Operator`s manual

8
Operation
GENERAL
Before operating this tractor for the first time, the owner
should operate in an open area without mowing, to
become accustomed to the unit. The right side of the
mower can be used to trim close to objects. Be sure to
read all information in the Safety and Operation sections
before attempting to operate this tractor and mower.
WARNING
Never allow passengers to ride on the unit.
WARNING
To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine and
mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease.
WARNING
The interlock safety switches are for your safety.
Do not attempt to bypass them.
CAUTION
Do not attempt to move the ground speed con-
trol lever when the parking brake is engaged or
the service brakes are being applied. Equipment
damage will occur.
CAUTION
Towing the tractor will cause transmission dam-
age. Do not use another vehicle to push or pull
tractor.
WARNING - SLOPE OPERATION
Never operate on slopes greater than 30 percent
(16.7°) which is a rise of three feet vertically in 10 feet
horizontally. When operating on slopes that are
greater than 15 percent (8.5°) but less than 30 percent
use front counterweights and rear wheel weights (see
your dealer). Select slow ground speed before driving
onto slope. In addition to front and rear weights, use
extra caution when operating on slopes with rear-
mounted grass catcher. Mow UP and DOWN the slope,
never across the face, use caution when changing
directions and DO NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
CHECKS BEFORE STARTING
1. Make sure you have proper wheel or counterweights
if required. See SLOPE OPERATION in the Safety
Rules section. Make sure any slopes are within
required limits.
2. Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on dipstick.
See the engine Operator’s Manual for instructions
and oil recommendations.
3. Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in
place and tight.
4. Make sure you can reach all controls from operator’s
positions. If not, see SEAT ADJUSTMENT.
5. Fill the gasoline tank with fresh gasoline. Fill to bot-
tom of filler neck to avoid spillage and overflow. DO
NOT mix oil with gasoline. Refer to engine manual
for gasoline recommendations.
WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be han-
dled 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.
CLUTCH/BRAKE PEDAL OPERATION
1. See figure 6. Depressing the pedal from position A to
B disengages transmission drive belt and applies
tractor brake.
2. To apply the parking brake pull up on the parking
brake lever (F, figure 2).
STARTING THE ENGINE
Refer to figure 2.
1. Operator must be seated.
2. Place ground speed control lever (D) in neutral. Set
parking brake. To set, depress pedal, pull parking
brake lever (F) up, then release pedals.
3. PTO lever (G) must be in OFF position.
4. On a cold engine, pull out choke knob (H). On a
warm engine, push choke knob in.
5. Place engine speed control (J) midway between slow
and fast (Start/Stop position).
6. Turn key (E) to start engine. Push choke in as engine
warms up.
7. Allow engine to warm up for a couple of minutes
before applying load. Do not idle engine for pro-
longed periods or carbon buildup may occur.