The speed control bar also aids the drive handles in making “perfect
then grasp it again to continue straight ahead or release the right drive handle to turn right. Refer also to the Quick Reference Chart located in the OPERATION Section.
SECTION 4: OPERATING YOUR Z-SERIES
WARNING: Read, understand, and follow all instructions and warnings on the machine and in this manual before operating.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your mower. Read instructions carefully.
IMPORTANT: Your unit is shipped with oil; however, you MUST check the oil level before operating. Be careful not to overfill. Overfilling with oil may cause the engine to smoke. This will result in poor engine performance and could cause permanent engine damage.
WARNING: Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel machine indoors or while the engine is hot or running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition.
Operating Guidelines
•Study this manual carefully for it has been provided to help you safely operate and maintain this unit and familiarize yourself with all instruments and controls.
•NO RIDERS! Keep children and pets away from unit during operation.
•Always look down and behind before and while backing up.
•Keep safety devices (guards, shields, and switches) in place and working.
•Use the SLOPE GAUGE to determine safe operating areas. Go up and down slopes, not across.
•Before leaving operator’s position, disengage the PTO (down), engage the parking brake and turn ignition switch to OFF.
IMPORTANT: We do not recommend the use of a pressure washer or garden hose to clean your unit. They may cause damage to electric components, spindles, pulleys, bearings, or the engine.
Stopping The Z-Series
•Bring the
•Disengage the PTO (down).
•Push down on the brake pedal and hold.
•Push down on the parking brake to lock engagement.
•Turn the ignition to the OFF position.
•Remove the key.
WARNING: Always remove the key from the ignition switch to avoid accidental starting.
Safety interlock Switches
•The engine will not crank or start without the brake pedal fully engaged and the PTO disengaged (down).
•If the operator leaves the unit with the PTO in the Run position or the parking brake disengaged, it automatically shuts the engine off.
Starting Engine
•Insert the key into the ignition switch.
•Move the choke lever to the full choke position (all the way toward the front of the unit).
•Move the throttle lever to the FAST (Rabbit) position (all the way toward the front of the unit).
NOTE: Less choking may be required due to engine temperature variance. If the engine is warm, choking may not be necessary.
•Push the PTO (power
•Fully depress the brake pedal.
•Turn the ignition switch to the START position and release it as soon as the engine starts. It will return to the ON position.
•Move the choke lever to the OFF position (rearward).
NOTE: If starting problems are encountered, refer to the TROUBLESHOOTING section.
Driving the Z-Series
•Set the throttle to the fastest position (rabbit).
•Release the parking brake by depressing the parking brake pedal.
•Gradually move the drive handles in the desired direction, referring to the Quick Reference Chart.
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