Operating Instructions
IMPORTANT: Make sure the choke is in the OFF position during normal engine operation; running with the choke in the ON position CAN damage the engine.
Forward Speed Control (FSC)
The Forward Speed Control (FSC) is a rocker switch located adjacent to the RH thumb position near the RH pistol grip.
This rocker switch controls an electric actuator that has two functions: One is to set forward travel speed, and the other is to establish the NEUTRAL- PARK position. When the FSC switch is moved into the FORWARD position, it sets the forward speed from 0 to 5 mph (0 to 8 km/h). The ground speed is proportional to how long the rocker switch is held for- ward; the longer the switch is held forward, the faster the tractor moves. It is not necessary to hold the FSC switch in position since the electric actuator maintains the selected position. Squeezing the pistol grips/steering control levers overrides the FSC setting and slows or stops forward travel. Releasing the pistol grips/steering control levers allows the tractor to resume forward travel at the speed set by the FSC switch. To stop and park the machine, the FSC switch is depressed backward until the NEUTRAL
Pistol Grips/Steering Control Levers
Each drive wheel is controlled by its own independent pistol grip (located below the operators han- dles), for both steering function and FORWARD/ REVERSE motion. The FSC switch sets the maximum forward speed, and also sets the forward position of the pistol grips. The pistol grips operate only with a squeezing movement of the grip, which causes the drive wheel for that lever to first slow down, stop, and then reverse with a full backward lever stroke. The grips are released to the FORWARD position for
Blade Clutch (PTO)
The blade clutch lever has two positions. Pulling the lever BACK engages the PTO that drives the mower blades. Pushing the lever FORWARD disengages the PTO and engages the blade brake.
Parking Brake
The parking brake functions by locking a detent arm into the transaxle outer control gear teeth. Moving the lever FORWARD engages the parking brake; moving the lever BACKWARD releases the brake.
IMPORTANT: Stop the tractor completely before engaging the parking brake. The parking brake uses a positive mechanical lock similar to the PARK position on an automotive automatic transmission. If the tractor is moving when the brake is engaged, it will result in sudden stoppage and possible internal damage to the transaxle.
NOTE: If pressure on the parking brake lever is noticed when engaging the brake, move the mower gently forward or backward to allow the brake detent to set into the teeth.
Engine Cover Latch
The engine cover hinges forward for maintenance access and is latched down in the OPERATING po- sition. To raise the body, unhook the rubber latch located between the fuel tank and engine.
Transaxle Lockout Rods
The transaxle lockout rods disengage the transax- les. By pulling the rods toward the rear of the mower and locking them into place with the shoulder on the rod in the body, the transaxles are released to permit freewheeling. By releasing the rods and pushing it back into the body, the transaxles are engaged for normal operation. The transaxle rods in the LOCKOUT position are used to enable moving the machine without the engine running (e.g., for service). Refer to TRANSAXLE LOCKOUT in this section for operating instructions.
NOTE: The transaxle lockout rods ends should be completely retracted against the body, otherwise operation of the transaxle may be erratic.
Hourmeter
The hourmeter displays operating time accumulated while the ignition switch is in the ON position with the engine running. It also gives service indications for oil changes and lubrication.
Circuit Breaker
A manual reset circuit breaker is located on the operator panel. It has a button that pops out if the circuit breaker trips. The circuit breaker protects the safety switches.
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