STARTING AND SHUT OFF
See Figures 1, 4 and 6 for all Controls and Features.
NOTE: Start engine on a hard level surface that is free of debris.
Manual Start
1.Check each item in Before Each Use in the Maintenance Schedule.
2.For engines with a primer, push primer bulb 2 or 3 times for a cold engine.
3.For engines with a choke, place throttle control in the choke position. Once the engine has started, place throttle in the high speed detent.
4.With engine/blade control held against the handlebar, grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until it pulls harder. This is the compression stroke. Let rope rewind slowly. Then pull rope with rapid continuous full arm stroke to start engine. Allow rope to rewind slowly.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT let starter handle snap against engine.
5.Repeat until engine starts. (If engine does not start, refer to Troubleshooting.)
Electric Start
1.Check each item in Before Each Use in the Maintenance Schedule.
2.For engines with a primer, push primer bulb 2 or 3 times for a cold engine.
3.For engines with a choke, place throttle control in the choke position. Once the engine has started, place throttle in the high speed position.
4.With engine/blade control held against the handlebar, turn the key to “Start” position to crank engine and release key when engine starts.
NOTE: It is not necessary to prime or choke a warm engine.
If starter will not cycle because of grass buildup under deck, rotate blade with recoil starter to clear blockage.
Recoil may be used to start the engine (See Manual Start).
Shut Off
1.On
2.Release engine/blade control, and allow engine to cool.
CAUTION: ALWAYS remove key (electric start models) when not in use to prevent accidental starting or unauthorized use.
Mowing Tips
CAUTION: On swivel wheel models, when mowing on slopes it is recommended that the linchpin be positioned through the swivel lock hole. If wheels are in the swivel position and control handles are released the mower may “free roll” downhill. Never mow on steep slopes.
CAUTION: If clog or obstruction prevents grass flow, release Engine/ Blade Control and disconnect spark plug wire before attempting to clear away any clogs.
The following tips will help you to mow safely, achieve maximum performance from your mower and maintain the appearance of your lawn.
When bagging, be sure to release Engine/ Blade Control to stop engine and blade before attempting to remove and empty grass bag. Empty bag before it becomes overloaded and clogs mower.
Restarting engine will be easier if mower is allowed to completely discharge clippings before stopping engine.
NOTE: Be sure to empty grass bag and clean mower pan after each use. DO NOT allow grass clumps or a coating of grass and debris to collect inside of grass bag or mower pan.
NOTE: Avoid operating over bare ground with only patches of grass. This causes dirt and grass to collect under pan surface and in grass bag.
Prevent debris buildup and allow proper air circulation. Remove grass bag from mower, wash bag with hose and allow to dry.
Mulching Tips
For best mulching performance, set mower height to 3 inches. If grass is very tall, do not cut more than 1 inch of grass per cutting.
Cut grass only when dry, not when it is wet from dew, rain, or watering. Wet grass tends to pack inside the mower pan. If cut grass does not disperse evenly, it is probably because too much grass is being removed per cutting, the grass is too wet, or the travel speed is too fast.
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