OPERATION
17
F–040700C
HOW TO OPERATE WITH THE MOWER HOUSING
WARNING: The deflector is a safety device. Do not re-
move the deflector. The deflector forces the dis-
charged material toward the ground. Always keep the
deflector in the down position. If the deflector is dam-
aged, replace the deflector with an original equipment
part from an authorized service center.
1. Start the engine.
2. Move the lift lever to a height of cut position.
IMPORTANT: In high or thick grass, cut the grass in the
highest position first and then lower the mower housing to
a lower position.
3. Move the throttle control to the SLOW position.
4. Move the blade rotation control to the ENGAGE position.
5. Push the clutch/brake pedal completely forward.
6. Move the shift lever to one of the speed settings.
NOTE: When you mow in heavy grass or mow with a
bagger, put the shift lever in the slowest speed.
7. Slowly release the clutch/brake pedal.
8. Move the throttle control to the FAST position. If you need to go
faster or slower, stop the unit and move the shift lever to another
speed setting.
9. Make sure the level of cut is still correct. After you mow a short
distance, look at the area that was cut. If the mower housing
does not cut level, see the instructions on “How To Level The
Mower Housing” in the Maintenance section.
WARNING: For better control of the unit, always
select a safe speed.
HOW TO OPERATE THE UNIT ON HILLS
WARNING: Do not ride up or down slopes that are too
steep to back straight up. Never ride the unit across
a slope. See the “Slope Guide” in the back of this
book for information on how to check slopes.
1. Before you ride up or down a hill, move the shift lever to the
slowest speed.
2. Do not stop or change speed settings on a hill. If you must stop,
quickly push the clutch/brake pedal forward and set the parking
brake.
3. To start again, make sure the shift lever is in the slowest speed.
Move the throttle control to the SLOW position. Slowly release
the pedal.
4. If you must stop or start on a hill, always have enough space
for the unit to roll when you release the brake and engage the
clutch.
5. Be very careful when you change directions on a hill. When on
a slope or in a turn on a hill, move the throttle control to the
SLOW position to help prevent an accident.
