Not for
Reproduction
22
Warm up the engine by running it for one minute before
engaging the PTO switch or driving the unit.
4. After warming the engine always operate the unit at
the FAST position when mowing.
In the event of an emergency the engine can be stopped
by simply turning the ignition switch to OFF.
Use this
method only in emergency situations. For normal engine shut
down follow the procedure given in
Stopping the Zero-Turn
Riding Mower
.
Stopping the Zero-Turn Riding Mower
1. Drive the unit to a flat, level surface and return the ground
speed control levers to the middle position to stop the
unit's movement. Pivot the levers outward and lock them
in NEUTRAL.
2. Disengage the PTO by pushing down on the PTO switch.
3. Engage the parking brake by pulling the handle up until it
locks into position.
4. Move the throttle control to mid-throttle position and turn
the ignition switch to OFF. Remove the key.
Zero-Turn Riding Mower Driving Practice
Before attempting to drive the zero-turn riding mower make
sure you have read the FEATURES AND CONTROLS
section and understand the location and function of all the
unit's controls.
The ground speed control levers of the zero-turn riding mower
are responsive and learning to gain a smooth and efficient
control of the unit's forward, reverse, and turning movements
will take some practice.
Before you begin mowing, spend some time going through
the maneuvers shown in this manual and become familiar
with how the unit accelerates, travels, and steers.
Locate a smooth, flat area of your lawn with plenty of room
to maneuver. (Clear the area of objects, people and animals
before you begin.) Operate the unit at mid-throttle during
this practice session (ALWAYS operate at full throttle when
mowing), and turn slowly to prevent tire slippage and damage
to your lawn.
We suggest you begin with the
Smooth Travel
procedure,
and then advance through the forward, reverse, and turning
maneuvers.
You must release the parking brake prior to moving the
control levers inward.
Smooth Travel
The ground speed control levers of the zero-turn riding mower
are responsive.
The BEST method of handling the ground speed control
levers is in three steps — as shown in Figure 13.
13
FIRST
, place your hands onto the levers as shown.
SECOND
, to go forward gradually push the levers forward
with your palms.
THIRD
, to speed up move the levers farther forward. To slow
down smoothly, slowly move the levers toward neutral.
Basic Driving
Forward Travel Practice
14
Gradually move both ground speed control levers — evenly
FORWARD from neutral. Slow down and repeat.
Note:
Straight forward travel takes practice. If necessary, top
speed can be balance-adjusted — see the
Speed Balancing
Adjustment
in the MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES section of
this manual.
