Operating Instructions
ENGAGING THE MOWER
1.Set the engine throttle at about 1/3 speed. Do not attempt to engage the blade clutch at high engine speeds. This will drastically short- en drive belt life. Use only moderate engine speed when engaging the blade clutch.
2.Pull the blade clutch lever SLOWLY up to en- gage the mower blades.
CAUTION
A safety interlock switch (operator presence on handle grips) will cause the engine to stop if the blade clutch is engaged and the operator presence control is not depressed. The function of this switch should be checked by the operator lifting off of the control and engaging the blade clutch; the engine should stop. If the switch is not working, it should be repaired or replaced before operating the mower. DO NOT disconnect the safety switches; they are for the operator’s pro- tection.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT engage the blade clutch when transporting the mower across drives, side- walks, loose materials, etc. DO NOT engage the blade clutch with the PTO shaft disconnected (the mower deck removed from tractor).
CAUTION
If the cutting blades strike a stationary object while mowing, stop the mower imme- diately, disconnect the spark plug wires, lift the deck, and inspect the deck and blades thoroughly for damage. Make sure that the blade timing has not been disturbed (the blades should be at 90 degrees to each other on
Blade Clutch Engaged
Blade Clutch Disengaged
STOPPING THE MACHINE
1.Slow the engine to a fast idle; put the throttle in the 1/2 throttle position.
2.Squeeze the pistol grips to the NEUTRAL posi- tion and toggle the FSC switch back to the
3.Disengage the blade clutch.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT disengage the blade clutch with high engine speed (above 1/2 throt- tle) since the brake action on the blade drive will cause premature wear of the brake band.
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