c.Examine the belts for cuts, fraying, and excessive wear. Replace if any of these are detected.

d.Replace the deck cover.

8.Check if deck is level. When correctly adjusted the mower deck should be level side to side, and the front of the deck should be approximately 1⁄4” lower than the rear of deck.

If deck needs to be leveled, refer to the Maintenance & Adjustments section.

9.Lubricate all pivot points listed in the Maintenance & Adjustments section.

10.Adjust the seat for operator’s maximum comfort, visibility and for maintaining complete control of the tractor. Refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section for instructions on adjusting the seat.

Safety Interlock System

This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system for the protection of the operator. If the interlock system should ever malfunction, do not operate the tractor. Contact your authorized Cub Cadet Dealer.

•The safety interlock system prevents the engine from cranking or starting unless the speed control pedals are in the neutral position, the parking brake is engaged, and the

PTO is disengaged.

•To avoid sudden movement when disengaging the parking brake, the safety interlock system will shut off the engine if the speed control pedals are moved to a position other than the neutral position when the parking brake is engaged.

•The safety interlock system will shut off the engine if the operator leaves the seat before engaging the parking brake.

•The safety interlock system will shut off the engine if the operator leaves the seat with the PTO engaged, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.

NOTE: The PTO switch must be moved to the “OFF” position to restart the engine.

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.Open the fuel shutoff valve by selecting the left or right tank position.

2.Sit on the Seat. Set the parking brake.

3.Make sure the speed control pedals are in the neutral position.

4.Turn the PTO switch “OFF”.

5.Push the throttle control to a position a third of the way between slow and fast.

6.Insert the key in the ignition and start switch, turn the switch to “RUN”, and wait for the glo-plug light to go out.

7.Turn the ignition key in a clockwise direction to the “START” position until the engine starts.

NOTE: Do not hold the key in the “START” position for more than 10 seconds or you may damage the starter. If the engine does not start in this time, wait about 30 seconds and try again.

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 fuel. Do not use fuel 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.

18Section 5— Operation