Cub Cadet 31AY5EVX603 Snow Blower Instruction Manual

Cub Cadet 31AY5EVX603 Snow Blower

Information on the identification plate

This information is very important for later identification of the machine when ordering spare parts and when using the Customer Service.
You will find the identification plate in the vicinity of the engine.
Copy all the information on this identification plate into the following space.

This and other appliance information can be found on the separate CE declaration of conformity which is a component of these operating instructions.
Various models are described in these operating instructions. Models are designated as Type 1 to Type 3 (see overview of units on the front fold-out pages).
The graphical representations may differ in detail from the unit which you purchased.

For your safety

Use the machine properly

This machine is designed exclusively for use

• As a snow thrower for the removal of snow from reinforced paths and areas around the house and recreation ground,

• In accordance with the descriptions and safety instructions indicated in this operating manual.
  Any other use is not as intended. Improper use is not covered by the warranty and the manufacturer will reject any liability. The user is liable for any injuries to third parties and/or damage to their property.

• Unauthorized changes to the unit exclude liability of the manufacturer for any resulting damage and/or injury.

General notes on safety

As user of this machine, read these operating instructions through care-fully before using the machine for the first time. Follow these instructions and keep them safe for later use or in case of a change of ownership.
Do not allow any person under the age of 16 to handle this machine (it is possible that local regulations define the minimum age of the user).
This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
Keep other people, especially children, and domestic animals away from the danger area.
Pay attention to national regulations in force if you are in charge of the machine on public roads or paths.
Never use the machine to transport someone.

Operate the unit only in the technical condition stipulated and delivered by the manufacturer.
Never change the engine settings preset at the factory.
When working, wear gloves, hearing protection, goggles, close-fitting winter clothing and sturdy footwear with non-slip soles.
Never refuel the machine in an enclosed space or when the engine is running or hot.
Never allow parts of the body or clothing to come close to rotating or hot parts of the machine.
Turn off the engine, remove the ignition key and the spark-plug connector whenever

• you are not working with the machine,
• you leave it for a time or
• you make adjustments to it or undertake maintenance or repair work.

Let the engine cool down before you park the machine in an en-closed space.
Store the machine and fuel in a safe place

• Away from sources of fire (sparks, flames),
• Inaccessible to children.

Spare parts and accessories must satisfy the requirements specified by the manufacturer.
Therefore use original spare parts and original accessories only or spare parts and accessories authorised by the manufacturer.
Replace a damaged exhaust, tank or tank cap.
Have the machine repaired only by a professional workshop.

Safety features

Fig. 1
Safety devices are provided for your protection and must always function properly. You may not remove, change or circumvent them.

Clutch lever for the worm drive (1)
The worm drive switches off if the user releases this drive clutch lever. This lever can be locked in the de-pressed position (optional) if the user presses and holds down the clutch lever for the travel drive (2).
As soon as the user lets go of the lever (2), both levers jump back; worm drive and drive system are simultaneously switched off.

Drive clutch lever for the wheel drive (2)
The wheel drive switches off if the user releases this drive clutch lever.

Protective grid in the throw-out chute
The protective grid stops you from reaching into the throw-out chute.

Discharge flap
Fig. 8
The discharge flap (1) prevents injuries from ejected objects.

Symbols on the machine
At various places on the machine you will find safety and warning notices represented by symbols or pictograms. The symbols have the following precise meanings:

Caution!
Before switching on, read the operating instructions!
Beware of hot surface!
Warning – toxic vapours!
Warning! Petrol is flammable!
Risk of injury from thrown-out snow or solid objects!

Risk of electric shock! If it is raining, do not use the electric starter.

Risk of injury!
Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts. Prior to all work, for example, clogging in the discharge chute, initially switch off the device, pull out the ignition key, and wait until all moving parts have come to a standstill.
Clean discharge chute with the cleaning tool only.

Risk of injury!
Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts. Prior to all work, for example, clogging in the auger housing or on the snow-throwing auger, initially switch off the device, pull out the ignition key, and wait until all moving parts have come to a standstill.
Clean discharge chute and snow-throwing auger with the cleaning tool only.

QR code (classic example)
If you find a QR code on your device, scan the QR code symbol with a smartphone to obtain information on the warnings.

