– the speed change is activated (see 4.22) or
the drive pedal (see 4.32) with the parking
brake on.
5.3 PRELIMINARY OPERATIONS BEFORE
STARTING WORK
Before starting to operate, it is necessary to
carry out several checks and operations to en-
sure you can work efficiently and in maximum
safety.
5.3.1 Seat adjustment (Fig. 5.1)
The seat is sliding and adjustable in six different
positions.
Adjustment is made by lifting the handle (1) and
sliding the seat until it is locked in the required
position.
5.3.2 Tyre pressure (Fig. 5.2)
Having the right tyre pressure is the main condi-
tion for ensuring that the cutting-means assem-
bly is horizontal and mows evenly.
Unscrew the valve caps and connect a com-
pressed air line with a gauge to the valves and
adjust the pressure to the indicated values.
5.3.3 Filling with oil and fuel
NOTE The type of oil and fuel to use is given
in the engine manual.
With the engine off, check the oil level. Accord-
ing to the instructions in the engine manual, this
must be between the MIN and MAX marks on
the dipstick. Fig. 5.3)
Refuel using a funnel, but do not completely fill
the tank. Fig. 5.4)
DANGER!
Refuelling should be carried
out in an open or well-ventilated area with
engine stopped. Always remember that pet-
rol fumes are inflammable. DO NOT TAKE A
NAKED FLAME TO THE TANK'S OPENING
IN ORDER TO SEE THE TANK'S CONTENTS
AND DO NOT SMOKE WHEN REFUELLING.
IMPORTANT Do not drip petrol onto the plas-
tic parts to avoid ruining them. In the event of ac-
cidental leaks, rinse immediately with water. The
warranty does not cover for damage to plastic
parts of the bodywork or the engine caused by
petrol.
5.3.4 Fitting the discharge guards (grass
catcher or rear discharge guard)
WARNING!
out having fitted the discharge guards!
Fasten the grass catcher (1) onto the supports
(2) and centre it up with the rear plate, so that
the two reference marks (3) coincide.
Make sure that the lower pipe of the grass
catcher opening is attached to the pawl (4). Fig.
5.5)
If the hook is difficult or too loose, adjust the re-
turn spring (see 6.3.7).
If you decide to work without the grass catcher,
a rear discharge guard kit is available upon re-
quest (see 8.1). This has to be attached to the
rear plate as indicated in the instructions. Fig.
5.6)
5.3.5 Checking machine safety and
efficiency
1. Check that the safety devices function as de-
scribed (see 5.2).
2. Check that the brake is in perfect working
order.
3. Do not start mowing if the cutting means
vibrate or if you are unsure whether they are
sharp enough. Always remember that:
– A badly sharpened cutting means pulls
at the grass and causes the lawn to turn
yellow.
– A loose cutting means causes abnormal
vibrations and can be dangerous.
WARNING!
you are unsure whether it is working safely
or efficiently. If in doubt, contact your Dealer
immediately to make the necessary checks
or repairs.
5.4 USING THE MACHINE
5.4.1 Ignition
To start the engine (Fig. 5.7):
– open the fuel stopcock (1) ( if fitted);
– put the transmission into neutral («N») (see
4.32);
– disengage the cutting means (see 4.9);
– apply the parking brake on sloping ground;
– when cold starting, engage the choke (see
4.2) (if foreseen) or move the accelerator lever
to the «CHOKE» position (see 4.3) indicated
on the label;
– if the engine is already warm, just put the lever
between «SLOW» and «FAST»;
EN - 11
Never use the machine with-
Do not use the machine if