Billy Goat FM3300 & FM3300E Operator's Manual

Specifications

Accessories

• Mulching Kit
  P/N 520144
  Reduces lawn clippings to fine nutrient-rich particles that filter down to the soil.
• Grass Catcher Kit
  P/N 520142
  Easily convert your mower to bag grass and leaves.
• Transaxle Guard Kit
  P/N 520155
  To protect the transaxle from accidental contact from concrete curbs or other hazards.

Safety Instructions

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

WARNING: DO NOT

• DO NOT run engine in an enclosed area. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly poison.
• DO NOT place hands or feet near moving or rotating parts.
• DO NOT store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame, or devices such as a stove, furnace, or water heater which use a pilot light or devices which can create a spark.
• DO NOT refuel indoors where area is not well ventilated. Outdoor refueling is recommended.
• DO NOT fill fuel tank while engine is running. Allow engine to cool for 2 minutes before refueling. Store fuel in approved safety containers.
• DO NOT remove fuel tank cap while engine is running.
• DO NOT operate engine when smell of gasoline is present or other explosive conditions exist.
• DO NOT operate engine if gasoline is spilled. Move machine away from the spill and avoid creating any ignition until the gasoline has evaporated.
• DO NOT transport unit with fuel in tank.
• DO NOT smoke when filling fuel tank.
• DO NOT choke carburetor to stop engine. Whenever possible, gradually reduce engine speed before stopping.
• DO NOT run engine at excessive speeds. This may result in injury & /or damage to unit.
• DO NOT tamper with governor springs, governor links or other parts which may change the governed engine speed.
• DO NOT tamper with the engine speed selected by the engine manufacturer.
• DO NOT check for spark with spark plug or spark plug wire removed. Use an approved tester.
• DO NOT crank engine with spark plug removed. If engine is flooded, place throttle in "FAST" position and crank until engine starts.
• DO NOT strike flywheel with a hard object or metal tool as this may cause flywheel to shatter in operation. Use proper tools to service engine.
• DO NOT operate engine without a muffler. Inspect periodically and replace, if necessary. If engine is equipped with muffler deflector, inspect periodically and replace, if necessary, with correct deflector.
• DO NOT operate engine with an accumulation of grass, leaves, dirt or other combustible material in the muffler area.
• DO NOT use this engine on any forest covered, brush covered, or grass covered unimproved land unless a spark arrester is installed on the muffler. The arrester must be maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands.
• DO NOT touch hot muffler, cylinder, or fins because contact may cause burns.
• DO NOT run engine without air cleaner or air cleaner cover.
• DO NOT operate during excessive vibration!
• DO NOT leave machine unattended while in operation.
• DO NOT park machine on a steep grade or slope.

WARNING: DO

• ALWAYS remove the wire from the spark plug when servicing the engine or equipment TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL STARTING.
• DO keep cylinder fins and governor parts free of grass and other debris which can affect engine speed.
• DO pull starter cord slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull cord rapidly to avoid kickback and prevent hand or arm injury.
• DO examine muffler periodically to be sure it is functioning effectively. A worn or leaking muffler should be repaired or replaced as necessary.
• DO use fresh gasoline. Stale fuel can gum carburetor and cause leakage.
• DO check fuel lines and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary
• Follow engine manufacturer operating and maintenance instructions.
• Inspect machine and work area before starting unit.

General Safety

For your safety and the safety of others, these directions should be followed:

Do not operate this machine without first reading owner's manual and engine manufacturer's manual.

Use of Ear Protection is recommended while operating this machine.

Use of Eye and Breathing protection is recommended when using this machine.

This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

DO NOT:

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The operator could lose footing or balance.
• Do not mow excessively steep slopes.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping.

I. General Operation

• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s). Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the mower before starting.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the mower.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s).
• Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop mower if anyone enters the area.
• Do not operate the mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Always wear substantial foot wear.
• Do not pull mower backwards unless absolutely necessary. Look down and behind before and while moving backwards.
• Do not operate the mower without proper guards, plates, grass catcher or other safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer's instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer.
• Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads.
• Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equipment, before cleaning the mower or unclogging the chute.
• Stop the engine (motor) and wait until the blade comes to complete stop before removing grass catcher.
• Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate the mower while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never operate mower in wet grass. Always be sure of your footing; keep a firm hold on the handle and walk; never run.
• Disengage the self-propelled mechanism or drive clutch on mowers so equipped before starting the engine (motor).
• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating mower.

II. Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it.

DO:

• Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
• Remove objects such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

III. Children

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the mower and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn mower off if children enter the area.
• Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down for small children.
• Never allow children to operate the mower.
• Use extra care when approaching blind comers, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. Service

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
  • Use only an approved container.
  • Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.
  • Never refuel the machine indoors.
  • Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.
• Never run an engine inside a closed area.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor) running. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire away from the plug to prevent accidental starting.
• Keep all nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
• Keep mower free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow mower to cool before storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an Object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
• Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the engine (motor) is running.
• Always disconnect electric mowers (live operated) before cleaning, repairing, or adjusting.
• Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.
• Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine.

Assembly

Read all safety and operating instructions before assembling or starting this unit.

PUT OIL IN ENGINE BEFORE STARTING.

DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE BEFORE ASSEMBLING UNIT.

Your Billy Goat Mower is shipped from the factory in one crate, completely assembled except for the handles and console assembly.

NOTE: All item numbers called out in the assembly, operation, and maintenance sections of this manual can be found on Parts List (pages 15-18).

1. Cut and remove the nylon retaining straps (see figure 11-1).
2. Pry up and remove the shipping crate's top panel.
3. Remove the shipping crate's end panel at rear of mower
4. With the console positioned as shown in Figure 11-3, insert the shift linkage rod (Item 31) into the shift linkage connector (Item 54).
5. To assemble the shift rod (item 31) to the shift linkage (item 54), use the roll pin in the parts/literature bag. If you'll notice on the shift linkage, the hole is larger on one side than the other. It will be easier to start the roll pin from the larger side, forcing it through the shift rod and the hole on the other side of the shift linkage, using a hammer or large adjustable pliers.
6. Remove and retain for reuse console mounting bolts, washers and nuts (Items 135, 150 & 151) from left and right handles.
7. Remove and retain for reuse handle mounting bolts and hex lock washers (Items 102 & 6) located just above the rear wheels on each side of mower (see figure 11-4).
8. Insert one of the handle mounting bolts (Item 102) with Hex. lock washer (Item 6) through the rear handle mounting hole of the right side handle, and screw it into the rear handle mounting hole on the right side of engine base chassis (Item 61). Repeat this procedure for the left side using the left handle.
9. On each side of the mower, insert one of the handle mounting bolts (Item 102) with Hex. lock washer (Item 6) through the hole in one end of the handle brace (Item 32), the front handle mounting hole of the handle and screw into the front handle mounting hole in the engine base chassis (Figure 11-5).
10. Using one of the bolts and flat washers removed previously (step 8), insert the bolt with washer, from the outside, through the bottom hole on the console, through the handle, through the top hole of the handle brace, through one of the flat washers removed in step 8 and secure with lock nut (Item 151). Repeat this procedure for the bottom hole on the other side of the console. Make sure control cables are free and not damaged while tightening console mounting bolts (Figure 6).
11. On the left hand side, using one of the bolts and flat washers removed previously (step 6), insert the bolt with washer, from the outside, through the top hole on the console, through the handle, through the control cable retainer, through one of the flat washers removed in step 8 and secure with lock nut (Item 151). Repeat for right-hand side except there is no control cable retainer for this side. Make sure the control cables are not damaged while tightening console mounting bolts (see figure 11-6).
12. Finish mounting handle to engine base bolts then finish tightening the remaining bolts.
13. Position control cables and use 2 cable ties on each handle to secure the cables in position. The top cable tie should be 1" below the console and the lower tie should be 12" below the console (see figure 11-7)
14. Check the position of the shift rod guide (Item 69), and if necessary, snap it in place in the shift bracket (Item 78) as shown in Figure 11-8.
15. Put shift lever in NEUTRAL, depress the brake lever (release the brake) and carefully pull the machine back off the pallet.
16. Fill with oil and gas to the proper level and the unit is ready to mow. (a battery will also have to be installed on electric models.)
17. Read the operator's manual.

Controls

Throttle Control

Speed Control

5th gear (Transporting Speed): Lift up on the lever then push to engage in the 5th gear.

Rev: Lift up on the lever then pull back for reverse.

Electric Start Only

Pull up on the switch then push forward to start the engine.

