Operating Instructions
31
STARTING THE ENGINE
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.
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
DIS-
ENGAGED.
NOTE:
Release parking brake to prevent extra
load on the starter if the transmission neutral is
slightly out of adjustment.
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 ad justed
before operating the mower. DO NOT dis-
connect safety switches; they are for the
operator’s protection.
2. Move the throttle 1/4 to 1/2 open (toward
FAST
)
and turn the ignition switch to the
START
posi-
tion to start the engine. Release the key to
RUN
position as soon as the engine starts.
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. Contact your
Walker dealer or authorized engine dealer for
additional help.
ADJUSTING GROUND SPEED AND STEERING
CAUTION
Learn to START, STOP, and MANEUVER the
mower in a large, open area.
If the operator has not operated a ma chine
with LEVER STEERING OR DUAL TRANS-
AXLES, steer ing and ground operation
should be learned and practiced until the
operator is completely comfortable han-
dling the ma chine BEFORE ATTEMPTING
TO MOW.
DANGER
Keep feet on footrests at all times when
the machine is moving. Never operate the
tractor without a deck or implement in-
stalled.
Summary of Contents for MBK23
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