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FORM NO. 3321–969 Wheel Horse 523Dxi Tractor Model No. 73552 – 9900001 & Up Operator’s Manual IMPORTANT: Read this manual carefully. It contains information about your safety and the safety of others. Also become familiar with the controls and their proper use before you operate the product.
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The warning system in this manual identifies potential hazards and has special safety messages that All of us at Toro want you to be completely satisfied help you and others avoid personal injury, even death. with your new product, so feel free to contact your...
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Contents Keep this engine Owner’s Manual with your unit. Should this engine Owner’s Manual become damaged or illegible, replace immediately. Replacements may be ordered through the engine manufacturer.
Safety This machine meets or exceeds the B71.1–1996 Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, specifications of the American National Standards wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown Institute, in effect at the time of production. by the blade.
Safety 17. Use extra care when loading or unloading the DO NOT machine onto a trailer or truck. Do not operate machine on hillsides or slopes 18. Do not touch equipment or attachment parts exceeding 15 . which may be hot from operation. Allow to cool Avoid turning on slopes.
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Safety Children Keep nuts and bolts tight, especially the blade attachment bolts. Keep equipment in good Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert condition. to the presence of children. Children are often Never tamper with safety devices. Check safety attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.
Safety Safety and Instruction Decals Safety decals and instructions are easily visible to the operator and are located near any area of potential danger. Replace any decal that is damaged or lost. ON REAR FENDER ON DRIVE SHAFT COVER (Part No. 98–3088) (Part No.
Check Before Operating Each time before operating your tractor, check the following: Fuel level Water drained from the fuel filter Engine oil level Cooling system fluid level and radiator screen Debris on the (3) air intake screens m–3314 Figure 1 Debris in the engine area 1.
Check Before Operating Closing the Hood The hood catch is located at the left hand corner of the grille. Press rearward on the hood catch as you begin to lower the hood. Push the hood down until the latch closes. m–3318 Figure 3 1.
Check Before Operating Adding Fuel The engine runs on clean, fresh diesel fuel with a POTENTIAL HAZARD minimum cetane rating of 40. Purchase fuel in Under certain conditions, fuel is extremely quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure flammable and highly explosive.
Check Before Operating Draining Water from the Fuel Check the Engine Oil Level Filter/Water Separator Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the power take off (PTO), set the parking brake, Any water accumulation should be drained from the lower the attachment lift, and turn the ignition fuel filter/water separator before each use.
Check Before Operating Check the Cooling System Check Radiator Coolant The cooling system is filled with a 50/50 solution of water and permanent ethylene glycol anti–freeze. Check the level of coolant at the beginning of each day before starting the engine. POTENTIAL HAZARD Coolant is hot and pressurized.
Check Before Operating Î Î Î Î Î Î Î Î Î m–3412 Figure 8 Arrows show air intake and exhaust path 1. Air intake screens (1 of 3 shown) m–3764 Figure 7 1. Reserve tank cap 3. Maximum level line (cold) 2.
Check Before Operating IMPORTANT: It is preferable to blow dirt Check the Safety Interlock out (Fig. 10), rather than washing it out. If System water is used, keep it away from electrical items. Always check the interlock system before operating the tractor.
Operation Think Safety First “Key Choice” Key Please carefully read all the safety instructions on A turn and release key used for deactivating the pages 3–5. Knowing this information could help you, “Operating–In–Reverse” interlock feature. Located your family, pets or bystanders avoid injury. on the seat bracket in front of and just below the seat (Fig.
Operation Releasing the Parking Brake Move the throttle to the SLOW position (if in FAST) and let the engine warm up a few minutes Push down on the brake pedal (Fig. 12). The before applying load. parking brake lever should release. Starting in Cold Weather Release the brake pedal.
Operation IMPORTANT: For best performance, always use full throttle when the power take off (PTO) switch is ON. Pull the power take off (PTO) switch to ON (Fig. 16). m–3312 Figure 15 1. Stop 3. Run (and glow plug) 2. Run with lights 4.
Operation The Safety Interlock System Before deactivating this feature, be sure there are no children present on or near the property where you are using the tractor, and that none are likely to appear Understanding the Safety Interlock while you are mowing or operating an attachment. System Be extra observant after you have chosen to deactivate the interlock feature because the sound of...
Operation POTENTIAL HAZARD A child or bystander could be backed over by a riding mower with its blade(s) engaged. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Blade contact will cause serious personal injury or death. m–3341 HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Figure 18 Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Operation Fully depress the brake pedal, set the parking brake, push the PTO switch to OFF and start the engine. Pull the PTO switch to ON. Rise slightly from the seat; the engine should stop. With the parking brake released, turn the ignition key to RUN without starting the engine.
