Yard Machines 378 Lawn Mower User Manual


 
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EACH TIME BEFORE YOU START YOUR MOWER
Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire is
fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark plug.
Check for proper drive clutch operation using the NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT TEST.
NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT TEST
To perform the NEUTRAL ADJUSTMENT TEST answer the following questions.
With the drive clutch control released, push mower forward and pull it backward. Does it move freely?
Squeeze the drive clutch control and pull the mower backward. Do the rear wheels lock (not turn)?
Is the drive clutch control cable free of kinks or sharp bends?
If you answered “yes” to all three questions, your mower passed the test and you can start your mower. If
you answered “no” to any of the three questions, you need to go through the DRIVE CLUTCH CONTROL
ADJUSTMENT found in the ADJUSTMENTS section.
TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE BLADE
Move the throttle control lever all the way forward.
Prime engine as instructed in the separate engine manual.
Stand behind the unit, squeeze and hold the blade control handle against the upper handle.
Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope will
pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope rewind slowly.
Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke. Keep a firm grip on starter handle. Return it slowly to
the rope guide.
After engine starts, move throttle control to desired engine speed. (The mower is designed to be
operated at full throttle.)
NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to the TROUBLE SHOOTING Section of this manual.
TO STOP ENGINE AND BLADE
Release the blade control handle to stop the engine and blade.
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut off.
USING YOUR ROTARY MOWER
Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage the lawn mower or
engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal
injury to the operator and others.
For the best results, do not cut wet grass because it tends to stick to the underside of the mower, preventing
proper discharge of grass clippings, and could cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick grass or wet grass
may require a narrower cut.
For a healthier lawn, never cut off more than one-third of the total length of the grass. Your lawn should be
cut in the fall as long as there is growth.
This mower is designed to be operated at full throttle to give you the best cut and do the most effective job of
mowing or mulching.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove wire from spark plug,
thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and
operating the mower. Extensive vibration of the mower during operation is an indication of damage.
The unit should be promptly inspected and repaired.