Starting the Engine

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.

1. Sit on operator seat. Do not start engine at this time.

2. Push down on accelerator pedal to check free movement of pedal assembly. Release pedal.

3. NOTE: The machine has a neutral start safety switch. The engine will not start unless the transaxle shift lever is in N (Neutral) position.

   Verify that transaxle shift lever is in N (Neutral) position.

4. Verify that park brake is locked.

5. CAUTION: Do not start engine by shorting across starter terminals. Bypassing normal circuitry will allow vehicle to start in gear.

   Do not use starting fluid to aid engine starting.

   Never start engine while standing on ground. Start engine only from operator’s seat.

   Turn ignition key switch to the RUN position.

6. Check that indicator lights turn on briefly:

   • All indicators on the instrument panel display.
   • Steering malfunction light (machines with electric power assist).
   • Check that the oil pressure indicator remains on.
   • Other indicators may also remain on while starting.
   
   

7. Turn ignition key switch to START position.

8. IMPORTANT: Starter may be damaged if operated continuously for extended periods of time. Allow starter to cool down after several starting attempts.

   Release ignition key switch to the RUN position when engine starts.

   • If engine does not start within five seconds, turn ignition key switch to STOP position and wait ten seconds before trying to start again.
   • In very cold conditions, attempt starting engine three times only, then wait 5 minutes before trying again. This will allow time for starter to cool and prevent damage to starter.
   
   

9. IMPORTANT: Do not operate the engine at full throttle or under load until engine has warmed up, or engine damage could occur.

   Run engine at half speed for 2 or 3 minutes to warm the engine.