starting motor. Release key when engine starts.
IMPORTANT: The engine starter should not be operated for periods
longer than 30 seconds at a time. An interval of at least two minutes should
be allowed between such cranking periods to protect the starter from
overheating and burn-out.
6. Perform test to make sure safety start interlock system is operating
properly. Refer to Safety start interlock system section.
7. As soon as engine begins to run, check to make certain the oil
warning light, check engine light and alternator warning light (if
applicable) are off. If not, stop engine immediately and check for
the cause.
8. Allow the engine to idle a few minutes before advancing the throttle
and/or engaging the deck clutch.
9. Before stopping the engine, place the control levers in the park brake
position, disengage the deck clutch, and throttle back to low idle for
a couple of minutes; then rotate ignition key counter-clockwise to
the OFF position. Remove the key from switch before leaving the
tractor.
Stopping the engine
Use the following procedure to shut off the engine after operating the
equipment.
1. Place the control levers in the park brake position
2. Disengage the deck clutch
3. Throttle back to low idle for a couple of minutes
4. Rotate ignition key counter-clockwise to the OFF position. Remove
the key from switch before leaving the tractor.
Moving tractor with stalled engine
If it becomes necessary to move the tractor when the engine is
inoperative, the transaxles are equipped with bypass valves. Before moving
the unit, pull out on the bypass valve rods and slide them into the slot to
lock in position.
Both bypass valve rods are located underneath the rear of the tractor at
the back of the transaxle. (Fig. 3-5)
The control levers must be placed in the neutral position, to release the
park brakes, so that the tractor can be moved.
Do not tow the machine. Move it by hand or use a winch to load on a
trailer for transporting.
When transporting on another vehicle, the tractor must be secured.
IMPORTANT: Always make certain the two bypass valves are
returned to their operating position before running the tractor following
repairs.
WARNING: Allow engine exhaust manifold to cool before
engaging or disengaging the bypass valves. The bypass valve
rods are located close to the exhaust system.
Driving the tractor
DANGER: Never make sudden stops or reverse direction,
especially when maneuvering on a slope. The steering is
designed for sensitive response. Rapid movement of the
control levers in either direction could result in a reaction of
the tractor that can cause serious injury.
After starting engine, engage the control levers and steer as follows:
To go forward, push control levers forward an equal distance (Fig. 3-6).
To go in reverse, pull control levers rearward an equal distance (Fig. 3-
6).
To turn left, move the right control lever farther forward from neutral
than the left control lever.(Fig. 3-6)
To turn right, move the left control lever farther forward from neutral
than the right control lever. (Fig. 3-6)
To pivot turn, move one control lever forward and the other control
lever back of neutral. This will allow the drive wheels to counter-rotate.
(Fig. 3-6)
To stop or decrease speed, move control levers to neutral. When going
forward pull back gently on control levers. When going in reverse push
forward gently on control levers.
To make a three point turn to the right, move the left control lever
farther forward from neutral than the right control lever and start the turn.
Next, pull back on the control levers until they are past neutral and the
machine starts to go rearward. Pull right control lever farther rearward
from neutral than the left control lever until the rear of the machine has
pivoted around. Then, push the control levers forward until they are both
past neutral and the machine starts to go forward. Push the left control
lever farther forward from neutral than the right control lever and finish the
turn. (Fig. 3-8)
DANGER: When moving in the rearward direction push
forward gently on control levers and avoid sudden
movement. Any sudden movement could cause the front of
the mower to come off of the ground resulting in possible
loss of control.
IMPORTANT: Rapid movement of control levers is not recommended
as damage to the hydraulic system components may occur.
To increase speed, increase control lever’s distance from neutral. The
farther forward control levers are from neutral, the faster tractor will travel
forward. The farther back control levers are from neutral, the faster tractor
will go in reverse.
Operating suggestions
DANGER: Prior to operating the tractor the operator should
be thoroughly familiar with the proper use and operation of
the equipment, should read the manual completely and
thoroughly, and should have attempted slow moving
maneuvers to become familiar with the operation of the
equipment before attempting normal speed operation. An
inexperienced operator should not mow on slopes or on
uneven terrain.
WARNING: If you lose steering control while operating
the machine, place the steering control levers in the park
brake position immediately. Inspect the machine and
involve your Hustler dealer to resolve the problem before
continuing to operate.
WARNING: The unit’s control levers are very responsive:
Easy does it! For smooth operation, move lever slowly,
avoid sudden movement. Skill and ease of operation come
with practice and experience. The machine can spin very
rapidly. Use caution when making turns and slow down
before making sharp turns.
Inexperienced operators may have a tendency to oversteer and lose
control. Slow-moving practice maneuvers are recommended to become
107708_0306
12
Figure 3-5
Slot
Bypass valve rod
(Left rod shown)
(viewed from the rear left underneath side)