Zero Turn Riding Mower Operator's Manual
12
SECTION 5: OPERATION
BEFORE OPERATING
1. Study this manual carefully. It has been provided to help you safely operate and maintain this unit.
2. Familiarize yourself with all instruments and controls.
3. Fill the fuel tank according to the MAINTENTANCE section.
4. Check the engine oil level as instructed in the separate engine manual.
5. Check the hydraulic oil level as instructed in the MAINTENANCE section.
6. Clean the air filter, if necessary, as instructed in the separate engine manual.
7. Check the rear tires for proper inflation pressure. See tire side wall for proper inflation.
8. Adjust the seat for maximum operator comfort, visibility and control.
9. Remove grass and debris from the engine area.
OPERATING GUIDELINES
• Keep all shields in place and keep away from moving parts.
• NO RIDERS! Keep children and pets away from unit during operation.
• Always look back before backing.
• Don't point the discharge at people.
• Avoid slopes. This unit can roll over. Use the SLOPE GAUGE to determine safe operating areas.
• Before leaving the seat, disengage the PTO (down), engage the parking brake and turn ignition switch to
OFF.
• Do not fill gasoline tank when engine is running or while the engine is hot.
STOPPING THE Z-SERIES
1. Bring the tractor to a stop by pulling the drive handles to the neutral position.
2. Disengage the PTO (down).
3. Push down on the brake pedal and hold.
4. Push down on the parking brake pedal to lock engagement. (See Figure 8)
5. Move the throttle lever to the slowest position (toward turtle).
6. Turn the ignition to the OFF position.
7. Remove the key.
WARNING: Always remove the key from the ignition switch to avoid accidental starting.
STARTING THE ENGINE
The Z-series is equipped with a safety interlock-system with the following features:
• The engine will not crank or start without the brake pedal fully engaged and the PTO disengaged (down).
• If the operator dismounts the tractor with the PTO in the RUN position, or the parking brake disengaged, it
automatically shuts the engine off.
WARNING: During operation do not run the engine in confined areas such as storage buildings any
longer than necessary. Immediately move the tractor outside into open air.