Operation

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Starting the Engine

The following steps describe how to start and stop the engine.

NOTE: Do not attempt to engage the tines, wheels, or any PTO attachment until you have read all of the operating instructions in this section.

Pre-Start Checklist

Make the following checks and perform the following services before starting the engine.

1.Read the Safe Operation Practices and Features & Controls sections in this Manual. Read the separate Engine Operator’s Manual.

2.Check the tiller for loose or missing hardware. Service as required.

3.Check the engine oil level. See Engine Operator’s Manual.

4.Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive lever into NEUTRAL position. See the Controls and Features section for more information on this lever.

5.Check the safety guards. All guards and covers must be securely in place.

6.Check the air cleaner. See the Engine Operator’s Manual.

7.Attach the spark plug wire to spark plug.

8.Check Engine Cooling System. Clear cooling fins and air intake screen of debris. See the Engine Operator’s Manual.

9.Select High/Low Belt Speed range.

10.Adjust the Handlebar Height.

11.Fill the fuel tank with gasoline in accordance with the directions in the separate Engine Operator’s Manual. Follow all instructions and safety rules carefully.

warning! Never run the engine indoors or in an enclosed, poorly ventilated are. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Avoid engine muffler and nearby areas. Temperatures in these areas may exceed 150° F.

NOTE: After the first two hours of operation, perform the maintenance procedures shown in the Maintenance Schedule in the Maintenance & Adjustments Section of this manual.

Starting the Engine

1.With the engine off, place the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive Lever in the NEUTRAL position. If in the FORWARD position, tap the lever sharply upward, it should automatically move into NEUTRAL position.

2.Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the Travel position (lever all the way down) so that the tines are off the ground. To do this, lift up on the handlebars, pull the lever back, and push it down all the way to the top detent (notched) position.

3.Move the Wheel Speed Lever to either the SLOW or FAST position. Be sure to roll the wheels while shifting the lever until the wheels engage.

NOTE: If using a PTO stationary attachment, move the Wheel Speed Lever into FREEWHEEL and block the wheels to prevent the equipment from moving. See Fig. 4-1.

BlocksBlocks

Figure 4-1

4.Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever into DISENGAGE position.

NOTE: Use the ENGAGE position if you want the tines to revolve or to apply power to a PTO-driven stationary attachment.

5.If the engine is equipped with a fuel valve, turn the valve to the OPEN position as instructed in the separate Engine Operator’s Manual.

6.If the engine is equipped with an ON/OFF switch, move the switch to ON. Move engine throttle lever away from STOP. Choke or prime the engine as instructed in the separate Engine Operator’s Manual.

7.If not equipped with an electric start system, place one hand on the fuel tank to stabilize the tiller when you pull the recoil starter rope.

8.If equipped with an electric start system, turn the key to START position to crank the engine then release when the engine starts. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the key at START for more than a few seconds. Release then try again after a short pause. Damage to the starter motor can occur if it is cranked more than 15 seconds per minute.

9.If the engine does not start after a number of tries, refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual for specific instructions.

10.When the engine starts, move the Throttle Lever to the SLOW position and then gradually move the choke lever (on engines so equipped) to OFF or RUN position.

11.Move the throttle speed control to FAST setting when tilling.

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