GASOLINE
IMPORTANT: ALWAYS use gasoline that meets the following guidelines:
•Clean, fresh gasoline.
•A minimum of 87 octane/87 AKI (91 RON). High altitude use may require a different octane. Consult your engine manual.
•Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) or up to 10% MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) is acceptable.
•Use of any gasoline other than those approved above will void the engine warranty. If the pumps are not marked for the content of alcohol or ethers, check ethanol and MTBE levels with the fuel supplier.
•Do not modify the fuel system to use different fuels.
•Never mix oil and gasoline.
NOTE: All gasoline is not the same. If the engine experiences starting or performance problems after using a new gasoline, switch to a different fuel provider or fuel brand.
IMPORTANT: Excessively oxygenated or reformulated fuels (fuels blended with alcohols or ethers) can damage the fuel system or cause performance problems. If any undesirable operating problems occur, use a gasoline with a lower percentage of alcohol or ether.
Fuel Stabilizer
Gasoline left in the fuel system for extended periods without a stabilizer will deteriorate, resulting in gum deposits in the system. These deposits can damage the carburetor and the fuel hoses, filter and tank. Prevent deposits from forming in the fuel system during storage by adding a quality fuel stabilizer to the fuel. Follow the recommended mix ratio found on the fuel stabilizer container.
EMERGENCY STOPPING
WARNING: Operating unit on slopes may lead to loss of steering control. When operating on slopes be prepared to react to an emergency situation.
1.Return steering levers to neutral position
2.Immediately set parking brake
3.Turn off PTO and engine
NOTE: The engine will run after the clutch and parking brake levers are released. ALWAYS shut off the engine with the ignition key and remove the key before leaving the operator’s position.
To stop the mower in an emergency:
1.Release the PTO clutch lever and the parking brake lever.
2.Turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position.
3.Allow all moving parts to stop before leaving operator’s position.
STARTING AND SHUT OFF
WARNING: Improper operation can lead to injury. Learn what the controls do and how they work. Thoroughly read and understand entire Operator Manual.
See Figure 6 for all Controls and Features.
NOTE: Start engine on a level surface that is free of debris.
Electric Start
1.Check each item under Before Each Use in the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE on page 17.
2.Place throttle control in the choke position. Once the engine has started, place throttle in the high speed detent.
3.Hold down the safety switch on the dash panel and turn the ignition key to the Start position.
4.Release the key and the safety switch once engine starts.
Shut Off
1.Release the PTO clutch lever, the parking brake lever, and the wheel drive controls and allow unit to stop completely.
2.Turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position.
Mowing Tips
Cut grass when it is dry. Keep mower blades sharp.
Do not set cutting height too low. For tall grass, mow twice.
Do not mow too fast.
Mow with engine at full throttle. Discharge clippings into areas already cut.
Vary cutting pattern with each mowing.
NOTE: To prevent dirt and grass from collecting on mower pan, avoid operating over bare ground with only patches of grass.
Mulching Tips
For best mulching performance, cut no more than 1 inch (2.54 cm) of grass per cutting.
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