16
OPERATION
20 Multi-Tool
The multi-tool (a) is located on the front of the right console. The
multi-tool (a) can be used as a deck lift lockout, to remove the
footpan bolt, and can be used as a removal tool with the 1/2”
socket end. See the Product Care section for more information on
multi-tool (a) usage. See Figure 16.
(a)
Figure 16
Operation
BEFORE OPERATING YOUR TRACTOR
• Before operation, refer to the Maintenance Schedule chart
located in this manual for regularly scheduled service items.
• This engine is certified to operate only on clean, fresh,
unleaded gasoline. Fill only with clean, fresh, unleaded
gasoline with a pump sticker octane rating of 87 or higher.
• Do not use gasoline left over from the previous season, to
minimize gum deposits in the fuel system.
• Gasohol (up to 10% ethyl alcohol, 90% unleaded gasoline by
volume) is an approved fuel. Other gasoline/alcohol blends
are not approved.
• Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) and unleaded gasoline
blends (up to a maximum of 15% MTBE by volume)
are approved fuels. Other gasoline/ether blends are
not approved.
SAFETY INTERLOCK SYSTEM
WARNING
Do NOT operate the tractor if the safety interlock system
is malfunctioning. This system was designed for your
safety and protection.
This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system for the
protection of the operator. If the interlock system should ever
malfunction, do not operate the tractor. Contact an authorized
service dealer.
• The safety interlock system prevents the engine from
cranking or starting unless the parking brake is engaged and
the PTO switch is in the DISENGAGED (OFF) position.
• The engine will automatically shut OFF if the operator leaves
the seat before engaging the parking brake.
• The engine will automatically shut OFF if the operator leaves
the tractor’s seat with the PTO switch in the ENGAGED (ON)
position, regardless of whether the parking brake is engaged.
CHECKING THE SAFETY INTERLOCK CIRCUITS
Periodically check the safety interlock circuits to ensure they are
working properly. If a safety circuit is not working as designed,
contact an authorized service dealer to have the tractor
inspected. Do NOT operate the tractor if any safety circuit is
not functioning properly. To check the safety circuits, proceed
as follows:
1. Pull the PTO upward to the ENGAGED (ON) position.
Momentarily turn the ignition switch to the START position;
the engine should not crank.
2. With the tractor running move both drive pedals to the
neutral position; then lift upward from the operator’s seat.
The engine should stop.
3. With both drive pedals in the neutral position and the
parking brake engaged, engage the PTO. Lift upward from
the operator’s seat; the engine should stop.
STARTING THE ENGINE
WARNING
This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system
designed for the protection of the operator. Do not
operate the tractor if any part of the interlock system is
malfunctioning. Periodically check the functions of the
interlock system for proper operation.
WARNING
The operator should be sitting in the tractor seat when
starting the engine.
NOTE:
Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual for gasoline and oil
fill-up instructions.
1. Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat.
2. Engage the parking brake by placing drive control pedals in
neutral and pulling the parking brake lever back. See Figure 17.
Figure 17