GB - 16
GASOLINE
IMPORTANT: ALWAYS use gasoline that
meets the following guidelines:
• Clean, fresh gasoline.
• A minimum of 87 octane/87 AKI (91
RON). High altitude use may require a
different octane. Consult your engine
manual.
• Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol
(gasohol) or up to 10% MTBE (methyl
tertiary butyl ether) is acceptable.
• Use of any gasoline other than those
approved above will void the engine
warranty. If the pumps are not marked
for the content of alcohol or ethers,
check ethanol and MTBE levels with
the fuel supplier.
• Do not modify the fuel system to use
different fuels.
• Never mix oil and gasoline.
NOTE: All gasoline is not the same. If the
engine experiences starting or performance
problems after using a new gasoline, switch
to a different fuel provider or fuel brand.
IMPORTANT: Excessively oxygenated or
reformulated fuels (fuels blended with
alcohols or ethers) can damage the fuel
system or cause performance problems. If
any undesirable operating problems occur,
use a gasoline with a lower percentage of
alcohol or ether.
Fuel Stabilizer
Gasoline left in the fuel system for extended
periods without a stabilizer will deteriorate,
resulting in gum deposits in the system.
These deposits can damage the carburetor
and the fuel hoses, filter and tank. Prevent
deposits from forming in the fuel system
during storage by adding a quality fuel
stabilizer to the fuel. Follow the
recommended mix ratio found on the fuel
stabilizer container.
EMERGENCY STOPPING
1. Return steering levers to neutral position
2. Immediately set parking brake
3. Turn off PTO and engine
NOTE: The engine will run after the clutch
and parking brake levers are released.
ALWAYS shut off the engine with the ignition
key and remove the key before leaving the
operator’s position.
To stop the mower in an emergency:
1. Release the PTO clutch lever and the
parking brake lever.
2. Turn the ignition key to the "OFF"
position.
3. Allow all moving parts to stop before
leaving operator’s position.
STARTING AND SHUT OFF
See Figure 6 for all Controls and Features.
NOTE: Start engine on a level surface that is
free of debris.
Electric Start
1. Check each item under Before Each
Use in the MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
on page 17.
2. Place throttle control in the choke
position. Once the engine has started,
place throttle in the high speed detent.
3. Hold down the safety switch on the dash
panel and turn the ignition key to the
Start position.
4. Release the key and the safety switch
once engine starts.
Shut Off
1. Release the PTO clutch lever, the
parking brake lever, and the wheel drive
controls and allow unit to stop
completely.
2. Turn the ignition key to the "OFF"
position.
Mowing Tips
Cut grass when it is dry.
Keep mower blades sharp.
Do not set cutting height too low. For tall
grass, mow twice.
Do not mow too fast.
Mow with engine at full throttle. Discharge
clippings into areas already cut.
Vary cutting pattern with each mowing.
NOTE: To prevent dirt and grass from
collecting on mower pan, avoid operating
over bare ground with only patches of grass.
Mulching Tips
For best mulching performance, cut no more
than 1 inch (2.54 cm) of grass per cutting.
WARNING: Operating unit on
slopes may lead to loss of
steering control. When operating
on slopes be prepared to react to
an emergency situation.
WARNING: Improper operation
can lead to injury. Learn what the
controls do and how they work.
Thoroughly read and understand
entire Operator Manual.