of varnish deposits in the fuel system, use fuel stabilizer
at all times.
Filling the Fuel Tank
Note:
Ensure that the engine is shut off.
Note:
You can use the fuel window to verify the presence of
gasoline before filling the tank (
).
Important:
Do not overfill fuel tank. Fill the fuel tank
to the bottom of the filler neck. The empty space in the
tank allows the fuel to expand. Overfilling may result in
fuel leakage, damage to the engine, or damage to the
emissions system.
g027243
A
B
E
D
C
Figure 8
Checking the Engine-Oil Level
Before you start the engine and use the machine, check
the oil level in the engine crankcase; refer to
Engine-Oil Level (page 31)
.
Breaking in a New Machine
New engines take time to develop full power. Mower decks
and drive systems have higher friction when new, placing
additional load on the engine. Allow 40 to 50 hours of
break-in time for new machines to develop full power and
best performance.
Think Safety First
Please carefully read all of the safety instructions and decals
in the safety section. Knowing this information could help
you, your family, pets, or bystanders avoid injury.
DANGER
Operating the machine on wet grass or steep slopes
can cause sliding and loss of control.
•
Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
•
Reduce speed and use extreme caution on
slopes.
•
Do not operate the machine near water.
DANGER
Wheels dropping over edges can cause rollovers,
which may result in serious injury, death, or
drowning.
Do not operate the machine near drop-offs.
g027830
Figure 9
1.
Safe zone—use the
machine here.
3.
Water
2.
Use a walk-behind mower
and/or hand trimmer near
drop-offs and water.
CAUTION
This machine produces sound levels in excess of 85
dBA at the operators ear and can cause hearing loss
through extended periods of exposure.
Wear hearing protection when operating this
machine.
Use protective equipment for you eyes, ears, hands, and feet.
18