7.The Reverse Caution Mode will remain activated until:

a.The key is placed in either the Normal Mowing position or STOP position.

b.The operator leaves the seat. Follow the previous instructions to re-activate.

Starting the Engine

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

Driving The Tractor

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

1.Briefly depress the brake pedal to release the parking brake. Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.

2.To travel forward, slowly depress the forward drive control pedal until the desired speed is achieved. See Fig. 5-2.

NOTE: Refer to the engine Owner’s Manual for gasoline and oil fill-up instructions.

1.Insert the tractor key into the key switch module.

2.Disengage the PTO (Blade Engage) lever/knob.

3.Engage the tractor’s parking brake.

4.Pull the choke control knob outward into the full choke position (a warm engine may not require choking).

5.Move the throttle control lever to midway between the slow and fast positions.

6.Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position.

After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the

Normal Mowing position.

Caution: 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.

7.After the engine starts, gradually push the choke knob fully inward as the engine warms up.

NOTE: Do not use the choke control to enrich the fuel mixture, except as necessary to start and warm up the engine.

Stopping the Engine

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

1.If the blades are engaged, disengage the PTO.

2.Move the throttle control lever to midway between the half and full throttle. Then turn the ignition key counter- clockwise to the OFF position.

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

Brake Pedal

Forward Drive Pedal

Reverse Drive Pedal

Figure 5-2

3.To travel in reverse, check that the area behind is clear, then slowly depress the reverse drive control pedal until the desired speed is achieved. See Fig. 5-2.

4.Release the depressed drive pedal and depress the brake pedal to stop the tractor.

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

Steering the Tractor

Your i1000 series tractor is equipped with an innovative steering system. Turning the steering wheel not only turns the front wheels, but also adjusts the position of the drive control linkage of the two hydro transmissions that drive the tractor. This steering system allows you to vary the radius of turns from a normal wide U-turn down to a zero turn. Some practice may be needed to become accustomed to the steering of your tractor. The steering works as follows:

•The steering wheel turns approximately two turns stop to stop. With the center position being the straight ahead position.

•Minor turns of the steering wheel from the center position (approximately 10º to 15º) turn only the front axles and will result in wider turns.

Section 5 — Operation

 

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