Operating the Walk Behind Mower
GENERAL OPERATING SAFETY
Before first time operation:
•Be sure to read all information in the Safety and Operation sections before attempting to operate this machine.
•Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop the unit.
•Drive in an open area without mowing to become accustomed to the unit.
CHECKS BEFORE STARTING
•Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick. See the engine Operator’s Manual for instructions and oil recommendations.
•Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in place and tight.
•Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel. Refer to engine manual for fuel recommendations.
•Make sure fuel shut off valve is in the ON position.
WARNING
Before leaving the operator’s position for any reason, disengage the PTO, stop the engine and remove the key.
To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine and mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease. Do not stop or park machine over dry leaves, grass or combustible materials.
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be handled with care. Never fill the tank when the engine is still hot from recent operation. Do not allow open flame, smoking or matches in the area. Avoid
WARNING
If you do not understand how a specific control functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the FEATURES & CONTROLS section, do so now.
Do NOT attempt to operate the machine without first becoming familiar with the location and function of ALL controls.
STARTING THE ENGINE
•Make sure the PTO switch is disengaged.
•Set the engine throttle control to FAST throttle posi- tion. Then fully close the choke by pulling the knob OUT fully.
NOTE: A warm engine may not require choking.
•Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to RUN.
•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.
•After the engine starts, gradually open the choke (push knob down fully).
Warm up the engine by running it for at least a minute before engaging the PTO lever/switch or driving the mower.
After warming the engine, ALWAYS operate the unit at FULL THROTTLE when mowing.
In the event of an emergency the engine can be stopped by simply turning the ignition switch to STOP. Use this method only in emergency situations. For normal engine shut down follow the procedure given in STOPPING THE MOWER.
DRIVING THE MOWER
•Make sure the PTO switch is disengaged.
•Start the engine (see STARTING THE ENGINE).
•Set the throttle control to FULL.
•Grasp the operator presence / parking brake handles and the handle bar grips at the same time to deacti- vate engine kill system and disengage the parking brake.
•With your thumbs, pressing the ground speed control levers forward will move the mower forward. Pulling them back will move the mower backwards. The far- ther the levers are pushed or pulled will result in a faster ground speed.
•To slow the mower, gently release your thumb pres- sure on the ground speed control levers.
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