Pre-Start Check List
Make the following checks and perform the service required
before each start-up.
1. Check the guards, deflectors, grass bag, and covers to
make sure all are in place and securely tightened.
2. Check the blade control (A, Figure 1) and wheel drive
control (B) to insure they work freely.
B
Figure 1: Mower controls
3. Check the cutting height. Adjust to the desired height.
Refer to the Section 'Cutting Height Adjustment'.
4. Check the engine oil and add oil as needed to bring the
level up to the full mark (A, Figure 2). Refer to the
Engine Owner's Manual for oil specifications.
A
Figure 2: Checking engine oil
5. Add fuel to the tank after pushing the mower outside
where fumes can safely dissipate. Fill the tank to 1-1/2
inches below the top of the filler neck (to allow for fuel
expansion). Make sure the cap is tightened after fueling.
Refer to the Engine Owners Manual for fuel
specifications.
6. Clean the exterior surfaces of the cutting deck and
engine of any accumulation of spilled fuel, dirt, grass,
oil, etc. Keep the engine air intake screen and cooling
fins clear at all times.
Starting and Operation
Engine and Blade
1. Pull the blade control (A, Figure 3) against the handle.
2. Start the mower:
Manual Start Models: Pull the rope start handle (B)
to crank the engine.
Electric Start Models: Insert the key (C) into the
ignition switch (D), located on the right side of the
handle above the rope guide. Turn the key to crank
the engine.
3. After the engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until the
A
engine runs smooth before beginning mower operation.
NOTE: To stop the engine (and blade), release the blade
control.
B
D
Figure 3: Starting the mower
A
C
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