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Operation Operating–in–Reverse Warning Light Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge The operating–in–reverse warning light will This gauge shows the coolant temperature in the illuminate whenever the “Key Choice” key is used to engine. If the gauge enters the red zone, disengage deactivate the operating–in–reverse interlock. It is a the PTO and allow the engine to cool while reminder that the interlock system is deactivated.
Operation Driving Forward or Backward Place the throttle control in the FAST position for best performance. (The throttle control regulates engine revolutions per minute.) Stop the tractor. Place your foot on the traction control pedal and IMPORTANT: Never attempt to shift gears slowly press on the top of the pedal to move with the tractor in motion.
Operation Attachment Power Lift The attachment power lift (Fig. 21) is used to raise POTENTIAL HAZARD and lower attachments. Someone could move or attempt to operate the tractor while it is unattended. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Children or bystanders may be injured if they use the tractor.
Operation Lowering Attachments Start the tractor. Push the lift lever DOWN to lower the attachment (Fig. 22). m–3320 Figure 23 1. Adjustment lever Headlights and Taillights Figure 22 The headlights and taillights are turned on by turning 1. Lift lever–Up 2.
Operation Positioning the Tilt Steering Wheel The steering wheel has four tilt locations. Position the steering wheel where you have the best control of the machine and are most comfortable. Lift the tilt lever to release the lock (Fig. 25). Move the steering wheel to a comfortable m–3313 position;...
Operation IMPORTANT: If you accidentally press the cruise control while the engine is running and you are not moving, the machine will POTENTIAL HAZARD subsequently operate at partial speed in Excessive speed when turning can result in forward and will not operate in reverse. rollover accidents.
Maintenance Service Interval Chart Each Storage Service Operation Hours Hours Hours Hours Hours Service Engine Oil—check level Engine Coolant—check level Radiator Screen—check for debris* Brake—check Safety System—check (3) Air Intake Screens—clean* Engine Area—clean* Rear Transaxle Cover—clean* Fuel Filter—drain water Engine Oil—change Initial Engine Oil Filter—change Initial...
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Maintenance POTENTIAL HAZARD If you leave the key in the ignition switch, someone could start the engine. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Accidental starting of the engine could seriously injure you or other bystanders. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Set the parking brake and remove the key from the ignition switch before you do any maintenance.
Maintenance Engine Oil Service Interval/Specification POTENTIAL HAZARD Components under the hood will be hot if Change oil: the tractor has been running. After the first 50 operating hours. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Touching hot components can cause burns. After every 100 operating hours. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Oil Type: High–quality detergent oil classified “API Allow the tractor to cool before performing...
Maintenance Changing the Engine Oil Filter Service Interval/Specification Replace the oil filter after the initial 50 hours of operation and then after every 200 hours. Drain the oil from the engine; refer to Changing/Draining Oil, page 31. Figure 29 1. Oil filler cap Place a drip pan beneath the oil drip tray to receive oil from the oil filter and oil passages in the engine.
Maintenance Changing the Engine Coolant Open both coolant drain valves at the bottom of the radiator and allow coolant to flow into a drain pan. When coolant stops flowing, close the drain valves and dispose of the coolant properly. POTENTIAL HAZARD Slowly fill the radiator with a 50/50 mixture of Coolant is hot and pressurized.
Maintenance Greasing and Lubrication Open the drive shaft maintenance cover on the tractor tunnel near the seat by unscrewing the Service Interval/Specification two screws securing it, then raising it (Fig. 32). Grease the machine after every 50 operating hours or yearly, whichever occurs first.
Maintenance Lubricate the three grease fittings (Fig. 33). Tire Pressure Service Interval/Specification Maintain the air pressure in the front and rear tires as specified. Check the pressure at the valve stem after every 25 operating hours or monthly, whichever occurs first (Fig. 35). Check the tires when they are cold to get the most accurate pressure reading.
Maintenance Brake Turn the brake adjustment nut (Fig. 37) until there is 2” (51 mm) of free travel. Always set the parking brake when you stop the machine or leave it unattended. Check the brake before each use. If the parking brake does not hold securely, an adjustment is required.
Maintenance Fuel Tank Draining the Fuel Tank POTENTIAL HAZARD In certain conditions fuel is extremely flammable and highly explosive. m–3263 WHAT CAN HAPPEN Figure 38 A fire or explosion from fuel can burn you, 1. Fuel shut-off valve others, and cause property damage. HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD Drain fuel from the fuel tank when the engine is cold.
