•The safety interlock system will shut off the engine if the operator leaves the seat before engaging the parking brake.
•The safety interlock system will shut off the engine if the operator leaves the seat with the PTO engaged, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.
NOTE: The PTO switch must be moved to the “OFF” position to restart the engine.
•The safety interlock system will shut off the PTO and the mower blades will stop if both drive control levers are moved into the reverse position. The PTO will re- engage when one or both of the levers are moved back to the neutral or forward position.
Starting the Engine
warning!: This unit is equipped with a safety interlock system designed for the protection of the operator. Do not operate the tractor if any part of the interlock system is malfunctioning. Periodically check the functions of the interlock system for proper operation.
warning!: For personal safety, the operator must be sitting in the tractor seat when starting the engine.
•Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat.
•Engage the parking brake. Refer to Figure
•Make certain the PTO switch is in the disengaged (down) position. Refer to Figure
•Pull the choke control knob upward to the full choke position. NOTE: If the engine is warmed up, it may not be necessary to choke the engine.
•Move the throttle control to midway between its SLOW and FAST positions.
LH Control Lever | Parking Brake | RH Control Lever |
Out in Neutral | Engaged | Out in Neutral |
Pull Choke Up 
to Full Choke
Throttle Control | PTO Switch in Down |
to `Mid’ Position | (Disengaged) Position |
| Figure |
•Turn the ignition key clockwise to the “START” position and release it as soon as the engine starts; however, do not crank the engine continuously for more than 5 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start within this time, turn the key to “OFF” and wait at least 15 seconds to allow the engine’s starter motor to cool. Try again after waiting. If after a few attempts the engine fails to start, do not keep trying to start it with the choke closed as this will cause flooding and make starting more difficult.
•As the engine warms up, gradually push the choke knob downward to open the choke. Do not use the choke to enrich the fuel mixture, except as necessary to start the engine.
•Allow the engine to run for a few minutes at mid throttle before putting the engine under load.
•Observe the hour meter / indicator panel. If the battery indicator light or oil pressure light come on, immediately stop the engine. Have the tractor inspected by your
Cold Weather Starting
When starting the engine at temperatures near or below freezing, ensure the correct viscosity motor oil is used in the engine and the battery is fully charged. Start the engine as follows:
•Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm battery has much more starting capacity than a cold battery.
•Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade gasoline has higher volatility to improve starting. Do not use gasoline left over from summer.
•Follow the previous instruction for STARTING THE ENGINE.
Using Jumper Cables To Start Engine
warning!: Batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce explosive gasses. Make certain the area is well ventilated, wear gloves and eye protection, and avoid sparks or flames near the battery.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the engine, recharge the battery. If a battery charger is unavailable and the tractor must be started, the aid of a booster battery will be necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows:
•Connect the end of one cable to the disabled tractor battery’s positive terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the booster battery’s positive terminal.
•Connect one end of the other cable to the booster battery’s negative terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the frame of the disabled tractor, as far from the battery as possible.
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Section 5— Operation