Operating the Mower

Controls

Operate all control levers several times and ensure that the cables move freely. Check that the engine stop and ground drive clutch levers return freely to their rest position when released. (Refer fig.7)

IMPORTANT: To avoid damage to the cable the Variable speed Control should only be operated whilst the engine is running.

Starting (490 only)

Stand behind the mower and hold the handlebar together with the engine stop lever with your left hand. With your right hand hold the engine start - grip and pull slowly until resistance is felt, release, then pull rapidly to crank the engine. Carefully return the start grip to the storage position when the engine starts. (Refer fig.8)

If the engine does not start after 3 attempts - Refer to “Trouble Shooting”.

The engine stop lever must be held firmly against the handlebar to start and keep the engine running. If the engine stop lever is released the engine will stop.

To prevent damage never pull the engine start grip when the engine is running.

Electric Start (Code 491 only)

Stand behind the mower and hold the handlebar together with the engine stop lever. Turn the ignition key in a clockwise direction and hold in position to crank the en- gine. When the engine starts release the key. (Refer fig.9) Note: Cranking the engine for more than 15 seconds in any one minute can damage the starter motor.

If necessary the engine can be started manually with- out using the ignition switch. To prevent engine dam- age do not operate the ignition key when the engine is running.

Forward Travel

Hold the handlebar and operate the ground drive clutch lever to power the mower in a forward direction. (Refer fig.10)

When the ground drive clutch lever is disengaged the mower may be pushed. This feature is useful when mow- ing in confined areas.

Ground speed may be adjusted by operating the variable speed control. Push forward to slow down and pull back to speed up.

Only operate the lever with the engine running to prevent damage.

If the engine stop lever is released the engine will stop.

Reverse Travel

Release the ground drive clutch lever. Hold and pull against the handlebar with both hands to reverse the mower.

Turning

To make a wide turn steer the mower with the handlebar in the direction required.

To make a tight turn release the ground drive clutch lever, apply downward pressure on the handlebar to raise the front wheels just above ground level and steer in the required direction.

To prevent accidents do not raise the front of the mower excessively when making a turn. Never raise the rear of the mower when the engine is running.

Stopping

Release the ground drive clutch lever and release the engine stop lever.

Emergency stop: Release both ground drive clutch lever and engine stop lever together. If the engine fails to stop, disconnect the spark plug lead. (Refer fig.11)

Fig. 7	Fig. 8	Fig. 9	Fig. 10	Fig. 11