Starting the Engine

1. IMPORTANT: Hydrostatic transmission might be damaged if the bypass rod is not pushed back to operating position before attempting to start the engine. Do not start or operate the machine with the bypass rod in the push position.

   Make sure bypass rod is pushed in.

2. CAUTION: Engine exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide and can cause serious illness or death.

   Do not run an engine in an enclosed area, such as a garage, even with doors or windows opened.

   Move the machine to an outside area before running the engine.

   Sit in seat.

3. Make sure mower is disengaged. (See Engaging and Disengaging Mower in the OPERATING section.)

4. 
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   For Single Lever

   
   GXAL42101-UN-04MAR13

   For Double Lever

   Depress brake pedal fully and lift lock handle (A) to lock park brake.

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5. Check starting conditions:

   • If engine is cold, move throttle lever (C) to full throttle and move choke lever (B) up to the choke position.
   • If engine is warm, move throttle lever (C) to the half-speed position.
   
   

6. IMPORTANT: Starter may be damaged if starter is operated for more than 20 seconds at a time:

   • Wait two minutes before trying again if engine does not start.
   
   

   Turn key (D) to start position for no more than five seconds.

7. Release key to run position when engine starts, gradually move the choke lever to off, and move the throttle lever to half-speed position.

   • If engine does not start, wait 10 seconds.
   • Turn key to start position again for no longer than 5 seconds.
   • Repeat procedure if necessary.
   
   

8. IMPORTANT: Unnecessary engine idling may cause engine damage. Excessive idling can cause engine overheating, carbon build-up, and poor performance.

   Let engine run at half-speed position for a couple of minutes to warm-up before operating machine.