Shoulder Screws Flat Washer

Bell Washer

Lock nut

Figure 7

NOTE: The crowned (rounded) surface of the front bell washers should be against the shoulder screw, between the front ball wheel and deck gauge wheel bracket. The cupped surface of the bell washer should be against the deck.

•If the gauge wheels have excessive clearance with the surface below, lower the wheels to the index hole that provides the approximate 1/2" clearance as described above.

Refer to Leveling the Deck on page 17 of this manual for more detailed instructions regarding various deck adjustments.

Starting the Engine

WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the interlock system is malfunctioning. This system was designed for your safety and protection.

NOTE: Refer to the TRACTOR SET-UPon page 8 of this manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.

•Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.

•Place the PTO knob in the disengaged (OFF) position.

•Engage the tractor’s parking brake.

•Place the throttle control in the FAST position

•Pull the choke control outward.

•Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position. After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the ON position.

IMPORTANT: Do NOT hold the key in the START position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing so may cause damage to your engine’s electric starter.

•After the engine starts, deactivate the choke control.

NOTE: Upon starting the engine, a metallic ticking may occur. This is caused by the hydraulic lifter leakdown during storage. Run the engine for five minutes. The noise will normally cease in the first minute. If noise continues, run the engine at mid-throttle for twenty minutes. If noise persists, have the engine serviced by your Cub Cadet dealer.

NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.

Stopping the Engine

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair the damage before restarting and operating

•If the blades are engaged, place the PTO knob in the disengaged (OFF) position.

•Place the throttle control near the FAST position

•Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the STOP position.

•Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent unintended starting.

Engaging the Parking Brake

To engage the parking brake:

•Fully depress the brake pedal and hold it there while gently pushing the parking brake lever downward.

•Hold the parking brake lever down while removing your foot from the brake pedal.

•Once engaged, the parking brake lever and the brake pedal will lock in the “down” position.

To disengage the parking brake:

•Slightly depress the brake pedal.

NOTE: The parking brake must be engaged if the operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine will automatically shut off.

Driving The Tractor

WARNING: Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops.

WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the tractor without first placing the PTO knob in the disengaged (OFF) position, depressing the brake pedal and engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the ignition key off and remove the key.

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