Simplicity HW1436 Lawn Mower User Manual


 
Operating
the Walk Behind Mower
GENERAL OPERATING SAFETY
Before first time operation:
Be sure to read all information in the Safety and
Operation sections before attempting to operate this
tractor and mower.
Become familiar with all of the controls and how to
stop the unit.
Drive in an open area without mowing to become
accustomed to the unit.
CHECKS BEFORE STARTING
Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick.
See the engine Operator’s Manual for instructions
and oil recommendations.
Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in
place and tight.
Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel. Refer to engine man-
ual for fuel recommendations.
WARNING
If you do not understand how a specific control
functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the
FEATURES & CONTROLS section, do so now.
Do NOT attempt to operate the tractor without
first becoming familiar with the location and
function of ALL controls.
WARNING
Before leaving the operator’s position for any
reason, engage the parking brake, disengage the
PTO, stop the engine and remove the key.
To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine, tractor and
mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease.
Do not stop or park tractor over dry leaves, grass
or combustible materials.
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be
handled with care. Never fill the tank when the
engine is still hot from recent operation. Do not
allow open flame, smoking or matches in the area.
Avoid over-filling and wipe up any spills.
STARTING THE ENGINE
1. While standing in the operator’s position, engage the
parking brake and make sure the PTO switch is dis-
engaged.
2.
NOTE: A warm engine may not require choking.
Set the engine throttle control (F, Figure 1) beyond
the FAST throttle position into the CHOKE position.
3. Insert the key into the ignition switch (C, Figure 1)
and turn it to START.
4. After the engine starts, move the throttle control to
the mid-throttle position.
Warm up the engine by running it for at least a minute
before engaging the PTO switch or driving the rider.
5. After warming the engine, ALWAYS operate the
unit at FULL THROTTLE when mowing.
In the event of an emergency the engine can be
stopped by simply turning the ignition switch to
STOP. Use this method only in emergency situations.
For normal engine shut down follow the procedure given
in STOPPING THE MOWER.
DRIVING & STEERING THE MOWER
1. Engage the parking brake. Make sure the PTO
switch is disengaged.
2. Start the engine (see STARTING THE ENGINE).
3. Set the throttle control to FULL.
4. With one hand, grasp the operator presence handle
and the handle bar grip at the same time.
5. Disengage the parking brake.
6. With your thumbs, pressing the ground speed control
levers forward will move the mower forward. Pulling
them back will move the mower backwards. The far-
ther the levers are pushed or pulled will result in a
faster ground speed.
7. To steer to the right, gently squeeze the right steer-
ing control lever. To steer to the left, gently squeeze
the left steering control lever.
NOTE: The harder the steering handle is squeezed, the
sharper the turn will be. Reduce the ground speed
before executing a turn. Steering in this fashion will
wear the brake pads faster than if the machine is turned
manually with the handle bars.
8. To slow the mower, gently release your thumb pres-
sure on the ground speed control levers.
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