3.Depress the REVERSE PUSH BUTTON (Orange, Triangular Button) at the top, right corner of the key switch module. The red indicator light at the top, left corner of the key switch module will be ON while activated. See Fig. 4-5.

4.Once activated (indicator light ON), the tractor can be driven in reverse with the cutting blades (PTO) engaged.

5.Always look down and behind before and while backing to make sure no children are around.

6.After resuming forward motion, return the key to the NORMAL MOWING position.

IMPORTANT: The REVERSE CAUTION MODE will remain activated until:

a.The key is placed in either the NORMAL MOWING position or STOP position.

b.The operator leaves the seat (Models with Electric PTO ONLY).

c.The operator engages the parking brake by fully depressing the brake pedal and holding it down while gently pushing the parking brake button inward (Models with Manual PTO ONLY).

Engaging the Parking Brake.

To engage the parking brake:

1.Fully depress the brake pedal and hold it down with your foot while gently pushing the parking brake button inward.

2.Hold the parking brake button in while removing your foot from the brake pedal.

3.Once engaged, the parking brake button and the brake pedal will lock in the “down” position.

To disengage the parking brake:

1.Slightly depress the brake pedal.

NOTE: The parking brake must be engaged if the operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the engine will automatically shut off.

Setting the Cutting Height

1.Select the height position of the cutting deck by placing the deck lift lever in any of the six different cutting height notches on the right side of the fender.

2.Adjust the deck wheels, if equipped, so that they are between ¼-inch and ½-inch above the ground when the tractor is on a smooth, flat surface such as a driveway.

WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from the discharge opening of the cutting deck.

NOTE: On models so equipped, the deck wheels are an anti-scalp feature of the deck and are not designed to support the weight of the cutting deck.

Refer to Leveling the Deck in the Maintenance & Adjustments section of this manual for more detailed instructions regarding various deck adjustments.

Starting the Engine

WARNING: Do not operate the tractor if the interlock system is malfunctioning. This system was designed for your safety and protection.

NOTE: Refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section of this manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.

IMPORTANT: Your tractor is shipped with motor oil in the engine. However, you MUST check the oil level before operating. Be careful not to overfill. Refer to the separate Engine Operator/ Owner Manual packed with your tractor. Read instructions carefully.

1.Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.

2.Place the PTO (Blade Engage) lever (or knob) in the disengaged (OFF) position.

3.Engage the tractor’s parking brake.

4.Activate the choke control.

5.Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position. After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the ON (or Normal Mowing) position.

IMPORTANT: Do NOT hold the key in the START position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing so may cause damage to your engine’s electric starter.

6.After the engine starts, deactivate the choke control and place the throttle control in the FAST position.

NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a “rich” fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.

Stopping the Engine

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and ground against the engine. Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage. Repair the damage before restarting and operating

1.If the blades are engaged, place the PTO (Blade Engage) lever (or knob) in the disengaged (OFF) position.

2.Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the STOP position.

3.Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent unintended starting.

Driving The Tractor

WARNING: Always look down and behind before and while traveling in reverse to avoid a back-over accident. Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops.

WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the tractor without first placing the PTO (Blade Engage) knob (or lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position, depressing the brake pedal and engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the ignition key off and remove the key. Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.

Section 5 — Operation

 

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