Use and Care Manual

Section 5 — operation 17
Starting the Engine
WARNING! This tractor is equipped with a safety
interlock system designed for the protection of the
operator. Do not operate the tractor if any part of the
system is malfunctioning. Periodically check the
function of the interlock system for proper operation.
WARNING! For personal safety, the operator must
be sitting in the tractor seat when starting the
engine.
NOTE: Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual for oil fill-up
instructions and refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section for
gasoline fill-up instructions.
1. Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat.
2. Engage the parking brake by pressing forward on the brake
pedal , then press down on the parking break/cruise
control lever and then release the brake pedal . Refer to
Figure 5-1.
Brake Pedal
Parking Brake/Cruise Control Lever
Figure 5-1
3. Make certain the PTO switch is in the disengaged (down)
position. Refer to Figure 5-1.
4. Move the throttle/choke control (if equipped) into the
CHOKE position.
NOTE: If the engine is warmed up, it may not be necessary to
CHOKE the engine.
5. Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position.
After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the
run position.
CAUTION: Do NOT hold the key in the START
position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing
so may cause damage to your engine’s electric
starter.
6. As the engine warms up, gradually pull the throttle/choke
control lever (if equipped) rearward past the choke detent
position or push the choke knob (if equipped) down into
the OFF position.
NOTE: Do NOT leave the throttle/choke control in the CHOKE
position while operating the tractor. Doing so will result
in a “rich” fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly.
7. Allow the engine to run for a few minutes at mid throttle
before putting the engine under load.
8. Observe the hour meter/indicator panel. If the battery indicator
light or oil pressure light come on, immediately stop the engine.
Have the tractor inspected by your Cub Cadet dealer.
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 disengaged position.
2. Engage the parking brake.
3. Move the throttle/choke control 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.