truck or trailer, refuel from a portable container rather than a dispenser nozzle.
• Keep the dispenser nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

LABELS

1.  Set Depth Gauge Plate To Desired Cut Depth
2.  Loosen Height Adj. Nut Lever
3.  Tip Unit Forward Onto Its Nose
4.  Lower Height Adj. Bar To Rest On Depth Gauge Plate
5.  Tighten Height Adj. Nut Lever
6.  Engage Cutter Blade Handle
7.  Move the Transport Drive Handle To the Desired Position
8. Engage Finger Throttle

WARNING
Operation of This Equipment May Create Sparks That Can Start Fires Around Dry Vegetation. A Spark Arrestor May be Required. The Operator Should Contact Local Fire Agencies For Laws or Regulations Relating to Fire Prevention Requirements. This label meets California 4442.6

IMPORTANT EMISSIONS INFORMATION”
THIS EQUIPMENT CONFORMS TO THE 2009 CALIFORNIA EVP REGULATIONS FOR SMALL OFF- ROAD ENGINES UNDER 13CCR SECTION 2766(b) SCHILLER GROUNDS CARE, INC. 100505 DATE OF MANUFACTURE

• ROTATING PARTS.
• DO NOT OPERATE WITH COVER REMOVED

MAINTENANCE / STORAGE

Storage Instructions
WARNING
To prevent possible explosion or ignition of vaporized fuel, do not store equipment with fuel in a tank or carburetor in an enclosure with an open flame (for example, a furnace or water heater pilot light).

Daily Storage

1. Check engine oil level and air filter element daily.
2. Check the oil level in the hydro drive. Hydro drive uses 20W50 oil.
3. Close fuel valve at the bottom of the fuel tank.
4. Clean cutting blade (grass, dirt, etc.).

Extended Storage
Before the equipment is put into storage for any period exceeding 30 days:

1. Drain all fuel from the fuel tank and lines (use a hose or fuel line, routed from the fuel tank shut-off to the proper container).
2. Start the engine and run until all fuel is used from the carburetor float bowl.
3. While the engine is warm, check the transmission oil and refill with the proper weight of oil corresponding to the season when the equipment will next be used.
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 the oil.
5. Lubricate all lubrication fittings.
6. Clean and oil the cutting blade to prevent rust.

To put equipment into operation after an extended storage

1. Fill the fuel tank with clean fresh fuel.
2. Check the crankcase oil level, and start the engine.
3. Check the fuel system for fuel leaks.

LISTS

PRE-DELIVERY CHECKLIST
Check the following before you deliver the sod cutter to the customer.

1. Guards and shields fastened in place.
2. Decals are fastened and legible.
3. Tire pressure.
4. The gas lever on the engine is turned on.
5. All eight lubrication points are greased.
6. 2:1 gearbox oil level.
7. Engine oil level.
8.  Air cleaner.
9. Touch-up scratches.
10.  Chain tight.
11.  Engine belt tight.
12.  Levers working properly.
13.  All controls.
14.  Add fuel, start the engine, and test run.

DATE SET UP
DELIVERY CHECKLIST
Review the operator’s manual with the customer.
Explain the following:

1. Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. warranty.
2. Safe operation and service.
3. How to use controls.
4. Operating the machine correctly.
5. Transporting the sod cutter.
6. Correct fuel and lubricants.
7. Daily and periodic inspections.
8. Changing oil after the break-in period.
9. Servicing the sod cutter regularly and correctly.
10.  Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. parts and service.
11.  Give the customer the operator’s manual and encourage the customer to read it.