Replace any damaged or illegible symbols.

Symbols in the user’s guide
Symbols are employed in the user’s guide to indicate hazards or draw attention to important information. They have the following specific meanings:

Note
This indicates important information and application tips.

Unpacking and assembly

The assembly of the unit is illustrated at the end of the operating instructions or on a supplementary sheet.

Disposal instructions
Dispose of packaging remnants, old machines, etc., in accordance with local regulations.

Before using the machine for the first time

• Check that the safety devices, controls and associated clutch cables and other cables as well as all screw connections are not damaged and are secure. Replace damaged parts before operating the unit.

• (Type 1 and type 3)
  For transportation reasons, the tyres may show a higher tyre pressure. Check tyre pressure and adjust accordingly. Recommended tyre pressure: 1 bar.

• Check clutch for auger drive and traction drive (see “Maintenance”).

• Check shift lever (see “Maintenance”).

Always adjust machine before using

Risk of Injury

Risk of injury Before doing any work on this machine

• Turn off the engine.
• Wait until all moving parts have come to a standstill; the engine must have cooled down.
• Remove the ignition key and the spark-plug connector.

Adjust the machine to con-form to the ground and snow conditions Adjust working position (Machines with caterpillar drive)
Fig. 4

• Use setting lever (1) to select a position to match the conditions:
  • Position: For heavy snow which has iced over. Whom is pressed onto the ground. –
  • Position: For normal snow Conditions.
  • Position l: For clearing uneven paths and crushed stone and gravel paths.
  • Position V: For transporting the unit. The auger is at a greater distance from the ground.

Adjust the skids
Fig.6 With the skids (1), the distance bet- ween the ground and the clearing plate (8) can be set in such a way that no parts of the ground (e.g. earth or stones) can be taken up.

• (Machines with caterpillar drive) Set setting lever (Fig. 4, Pos. 1) to position II.
• Loosen nuts (2) on both sides of the machine.
• Adjust skids to conform to the ground conditions:
  • lower for uneven or non-hard-surfaced paths,
  • higher for even paths.
• Fasten the skids with nuts (2) in such a way that they uniformly touch the ground.

Fill up with fuel and check the oil level
Danger of explosion and risk of being burnt Fill up with fuel only in the open air and when the engine has been switched off and is cold. Do not smoke whilst flling up. Never fill up with fuel to the top. If fuel over lows, let the overflowed fuel evaporate completely before you start the engine. Store fuel only in suitable containers designed to take fuel Do not use fuel of specification E85. Also follow the instructions in the engine operating manual. Check the oil level and, if required, /top up the engine oil (see “Engine manual”). Fill up with fuel (for types of fuel see specifications in the engine instructions), close fuel tank cap

• Check the oil level and, if required, /top up the engine oil (see “Engine manual”).
• Fill up with fuel (for types of fuel see specifications in the engine instructions), close fuel tank cap and wipe away remains of fuel.

Operating the machine

RISK OF INJURY

Keep other people, especially children, and domestic animals away from the danger area. Operate the machine only when it is in a faultless and safe-to- operate condition. Always observe the safety distance to the rotating tool specified by the steering handle.

Operating times
Comply with the national/municipal regulations concerning the times when the machine may be used (if required, contact your local authority)

Location details
Details of specific locations on the appliance (e.g. left, right) are always quoted as seen from the steering handle and while facing forward.

Starting the engine
Fig. 3

Note
Some models have no throttle and the speed is adjusted automatically. The engine always runs at optimum speed.

• Check contents of fuel tank and oil level, as required fill up with oil and fuel (see engine instructions).

Start with pull starter

• Set shut-off valve (10), if fitted, to “ON/OPEN”.
• Put spark-plug connector (8) onto the spark plug.
• Set throttle (7), if fitted, to “ /FAST”. If machine has no throttle, set the engine stop switch (11) to “ON”.
• Set choke (2) for cold start to “ /ON/CHOKE”.
• Insert ignition key (1) in the ignition lock, but do not turn it.
• Press primer button (3) once or 2 to 7 times if engine is cold (depending on engine typesee engine operating manual).
• Pull the pull starter (4) slowly until some resistance is felt, then quickly and vigorously.
• Do not let the pull starter recoil quickly but lead it back slowly.
• When the engine is running, gradually move the choke (2) back to “RUN/OFF/ ”.

