Snapper SPE361 Operating Instructions, Before Operating, Stopping Machine, Pre-Start Check List

SECTION 3 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

3.1 BEFORE OPERATING

Be Thoroughly familiar with all controls and how to use them before operating the machine. Know beforehand how to STOP the Traction Wheel Drives, Mower Blades and Engine in preparation for possible emergencies.

3.2 STOPPING MACHINE

1.To STOP forward or reverse motion, firmly squeeze both Traction Levers towards the handle and hold. Using your right thumb, push Traction Lock forward to the “Locked” position and hold. See Figure 3.1.

2.Make sure that the Traction Lock has fully engaged both the right and left Traction Levers.

3.Release Traction Levers slowly and with caution. Remove thumb from Traction Lock.

4.Move Transmission Shift Lever to “Neutral”.

5.Move Blade Clutch Switch down to the OFF position. See Figure 3.1.

6.Move Engine Speed Control Lever to SLOW (turtle) position. See Figure 3.1.

7.STOP ENGINE by turning Key Switch to “Stop” position. Remove key. See Figure 3.1.

ENGINE

3.3 PRE-START CHECK LIST

Make the following checks and perform the services as required before each start-up:

1.	If required, make cutting height adjustments. Refer
	to Section “CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT”..
2.	Check tires and adjust inflation pressure as needed.
	Inflate front tires to 25 psi and rear tires to 12-15 psi.
3.	Check Guards, Deflector, and Belt Covers to make
	sure all are in place and secure.
4.	Check Condition of Cutter Deck	Belt(s). If dam-
	aged, replace with original part. Refer to Section
	“CUTTER DECK BELT REMOVAL”.
5.	Inspect condition of cutter blades. If worn or
	damaged, replace before operating machine. Refer
	to Section “Cutter Blade Service”.
6.	Clean Interior and Exterior Surfaces of cutting deck
	and clean Engine of any accumulation of dirt, grass,
	oil, etc. Keep Engine air intake screens and cooling
	fins clear at all times.
7.	Check Engine Oil and add oil as needed to bring
	level up to (but not over) the FULL mark. (Refer to
	Engine manual for oil specifications).
8.	Add Fuel to tank after pushing the Mower outside
	where fumes can be dissipated.	Make sure Fuel

SPEED

RIGHT HAND TRACTION

Tank Cap is tightened after refueling. (Refer to

CONTROL

BLADE CLUTCH

SWITCH

SHOWN IN OFF

POSITION

LEVER

Engine manual for fuel specifications).

NOTE: DO NOT add fuel while engine is running or hot. Use fresh, clean, lead-free gasoline. DO NOT use gasoline that has been stored for long periods. Leaded gasoline or gasohol is NOT recommended.

3.4 STARTING & OPERATING

3.4.1. ENGINE: START ENGINE AS FOLLOWS:

1.Turn Fuel Shut-Off Valve to the OPEN position. See Figure 3.2.

2.Pull both Traction Levers firmly rearward towards the handle. Using the Traction Lock Lever, lock both Traction Levers in the Traction “Locked” position. Make sure that the Traction Lock has fully engaged both Traction Levers. See Figure 3.2.

TRACTION LOCK	KEY SWITCH
	SHOWN IN
SHOWN IN TRACTION
	STOP POSITION
LOCKED POSITION

FIGURE 3.1

WARNING

When the Operator’s Presence Control (OPC) is released, the machine will continue to operate a few feet. DO NOT use this Operator’s Presence Control (OPC) to routinely stop the machine.

3. Place Transmission Shift Lever in NEUTRAL (N) position. See Figure 3.3

4.Move Blade Clutch Switch down to the OFF position. See Figure 3.1.

5.Move Engine Speed Control Lever to the CHOKE position. See Figure 3.4.

6.Turn Key Switch to RUN position.

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