Owners manual

15
OPERATION
NOTE: Do NOT leave the throttle/choke control (if equipped) or choke control (if
equipped) in the CHOKE position while operating the tractor. Doing so will
result in a “rich” fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.
Cold Weather Starting
When starting the engine at temperatures near or below freezing, ensure the correct
viscosity motor oil is used in the engine and the battery is fully charged. Start the
engine as follows:
1. Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm battery has much more
starting capacity than a cold battery.
2. Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade gasoline has higher volatility to
improve starting. Do not use gasoline left over from summer.
3. Follow the previous instruction for Starting the Engine.
Using Jumper Cables To Start Engine
WARNING
Batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce explosive gasses. Make certain
the area is well ventilated, wear gloves and eye protection, and avoid
sparks or flames near the battery.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the engine, recharge the battery. If a
battery charger is unavailable and the tractor must be started, the aid of a booster
battery will be necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows:
1. Connect the end of one cable to the disabled tractor battery’s positive
terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the booster battery’s
positive terminal.
2. Connect one end of the other cable to the booster battery’s negative
terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the frame of the
disabled tractor, as far from the battery as possible.
3. Start the disabled tractor following the normal starting instructions previously
provided; then disconnect the jumper cables in the exact reverse order of their
connection.
4. Have the tractor’s electrical system checked and repaired as soon as possible
to eliminate the need for jump starting.
Stopping the Engine
1. Place the PTO switch in the OFF (down) position.
2. Move RH and LH drive control levers fully outward in the neutral position
engaging the parking brake.
3. Move the throttle control (if equipped) or throttle/choke control (if
equipped) to the SLOW position and allow the engine to idle for about
one minute.
4. Turn the ignition key to the STOP position and remove the key from the
ignition switch.
NOTE: Always remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent accidental
starting or battery discharge if the equipment is left unattended.
Practice Operation (Initial Use)
Operating a zero-turn tractor is not like operating a conventional type riding tractor.
Although and because a zero turn tractor is more maneuverable, getting used to
operating the control levers takes some practice.
We strongly recommend that you locate a reasonably large, level and open “practice
area” where there are no obstructions, pedestrians, or animals. You should practice
operating the tractor for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Carefully move (or have moved) the tractor to the practice area. When performing
the practice session, the PTO should not be engaged. While practicing, operate the
tractor at approximately 1⁄2-3⁄4 throttle and at less than full speed in both forward
and reverse.
Use protective equipment for eyes, hands, hearing, feet, legs, head and other areas
of the body if needed — safety eye glasses, gloves, earplugs, boots, hats, etc.
WARNING
Hearing Protection is required for all operator exposure exceeding two (2)
hours.
Carefully practice maneuvering the tractor using the instructions in the following
section “Driving the Tractor.” Practice until you are confident that you can safely
operate the tractor.
Driving the Tractor
WARNING
Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops.
1. Adjust the operator’s seat to the most comfortable position that allows you to
operate the controls. See seat adjustment in the Assembly & Set-Up section.
2. Move the RH and LH drive control levers inward in the neutral position. Refer
to Figure 10.
Control Lever Moved
Inward and in Neutral
Figure 10
NOTE: If the control levers are not even in the neutral position, refer to
Service and Maintenance for instructions to adjust the levers so that they are
even.