Engine Labels

Briggs & Stratton

IMPORTANT ENGINE INFORMATION

FAMILY: YBSXS.5012VP 274626

THE AIR INDEX OF THIS ENGINE IS [Air Index Value]

THE LOWER THE AIR INDEX, THE LESS POLLUTION THIS ENGINE IS CERTIFIED IN CALIFORNIA TO BE EMISSIONS COMPLIANT FOR THE FOLLOWING USE:

EXTENDED MODERATE X INTERMEDIATE

THIS ENGINE CONFORMS TO 2006 CA EMISSION REGS FOR SMALL OFF-ROAD ENGINES & EPA PH2 REGS FOR SMALL NON-ROAD ENGINES. REFER TO OWNER'S MANUAL FOR MAINTENANCE SPECS, ADJUSTMENTS, & EMISSION DURABILITY INFORMATION.

EPA EMISSIONS COMPLIANCE PERIOD: CATEGORY: C

WARNING

Read and follow Operating Instructions before running engine.

Gasoline is flammable. Allow engine to cool at least 2 minutes before fueling.

Engines emit carbon monoxide, DO NOT run in enclosed area.

Instruction Labels

These labels should be included on your Billy Goat Finish Mower. If any of these labels are damaged, replace them before putting this equipment into operation. Item and part numbers are given to help in ordering replacement labels.

• Label Do Not Fill While Engine Is Hot (Item 4 Part No. 400268)
• Label Ear Eye Breathing (Item No. 114 Part No. 890254)
• Label Danger Keep Hands and Feet Away (Item 5 Part No. 400424)
• Label Danger Flying Material (Item No. 2 Part No. 810736)
• Label Read Owner's Manual (Item 52 Part No. 890301)
• Label Clutch Drive (Item No. 10 Part No. 500176)
• Label Blade Drive (Item No. 11 Part No. 500177)
• Label Warning Guards (Item 119 Part No. 900327)
• Label Patent Pending (Item 178 Part No. 500183)
• Label Warning Mower (Item No. 17 Part No. 510206)
• Label Push to Release Brake (Item 95 Part No. 520117)
• Label Hgt. Guideline (Item No. 7 Part No. 520043)
• Label FM Electric Console (Item 47 Part No. 520048)
• Label FM Console (Item 47 Part No. 520079)

Operation

Intended Use

This unit is mainly designed for cutting grass. Some overgrown weeds, and taller grass may also be cut. Be sure to inspect work area and machine before operating. Make sure that all operators of this equipment are trained in general machine use and safety.

Like all mechanical tools, reasonable care must be used when operating machine. Do not operate unit in areas where bystanders may be present.

Do not operate if excessive vibration occurs. If excessive vibration occurs, shut engine off immediately and check for damaged or worn blade, loose blade jam nut, loose engine or lodged foreign objects. Note: See maintenance section for proper blade jam nut torque specifications.

Starting (16.1)

PUT OIL IN ENGINE THEN CHECK THE LEVEL BEFORE STARTING.

ENGINE: See engine manufacturer's instructions for type and amount of oil and gasoline used. Engine must be level when checking and filling oil and gasoline.

ENGINE SPEED: Controlled by throttle lever on the control console plate.

FUEL VALVE: Move fuel valve to "ON" position (when provided on engine).

CHOKE: Operated with the throttle control by moving the throttle control to the full start position.

THROTTLE: Move remote throttle control to fast position. Pull starting rope to start engine.

ELECTRIC START: Choke the engine if necessary. Pull up then push forward on the toggle switch until engine starts, then release switch to run.

1. Select desired cutting height before starting engine.
2. Place mower on a sidewalk or driveway where the mower blade is in an unloaded condition. If it must be started on the lawn, move mower over previously cut grass.
3. Be sure drive lever or blade lever are not engaged.
4. Choke if necessary.
5. Pull back on starter rope slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull cord rapidly to start. Repeat if necessary.

Cutting Operation (16.2)

CAUTION: Stop Blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or roads and under all conditions where thrown objects might be a hazard.

CLEARING A CLOGGED CUTTING DECK: Turn engine off and wait for blade to stop completely. Disconnect spark plug wire.

Wearing durable gloves, remove clog. Danger, the clog may contain sharp materials. Reconnect spark plug wire.

CAUTION: Use extreme care when operating the blade. Inspect the work area for foreign objects that could cause damage to the unit or injure the operator if struck by the blade. Never operate the blade with bystanders in the work area.

