Assembly Instructions17SETUP INSTRUCTIONSWalker Mowers are shipped partially assembled.After uncrating the tractor and mower deck, initialsetup is required.NOTE: During the process of unpacking, any dam-aged or missing parts should be noted and reportedto the delivering carrier immediately (put in writingwithin 15 days). The carrier will provide directionsfor proceeding with a claim to receive compensationfor damage.Tire Installation (Tractor)• Install the drive tires using the eight (8) lug boltsthat are supplied with the owner’s packet of mater-ials. Drive tires are 18 x 9.50-8, 4-ply; rear tires are13 x 5.00-6, 4-ply.• Check and adjust the inflation of the tires. Thetire inflation recommendations are:Drive = 15 PSI (103 kPa)Rear = 20 PSI (137 kPa)Battery ServiceRaise front mower body up for battery access (referto Front Body Latch Release in Operating Instruc-tions). Check the battery for electrolyte level andcharge. The electrolyte level should be at the bot-tom of the vent wells [1/4 to 1/2 in. (6 to 13 mm)above plates]. If the specific gravity is less than1.225, the battery needs charging. If the battery hasbeen shipped dry, or is wet but needs service, referto the following instructions.IMPORTANT: Make sure battery is securelymounted in the frame. A loose battery may causedamage to the case resulting in acid leakage and se-vere damage to the machine. A hazard may be cre-ated by damage to critical working parts and safetysystems.Wet Battery ServiceIf the battery has been shipped wet, but the electrolytelevel is low or the battery needs to be charged then:1. Fill each battery cell with drinking water to thebottom of the vent wells.2. Charge battery. Refer to Battery Charging inthis section.Dry Battery ServiceTo fill (activate) battery with electrolyte (if battery hasbeen shipped dry):1. Remove the battery hold down bar, disconnectthe battery cables and lift the battery out of thetray.IMPORTANT: Battery must be removed fromthe mower before filling with electrolyte.IMPORTANT: Obtain and use only batterygrade sulfuric acid electrolyte with a 1.265 spe-cific gravity to activate the battery. DO NOT usewater or any other liquid during initial activation.2. Remove the filler caps and carefully fill each celluntil the electrolyte is just above the plates.3. After the battery is filled with electrolyte, replacethe filler caps and charge the battery. Refer toBattery Charging.DANGERActivating a battery can be dangerous.The battery should be taken to a reliableservice station, battery store, or powerequipment dealer where a trained techni-cian can activate the battery safely. DONOT attempt to activate the battery unlessyou are experienced in battery servicework. The following activation and charg-ing instructions are provided for use by atrained battery technician.DANGERBattery electrolyte is a poisonous and cor-rosive sulfuric acid solution.• Avoid spillage and contact with skin,eyes, and clothing - causes severe burns.• To prevent accidents, wear safety gog-gles and rubber gloves when working withelectrolyte.• Neutralize acid spills with baking sodaand water solution.