Engaging the Blade
When you start your engine, the blade does not turn.
You must engage the blade to mow.
1. Pull the control bar lock back (Figure 17).
Figure 17
2. Pull the blade control bar to the handle (Figure 18).
Figure 18
1.
Blade control bar
3. Hold the blade control bar against the handle
Figure 19
Disengaging the Blade
Release the blade control bar (Figure 20).
Figure 20
Important:
When you release the blade control
bar, the blade should stop within 3 seconds. If
it does not stop properly, stop using your mower
immediately and contact an Authorized Service
Dealer.
Checking the Blade Brake
Clutch Operation
Service Interval:
Before each use or daily
Check the control bar before each use to ensure that the
blade brake clutch system is operating properly.
Using the Grass Bag
You can use the grass bag to perform an additional test
to check the blade brake clutch.
1. Install the empty grass bag on the mower.
2. Start the engine.
3. Engage the blade.
Note:
The bag should begin to inflate, indicating
that the blade is engaged and rotating.
4. Release the blade control bar.
Note:
If the bag does not immediately deflate, the
blade is still rotating. The blade brake clutch may be
deteriorating and, if ignored, could result in an unsafe
operating condition. Have the mower inspected and
serviced by an Authorized Service Dealer.
5. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.
Not Using the Grass Bag
1. Move the mower onto a paved surface in a
non-windy area.
2. Set all 4 wheels to the 3-1/4 inch (8 cm) cut setting.
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