Dixon ZTR 503, Operator'S Manual

Page 12 

OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS

The safe and successful operation of the Model 503 will depend upon the operator having 

the correct knowledge of all controls used on the mower and making good judgments about the 

terrain to be mowed. Never allow anyone to operate the mower without complete knowledge of 

all controls and their functions.

Sound judgment by the owner will prevent accidents.

Controls and their functions.  All controls described from operators position.

PARKING BRAKE:

The parking brake used on the Model 503 is designed to hold the mower from moving 

and is not intended for use in stopping the mower while it is in motion. An 

additional safety feature of the parking brake is that the engine cannot be started 

unless the brake is applied.

THE HYDROSTATIC DRIVE SYSTEM:

Allows the mower to turn on its own axis (zero radius). Each lever controls one 

side of the mower. The pressure required to operate the mower is very light and 

a minimum of 1/2 hour should be spent simply driving the mower in a non-mowing 

application to gain the confidence necessary to mow like a pro.

LEVER MOVEMENTS:

No shifting or clutching required.

TO GO FORWARD:

Release parking brake. From neutral position, gently push both drive levers 

forward; to increase speed, move levers farther forward.

TO GO BACKWARD:

From neutral position, gently pull both drive levers toward you.

TURNING:

Turning is controlled by moving one drive lever slightly forward or rearward of the 

other. To turn left, move left lever rearward of right lever. To turn "square 

corners" move lever of desired direction to neutral. To turn on mower's own axis 

(zero radius) reduce speed and move one lever to reverse position and the other to 

forward position.

BRAKING:

To brake mower, move both levers in direction opposite of travel, release 

levers to neutral, set parking brake. When stopping on incline, it may be 

necessary to hold slight pressure on levers in direction opposite of slope 

until parking brake is set.

GROUND SPEED:

Ground speed (controlled by movement of hand levers) must be carefully 

controlled for safety and best mowing results. Never operate at high speed in 

unfamiliar areas or on slopes.

CHOKE CONTROL LEVER:

"Used to start a cold engine. (Engine has not been operated for a length of time. 

Located on control panel to operators right.