Operating Instructions
31
STARTING THE ENGINE
CAUTION
Before operating the mower, read and un-
derstand all Safety Instructions and Operat-
ing Instructions.
WARNING
NEVER run the engine in an enclosed or
poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide, an odorless
and deadly gas.
1. Before attempting to start the engine, make
sure the operator is in the seat, the Forward
Speed Control is in NEUTRAL-PARK position,
the parking brake is ENGAGED, and the blade
clutch is DISENGAGED.
CAUTION
A safety interlock switch system PRE-
VENTS CRANKING the engine with any one
of these three controls in the OPERATING
position: (1) Forward Speed Control out of
neutral, (2) blade clutch (PTO) engaged, or
(3) parking brake disengaged. If the engine
cranks otherwise, the safety system is not
working and should be repaired or ad justed
before operating the mower. DO NOT dis-
connect safety switches; they are for the
operator’s protection.
2. Move the choke lever to the ON position and
move the throttle 1/4 to 1/2 open (toward FAST) .
Turn the ignition switch to the START position
to start the engine. Release the key to ON
(RUN) position as soon as the engine starts.
NOTE: The choke may not be required if the
engine is warm.
IMPORTANT: DO NOT crank the engine con-
tinuously for more than 10 seconds at a time. If
the engine does not start, turn the key to the
OFF position and allow a 60 second cool-down
period between starting attempts. Failure to fol-
low these guidelines can damage the starter
motor and shorten battery life. Consult your
Walker dealer or authorized engine dealer for
additional help.
3. After the engine starts, gradually move the
choke to the OFF position, keeping enough
choke on to allow the engine to run smoothly as
it warms up. As soon as possible, move the
choke to the OFF position.
IMPORTANT: Make sure the choke is in the
OFF position during normal engine operation;
running with the choke in the ON position CAN
damage the engine.
ADJUSTING GROUND SPEED AND STEERING
CAUTION
Learn to START, STOP, and MANEUVER
the mower in a large, open area.
If the operator has not operated a ma chine
with LEVER STEERING OR DUAL HYDRO-
STATIC TRANSMISSIONS, steer ing and
ground operation should be learned and
practiced until the operator is completely
comfortable handling the ma chine BE-
FORE ATTEMPTING TO MOW.
DANGER
Keep feet on footrests at all times when
the machine is moving. Never operate the
tractor without a deck or implement in-
stalled.