Starting the Engine

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

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

   Do not run an engine in an enclosed area without adequate ventilation.

   • Connect a pipe extension to the engine exhaust pipe to direct the exhaust fumes out of the area.

   • Allow fresh outside air into the work area to clear the exhaust fumes out.

   NOTE: Engine will not start unless park brake is applied and mower is disengaged.

   Sit on seat.

2. Make sure mower /PTO engagement switch is disengaged.

3. Push down brake pedal.

4. 
   MXAL46366-UN-05APR13

   Adjust throttle setting:
   • If engine is cold, move throttle lever (A) between the half throttle and fast throttle positions.
   • If engine is warm, move throttle lever (A) to slow throttle position.
   
   

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5. Adjust choke setting:

   • If engine is cold, push and hold choke lever (B) all the way up to the choke position.
   • If engine is warm, push and hold choke lever (B) half way up or do not use at all depending on engine temperature.
   
   

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 (C) to start position for no more than 5 seconds.

7. Release key to run position and release choke lever when engine starts. If engine does not start:

   1. Wait 10 seconds.

   2. Hold choke lever in the choke position.

   3. Turn key to start position again for no longer than 5 seconds. Release key and choke lever when engine starts.

   4. 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.

   Run engine at half throttle for 30-60 seconds to allow warm-up before operating.