8
ENGLISH
OPERATING THE CONTROLS FOR MOWING
Cutting-Means Control
The cutting-means control
lever [1] must be pulled back
against the handlebar to start
the engine. The cutting means
starts to rotate when the lever
is pulled back against the
handlebar and the recoil starter
grip is pulled.
Continue to hold the
cutting-means control against
the handlebar. This will keep
the engine and cutting means
rotating smoothly and prevent
premature wear to the flywheel brake system.
Release the cutting-means control lever to stop the engine and stop
cutting means rotation whenever you need to leave the mower.
Drive Clutch Control
Push the drive clutch control
[2] forward and hold it against
the handlebar to propel the
mower forward.
Release the drive clutch
control to stop the mower’s
forward movement.
Always release the drive
clutch control before starting
the engine. If the drive clutch
control is engaged, the
mower will move forward
when you operate the starter.
Operate the drive clutch control with a quick and complete motion, so
the drive clutch is either fully engaged or released. This will help to
extend the service life of the clutch mechanism.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
1. Release the drive clutch control
[1] and then the cutting-means
control lever [2] to stop the
engine.
2. When the mower is not in use,
turn the fuel valve to the OFF
position.
3. If your equipment will not be
used for 3 to 4 weeks, we
recommend running the engine’s
carburetor out of fuel. You can do this by leaving the fuel valve
OFF, restarting the engine and running it out of fuel. See “Fuel” on
page 14 for periods of inactivity that exceed 4 weeks.
SAFE MOWING PRACTICES
For your safety, keep all four wheels on the ground, and be careful to
avoid losing your footing and your control of the mower. Keep a firm
grip on the handlebar, and walk, never run, with the mower. Be very
careful when mowing uneven or rough ground.
If stuck, do not kick or shove the mower with your foot. Use the
handlebar to control the mower.
Stability
Mow across slopes, not up and
down. Avoid steep slopes (more than
20°), and be careful when changing
direction. Mowing on a slope when
the grass is damp or wet could cause
you to slip, fall, and lose control of
the mower.
Obstacles
Use the side of the mower to cut
close to large obstacles, such as
fences or walls.
Release the drive clutch control to disengage the drive when mowing
around trees and other obstacles. Push the mower around obstacles
for better directional control. Be careful when mowing over obstacles
embedded in the lawn, such as sprinkler heads, paving, edging, etc.
Avoid anything that sticks up above the surface of the lawn.
If the cutting means hits something, or if the mower starts to vibrate,
stop the engine immediately and check for damage. Striking objects
may damage the cutting means, bend the crankshaft, and/or break
the mower deck or other components. Vibration usually indicates
serious trouble.
The warranty does not cover parts damaged by collision.
[1]
[2]
[1]
[2]
WARNING
The cutting means is sharp and spins at high speed.
A spinning cutting means can cut you severely and can
amputate fingers and toes.
• Wear protective footwear.
• Keep your hands and feet away from the mower
deck while the engine is running.
• Stop the engine before performing any adjustment,
inspection, or maintenance.
WARNING
A worn, cracked, or damaged cutting means can
break, and pieces of the damaged cutting means can
become dangerous projectiles.
Thrown objects can cause serious injury.
Inspect the cutting means regularly, and do not operate
the mower with a worn or damaged cutting means.
