Section 4: Operation
Preparation For Starting
Make the following checks and adjustments before starting the engine.
1.Check Engine Oil Level.
2.Check the Air Cleaner. It must be securely assembled and clean.
3.Check Safety Guards. All guards and covers must be securely in place.
4.Attach Spark Plug Wire.
5.Check Engine Cooling System. Cool- ing fins and air intake must be clean.
6.Adjust Handlebar Height.
7.Test Operational Interlock System. Perform this test in both front tine cultiva- tor mode and in rear tine tiller mode. Refer to Pg. 13 for full instructions.
8.Select Rear Tine Tiller Mode or Front Tine Tiller/Cultivator Mode. If you select rear tine tiller mode, check to see that the wheels do not “Freewheel.” Roll the tiller forward several inches to verify that the wheels are fully engaged. If you select front tine tiller/cultivator mode, check to see that the wheels do “Freewheel.” See Pg. 14 for instructions.
8.Add Gasoline to Fuel Tank. Use fresh, clean unleaded automotive gasoline. Either regular or premium grades are acceptable. DO NOT MIX OIL WITH GAS- OLINE. See the separate Engine Operator’s Manual for all fuel recommendations.
NOTE: Do not use fuel containing methanol (wood alcohol). Fuel containing up to 10% ethanol or “Gasohol” may be used but requires special care when the engine is not used for extended periods. Use clean fuel and store in an approved,
Fig.
WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and its vapors are explosive. Follow these safety practices to help prevent injury from fire or explosion:
•Never fill tank if engine is running or hot from use. Let engine and muffler cool down before refueling.
•Do not permit open flames, sparks, matches or any smoking materials in the refueling area.
•Fill fuel tank outdoors in a
•Use only an approved fuel container and lock it safely away from children.
•Store fuel and the equipment in a
•Let engine cool down before storing equipment.
covered container. Use a clean fill funnel. Never use “stale” gasoline left over from last season or if stored for long periods.
To Add Gasoline:
1.Clean the fuel cap area before removing the fuel cap.
2.Using a clean funnel, fill tank to within 1/2" of the top to prevent spills and to allow for fuel expansion. Replace the fuel cap securely before starting the engine.
IMPORTANT: TO AVOID DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE RECOIL COVER, CONTROL CABLE AND THE INTERLOCK SYSTEM, NEVER SWIVEL HANDLEBAR ON FUEL TANK SIDE OF ENGINE.
Break-In Operation
During the first few hours of new operation, the following maintenance steps are required. For detailed informa-
tion on these procedures, refer to Section 5— “Maintenance.”
1.Change Engine Oil. Change oil after the first two (2) hours of new operation. Thereafter, every fifty (50) operating hours.
2.Check Drive Belt Tension. Due to the new belt “seating in,” a tension adjustment may be needed after the first
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