GENERAL OPERATION: To engage the blade, depress the operator's left hand control lever against operator's handle. The blade is disengaged by releasing this lever. (See Fig. 1.1) To engage the wheel drive, lift the operator's right hand control lever against operator's handle. The drive is disengaged by releasing this lever. (See Fig. 1.2) Ground speed can be varied by shifting gears as described on page 8. To begin cutting, engage the blade lever, allow the blade to spin up to speed, and engage the wheel drive to begin moving forward into the material to be cut.

NOTE: Do not engage blade during transport between work sites. The blade should remain disengaged at all times when work is not being performed.

The best performance is achieved when cutting in dry conditions. If the deck becomes choked with grass or debris during operation, back unit off of debris allowing machine to clear itself and continue cutting, or shut the unit off and clear the clog by hand (See above). A drop in engine RPM or a noticeable change in engine sound is usually a good indicator of a clogged discharge or other interference.

Under most conditions cutting should be done in second or third gear. Fourth gear should be reserved for conditions where grass is thinned out or not as tall. The quality of the cut produced is directly related to the unit's ground speed during cutting. If the quality of the cut is not satisfactory (i.e. material left standing) you should shift into a lower gear during cutting. For improved control in confined areas, this machine can be pushed forward or backward by releasing the drive lever located at the bottom of the operator's right-hand handle while depressing the brake release lever.

Cutting Height Adjustment (16.3)

CAUTION: DO NOT make cutting height adjustment when engine is running.

Cutting height can be adjusted from 1.5" to 4" by placing spacers above or below caster spindles. For easiest adjustment change the height on one side at a time. To change cutting height, tilt the unit back, remove lynch pin, remove all spacers then set if off to the side, remove caster rig, add or subtract spacers, reinstall caster rig, place remainder of spacers if any, then reinsert lynch pin (see figure 16-1 through 16-4). Repeat this step on other side.

NOTE: Be sure that the spacers are even on both casters. Running the deck out of level will result in poor cut quality and increased belt wear.

Blade Clutch (16.4)

The FM mower blade clutch is controlled by an operator presence control. To engage the blade, depress the operator's left hand control lever against operator's handle. The blade is disengaged by releasing this lever. (see figure 16-5)

NOTE: The blade clutch must be either fully engaged for cutting or fully disengaged to bring the blade to a stop. Do not operate the unit with the blade clutch partially engaged. Premature belt wear and clutch failure will result from improper operation of the clutch.

CAUTION: Use extreme care when operating the blade. Inspect the work area for foreign objects that could cause damage to the unit or injure the operator if struck by the blade. Never operate the blade with bystanders in the work area. Lever operate the blade without either the discharge deflector chute or the grass catcher in place.

Propulsion (16.5)

This unit is self-propelled, and is controlled by an operator presence control. To engage the wheel drive, first push down on the BRAKE RELEASE lever on the right side, then lift the operator's DRIVE lever on the right side against operator's handle. The drive is disengaged by releasing the lower lever. (see figure 16-6). Push and hold the Brake lever to free wheel.

GROUND SPEED can be varied by selecting a higher or lower gear using the gear shift lever on top of the console (see figure 16-7). Under most conditions cutting should be done in second or third gear. Fourth gear should be reserved for conditions where grass is thinned out or not as tall. The quality of the cut produced is directly related to the unit's ground speed during cutting. If the quality of the cut is not satisfactory (i.e. material left standing), you should shift into a lower gear during cutting. For improved control in confined areas, this machine can be pushed forward or backward by releasing the drive lever located at the bottom of the operator's right-hand handle while depressing the brake release lever.

Hillside Mowing (16.6)

WARNING! Never mow on any slope greater than 15 degrees. Always mow across the face of slopes; never up and down or diagonally (see figure 16-8). DO NOT attempt sudden starts or stop when mowing on a slope. Avoid sudden turns and use extreme caution when changing direction on a slope.

Handling & Transporting (16.7)

CAUTION: ENGINE MUST BE OFF while handling, lifting, or transporting the unit on or off the vehicle.

Using two people to lift machine is recommended. Lift holding the handle and front of deck. Secure in place during transport.

Storage (16.8)

Never store engine indoors or in enclosed poorly ventilated areas with fuel in tank, where fuel fumes may reach an open flame, spark or pilot light, as on a furnace, water heater, clothes dryer or other gas appliance.

