14
Refer to the ADJUSTMENTS section of this manual for
more detailed instructions regarding various deck
adjustments.
Starting the Engine
WARNING:
Do not operate the tractor if the
interlock system is malfunctioning. This
system was designed for your safety and
protection.
NOTE:
Refer to the TRACTOR SET-UP section of
this manual for Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.
•
Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch.
•
Place the PTO knob (or lever) in the disengaged
(OFF) position.
•
Engage the tractor’s parking brake.
•
Pull the choke control outward.
•
Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START
position. After the engine starts, release the key. It
will return to the ON position.
IMPORTANT:
Do NOT hold the key in the START
position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing so
may cause damage to your engine’s electric starter.
NOTE:
If starting problems are encountered, refer to
the TROUBLESHOOTING section of this manual.
After the engine starts, slowly release the brake pedal.
As the engine warms up, gradually push the choke
control knob inward to open up the choke plate on the
engine’s carburetor.
NOTE:
Do NOT leave the choke control on while
operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel
mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.
Stopping the Engine
WARNING:
If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the machine for any
damage. Repair the damage before restarting
and operating.
•
If the blades are engaged, place the PTO knob (or
lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position.
•
Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the OFF
position.
•
Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent
unintended starting.
Driving The Tractor
WARNING:
Avoid sudden starts, ex-
cessive speed and sudden stops.
WARNING:
Do not leave the seat of the
tractor without first placing the PTO knob (or
lever) in the disengaged (OFF) position,
depressing the brake pedal and engaging the
parking brake. If leaving the tractor
unattended, also turn the ignition key off and
remove the key.
•
Briefly depress the brake pedal to release the
parking brake. Move the throttle lever into the FAST
(rabbit) position.
•
To travel FORWARD, slowly depress the upper
portion of the drive pedal forward until the desired
speed is achieved. See Figure 6.
Figure 6
•
To travel in REVERSE, check that the area behind
is clear then slowly depress the lower portion of the
drive pedal with the ball of your foot (NOT your heel)
until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 6.
IMPORTANT:
Do NOT attempt to change the
direction of travel when the tractor is in motion. Always
bring the tractor to a complete stop before pivoting the
drive pedal from forward to reverse or vice versa.
Engaging the Parking Brake
To engage the parking brake:
•
Fully depress the brake pedal and hold it there
while gently pushing the parking brake button
inward.
•
Hold the parking brake button in while removing
your foot from the brake pedal.
•
Once engaged, the parking brake button and the
brake pedal will lock in the “down” position.
To disengage the parking brake:
•
Slightly depress the brake pedal.
NOTE:
The parking brake must be engaged if the
operator leaves the seat with the engine running or the
engine will automatically shut off.
Driving On Slopes
Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE on page 7 to help
determine slopes where you may not operate safely.
Reverse
Forward
Drive Pedal
Fender /
Brake Pedal
Running Board
