Starting the Engine

WARNING! This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system designed for the protection of the operator. Do not operate the tractor if any part of the interlock system is malfunctioning. Periodically check the functions of the interlock system for proper operation.

WARNING! For personal safety, the operator must be sitting in the tractor seat when starting the engine.

1.Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat with the control levers fully outward in neutral (parking brake on).

2.Make certain the PTO switch is in the disengaged (down) position. Refer to Fig. 5-1.

LH Control Lever

RH Control Lever

Out in Neutral

Out in Neutral

Throttle Control to the “Mid” Position

PTO Switch in Down

(Disengaged) Position

Ignition Switch

Pull Choke up to

Full Choke

Figure 5-1

3.Move the choke control or throttle/choke control into the full choke position. Refer to Fig. 5-1.

NOTE: If the engine is warmed up, it may not be necessary to place the choke or throttle/choke control in the choke position.

4.Move the throttle control to midway between its slowand fastpositions on models with a separate choke control.

5.Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn the key

clockwise to the start position and release it as soon as the engine starts; however, do not crank the engine continuously for more than 5 seconds at a time. If the engine does not start within this time, turn the key to the stop position and wait at least 15 seconds to allow the engine’s starter motor to cool. Try again after waiting. If after a few attempts the engine fails to start, do not keep trying to start it with the choke closed as this will cause flooding and make starting more difficult.

6.As the engine warms up, gradually pull the throttle/choke control lever rearward past the choke detent position or slowly disengage the choke on models with a separate choke. Do not use the choke position to enrich the fuel mixture, except as necessary to start the engine.

7.Allow the engine to run for a few minutes at mid-throttle before putting the engine under load.

8.Observe the hour meter/indicator panel. If the battery indicator light or oil pressure light come on, immediately stop the engine. Have the tractor inspected by your Cub Cadet dealer.

Cold Weather Starting

When starting the engine at temperatures near or below freezing, ensure the correct viscosity motor oil is used in the engine and the battery is fully charged. Start the engine as follows:

1.Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm battery has much more starting capacity than a cold battery.

2.Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade gasoline has higher volatility to improve starting. Do not use gasoline left over from summer.

3.Follow the previous instruction for Starting the Engine.

Using Jumper Cables To Start 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 charge is not sufficient to crank the engine, recharge the battery. If a battery charger is unavailable and the tractor must be started, the aid of a booster battery will be necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows:

1.Connect the end of one cable to the disabled tractor battery’s positive terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the booster battery’s positive terminal.

2.Connect one end of the other cable to the booster battery’s negative terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the frame of the disabled tractor, as far from the battery as possible.

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

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

Stopping the Engine

1.Disengage the PTO.

2.Move the RH and LH drive control levers fully outward in the neutral position.

3.Move the throttle control to midway between the slow and fastpositions.

4.

Turn the ignition key to the stop 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.

16Section 5— Operation