Start with electric starter (optional)
Risk of electric shock
If it is raining, do not use the electric starter Make sure that the mains supply network is protected with a fault
Current circuit-breaker.
If required, have an appropriate circuit-breaker fitted, but only by a trained electrician.
Connect the electric starter to the power supply only with those extension cables (not included in product package) which are permitted to be used outdoors and which feature a protective conductor.

For example up to a maximum length of 50 m:

• HO7RN-F 3×1.5 mm2 up to -25 °C,
• HO7BQ-F 3×1.5 mmë up to 40 G

Before starting the engine, always check the extension cable and the cable/connector on the engine for damage. Immediately have damaged parts replaced by an electrical engineer. If parts are damaged, never start the machine with the electric starter.

Cau tion f the electric starter is not connected properly, damage could occur to the machine or in its vicinity. Make sure that the power supply

• IS running at 220-230 Vend 50 Hz in accordance with the specifications on the starter rating plate (Fig. 3, Pos. 9)
• and is fused with the appropriate fuse fat least 10 A)
• Set shut-off valve (10), if fitted, to “ON/OPEN”.
• Put spark-plug connector (8) onto the spark plug.
• Set throttle (7), if fitted, to “ FAST”. If machine has no throttle, set the engine stop switch (11) to “ON”.
• Insert ignition key (1) in the ignition lock, but do not turn it.
• Connect extension cable first with the plug (5) and then with a mains socket.
• Set choke (2) for cold start to “ ON/CHOKE”.
• Press primer button (3) once or 2 to 7 times if engine is cold (depending on engine typeset engine operating manual).
• Press starter button (6) long enough (max. 5 sec.) for the engine to start.
• Wait at least 30 s before attempting to start the engine again.
• When the engine is running, gradually move the choke (2) back to “RUN/OFF/
• Separate the extension cable first from the mains and then from the electric starter.

Stop the engine
Fig. 3

• To avoid damage to the machine or starting problems arising from moisture, let the engine run for a few minutes before switching it off (to dry out).
• Set throttle (7), if fitted, to “”. If machine has no throttle,  set the engine stop switch (11) to “OFF”.
• Pull out ignition key (1).
• Set shut-off valve (10), if present, to “OFF/CLOSE”.

Set the direction and distance of throw
Fig. 8

Set the direction of throw

• Put the throw-out chute (2) in the desired direction by rotating the handle (Fig. 1, Pos. 7)

Set the throw distance
The steeper the angle of the flap (1) is set, the higher and further the snow will be ejected.

• Press lever (Fig. 1, Pos. 5) forwards to move the flap (1) higher and vice versa.

Working with the snow-clearing machine

Fig. 1

• Adjust throw-out chute (see “Set the direction and distance of throw and distance of throw”).
• Start the engine (see “Starting the engine”).
• With the coupling levers (1 and 2) released, choose a forwards gear with shift lever (6).
• Press coupling lever for worm drive (1) and hold it down; worm and throw turbine are driven. Press coupling lever for the drive system (2) and hold it down; the machine moves forwards and clears the snow.
• As long as this lever is pressed (optional), the clutch lever for the worm drive (1) remains locked and can be released.
• If you want to change gear, first release the coupling lever for the drive system (2) and then change gear with the shift lever (6).

Note

Depending on the model, the unit is fitted with freewheel levers (3 and 4). Using these enables the machine to be steered more easily:

• To the right: pull on the right free-wheel lever (4),
• To the left: pull on the left free-wheel lever (3).

Working on slopes
Risk of injury from machine tipping over
Work slowly and carefully, especially when you change direction.
Guide the machine up or down the slope, not crosswise to it. Watch out for obstacles, do not work near inclines.
Do not use the machine on slopes with a gradient greater than 20 %.

Tips on clearing snow

• Clear snow immediately after it has stopped snowing; later on, the underneath layer will ice up and will make clearing the snow more difficult.
• If at all possible, clear snow in the direction of the wind.
• Clear the snow in such a way that the tracks you have cleared overlap slightly

Eliminate any blockages in the worm or the throw-out chute

Risk of injury Before doing any work on this machine

• Turn off the engine.
• Wait until all moving parts have come to a standstill; the engine must have cooled down.
• Remove the ignition key and the spark-plug connector.
• Remove the blockage with the cleaning tool (Fig. 10- enclosed with the unit depending on the model) or with a shovel.

