Section 4
WARNING:
Never operate the mower with the interlock system disconnected or malfunctioning. Do not disengage or bypass any switch; injury to yourself and others or property damage could result.
4.3INITIAL
1.Check all belts for proper alignment and wear after the initial 2, 4, and 8 hours of operation. The belt systems are self adjusting therefore tension adjustment is not necessary.
2.Change the engine oil and oil filter after the first 5 hours of operation. (See Section 7.4.)
3.Check hydraulic oil level in reservoir. (See Section 7.3.)
4.Check for loose hardware. Tighten as needed.
5.Check interlock system for proper operation. (See Section 4.2.)
6.Check tire pressure. Inflate tires if necessary.
4.4 STARTING THE ENGINE
CAUTION:
DO NOT USE STARTING FLUIDS. Use of starting fluids in the air intake system may be potentially explosive or cause a “runaway” engine condition that could result in engine damage and/or personal injury.
1.Be sure the fuel shutoff valve, located on top of the left fuel tank, is completely open. (See Section 7.4)
2.Sit in the operator’s seat and place the speed control in the neutral position and engage the parking brake.
3.If the engine is cold, adjust the engine choke as needed.
4.Adjust engine throttle control to about half engine speed.
5.Turn the ignition key to the START position and release the key as soon as the engine starts. Do not hold the key in the START position for more than 15 seconds at a time. Allow at least 60 seconds between each cranking attempt to prevent overheating of the starter motor. Prolonged cranking can damage the starter motor and shorten battery life.
6.Allow engine to warm before operating the mower.
4.5 GROUND TRAVEL AND STEERING
If you are not familiar with the operation of a machine with lever steering and/or hydrostatic transmissions, the steering and ground speed operations should be learned and practiced in an open area, away from buildings, fences, or obstructions. Practice until you are comfortable with the handling of the machine before attempting to mow. Learn the operation on flat ground before operating on slopes.
Start practice with a slow engine speed and slow forward travel.
Do not push the steering control levers forward when traveling forward. They are only used to steer the mower and to travel in reverse by pulling back on the levers.
Learn to operate the mower with the left hand on the steering levers and the right hand on speed control as shown in Figure
Learn to feather the steering controls to obtain a smooth operating action. Jerky movements tend to place extreme force on the drive pumps and axles, as well as damage the lawns.
Practice operating the mower until you can make it go exactly where you are aiming.
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