Operation
Starting the Engine
1.Move the motion control levers out to the neutral lock position.
2.Pull up and back on the parking brake lever to engage the parking brake.
3.Push down on the PTO switch to the “disengage” position.
Note: It is not necessary for the operator to be in the seat to start the engine.
4.Place the throttle midway between the “SLOW” and “FAST” positions.
5.On a cold engine, push the choke lever forward into the “ON” position.
On a warm engine, leave the choke in the “OFF” position.
6.Turn ignition switch to the “START” position. Release the switch as soon as the engine starts.
Important: Do Not crank the engine continuously for more than ten seconds at a time. If the engine does not start, allow a 60 second
7.If the choke is in the “ON” position, gradually return choke to the “OFF” position as the engine warms up.
Engaging the PTO
DANGER
The rotating blades under the mower deck are dangerous. Blade contact can cause serious injury or kill you.
Do Not put hands or feet under the mower or mower deck when the blades are engaged.
The PTO
Important: Operator must be in seat before the PTO can be engaged.
1.Set the throttle midway between the “SLOW” and “FAST” positions.
2.Pull the PTO switch outward to engage the blades.
3.Place the throttle in the “FAST” position to begin mowing.
Disengaging the PTO
1.Set the throttle midway between the “SLOW” and “FAST” positions.
2.Push the PTO switch in to disengage the blades.
Stopping the Engine
1.Bring the unit to a full stop.
2.Move the motion control levers out to the neutral lock position.
3.Engage the parking brake.
4.Place the throttle midway between the “SLOW” and “FAST” positions.
5.Disengage the PTO.
6.Allow the engine to run for a minimum of 15 seconds, then turn the ignition switch to the “OFF” position to stop the engine.
7.Remove the key to prevent children or other unauthorized persons from starting engine.
8.Close the fuel
DANGER
An uncovered discharge opening will allow objects to be thrown in an operator’s or bystander’s direction. Also, contact with the blade could occur. Thrown objects or blade contact can cause serious injury or death.
Never operate the mower with the discharge deflector raised, removed, or altered unless there is a grass collection system or mulch kit in place and working properly.
Driving the Machine
CAUTION
Machine can spin very rapidly by positioning one lever too much ahead of the other. Operator may lose control of the machine, which may cause damage to the machine or injury.
•Use caution when making turns.
•Slow the machine down before making sharp turns.
23
