Operating Instructions
28
STARTING THE ENGINE
1.
Before attempting to start the engine, make
sure the operator is in the seat, the Forward
Speed Control is in NEUTRAL-PARK position,
and the blade clutch and parking brake are
DISENGAGED.
NOTE: Release parking brake to prevent extra
load on the starter if the transmission neutral is
slightly out of adjustment.
2.
Move the choke lever to the ON position and
move the throttle 1/4 to 1/2 open (toward FAST).
Turn the ignition switch to the START position to
start the engine. Release the key to RUN posi-
tion as soon as the engine starts.
NOTE: The choke may not be required if the
engine is warm.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT crank the engine con-
tinuously for more than 10 seconds at a time. If
the engine does not start, turn the key to the
OFF position and allow a 60 second cool-down
period between starting attempts. Failure to fol-
low these guidelines can damage the starter
motor and shorten battery life.
3.
After the engine starts, gradually move the
choke to the OFF position, keeping enough
choke on to allow the engine to run smoothly as
it warms up. As soon as possible, move the
choke to the OFF position.
IMPORTANT: Make sure the choke is in the
OFF position during normal engine operation;
running with the choke in the ON position CAN
damage the engine.
ADJUSTING GROUND SPEED AND STEERING
CAUTION
Before operating the mower, read and un-
derstand all
Safety Instructions
and
Operat-
ing Instructions
.
WARNING
NEVER run the engine in an enclosed or
poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas.
CAUTION
A safety interlock switch system PRE-
VENTS CRANKING the engine with either
the Forward Speed Control or the blade
clutch (PTO) out of neutral. If the engine
cranks otherwise, the safety system is not
working and should be repaired or adjust-
ed before operating the mower. DO NOT
disconnect safety switches; they are for
the operator’s protection.
CAUTION
Learn to START, STOP, and MANEUVER
the mower in a large, open area.
If the operator has not operated a machine
with LEVER STEERING OR DUAL TRAN-
SAXLES, steering and ground operation
should be learned and practiced until the
operator is completely comfortable han-
dling the machine BEFORE ATTEMPTING
TO MOW.
DANGER
Keep feet on footrest at all times when the
machine is moving.
