13
OPERATION
The safe operation of this machine is the respon-
sibility of the operator. The operator should be
familiar with the tractor and all attachments that
will be used before starting operation. Refer to
and read safety information on pages 6 through
10.
CONTROLS AND SWITCHES
Know your controls and how to stop tractor, en-
gine and attachments quickly in an emergency.
• Stop tractor by moving steering levers
to neutral position (refer to section on
steering lever operation, page 16-18).
• Stop engine by turning key to “OFF”
position.
• Disengage power to attachments by
moving PTO switch to “OFF” (down)
position.
Operating this unit is not diffi cult once you mas-
ter the use of the controls. We recommend you
equip the tractor with the attachment you will
be using and practice in a fl at open area at a me-
dium throttle setting until you are comfortable
with the controls.
Before operating this machine be sure
the operator-presence safety system
works. The engine should not run
without the operator in the seat if the
PTO switch is on or either steering
lever is in the run position.
Several safety switches are incorporated in the
unit’s design to prevent it from being started out
of neutral or with the PTO engaged. All controls
must be in the “OFF” or neutral position before
the unit can be started. There is a safety switch
under the operator’s seat that will cause the en-
gine to stop should the operator leave the seat
with any control engaged.
PRESTART CHECK LIST
• Place tractor on level surface.
• Check crankcase oil level (refer to “Engine
Manual” for proper level and type of oil
used).
Never attempt to check oil while en-
gine is running.
• Check radiator coolant.
Do not remove radiator cap while en-
gine is hot!
• Remove and clean air intake screen on radia-
tor.
When mowing in dusty conditions,
dry grass or long grass, it may be nec-
essary to remove and clean air intake
on the radiator frequently to prevent
engine overheating.
• Check for grass wrapped around PTO shaft.
When mowing long grass, turn off key and
check for grass wrapped around PTO shaft
every 30 minutes of operation.
Remove fuel solenoid wire to prevent
accidental engine starting before at-
tempting to remove grass from around
PTO shaft.
• Check air cleaner (refer to “Engine Manu-
al”). When mowing in dusty conditions, dry
grass or long grass, it may be necessary to
remove and clean air intake on the air clean-
er.
• Check to be sure engine is free of dirt and
debris.
• Check fuel level. Refer to “Engine Manual”
for correct fuel for your requirements.
Do not fill fuel tank while engine is
running. Allow engine to cool two min-
utes before refueling. If fuel is spilled
do not start engine; avoid creating any
source of ignition until the fuel has
evaporated.
IMPORTANT
CAUTION
CAUTION
WARNING
DANGER
WARNING