If engine is to be unused for 30 days or more, prepare as follows:

Be sure engine is cool. Do not smoke. Remove all gasoline from carburetor and fuel tank to prevent gum deposits from forming on these parts and causing possible malfunction of engine. Drain fuel outdoors, into an approved container, away from open flame. Run engine until fuel tank is empty and engine runs out of gasoline.

NOTE: Fuel stabilizer (such as Sta-Bil) is an acceptable alternative in minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits during storage. Add stabilizer to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container. Always follow mix ratio found on stabilizer container. Run engine at least 10 min. after adding stabilizer to allow it to reach the carburetor.

CAUTION: Wheels must be chocked or blocked when unit is parked on a slope.

Maintenance

Use only a qualified mechanic for any adjustments, disassembly or any kind of repair.

WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY, ALWAYS TURN MACHINE OFF, MAKE SURE ALL MOVING PARTS COME TO A COMPLETE STOP.

DISCONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE BEFORE SERVICING UNIT.

RECONNECT SPARK PLUG WIRE, AND ALL GUARDS BEFORE STARTING ENGINE.

Note: Blade, blade brake puck, transaxle brake, and drive belts are normal wear items. These should be inspected on a regular basis and replaced if worn.

Maintenance Schedule

Cable Adjustments (17.1)

CAUTION: DO NOT make cable adjustment when engine is running. Disconnect spark plug wire before making any adjustments.

Brake Adjustment

The brake control cable is spring loaded and requires no adjustment; however, the transaxle brake is adjustable. When the mower is in neutral and can be pushed by hand without depressing the brake lever, the transaxle brake needs adjustment.

Using a 1/2 inch wrench turn the adjusting nut 1½ turn clockwise (see figure 17-1).

With the machine in neutral and:

1. The brake lever not depressed, the brake should be on and inhibit the machine from being rolled by pushing.
2. The brake lever depressed the brake should be off and the machine should roll uninhibited by the brake.

Blade Drive Control Cable Adjustment

When the blade drive control lever is depressed, the blades should turn and the blade drive belt should not slip. When the cable is properly adjusted the tension spring on the end of the control cable will open slightly (only enough for a piece of paper to slip between the coils). See figure 17-3.

Cable Adjustment:

1. Remove the deck belt cover (Item 81).
2. Observe the tension spring on the end of the cable when the blade drive lever is depressed. The spring should just break open.
3. If adjustment is required, using a 1/2" open end wrench, turn the inboard adjustment nut clockwise 1/8 of a turn (Figure 4). Then tighten the outboard adjustment nut against the cable support bracket (Item 49).
4. Check the spring tension with the blade drive lever depressed.
5. Readjust the control cable as needed for proper tension.
6. Replace the deck belt cover.

Note: Too much tension will shorten belt and bearing life and too little tension will allow the belt to slip.

Transaxle Drive Control Cable Adjustment

When the transaxle drive belt slips, the drive control cable needs to be adjusted or the belt needs to be replaced with a new belt.

Cable Adjustment:

1. Using a 3/8" wrench, remove the rear access door (Item 51).
2. Using a 1/2 " open end wrench, turn the inside adjusting screw clockwise 1/8 of a turn and then tighten the outboard adjusting nut against the support bracket (see figure 17-2).
3. Check for proper operation. If the operation is not correct, repeat step 2.
4. Replace the access door.

The drive control cable adjustment should be the minimum amount required so the belt does not slip when the drive is engaged.

Starter Switch Wiring (17.2)

Wiring diagram for starter switch.

Blade Removal / Sharpening (17.4)

NOTE: When sharpening the blade it is a good idea to check the balance of the blade. A properly balanced blade will increase life of the bearings and other components.

Tools required: ratchet, 3/4" inch socket, torque wrench, adequate support, block to inhibit blade rotation.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire.
2. Support front of unit to allow access to the blades. Note: Unit is heavy. Be sure support is adequate to prevent personal injury.
3. Block the blade to prevent it from rotating during removal (see figure 17-4).
4. Remove the blade bolt (Item 35), lock washer (33), and large friction washer (103).
5. Remove the blade (18) and replace or sharpen the blade. NOTE: Use only B.G.I. Part no. 520001(Standard blade) or B.G.I. Part no. 520002 (Mulch blade).
6. Reinstall the blade using all fasteners in the exact order they were removed (see figure 17-4).
7. Torque blade screw to 60 ft-lbs.
8. NOTE: Before installing the fasteners inspect them for wear and replace as necessary.
9. Reconnect spark plug wire.

