7
Operating the Mower
Engage Disengage
Figure 4 - Traction Drive / Freewheel Control

STARTING THE ENGINE

NOTE - The procedures outlined within this section are
general guidelines, and are in no way meant to replace
or supercede engine manufacturer's operating instruc-
tions. In order to obtain optimum performance from your
engine, refer to your engine manual.

Before Starting Engine:

• Be sure that the unit is completely assembled, all fas-
teners are tightened securely, and all safety guards
and components are in place.
• Be sure to check engine's oil and gasoline*. (See
engine manual for recommended oil and gasoline
specifications.) Never check the engine while it is
running or while you are smoking. Check only when
engine is cold.
*All machines are shipped without oil or gasoline
unless otherwise noted.

To Start Engine:

Recoil Start -
• Open fuel valve, located at bottom of fuel tank by
turning knob counterclockwise.
• Set throttle control past the “START” position (fully
Right to the double lines) to engage choke.
• Turn key on dash panel to “RUN” position.
• Grasp recoil handle and pull cord briskly. (You may
have to pull several times before engine starts. If
engine fails to start within a reasonable number of
attempts, discontinue and check engine manual for
further instructions.)
NOTE: Be sure recoil cord retracts fully into recoil unit. A
slack recoil cord can cause serious personal injury
and/or damage to unit.
Electric Start - (Optional)
• Open fuel valve, located at bottom of fuel tank by
turning knob counterclockwise.
• Set throttle control past the “START” position (fully
Right to the double lines) to engage choke.
• Turn ignition key on dash panel past “RUN” position
to “START” to engage starter. (If engine fails to start
within a reasonable period of time - generally 2-3
attempts of 5-6 seconds cranking time each, discon-
tinue and check engine manual for further instruc-
tions.)

To Shut Engine Down:

• Allow engine to idle for 2-3 minutes before shutting
down.
• Set throttle control down to “SLOW” position.
• Turn key to “OFF” position.
NOTE: If you experience problems with your engine that
cannot be satisfactorily resolved by following the instruc-
tions contained within the engine manual, contact your
local engine dealer. All engine service, warranty or oth-
erwise, is required to be performed by a manufacturer-
authorized service center.

ENGAGING THE TRANSMISSION

Your Field & Brush mower is equipped with a rugged
hydrostatic transmission. The mower can be operated at
variable speeds in both forward and reverse directions.
Please read the following instructions in order to
acquaint yourself with the mowers controls for safe oper-
ation.
The traction drive system is engaged or disengaged
through the Traction Drive control lever (Figure 4), locat-
ed on the right side of the machine, when standing at the
Operator's Controls.
• Engage the traction drive by moving the control lever
to the DRIVE position. The brush mower can now be
moved using the Traction Drive Controls.