DATE DELIVERED _/___/____
SIGNATURE _____
ENGINE

• Model HSC18HD…………………4-cycle GX160 Honda
• …………………………………………….. 9.9 cu. in. (163 cc)
• Starter……………………………………………………… Recoil
• Governor……………… 3400 RPM ± 200 RPM, no load
• Clutch………………….spring loaded belt tightener type

REDUCTION

• Engine to blade……………………………………… 3.03 to1
• Engine to drive wheels…………………………… 57.2 to 1

WHEELS

• Drive……………………..8 5/8” (219 mm) Dia. w/knobby
• ……………………………………….tread vulcanized to hub
• Rear….. 8 x 1.75 (203 X 45mm) semi-pneumatic tires
• CUTTING WIDTH:
• HSC18………………………………………………………….18”

LUBRICATION

• Hydro Drive……………………………………………..20W50
• Transmission (Gearbox)…………………………….10W30
• Cutting depth……………………………………up to 2-1/2”
• Blade speed………..1200 RPM @ 3400 engine RPM

DIMENSIONS

• Wheel Base…………………………………………………..22”
• HSC185………………………………52″L x 38″H x 24.5″W
• WEIGHT
• Dry Weights
• HSC185………………………………………………… 336 Ibs

**CONTROLS

**

FUEL SHUT OFF (A) – Move to the “OFF”
position to shut off the fuel whenever transporting the machine by trailer, truck or during storage. Move to the “ON” position before starting the engine. SWITCH (B) -Move to the “OFF” position to stop the engine. Move to the “ON” position before starting the engine.

CHOKE (C)
Move to the “CHOKE” position to apply the choke. Move to the “RUN” position to remove the choke.

THROTTLE (D) – Squeeze the throttle control to increase the engine rpm. Squeezing the throttle Control to increase the engine rpm also engages the centrifugal clutch powering the blades and wheels
when the blades and/or wheel drives are engaged.

CUTTER BLADE HANDLE (E)
Move the Cutter Blade handle forward to engage the blade drive. Move the Cutter Blade handle back to disengage the blade drive.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT NUT (G)
Lose the Height adjustment nut to allow raising or lowering the cutter blade.

WHEEL DRIVE HANDLE (F) Move the Wheel Drive the Handle forward from the neutral position N to C (cut) or T (Transport) to put the transmission forward. Transport is faster than Cut.
Move the Wheel Drive Handle rearward from the neutral position N to R to put the transmission into reverse.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT BAR (H)
Use the Height Adjustment Bar to raise or lower the cutter blade and to get the desired sod cutting depth.

OPERATION

PRE-OPERATION CHECKLIST (operator’s responsibility)

• Review and follow all safety rules and safety decal instructions.
• Check that all safety decals are installed and in good condition. Replace if damaged.
• Check to make sure all shields and guards are properly installed and in good condition.
• Check that all hardware is properly installed and secured.
• Check to be sure the engine is free of dirt and debris. Pay particular attention to the cooling fins, governor parts, and muffler. Clean air intake screen.
• Check the air cleaner; service is necessary.
• Inspect area. Remove stones or other hard objects that might cause damage.
• Check that there are no underground utilities in the work area.
• Check all lubrication points and grease as instructed in the manual.
• Perform a functional check of the safety interlock system each time you operate the unit. If it doesn’t work, repair it before using the machine.

READ SAFETY SIGNS
WARNING
ALL GUARDS MUST BE IN PLACE WHILE MACHINE IS IN OPERATION. KEEP HANDS AND FEET AWAY FROM MOVING PARTS. Carefully read and follow caution stickers.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

1. Be familiar with the controls, how each functions, and what each operates.
2. Check engine oil level. Add oil if necessary, following the engine manufacturer’s recommendations. Refer to the engine manual supplied with the machine.
3. Check Hydro gear oil, and add 20W50 oil if necessary.
4. Open the fuel valve.
5. Fill the fuel tank with the amount and type of fuel recommended by the engine manufacturer.

Petrol (gasoline) is extremely
flammable and highly explosive under certain conditions. BE SURE to install fuel cap after refueling.

Fill the fuel tank with good
quality, clean, unleaded regular gasoline to the level recommended by the engine manufacturer.

To Check or Add Fuel:

• Use a funnel to avoid spilling.
• Do it outdoors.
• Do not smoke.
• Stop the engine; allow to cool.
• Do not overfill.
• Clean up spilled fuel.

SAFETY
Operate Safely
Carefully read this manual and operate the sod cutter correctly.

