3. With both drive pedals in the neutral position and the
parking brake engaged, engage the PTO. Lift upward from
the operator's seat; the engine should stop.
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 interlock system is
malfunctioning. Periodically check the functions of the
interlock system for proper operation.
The operator should be sitting in the tractor seat when
starting the engine.
NOTE: Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual for gasoline and oil
fill-up instructions.
1. Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat.
2. Make certain the PTO is in the "OFF" position. Move the choke
control or throttle/choke control into the full choke position.
Move the throttle control to midway between its slow and
fast positions on models with a separate choke control.
3. Engage the parking brake by placing drive control pedals in
neutral, pushing the park brake lever to the right out of the
"off" position (a) and pulling the lever back until it locks into
the "on" position (b) (Figure 19).
a
b
Figure 19
4. Make certain the PTO switch is in the disengaged
(down) position.
5. Move the throttle control to midway between its SLOW and
FAST positions.
6. Move the choke control into the CHOKE position (if equipped).
NOTE: If the engine is warmed up, it may not be necessary to
choke the engine.
7. Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position.
After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the
NORMAL MOWING MODE position.
CAUTION
OPERATION
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.
8. As the engine warms up, gradually push the choke
control downward.
NOTE: Do not leave the 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.
9. Allow the engine to run for a few minutes at mid-throttle
before putting the engine under load.
10. Observe the hour meter and LCD service minder
(if equipped). If the battery indicator light or oil pressure
light come on, immediately stop the engine. Have the tractor
inspected by your authorized 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
Batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce explosive
gases. 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 one end of the red 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 black 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.
18
CAUTION
WARNING