14
Operating the Tractor
STARTING THE ENGINE
Gas Models
1. While sitting in the operator’s seat, fully depress the
brake pedal or set the parking brake.
2. Set the cruise control lever in neutral and make sure
that your feet are not depressing the ground speed
control pedals.
3. Disengage the PTO.
4. Set the throttle to FULL.
5. Close the CHOKE.
NOTE: A warm engine may not require choking.
6. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to
START.
7. After the engine starts, open the choke and move the
engine throttle control to SLOW. Warm up the engine
by running it for at least a minute. Set the throttle to
FULL before engaging the PTO switch or driving the
tractor.
Diesel Models
1. While sitting in the operator’s seat, fully depress the
brake pedal or set the parking brake.
2. Set the cruise control lever in neutral and make sure
that your feet are not depressing the ground speed
control pedals.
3. Disengage the PTO.
4. Set the throttle to middle position (set throttle to FULL
when starting in cold weather).
5. Turn the key to the RUN position to activate the glow
plugs; the glow plug light in the dashboard display will
light.
6. Wait for the glow plug light to turn off, then turn the
key to START. If the engine does not start immedi-
ately, move the throttle to FULL.
7. After the engine starts, move the engine throttle con-
trol to SLOW. Warm up the engine by running it for at
least a minute.
8. Move the throttle to FULL before engaging the PTO
switch or driving the tractor.
NOTE: In the event of an emergency the engine can be
stopped by simply turning the ignition switch to STOP.
Use this method only in emergency situations. For nor-
mal engine shut down follow the procedure given in
STOPPING THE TRACTOR.
GENERAL OPERATING SAFETY
Be sure to read all information in the Safety and
Operation sections before attempting to operate this unit.
Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop
the unit.
SLOPE OPERATION
ADDING FUEL
To add fuel:
1. Remove the fuel cap (A, Figure 4).
2. Fill the tank. Do not overfill. Leave room in the tank
for fuel expansion. Refer to your engine manual for
specific fuel recommendations.
3. Install and hand tighten the fuel cap.
WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be
handled with care. Never fill the tank when the
engine is still hot from recent operation. Do not
allow open flame, smoking or matches in the
area. Avoid over-filling and wipe up any spills.
Gasoline Engine Models:
Do not use
gasoline containing METHANOL, gasohol
containing more than 10% ETHANOL,
gasoline additives, or white gas because
engine/fuel system damage could result.
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 17.6 percent
(10°) which is a rise of 3-1/2 feet (106 cm) vertically in
20 feet (607 cm) horizontally.
When operating on slopes use additional wheel
weights or counterweights. See your dealer to
determine which weights are available and
appropriate for your unit.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto slope.
In addition to front and rear weights, use extra caution
when operating on slopes with rear-mounted grass
catcher.
Mow UP and DOWN the slope, never across the
face, use caution when changing directions and DO
NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
Not
for
Reproduction