Healable handles (optional depending on model)
Fig. 9
Switch (8) on the dashboard:

•  /ON = switched on
• /OFF = switched off

At the end of work move the switch to OFF.

Light (optional depending on model)

• The headlight is on when the engine is running.
  “Drift cutters” (optional depending on model). Fig. 12

• Facilitates working in extremely deep snow.

Snow chains (optional)
In extreme weather conditions, snow chains can be obtained from specialist dealers and used on the machine.

Transportation

Driving
To maneuver or get across short distances.

• Start the machine.
• Select a forwards or reverse gear.
• Press the drive clutch lever for the wheel drive and hold in position.
• Move the machine carefully.

Transporting the machine without it operating from its own power
Risk of injury
Before transporting the unit

• Turn off the engine
• Wait until all moving parts have come to a standstill; the engine – must have cooled down.
• Remove the ignition key and the spark-plug connector.

Attention Damage in transit

• The means of transport (e.g. trans- port vehicle, loading ramp, etc.) must be used as intended (see respective operating instructions).
  • Empty the fuel tank before transporting the machine.
  • Transport the unit horizontally on or in a vehicle.
  • Secure the machine against rolling or slipping.

Maintenance

Risk of injury Before doing any work on this machine

• Turn off the engine.
• Wait until all moving parts have come to a standstill; the engine must have cooled down.
• Remove the ignition key and the spark-plug connector.

Note Follow the maintenance instructions in the engine operating manual.

Maintenance schedule
Once in the season:
Have the machine checked over and maintained in a specialist workshop.
Each time before using the machine:
Check the oil level and top up as necessary.
Check all screw fittings for firm seating, tighten them if necessary.
Check the safety features.
If machine features an electric starter: Check cable and connector on the engine.

1. See “Engine instructions”
2. Have this work carried out only by a specialist workshop
3. First oil change after 5 h
4. Oil change every 25 operating hours (h) when operating under a heavy load or at a high ambient temperature

Maintenance tasks

Caution Possibility of doing damage to the machine When replacing parts of the machine Use only original spare parts.
Caution Engine oil is hazardous to the environment After changing the oil, take the waste oil to a waste oil collecting point or to a waste disposal Company.

Clean the machine
Attention Do not clean the unit with a high- pressure cleaner

• Park the machine on a firm, even and horizontal piece of ground.
• Remove any dirt sticking to it.
• Clean the machine by pouring water through the throw-out chute, leave it to dry.
• Clean engine with a cloth and brush.

Lubrication
Lubricate all rotating and mobile parts with a light oil.

Adjust tyre pressure

Attention Risk of explosion! Never exceed the maximum tyre pressure of 1.4 bar/20 psi.
Recommended tyre pressure: 1.0 bar.

Checking and setting the worm drive clutch
Fig. 2A

• Release clutch lever (1).
  There must be no slackness on the coupling cable (2) but it must not be taut either.
  Adjust if necessary (see “Making adjustments to the coupling cable”).

• It must be possible to depress the clutch lever (1) all the way.
  If it does not, the coupling cable is tightened too firmly and must be slackened (see “Making adjustments to the coupling cable”).

Additional check: (see “Working with the unit/ operating sequence”)

• When the motor is running (“ ”), switch on the auger drive for 10 seconds.
• Release the clutch lever, the snow-throwing auger must no longer rotate.

Check and set clutch for travel drive
Fig. 1

• (Machines with caterpillar drive)
  Set setting lever (Fig. 4, Pos. 1) to position IV (Transport).

• Set shift lever (6) to the fastest forward gear (highest figure).

• Having released the coupling lever (2), push the machine forwards.

• While pushing, move the shift lever (6) to fastest reverse gear “R /R2” and then to fastest forward gear.

• If some resistance is felt while you are pushing the machine or changing gear, you need to slacken the coupling cable (see “Making adjustments to the coupling cable”).

• While you are pushing the machine, press coupling lever (2).
  The wheels/caterpillar tracks must become blocked. If not, tighten the coupling cable a little (see “Making adjustments to the coupling cable”).