Protect Children
Keep children and pets out of the area where you are cutting sod.

Avoid Tipping
Make sure you do not get too close to sharp drop-offs to avoid tipping the sod cutter over.

Operate Safely On Slopes
You may cut sod in any direction on slopes, however, make sure you do this carefully. Cutting on slopes can be dangerous. To avoid any accidents, make sure to leave yourself room to correct the problem
if it arises. Always park your sod cutter on level ground.

Practice Safe Maintenance
Keep all machine parts in good condition and fastened in place. Fix damages immediately. Replace worn or broken parts. Whenever you work on the sod cutter, disconnect the spark plug wire. When replacement parts are required, use genuine Schiller Grounds Care, Inc. 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. Carbon monoxide present in the exhaust is an odorless and deadly gas. Never start or run the engine inside where exhaust fumes can collect. Provide enough fresh air to keep fumes from getting too strong. Replace any warning decal that becomes illegible immediately.

OPERATION
WARNING
Start Engine Safely
Make sure hands and feet are out of the way of moving parts when starting the engine.

ENGINE STARTING PROCEDURES
NOTICE: There are two locations on this engine that require oil, both the crankcase and the transmission (gearbox). Running the engine or gearbox with a low oil level can cause engine damage. Refer to the
engine manual for complete engine information and recommendations.

Engine Oil Level Check
BEFORE CHECKING ENGINE:

• make certain the engine is level
• The engine switch is in the OFF position
• the sod cutter blade is NOT engaged
• The drive wheels are disengaged.
• Remove the filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean.
• Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler neck. Check the oil level shown on the dipstick.
• If the oil level is low, fill to the edge of the oil filler hole with the recommended oil. SAE 10W- 30 is recommended for general use. Refer to engine oil recommendations in the engine manual for other viscosities and information.
• Screw in the filler cap/dipstick securely.

Transmission (Gearbox) Oil Level Check

(This unit is bolted to the engine)

1. Check the transmission oil level with the engine stopped and in a level position.
2. Remove the filler cap/dipstick and wipe it clean.
3. Insert and remove the dipstick without screwing it into the filler hole. Check the oil level shown on the dipstick.
4. If the oil level is low, add oil to reach the upper limit mark on the dipstick. Use the same oil that is recommended for the engine, SAE 10W-30.
5. Screw in the filler cap/dipstick securely.

Hydro Drive Oil Level Check

1. Check the Hydro Drive oil level with the engine stopped and in a level position.
2. If the oil level is low, add oil to reach the upper limit mark. Use SAE 20W50 oil.

Starting Engine

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

Stopping Engine

1. Release finger throttle control.
2. Turn off the ignition switch.

OPERATING THE SOD CUTTER
Preparation

1. Check the lawn area for obstacles and debris (i.e. sprinklers, hoses, toys, etc.). Remove all items.
2.  Make sure underground sprinkler heads and other hidden obstacles are marked to prevent damage.
3. Mark other areas where sod cutting will be a problem or too risky (i.e. mud, tree roots, steep hills).

Operating

1. Start the engine. CAUTION: To avoid injury, keep your feet or other body parts away from the blade while starting the engine.
2. Select the correct cutting depth desired up to 2 1/2 inches. Loosen the tee handle from the depth gauge plate, located under the height adjustment bar, (#3 on illustration), and put it to the correct height setting. Tighten the tee handle.
3. Push the wheel drive transport handle (#5 on illustration) and the cutter blade speed handle (#4 on an illustration) to the desired speed, toward the engine.
4. Raise the main handle upward so the front nose of the sod cutter rests on the ground.
5. Loosen the 1/2” handle nut (#2 on illustration) and lower the height adjustment bar to rest on the depth gauge. Now tighten the 1/2” handle nut securely so it will not loosen with the vibration of the machine.
6. Go to the back of the machine and lower the handle until the cutting blade rests on the ground. You are now ready to cut sod. Turn the throttle to the desired operating speed by pulling the finger throttle control (#6 in the illustration) toward you. Maximum engine rpm is recommended for smooth operation.
7. After cutting a short distance, stop the machine by letting the finger throttle control go back to its original position. Check the thickness of the cut and adjust if necessary.
8. At the end of each cutting pass, lift up the handlebar to clear the cutting blade from the sod. Retard the throttle control and turn the machine around into the position for the next cut. When finished cutting sod, reverse steps 3 through 6, leaving the wheel drive handle on for transportation

