9
NOTE: The safety key must be in the run position to
start the mower for both systems, either the self starter
or recoil starter.
Start Control Button
The start control button is located on the upper left side
of the handle. See Figure 6. The start control button
must be depressed fully while pulling the blade control
handle toward upper handle for the engine to start. The
starter control button will automatically return to the off/
up position once the blade control handle is released.
NOTE: The starter button must be depressed to start
the engine with either the self starter or recoil starting
system.
SECTION 6: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Read, understand, and follow all
instructions and warnings on the machine
and in this manual before operating.
Keep hands and feet away from the discharge area on
and from under the cutting deck. See safety labels on
page 5.
The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign
objects being thrown into the eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields.
NOTE: For best results raise the cutting position until it
is determined which height is best for your lawn. See
Cutting Height Adjustment section.
Gas And Oil Fill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the separate engine manual. Read instructions
carefully.
WARNING: Use extreme care when handling
gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable
and the vapors are explosive. Never fuel
machine indoors or while the engine is hot or
running. Extinguish cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
and other sources of ignition.
Before Starting
•
Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If equipped
with a rubber boot, make certain the metal loop on
the end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber
boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the
spark plug.
First Time Starting Engine
NOTE: Use recoil starter rope to start engine for the
very first time. The mower is shipped with the safety key
in the locked position and the self starter in the de-
energized mode, follow instructions as follows.
1.
Place lawn mower on a level surface outdoors.
2.
Remove clear plastic packaging under fuel cap.
3.
Check oil level.
4.
Add fuel.
5.
Open shut off valve (if equipped) 1/4 turn.
6.
Push spark plug wire firmly on spark plug.
7.
Turn safety key 1/4 turn clockwise to RUN position.
8.
Firmly push primer bulb 3 times.
9.
While standing in the operating position, depress
the starter control button fully with the thumb of
your right hand.
10. Using your left hand, pull the control handle all the
way toward the upper handle. See Figure 7.
11. Release the button.
12. Grasp the recoil rope starter handle with your right
hand and slowly pull towards you until you feel a
slight resistance, then pull firmly until your arm is
fully extended.
13. If engine does not start by the second pull, repeat
steps 8, 9, 10,11 and 12.
Second Time Starting Engine
NOTE: Follow these instructions if the self starter is
already in the energized mode.
WARNING: NEVER assume starter is in the
de-energized mode, even if the key is in the
locked position and/or removed from the
engine. ALWAYS de-energize starter prior to
performing any maintenance or service to the
engine and/or mower. Follow instructions on
the engine and/or machine to de-energize
starter.
Figure 7
Starter Control
Button
Blade Control
Handle
