WARNING
If you do not understand how a specific control
functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the
FEATURES & CONTROLS section, do so now.
Do NOT attempt to operate the tractor without
first becoming familiar with the location and
function of ALL controls.
STARTING THE ENGINE
1. Engage the parking brake and make sure the PTO
switch is disengaged and the motion control lever is
in the NEUTRAL position.
2. Set the engine throttle control to FAST throttle posi-
tion. Then fully close the choke by pulling the knob
OUT fully.
NOTE: A warm engine may not require choking.
3A.Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to
the RUN position (15hp & 17hp models). Firmly and
sharply pull the recoil until the engine starts.
3B.Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to
the START position (23hp model).
4. After the engine starts, gradually open the choke
(push knob down fully).
Warm up the engine by running it for at least a minute
before engaging the PTO switch or driving the mower.
5. After warming the engine, ALWAYS operate the
unit at FULL THROTTLE when mowing.
In the event of an emergency the engine can be
stopped by simply turning the ignition switch to
STOP. Use this method only in emergency situations.
For normal engine shut down follow the procedure given
in STOPPING THE MOWER
STOPPING THE MOWER
1. Gently squeeze both steering control levers evenly to
stop the machine.
3. Once the machine is stopped, firmly depress the
neutral return pedal to place the transmissions in
neutral.
2. Disengage the PTO by pushing down on the PTO
switch.
3. Engage the parking brake by pushing the handle for-
ward until it stops.
4. Move the throttle control to mid-throttle position and
turn the ignition key to OFF Remove the key.
Operation
DRIVING THE MOWER
The hydrostatic transmission has an infinite number of
speeds between full speed forward and reverse, with the
faster speeds being achieved by moving the speed con-
trol lever and steering control levers farthest in the direc-
tion of travel.
TO MOVE FORWARD
1. Disengage the parking brake.
2. Gently move the speed control lever forward until
desired speed is achieved.
TO MOVE BACKWARD
1. Disengage the parking brake.
2. Gently squeeze both steering control levers evenly,
until desired speed is achieved.
TO SLOW OR STOP MACHINE
1. Gently squeeze both steering control levers evenly to
slow the machine.
2. Continuing to squeeze the steering control levers will
stop the machine.
3. Once the machine is stopped, firmly depress the
neutral return pedal to place the transmissions in
neutral.
TO TURN MACHINE
To make a left-hand turn:
Gently squeeze the left-hand steering control lever. A
sharp or gentle turn is determined by the amount of
force applied to the steering control lever.
To make a right-hand turn:
Gently squeeze the right-hand steering control lever. A
sharp or gentle turn is determined by the amount of
force applied to the steering control lever.
NOTE: ALWAYS REDUCE SPEED IN A TURN
For normal use, the throttle should be kept fully open
and the ground speed of the machine determined by the
speed control lever. When transporting the machine or
when loading or unloading from a truck or trailer, partial
throttle should be used to slow the reaction time of the
controls and reduce noise.
Practice maneuvering the machine at a slow engine
speed on level ground with the blade engagement switch
in the "OFF" position until you are familiar with the con-
trols.
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