14
Servicing the Engine
1. Make sure that engine oil is at engine
manufacturer’s recommended level (refer to
engine manual).
2. Fill the fuel tank. Use fresh, clean, unleaded
automotive gasoline.
Pre-Start Check
1. Make sure the stop switch is in the OFF
position and spark plug wire is disconnected.
Pull the starter rope slowly to make certain
there are no foreign objects in the blower
housing.
2. Be sure the spark plug wire and cover are
attached to the spark plug.
Starting the Engine
1. Turn the stop switch to the ON position.
2. Move the choke lever to the FULL CHOKE
position.
3. Move the throttle lever to the FULL
THROTTLE position.
4. Grasp the starter handle firmly. Pull the
handle with a rapid continuous motion.
5. When the engine starts, move the choke to
1/2 choke and then to NO CHOKE position
as engine warms up.
Operating the Vacuum
1. NEVER USE THE Z12 WITHOUT THE
VACUUM INLET COVER AND ALL HOSES
SECURELY ATTACHED.
2. Make sure both hoses are connected at both
ends. Inspect hoses prior to each use.
3. Do not use the Z12 on slopes greater than 15
degrees.
4. The mower must be running in order to
vacuum debris through the mower deck.
5. In heavy grass it may be necessary to mow
and vacuum at a slower ground speed.
6. Never attempt to unclog the Z12 until both the
mower’s engine and vacuum’s engine
have been shut off and all moving parts have
come to a complete stop.
7. Do not stand behind the vent at the rear of
the Z12 due to the potential for small
pieces of blowing debris to escape through
this vent.
8. Wear eye and ear protection.
9. TO STOP THE ENGINE: throttle down to
slow for a few seconds, then push switch to
OFF. Remove any hearing protection and
listen for all moving parts to come to a
complete stop.
NOTE:
The flywheel in the power head will
coast for a few seconds after the engine is shut
off before actually stopping.
OPERATION