Blade Control Handle
WARNING: This control mechanism is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operations.
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle of the mower.The blade control handle must be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the blade control handle to stop the engine and the blade.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle and is used to start the engine.
Grass Catcher
The grass catcher, located at the rear of the mower, is used to bag the grass clippings for disposal at another site. Once the bag is full, it has to be removed from the mower and emptied before any further mowing.
Mulching Plug
Both the mulching baffle and the mulching plug are used only for mulching purposes. Instead of collecting the grass clippings in a grass catcher, some mower models have the option of recirculating the clippings back to the lawn. This is called mulching.
Throttle Control
Your unit is equipped with one of three throttle controls described below. Follow instructions which pertain to your unit.
1.The throttle control is located on the left side of the upper handle. It is used to regulate the engine speed.
2.The throttle control is located on the engine. It is used to regulate the engine speed.
3.Your engine is equipped with a constant speed throttle, which is set at full throttle for best performance.
WARNING: The throttle control cannot be used to stop the engine. If the throttle control is located on the engine, do not adjust it with the engine running.
Cutting Height Adjustment Lever
This lever, located at each wheel, lets you adjust cutting height of the grass. Remember to put all four levers at the same height to avoid uneven cut.
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting deck. The blade will be rotating whenever the engine is running.
NOTE: For shipping purposes your mower is set with the wheels in a low cutting height position. For best results, raise the cutting position until it is determined which height is best for your lawn. Refer to instructions for cutting height adjustment on page 12.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your mower. Follow instructions carefully.
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors, with engine running or until the engine has been allowed to cool for at least two minutes after running.
Before Starting
•Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit is equipped with a rubber boot over the spark plug wire, ensure that the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.
To Start Engine and Engage Blade
•Move throttle control lever (if equipped) to the fast (rabbit) position.
•If engine is equipped with a primer, prime engine as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your unit.
•Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control handle and hold it against the upper handle.
•Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope rewind slowly.
•Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. Keep a firm grip on starter handle. Return it slowly to the rope guide.
NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to the Trouble Shooting Guide.
To Stop Engine and Blade
•Release the blade control handle to stop the engine and blade.
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after engine is shut off.
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