Maintenance Install the fuel line onto the fuel shut-off valve. Slide the hose clamp close to the valve to secure the fuel line (Fig. 39). The fuel shut–off valve should normally be left open, except for service on the fuel system or when the tractor is transported on a trailer.
Maintenance Front Wheel Toe-In Service Interval/Specification Maintaining correct front wheel toe–in is important for safety, Smart Turn Steering operation and ease of use. If uneven tire wear, lawn scuffing or hard steering develop, adjustment may be required. Check the toe-in after every 100 operating hours or once a year, whichever occurs first (Fig.
Maintenance Transaxle Fluid If the oil level is low, slowly pour only enough SAE 10W–30 detergent oil into the filler tube to raise the level to the FULL line. Service Interval/Specification IMPORTANT: Do not fill above the FULL Check the fluid level before every use. Always keep line as fluid may overflow.
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Maintenance Park the machine on a level surface to assure the Changing the Transaxle Filter oil drains completely. Then turn off the power Service Interval/Specification take off (PTO), set the parking brake, lower the attachment lift, and turn the ignition key to Replace the transaxle filter after the first 50 hours;...
Maintenance Fuses Service Interval/Specification The electrical system is protected by fuses. They require no maintenance. However, if a fuse blows, check the component and circuit for a malfunction or short. To replace a fuse, pull it out of the fuse box (Fig.
Maintenance Taillights Battery Service Interval/Specification Bulb: GE 194 Check the electrolyte level in the battery every 25 Removing the Bulb hours. Always keep the battery clean and fully charged. Use a paper towel to clean the battery case. Disengage the power take off (PTO), set the If the battery terminals are corroded, clean them with parking brake, lower the attachment lift, and turn a solution of four parts water and one part baking...
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Maintenance If the fluid level is correct, press the cell cover Removing the Battery onto the battery. Disengage the power take off (PTO), set the parking brake, lower the attachment lift, and turn the ignition key to “STOP” to stop the engine. Remove the ignition key.
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Maintenance POTENTIAL HAZARD Either the battery terminals or metal tools could short against metal tractor components. Incorrect battery cable routing could damage the cables. WHAT CAN HAPPEN Sparks can cause the battery gasses to explode. Damaged cables could short against metal tractor components and cause sparks.
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Maintenance Remove the battery from the chassis; refer to Removing the Battery, page 44. Check the electrolyte level; refer to Checking the Electrolyte Level, page 43, steps 2–4. Remove the cell cover from the battery and connect a 3– to 4–amp battery charger to the battery posts.
Maintenance Cleaning and Storage Check and tighten all bolts, nuts, and screws. Repair or replace any part that is damaged or defective. Disengage the power take off (PTO), set the parking brake, and turn the ignition key to Paint all scratched or bare metal surfaces. Paint “STOP”...
Troubleshooting PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION The starter does not crank. The PTO is ON. Move the PTO to OFF. The brake is not depressed or Set the parking brake. the parking brake is not on. The operator is not seated. Sit on the seat.
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PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION The engine cranks, but will not Slow cranking speed. Check the battery, oil start (continued). viscosity and starting motor (contact your Authorized Service Dealer). 10. The air cleaner element is 10. Clean or replace. dirty. 11.
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PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION The engine runs, but knocks or There is air in the fuel. Bleed nozzles and check for misses (continued). air leaks at the fuel hose connections and fittings between the fuel tank and engine. The injection nozzles are Contact your Authorized faulty.
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PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION The engine overheats (continued) The crankcase oil level is Fill or drain to the full mark. incorrect. Excessive loading. Reduce load; use lower ground speed. The thermostat is faulty. Contact your Authorized Service Dealer. The fan belt is loose or Contact your Authorized broken.
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PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION Excessive black smoke from The air cleaner element is Clean or replace. exhaust. aust dirty. The injection pump timing is Contact your Authorized incorrect. Service Dealer. Incorrect fuel is in the fuel Drain the fuel system and system.
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PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION The tractor will not operate in The High–Low range lever is Move the High–Low range either direction. e t e d ect o in “N.” lever to “L” or “H.” The transmission oil is low. Fill to the full “F”...
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PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES CORRECTIVE ACTION Abnormal vibration or noise. The engine mounting bolts Tighten the engine mounting are loose. bolts. The idler pulley or mower Tighten the appropriate pulley deck blade is loose. or blade fastener. The transaxle cooling fan is Contact your Authorized loose.