Belt Replacement (17.5)

When replacing one belt the other should be inspected for wear and replaced if worn. It is good practice to change both belts when either is worn beyond use. Use only original equipment belts for replacement. Billy Goat uses only premium quality, kevlar corded and coated belts in your unit. Substitute belts do not meet the design and performance requirements for your unit, and will greatly reduce machine performance and belt life.

Blade Drive Belt Replacement

Tools required: ratchet, 3/4 inch socket, 10" extension bar for socket, two 1/2" wrenches and adequate support for machine.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire.
2. Remove the deck belt cover.
3. Support front of unit to allow access to underside of the machine near the engine. Note: Unit is heavy. Be sure support is adequate to prevent personal injury.
4. Observe the orientation of the belt fingers (Item 71) under the engine.
5. Remove the 4 engine mount bolts (Item 48)
6. Remove the left and right belt fingers (These fingers are interchangeable).
7. Observe the orientation of the belt finger (Item 90) on idler (Item 91).
8. Loosen but do not remove idler/belt finger retaining nut (Item 144).
9. Observe belt routing and remove the belt from front spindle pulley (Item 46).
10. Remove the belt from the idler pulley and from the engine pulley.
11. Install new belt on engine pulley, idler and front spindle pulley following the original belt routing.
12. Position the idler belt finger centered on idler bracket and tighten the retaining nut (Item 144).
13. Reinstall the left and right belt guide fingers under the engine base using all fasteners in the exact order they were removed. NOTE: Before installing the fasteners inspect them for wear and replace as necessary.
14. Torque the four engine bolts to 40 ft-lbs. Note: With clutch levers engaged, be sure belt guides do not touch belts after installation.
15. Observe the idler pulley when the blade drive lever is lowered and released (see figure 17-7). NOTE: Idler should tighten the belt when blade drive lever is pressed and the belt should be slack when the lever is released. With the lever depressed, the edge of the belt guide should not rub on the belt.
16. Replace the cover
17. Reconnect spark plug wire.
18. Start engine and check for proper operation of blade drive system.

Spindle Drive Belt

Tools required: 3/8 inch socket, 1/2 inch socket.

1. Disconnect spark plug wire.
2. Follow steps to remove the Blade Drive Belt (on the spindle pulley side only) from the previous section.
3. Loosen the two idler plate nuts (Item 143).
4. Slide the belt idler to release the belt tension.
5. Observe the belt routing, then remove the old belt and install the new belt using the original routing.
6. Tension the belt using a long screwdriver or other pry bar to push the idler pulley against the belt. Note: Take care not to damage the idler pulley.
7. Tighten the two idler plate nuts just enough to avoid slippage while checking the belt tension.
8. Check belt deflection. Finger pressure should give 0.5" to 0.75" (see figure 17-8).
9. Increase/decrease belt tension for proper deflection.
10. Finish Tightening the two idler plate nuts.
11. Follow steps to reinstall Blade Drive Belt from the previous section.
12. Replace cover.
13. Reconnect spark plug wire.

Transaxle Drive Belt Replacement

Tools required: 1/2 Wrench or ratchet and 1/2 inch socket, adequate support for machine.

1. Remove the Blade Drive Belt (Steps 1-10: Blade Drive Belt Replacement Procedure).
2. Assure that spark plug wire is disconnected.
3. Support rear of unit to allow access to underside of the machine near the rear. Note: Unit is heavy. Be sure support is adequate to prevent personal injury.
4. Observe the belt fingers Item 63), position of idler and belt routing.
5. Remove the belt finger retaining nuts and bolts (Items 126 and 143).
6. Move the belt finger and remove the belt from the transaxle pulley (Item 48).
7. Remove the belt from the drive idler (Item 105).
8. Remove the belt from the engine drive pulley (Item 85).
9. Install new belt on the top (small) engine pulley, drive idler and transaxle pulley using the original belt position and routing.
10. Reposition and secure the belt finger using the original bolts, washers and nuts. NOTE: Before installing the fasteners inspect them for wear and replace as necessary.
11. Reinstall the Blade Drive Belt (Steps 11-16: Blade Drive Belt Replacement Procedure). Note: With clutch levers engaged, be sure belt guides do not touch belts after installation.
12. Replace the cover
13. Reconnect spark plug wire.
14. Start engine and check both belts for proper operation of blade drive system and mower drive system.

