Operation

Starting Engine

WARNING: Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower while starting engine or operating mower. Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and lawn mower.

1.Pull out the choke knob located on the left side of the upper handle. See Fig. 5-1.

NOTE: Use of the choke may not be necessary if the engine is warm or the air temperature is high.

2.Standing behind the mower, squeeze and hold the blade control against upper handle.

3.Pull the recoil starter lightly until resistance is felt, then pull rapidly to overcome compression, prevent kickback, and start the engine. Repeat if necessary. See Fig. 5-1.

NOTE: Do not allow the recoil starter to snap back against the rope guide.

4.When engine warms up, push in the choke knob.

Stopping Engine

1.Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.

WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop completely before performing any work on the mower or to remove the mulching baffle (if equipped).

Using Your Lawn Mower

Be sure lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage lawn mower or engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator and others.

WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear safety glasses while operating the mower, or while performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

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Figure 5-1

Using as Mulcher (If Equipped)

For mulching grass, install the mulching baffle as instructed in the “Assembly & Set-Up” section. For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass. If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of four inches, mulching is not recommended. Use the grass catcher (sold separately) to bag the clippings instead.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove wire from the spark plug, thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and repair damage before restarting and operating. Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an indication of damage. The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.

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