9
4
Operation
WARNING
The operation of any
lawn mower can result
in foreign objects
being thrown into
the eyes, which can
damage your eyes
severely. Always wear
safety glasses while
operating the mower,
or while performing
any adjustments or
repairs on it.
If you strike a foreign
object, stop the engine.
Remove wire from the
spark plug, thoroughly
inspect the mower for
any damage, and repair
the damage before re-
starting and operating
the mower. Extensive
vibration of the mower
during operation is an
indication of damage.
The unit should be
promptly inspected
and repaired.
Figure 4-2
Starting Engine
WARNING: Be sure no one other than
the operator is standing near the lawn
mower while starting engine or operat-
ing mower. Never run engine indoors
or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly
gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose
clothing away from any moving parts
on engine and lawn mower.
1. Pull out the choke knob located on the left side of the
upper handle, Figure 4-2.
NOTE: Use of the choke may not be necessary if the
engine is warm or the air temperature is high.
2. Standing behind the mower, squeeze and hold the
blade control against upper handle, Figure 4-2.
3. Grasp the starter handle as shown and pull slowly until
resistance is felt, then pull rapidly to start engine and
avoid kickback. Return it slowly to the rope guide.
IMPORTANT: Do not allow the recoil starter to snap
back against the rope guide.
4. As the engine warms, slowly push in the choke knob.
See Figure 4-2.
Stopping Engine
1. Release blade control handle to stop the engine and
the blade.
2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and
ground against the engine.
WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop
completely before performing any work
on the mower or to remove the grass
catcher.
Using Your Lawn Mower
Be sure the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other
objects which could damage the lawn mower or the
engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the
mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury
to the operator and others.
Operating Tips
1. To engage the drive, squeeze the drive control handle
towards the upper handle. Release the drive control
to slow down when negotiating an obstacle, making a
turn, or stopping.
2. For best results do not cut wet grass.
3. New grass, thick grass, or wet grass may require a
narrower cut.
4. For a healthier lawn, never cut off more than one-third
of the total length of the grass.
5. Your lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there
is growth.
6. If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of 4
inches, mulching is not recommended. Mow using
the side discharge to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4
inches or less before mulching.
NOTE: To operate your unit using the grass catcher,
mulcher or optional side discharge refer to page 7.