MTD 7304 Starting the Engine, Cold Weather Starting, Using Jumper Cables to Start the Engine

STARTING THE ENGINE

WARNING: Always sit in the operator’s seat when starting the tractor, Never attempt to start the engine while standing beside the tractor.

WARNING: Never use starting fluids, such as ether, as a starting aid. Severe engine damage or fire could result.

•Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat.

•Move the throttle handle to approximately the “SLOW” throttle position. Refer to Figure 14.

•Make sure the PTO switch is in the “OFF” position. Note: The PTO light on instrument panel will flash if switch is in ON position.

THROTTLE
HANDLE	SLOW

FAST

PTO SWITCH

IN ‘OFF’

POSITION

Figure 14

•Either fully depress and hold the brake pedal or engage the parking brake. Note: The parking brake indicator on instrument panel will flash if pedal is not depressed.

•Turn the ignition key clockwise to the "RUN- PREHEAT" position, and observe the glow plug indicator light on the instrument panel. Wait until the glow plug indicator light turns off before cranking the engine.

NOTE: Preheating may not be necessary if the engine has been running and is warm.

•Turn the ignition key to the “START” position and release it as soon as the engine starts; however, do not crank the engine continuously for more than 15 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start within this time, turn the key to “OFF” and wait at least one minute to allow the engine’s starter motor to cool. Try again after waiting.

•After the engine has started, allow the engine to run for approximately three minutes (longer if very cold) at low throttle before putting the engine under load.

•Observe the instrument panel. If the battery indicator light, oil pressure light, or coolant

temperature light comes on, immediately stop the engine. Have the tractor inspected by your Cub Cadet dealer.

COLD WEATHER STARTING

Move the throttle handle to approximately the “FAST” throttle position, then follow the remaining normal engine starting instructions above.

NOTE: An optional engine coolant heater is available from your Cub Cadet dealer. This heater will aid in starting the tractor when ambient temperatures fall below 10°F (-12°C).

USING JUMPER CABLES TO START THE 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 loses power and is unable to adequately crank the engine to start it, the aid of a booster battery may be necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows:

•Connect the ends of one jumper cable to the positive terminals of both the disabled tractor battery and the booster battery.

•Connect one end of the other cable to the booster battery’s negative terminal.

•Connect the other end of that cable to the engine block or frame of the disabled tractor, as far from the battery as possible.

•Start the disabled tractor following the normal starting instructions previously provided; then disconnect the jumper cables in the exact reverse order of connection.

•Have the tractor’s electrical system checked and repaired as soon as possible to eliminate the need for jump starting.

STOPPING THE ENGINE

•Place the PTO switch in the “OFF” position.

•Place the throttle control lever in the “SLOW” position and allow the engine to idle for at least one minute.

IMPORTANT: Failure to follow the previous step may cause the turbocharger to malfunction.

•Turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position and remove the key from the ignition switch.

NOTE: Always remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent accidental starting or battery discharge if the equipment is left unattended.

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