Operating Instructions
5.Stop ground travel by pulling both steering le vers backward to the
NOTE: If the tractor creeps forward or back ward with the FSC lever in the
ENGAGING THE BLADE DRIVE
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.Engage the blade clutch by pulling the blade clutch lever SLOWLY up. For disengagement, push the blade clutch lever down SLOWLY.
CAUTION
An operator presence switch (seat switch) will cause the engine to stop if the blade clutch is engaged and the operator is not in the seat. The function of this switch should be checked by the operator raising off the seat and engaging the blade clutch; the engine should stop. If the switch is not work- ing, it should be repaired or replaced before operating the mower. DO NOT disconnect the safety switches; they are for the operator’s protection.
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 ob ject 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). Refer to REPLACING/REPAIRING the Blade Overload Shear Bolts in Mainte nance Instructions if blades are out of time.
Also, make sure the blade retaining nuts are torqued to 60 lb·ft (81 N·m).
Engaged
Position
Blade Clutch Engaged
36