Operating - 20
OPERATING
Engaging Mower
1.Adjust mower deck to desired cutting height.
2.Start engine.
3.Move throttle lever to the 1/2 - 3/4 throttle position.
4.Unlock the park brake.
5.Move both motion control levers to the neutral position.
NOTE: In cold weather or with a new machine, it may be necessary to
engage the choke at the same time as the PTO knob to prevent the
engine from stalling.
6.Pull PTO knob (A) up to engage mower deck.
7.Move throttle lever to full-throttle position.
NOTE: The travel speed and turn rate will vary with the amount that
the control levers are moved.
8.Push motion control levers forward slowly. Mow at a safe travel speed.
Stopping the Engine
1.Move the motion control levers to the neutral detent position (standard
levers) or neutral lock position (optional “over the lap” levers).
2.Lock the park brake.
3.Push PTO switch down to disengage.
4.Move throttle lever to 1/4-throttle position and run for 30 seconds, then
move throttle to slow position.
5.Turn key switch to STOP position (A).
6.Remove key.
Transporting Machine
Use a heavy-duty trailer to transport your machine. Trailer must have
signs and lights required by law.
1.Raise the mower deck lift lever to the transport position.
2.Drive machine on trailer.
3.Stop engine and lock the park brake.
4.Remove key.
5.Fasten machine to trailer with heavy-duty straps, chains or cables. Both
front and rear straps must be directed down and outward from machine.
Mowing Tips
• Mow grass with throttle lever in the full fast position.
• Cut grass when it is dry.
• Keep mower deck and discharge chute clean.
• Mow with sharp blades.
• Properly level mower deck for a smooth cut.
• Mow grass high and often.
• Use a travel speed that fits the conditions:
CAUTION: Avoid injury! Clear mowing area of all bystanders
when operating this machine.
Thrown objects could cause serious injury or death.
Keep hands and feet away from blades and discharge
opening.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To help prevent damage to PTO
clutch:
• Do not engage PTO with throttle in the fast position.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! To help prevent engine backfiring,
throttle lever should be set at the 1/4 throttle position and run for
30 seconds prior to stopping the engine.
Do not stop engine when mower is on a slope of more than 30° for
an extended period of time. Oil may run through valve train into
carburetor and muffler.
CAUTION: Avoid injury! Children or bystanders may attempt
to move or operate an unattended machine.
Always lock the park brake and remove the key before leaving
the machine unattended.
CAUTION: Avoid injury! Use extra care when loading or
unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.
Close fuel shut-off valve, if your machine is equipped.
IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! Transmission damage may occur if
the machine is moved or towed incorrectly:
• Move unit by hand only.
• Do not use another vehicle to move unit.
• Do not tow unit.
STOP
A