108548_1208 4-9
NOTE: Make sure that the blade lever and the drive
clutch lever are disengaged before starting the engine.
WARNING: Make sure there is no person or object in
front of, or behind you when pulling on the starter
rope.
5. Allow the engine to warm up before mowing. Set
throttle lever to the “FAST” position when mowing.
Fig. 4-22
NOTE: The engine may stall if the blades are
engaged with the throttle in the “SLOW” position.
6. To stop the engine: Release the blade lever and the
drive clutch lever. Set throttle to the “STOP” posi-
tion. When engine has stopped, rotate the fuel cock to
the “OFF” (closed) position. Fig. 4-23 and Fig. 4-24
NOTE: Do not stop the engine with the throttle set in
the “CHOKE” position. Restarting the engine will
become harder if this occurs. However, if the engine
will not stop with the throttle set to the “STOP” posi-
tion then set the throttle to the “CHOKE” position to
shutoff the engine. If the “CHOKE” method is neces-
sary to stop the engine, check the throttle control for
proper adjustment. Re-adjust if necessary.
D. Mowing operation
When operating this mower observe the instructions and
safety items in this manual.
Use this mower when the outside air temperature is
between 40
o
and 105
o
F (5
o
and 40
o
C). Failure to use
this machine within this temperature range may result in
a malfunction, breakdown or accidents.
WARNING: All operators and mechanics must
become familiar with the safe operation of the equip-
ment, operator controls and safety signs before using
this machine.
1. Perform the daily inspection and preparation routine
found elsewhere in this manual before starting opera-
tion.
2. Start engine per the Engine Operation section.
3. Set the throttle lever to the “FAST” position. Fig. 4-25
4. Push the blade lever forward while pressing on the
yellow button. This will engage the blade clutch.
Make sure the lever is pushed forward until it touches
the handle. Fig. 4-26
NOTE: The blade will not engage unless the yellow
button is depressed.
5. To drive the mower forward: Step toward the han-
dle while pushing the drive clutch lever forward to
engage the transmission. Make sure the lever is
pushed forward until it touches the handle.
Fig. 4-27
IMPORTANT: Do not require the machine to pull
you forward. This will result in premature transmis-
sion failure.
Fig. 4-22
Fig. 4-23
Fig. 4-24
Throttle lever
(fast position)
Throttle lever
(stop position)
OFF
Fig. 4-25
Fig. 4-26
Throttle lever
Blade lever
Yellow
button
Blade disengaged
Blade engaged