ADJUSTMENTS

NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT

1. Put the shift lever in a Neutral Position (N). Figure 1
2. Loosen locking nut A on the clevis, then remove bolt B, and turn the clevis one way or the other to adjust neutral. Figure 2.
3. To check the neutral setting, reassemble with control in neutral. Start the engine and pull pin C out. Figure 3. Increase engine RPM.
4. The machine should NOT move. If the machine moves, then repeat Steps 1-3 until set properly.

BELT ADJUSTMENT

1. Remove the belt cover.

2. Loosen the pulley and move up the slot for tighter belt tension. Figure 4

3. After tension has been adjusted, check the over-center adjustment.

4. Loosen bolt D and move to where the lever snaps over the center and stays engaged. Figure
   Note: Too much over-center may cause the elt to get loose.

5.  Reinstall the belt cover.

BELT DISENGAGEMENT

1. Remove the belt cover for access.
2. Move the blade engagement lever until the idler is about 1/8” to 1/4” away from the back plate Figure
3. Adjust stop bolt E to the lever with idle 1/8” to 1/4” from the back plate. Figure 7
4.  Reinstall the belt cover.

REAR WHEEL LOCK OR SWIVEL
To allow the rear wheel to swivel
Pull pin F up and turn. Figures 8 & 9

To lock the rear wheel
Turn pin F.
Move the wheel back and forth until the pin drops back into a locking hole. Figure

WARNING
BLADE SHARPENING – Wear the appropriate personal protective equipment when sharpening blades. Use correct tools for sharpening or when servicing the machine.

SAFETY WARNING
DO NOT STORE GASOLINE (PETROL) UNNECESSARILY OVER LONG PERIODS OF TIME. TO PREVENT POSSIBLE EXPLOSION, STORE ONLY IN AN APPROVED “SAFE” CONTAINER. TO PREVENT
EXPLOSION OF VAPORIZED FUEL, DO NOT STORE MACHINE WITH FUEL IN TANK OR CARBURETOR IN AN ENCLOSURE WITH OPEN FLAME. (EXAMPLE: FURNACE OR WATER HEATER PILOT LIGHT.)

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

To keep the sod cutter in good operating condition, perform the following:

• Keep the blade sharp; a sharp blade cuts cleaner, faster, and more uniformly and places less load on the machine. Sharpen the cutting edge on the bevel or the top side only.

• Keep the drive belt at proper tension and free of oil and dirt at all times.

• Check engine oil level and air filter element daily.

• Check Hydro Gear oil (20W50 oil).

• Check for loose bolts and connections.

• All grease fittings are pressurized type. Use a good grade Lithium Base Grease or equivalent.

• Grease eccentric arms sparingly every 4 hours of service, all others daily. Wipe off all grease fittings before and after each greasing (there are a total of 8 grease fittings).

• To make sure the chain on the front drive wheels is tight, you will need to remove the chain guard to check this. If tightening is required, loosen the nuts and bolts on the 3/4” pillow block bearings and
  push the bearings toward the back of the sod cutter until the chain is tight.

• Make sure both bearings go back evenly to keep the jackshaft running even with the frame.

• Lubricate the chain on the inner circumference, the side facing the sprocket, with a light oil such as SAE20 or SAE30. An oiling can or spray can with a straw for application is recommended.

• After doing this, retighten the nuts and bolts on the bearing and replace the chain guard.

• Engine (refer to Honda owner’s manual).

a. Bottom of blade is rounded off

|

a. Blade should be sharpened or replaced

Belts jump of| a. Wrong type of belt| a. Use only the special factory belt

References

• P65Warnings.ca.gov

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