WARNING: If the drive clutch begins to squeal or slip, do not continue to operate your unit until adequate adjustment or repair has been performed. Improper adjustment can cause drive clutch to slip and overheat, greatly reducing machine performance and transmission life.

Brake Puck Replacement (17.6)

Tools Required: 5/32" Allen wrench; 3/8" wrench.

1. Remove the spark plug wire.
2. Remove the belt deck cover.
3. Remove the brake spring (A) and control cable spring (B) (see figure 17-10).
4. Remove the blade drive belt (C) from the drive pulley (D).
5. Using a 3/8" wrench and 5/32" allen wrench, remove the nuts from the #10 puck retaining bolts (see figure17-11).
6. Remove the brake puck.
7. Remove the bolts from the puck. Note: The puck ends are symmetrical and can be interchanged to use a new braking surface unless both ends are already worn (Figure 4). When both ends have been used replace the puck with a new one.
8. Inspect the nylon brake arm spacer (Item 44).
9. Replace the spacer if it shows signs of wear.
10. Reassemble all parts in the same orientation as when removed. Note: Before installing fasteners, inspect them for wear and replace as necessary.
11. Check the operation of the clutch and brake mechanism. The drive belt should be slack and the brake engaged (center pulley will not turn easily by hand) when no pressure is exerted on blade drive lever. Note: When the blade drive lever is depressed, the brake puck should not rub on the center pulley, the belt should be under tension, and not rub on the belt finger (see figure 17-10).
12. Replace the belt cover and connect the spark plug wire. Start the engine and check the clutch/brake operation under power. Note: When the blade clutch control lever is pressed down, the blades should spin up to speed without belt slippage indicated by a pronounced belt squealing sound. When the clutch control lever is released, the blades should stop spinning in 5 seconds or less.

Parts Drawing

Deck Assembly

Diagram of the deck assembly with numbered parts.

Engine Assembly

Diagram of the engine assembly with numbered parts.

Drive Assembly

Diagram of the drive assembly with numbered parts.

Handle Assembly

Diagram of the handle assembly with numbered parts.

Accessories

Grass Catcher Kit 520142

Purpose: Easily convert your mower to bag grass and leaves.

Mulching Kit 520144

Purpose: Reduces lawn clippings to fine nutrient-rich particles that filter down to the soil.

Transaxle Guard Kit 520155

Purpose: To protect the transaxle from accidental contact from concrete curbs or other hazards.

Troubleshooting

Before Requesting Service Review These Suggestions

NOTE: For repairs beyond the minor adjustments listed below, contact your nearest authorized service dealer.

ENGINE

When servicing engine refer to specific manufacturer's engine owner's manual. All engine warranty is covered by the specific engine manufacturer. If your engine requires warranty or other repair work contact your local servicing engine dealer. When contacting a dealer for service it is a good idea to have your engine model number available for reference(See table page 11). If you can not locate a servicing dealer in your area you can contact the manufacturer's national service organization.

To reach: Briggs & Stratton: 800-233-3723

Warranty Procedure

Should a Billy Goat Machine fail due to a defect in material and / or workmanship, the owner should make a warranty claim as follows:

• The Machine must be taken to the dealer from whom it was purchased or to an authorized Servicing Billy Goat Dealer.
• The owner must present the remaining half of the Warranty Registration Card, or, if this is not available, the invoice or receipt.
• The Warranty Claim will be completed by the authorized Billy Goat Dealer and submitted to their respective Billy Goat Distributor for their territory. Attention: Service Manager. Any parts replaced under warranty must be tagged and retained for 90 days.
• The distributor service manager will sign off on the claim and submit it to Billy Goat for consideration.
• The Technical Service Department at Billy Goat will study the claim and may request parts to be returned for examination. Billy Goat will notify their conclusions to the distributor service manager from whom the claim was received.
• The decision by the Quality / Service department at Billy Goat to approve or reject a Warranty claim is final and binding.

Note: To process a Warranty Claim, it is necessary to quote the Model & Serial Number which are printed on the Billy Goat Serial Plate (See owner's manual).