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Operation
5
14
Starting the Engine
The following steps describe how to start and stop the engine.
NOTE:
Do not attempt to engage the tines, wheels, or any PTO
attachment until you have read all of the operating instructions
in this section.
Pre-Start Checklist
Make the following checks and perform the following services
before starting the engine.
1.
Read the Safe Operation Practices and Features & Controls
sections in this Manual. Read the separate Engine
Operator’s Manual.
2.
Check the tiller for loose or missing hardware. Service as
required.
3.
Check the engine oil level. See Engine Operator’s Manual.
4.
Shift the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive lever into NEUTRAL
position. See the Controls and Features section for more
information on this lever.
5.
Check the safety guards. All guards and covers must be
securely in place.
6.
Check the air cleaner. See the Engine Operator’s Manual.
7.
Attach the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
8.
Check Engine Cooling System. Clear cooling fins and air
intake screen of debris. See the Engine Operator’s Manual.
9.
Select High/Low Belt Speed range.
10. Adjust the Handlebar Height.
11. Fill the fuel tank with gasoline in accordance with the
directions in the separate Engine Operator’s Manual.
Follow all instructions and safety rules carefully.
WARNING!
Never run the engine indoors or in an
enclosed, poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly
gas. Avoid engine muffler and nearby areas.
Temperatures in these areas may exceed 150° F.
NOTE:
After the first two hours of operation, perform the
maintenance procedures shown in the Maintenance Schedule in
the Maintenance & Adjustments Section of this manual.
Starting the Engine
1.
With the engine off, place the Wheels/Tines/PTO Drive
Lever in the NEUTRAL position. If in the FORWARD position,
tap the lever sharply upward, it should automatically move
into NEUTRAL position.
2.
Put the Depth Regulator Lever in the Travel position (lever
all the way down) so that the tines are off the ground. To do
this, lift up on the handlebars, pull the lever back, and push
it down all the way to the top detent (notched) position.
3.
Move the Wheel Speed Lever to either the SLOW or FAST
position. Be sure to roll the wheels while shifting the lever
until the wheels engage.
NOTE:
If using a PTO stationary attachment, move the
Wheel Speed Lever into FREEWHEEL and block the wheels
to prevent the equipment from moving. See Figure 5-1.
Blocks
Blocks
Figure 5-1
4.
Move the Tines/PTO Clutch Lever into DISENGAGE position.
NOTE:
Use the ENGAGE position if you want the tines
to revolve or to apply power to a PTO-driven stationary
attachment.
5.
If the engine is equipped with a fuel valve, turn the valve
to the OPEN position as instructed in the separate Engine
Operator’s Manual.
6.
If the engine is equipped with an ON/OFF switch, move the
switch to ON. Move engine throttle lever away from STOP.
Choke or prime the engine as instructed in the separate
Engine Operator’s Manual.
7.
If not equipped with an electric start system, place one
hand on the fuel tank to stabilize the tiller when you pull
the recoil starter rope.
8.
If equipped with an electric start system, turn the key to
START position to crank the engine then release when the
engine starts. If the engine does not start right away, do
not hold the key at START for more than a few seconds.
Release then try again after a short pause. Damage to
the starter motor can occur if it is cranked more than 15
seconds per minute.
9.
If the engine does not start after a number of tries, refer to
the Engine Operator’s Manual for specific instructions.
10. When the engine starts, move the Throttle Lever to the
SLOW position and then gradually move the choke lever
(on engines so equipped) to OFF or RUN position.
11. Move the throttle speed control to FAST setting when
tilling.
Summary of Contents for Big Red
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