10-18 109706 10/08
Electrical system
The electrical system is a 12-volt, negative ground. Recommended battery size is a garden tractor BCI group 45
with 480 or better cranking AMP rating. A maintenance-free battery is recommended. Otherwise, follow battery manu-
facturer’s maintenance, safety, storing and charging specifications.The battery is located at the rear of the tractor,
FIG. 28.
The Hustler Z Shibaura Diesel tractors have a 50 amp in-line fuse in the electrical system. This is the main fuse to
protect the complete electrical system. It is located at the rear of the machine close to the battery.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds,
chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after
handling.
WARNING: Avoid skin and clothing contact with battery acid. Always wear eye protection when
checking the battery, acid can cause serious injury to skin and eyes. If contact occurs, flush area with
clean water and call physician immediately. Acid will also damage clothing. Do not drink the battery
electrolyte. Do not allow open flame near the battery when charging. Hydrogen gas forms inside the
battery. This gas is both toxic and flammable and may cause an explosion if exposed to flame.
Always remove the negative ground first and replace it last. Do not overfill battery. Electrolyte may
overflow and damage paint, wiring or structure. When cleaning the battery, use soap and water. Be
careful not to get soap and water into the battery. Clean the battery terminals with a solution of four
parts water and one part baking soda when they become corroded.
WARNING: Shorts caused by battery terminals or metal tools touching metal tractor components can
cause sparks. Sparks can cause a battery gas explosion which will result in personal injury. Prevent
the battery terminals from touching any metal tractor parts when removing or installing the battery. Do
not allow metal tools to short between the battery terminals and metal tractor parts.
WARNING: Incorrect battery cable routing could cause damage to the tractor and battery cables.
This can cause sparks which can cause a battery gas explosion which will result in personal injury.
Always disconnect the negative (black) battery cable before disconnecting the positive (red) cable.
Always connect the positive (red) battery cable before connecting the negative (black) cable.
Common circuit failures are usually caused by shorting, corroded or dirty terminals; loose connections, defective
wire insulation or broken wires. Switches, solenoids and ignition components may also fail, causing a shorted or open
circuit.
Before attempting any failure diagnosis of the electrical system, use a test light or voltmeter to check the battery
voltage. If the battery voltage is satisfactory, check the cleanliness and tightness of the terminals and ground connec-
tions. A general understanding of electrical servicing and use of basic test equipment is necessary for troubleshooting
and repair.
Major overhaul or repair of the starting motor or charging system should be performed by trained technicians only.
FIG. 28
BATTERY
50 AMP FUSE