• If the setting is still not correct, repeat the process.

Making adjustments to the coupling cable
Fig. 2B

• For clutch cables with adjusting plate for wheel drive (3) or for worm drive (4):
  • Tension: Loosen screw (A) depending on the adjusting plate, push down adjusting plate and retighten screw (A).
  • Slacken: Loosen screw (A) depending on adjusting plate, push up adjusting plate and retighten screw (A).

Adjust shift lever
Units with shift linkage (1)
Fig. 9

• Remove spring clip (4) and washer (5), extract spindle nut (6) from the hole (7).
• Press gearshift arm (2) downwards, set shift lever (3) to gear “6”.
• Rotate spindle nut (6) in such a way that the pin can be put into the same hole (7).
• Secure spindle nut with washer and spring clip.

Note
This setting is not required unless the quickest gear (forwards or backwards) cannot be engaged.
Adjusting the caterpillar track (Machines with caterpillar drive)

Note
Have this work carried out only by a specialist workshop.
Fig. 5

The caterpillar track (1) has been set correctly when it can be depressed manually by 9–10 mm (applying a pressure of 6.4–9 kg).
If it can be forced down by a greater or lesser amount, it must be adjusted:

• Position unit on a secure and level surface.
• Loosen nut (3) on each caterpillar side.
• Rotate nut (2) until the caterpillar track has the correct tension:
  • To tighten, rotate in clockwise direction.
  • To slacken, rotate in anticlockwise direction.
  • Retighten nut (3) on each caterpillar side.

Note
Adjust both caterpillar tracks evenly so that the rear axle (4) is parallel to the front axle. In doing so, the length of the thread (x) on both adjusting screws should be the same.

Replacing shear bolt
Fig. 7
The worm drives (3) are attached to the drive shaft (4) with shearing pins (1) and safety split pins (2). The bolts are designed to break (shear) if the augerhits solid debris, thereby preventing
damage to the unit. Replace these parts with original spare parts only.
Replacement shearing pins and safety split pins are optionally included in the product package.

• Remove sheared pin and split pin, clean and lubricate attachment point.
• Use new shearing pin as well as new safety split pin.

Note
Depending on the model, the replacement shearing pins and safety split pins can be attached to the dashboard
(Fig. 11).

Replacing the clearing plate
Note Depending on the model, the skids must be removed beforehand (see “Replace skids”).
Fig. 6

• Remove bolts (5), washers (6), depending on model) and nuts (7).

• Replace clearing plate (8).

• Attach new snow blade firmly to housing using bolts, washers (depending on model) and nuts. Replace skids
  Fig. 6

• Remove bolts (4), washers (3), depending on model) and nuts (2).

• Replace skids (1) on both sides of the housing.

• Adjust new skids (see “Adjust the skids”).

Setting pretension of the chute adjuster (optional)
Fig. 13
If the chute adjuster moves too freely or stiffly, it can be adjusted

Chute adjuster moves too freely:

• Turn nut gradually clockwise.
  Chute adjuster moves too stiffly:

• Turn nut gradually anti-clockwise.

Note

• When the setting is correct, the discharge chute should not move by itself during operation.

Preparing the machine for non-use
Danger of causing an explosion by fuel fumes igniting Before you prepare the machine for non-use, empty the fuel tank into a suitable container in the open air (see “Engine instructions”). When the machine is not to be used for more than a month, e.g. after the winter:

• Prepare engine (see “Engine instructions”).
• Clean the machine.
• To protect from rust, wipe over all metal parts with an oily cloth or spray with spray lubricant.
• Park the machine in a clean, dry enclosed space.

Warranty
The warranty terms issued by our company or importer are valid in every country.
Faults will be repaired free of charge within the framework of the guarantee, provided that they have been caused by a material defect or manufacturing error.
Should you need to call upon the warranty, please apply to the vendor of your machine or to the nearest agency.

Engine
The manufacturer of the engine is liable for all engine-related problems with respect to output power, power measurement, specifications, warranties, and service.
More detailed information can be found in the owner/operator handbook provided separately by the engine manufacturer.

Troubleshooting

1. See “Engine instructions”.
2. Have this work carried out only by a specialist workshop.

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