OPERATION

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL

The engine in your tractor has been shipped, from the factory, already filled with summer weight oil.

Check engine oil with tractor on level ground.

Remove oil fi ll cap/dipstick and wipe clean, reinsert the dipstick and screw cap tight, wait for a few seconds, remove and read oil level. If necessary, add oil until “FULL” mark on dipstick is reached. Do not overfill.

For cold weather operation you should change oil for easier starting (See “OIL VISCOSITY CHART” in the Maintenance section of this manual).

To change engine oil, see the Maintenance section in this manual.

ADD GASOLINE

Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck. Do not overfill. Use fresh, clean, regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum of 87 octane. (Use of leaded gasoline will increase carbon and lead oxide deposits and reduce valve life). Do not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase fuel in quantities that can be used within 30 days to assure fuel freshness.

CAUTION: Wipe off any spilled oil or fuel. Do not store, spill or use gasoline near an open flame.

IMPORTANT: WHEN OPERATING IN TEMPERATURES BELOW32°F(0°C), USE FRESH, CLEAN WINTER GRADE GASOLINE TO HELP INSURE GOOD COLD WEATHER STARTING.

CAUTION: Alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during storage. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system of an engine while in storage. To avoid engine problems, the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer. Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty. Use fresh fuel next season. See Storage Instructions for additional information. Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur.

TO START ENGINE (See Fig. 13)

When starting the engine for the fi rst time or if the engine has run out of fuel, it will take extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine.

Be sure freewheel control is in the transmission engaged position.

Sit on seat in operating position, depress brake pedal and set parking brake.

Move attachment clutch to “DISENGAGED” position.

Move throttle control to fast position

Pull choke control out for a cold engine start attempt. For a warm engine start attempt the choke control may not be needed.

NOTE: Before starting, read the warm and cold starting procedures below.

Insert key into ignition and turn key clockwise to“START” position and release key as soon as engine starts.Do not run starter continuously for more than fi fteen seconds per minute. If the engine does not start after several attempts, push choke control in, wait a few minutes and try again. If engine still does not start, pull the choke control out and retry.

WARM WEATHER STARTING (50° F and above)

When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly.

The attachments and ground drive can now be used. If the engine does not accept the load, restart the engine and allow it to warm up for one minute using the choke as described above.

COLD WEATHER STARTING (50° F and below)

When engine starts, slowly push choke control in until the engine begins to run smoothly. Continue to push the choke control in small steps allowing the engine to accept small changes in speed and load, until the choke control is fully in. If the engine starts to run roughly, pull the choke control out slightly for a few seconds and then continue to push the control in slowly. This may require an engine warm-up period from several seconds to several minutes, depending on the temperature.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WARM UP

Before driving the unit in cold weather, the transmission should be warmed up as follows:

Be sure the tractor is on level ground.

Release the parking brake and let the brake slowly return to operating position.

Allow one minute for transmission to warm up.This can be done during the engine warm up period.

The attachments can be used during the engine warm-up period after the transmission has been warmed up and may require the choke control be pulled out slightly.

NOTE: If at a high altitude (above 3000 feet) or in cold temperatures (below 32 F) the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be adjusted for best engine performance. See “TO ADJUST CARBURETOR” in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual.

PURGE TRANSMISSION

CAUTION: Never engage or disengage freewheel lever while the engine is run-

ning.

To ensure proper operation and performance, it is recom- mended that the transmission be purged before operating tractor for the fi rst time. This procedure will remove any trapped air inside the transmission which may have de- veloped during shipping of your tractor.

IMPORTANT: SHOULD YOUR TRANSMISSION REQUIRE REMOVAL FOR SERVICE OR REPLACEMENT, IT SHOULD BE PURGED AFTER REINSTALLATION BEFORE OPERATING THE TRACTOR.

Place tractor safely on level surface with engine off and parking brake set.

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Poulan PBGT22H54 manual Before Starting the Engine, Check Engine OIL Level, ADD Gasoline, To Start Engine See Fig

PBGT22H54 specifications

The Poulan PBGT22H54 is a versatile and robust lawn tractor designed to meet the needs of homeowners looking for an efficient solution for their mowing tasks. With a powerful engine and a range of features, this model stands out in the crowded market of riding mowers.

At the heart of the PBGT22H54 is a reliable Briggs & Stratton engine that delivers ample power for mowing even the toughest grass. This 22-horsepower engine ensures a smooth operation, providing the torque necessary for effective cutting. The tractor is equipped with a hydrostatic transmission, allowing for effortless speed control. This feature enables users to operate the machine at their desired pace without the need for manual shifting, making it intuitive and user-friendly.

One of the key characteristics of the Poulan PBGT22H54 is its 54-inch cutting deck, crafted for efficiency and precision. The wide cutting path allows for fewer passes over the lawn, drastically reducing mowing time. Additionally, the deck height can be easily adjusted, enabling users to choose the optimal cutting height to suit various types of grass and desired finishes. The reinforced deck construction ensures durability, making it capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use.

The tractor also boasts a comfortable, adjustable seat designed for extended use, minimizing fatigue during longer mowing sessions. The ergonomic design of the steering wheel enhances control, making maneuverability easier around obstacles in the yard, such as trees and flower beds.

The Poulan PBGT22H54 incorporates innovative technologies, including the ability to mulch or bag clippings, providing versatility in lawn care. The optional mulching kit recycles grass clippings, returning valuable nutrients to the soil, whereas the bagging option ensures a tidy finish.

In terms of maintenance, the tractor is designed for ease of servicing. Accessing the engine and other vital components is straightforward, allowing for faster oil changes and routine inspections.

Overall, the Poulan PBGT22H54 is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a reliable, feature-rich lawn tractor. With its powerful engine, wide cutting deck, and user-friendly design, mowing becomes an efficient and enjoyable task, ensuring that your lawn receives the best care possible.