Swisher FC15560CL Classic 15.5 HP 60 in. Tow Behind Finish Cut Mower User Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The Swisher FC15560CL Classic 15.5 HP 60 in. Tow Behind Finish Cut Mower is engineered to significantly reduce mowing time on large lawns and meadows. This unit is designed specifically for finish-cut mowing, producing a clean, professional cut on lawns and golf courses. It is not intended for clearing brush or cutting saplings.

Key features include a powerful 15.5 HP (500cc) Briggs & Stratton 12V engine, a 60-inch cutting width, and three G6 Gator mulching blades for superior cutting performance. The true floating deck minimizes scalping on uneven terrain, and the adjustable cutting height range allows for versatile use in various grass conditions.

Figure 1.1: Overall view of the Swisher FC15560CL Tow Behind Finish Cut Mower.

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when operating the Swisher FC15560CL mower. Read and understand all instructions and warnings before use. Failure to follow safety guidelines can result in serious injury or death.

• Operator Protection: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection, hearing protection, and sturdy footwear.
• Engine Safety: Ensure the engine is off and cool before performing any maintenance or adjustments. The unit features a safety lock-out and tethered kill switch for immediate engine shutdown. An electronic safety switch prevents unintended starts.
• Fuel Handling: Handle fuel with extreme care. Store fuel in approved containers and refuel in a well-ventilated area away from open flames or sparks.
• Blade Safety: Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades. Never operate the mower without the discharge chute or other safety guards in place.
• Terrain Awareness: Be aware of uneven terrain, slopes, and obstacles. The mower is designed for finish-cut mowing on relatively even surfaces.
• Children and Bystanders: Keep children and bystanders a safe distance away from the operating area.

3. Assembly

The Swisher FC15560CL mower requires assembly prior to first use. Detailed assembly instructions are provided in the complete manual included with your product. Ensure all components are present and undamaged before beginning assembly.

Typical assembly steps involve:

• Attaching the hitch assembly to the main frame.
• Mounting the wheels and ensuring proper tire inflation.
• Connecting any electrical components, such as the battery (not included).
• Verifying all fasteners are tightened to the specified torque.

Refer to the full manual for step-by-step diagrams and specific torque specifications.

4. Setup

4.1 Cutting Height Adjustment

The cutting height can be adjusted from 2 to 5.5 inches to suit various grass conditions and desired lawn appearance. Use the height adjustment lever to easily set the deck to your preferred cutting height.

Figure 4.1: Cutting height adjustment lever. Adjusting this lever raises or lowers the mower deck.

4.2 Hitch Adjustment

The mower features a 3-position offset pin hitch, allowing you to adjust the towing position relative to your towing vehicle. This flexibility helps in achieving optimal cutting patterns and avoiding obstacles.

Figure 4.2: The adjustable hitch allows for offset towing positions.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Fueling the Engine

The mower is equipped with a 2.5-gallon fuel tank, providing extended run time. Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Do not mix oil with gasoline. Always refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine off and cool.

Figure 5.1: The 2.5-gallon fuel tank ensures longer operation between refills.

5.2 Starting the Engine

The 15.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine features a 12-volt electric start for convenient operation. Ensure a standard lawn & garden battery (not included) is properly installed and charged. Follow these steps:

1. Ensure the mower is on a level surface.
2. Check engine oil level.
3. Open the fuel valve.
4. Set the choke (if cold starting).
5. Insert the key into the ignition and turn to the 'START' position.
6. Once the engine starts, gradually move the choke to the 'RUN' position.

Figure 5.2: The 15.5 HP Briggs & Stratton engine provides reliable power.

5.3 Engaging Blades and Mowing

After the engine is running, use the blade engage/disengage controls to activate the cutting blades. Always engage blades when the engine is at a low RPM and gradually increase to full throttle for optimal cutting performance. The universal articulating hitch allows for smooth maneuverability behind ATVs, lawn tractors, and utility vehicles.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Swisher FC15560CL mower.

• Blades: The mower uses three G6 Gator mulching blades. Inspect blades regularly for sharpness and damage. Replace or sharpen as needed.
• Deck: The 60-inch 11-gauge true-floating deck with additional underside baffles should be cleaned after each use to prevent grass buildup, which can affect cut quality and airflow.
• Engine: Follow the engine manufacturer's recommendations for oil changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, and spark plug maintenance.
• Battery: The covered battery with an access panel should be checked periodically for charge and terminal corrosion. Keep terminals clean and tight.
• Tires: The rugged turf tires are designed for years of service. Maintain proper tire pressure as specified in the full manual.

Figure 6.1: The rugged turf tires are built for durability and traction.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Swisher FC15560CL mower, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Engine Not Starting: Check fuel level, ensure the fuel valve is open, verify the battery is charged and connections are secure, and check the spark plug.
• Poor Cut Quality: Inspect blades for sharpness and damage. Ensure the mower deck is level and the cutting height is appropriate for the grass type and conditions.
• Excessive Vibration: Check for bent or unbalanced blades. Ensure all fasteners are tight.
• Loss of Power: Check fuel quality, air filter cleanliness, and spark plug condition.

For more detailed troubleshooting guides or persistent issues, consult the comprehensive owner's manual or contact Swisher customer support.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

The Swisher FC15560CL Tow Behind Finish Cut Mower comes with a 1-year residential manufacturer warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.

For warranty claims, technical assistance, or to order replacement parts, please contact Swisher customer support. Refer to your complete owner's manual for specific contact details and the full terms and conditions of the warranty.