Starting the Engine

CAUTION: Avoid Injury! 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.

1. Sit on seat.

2. Make sure mower engagement lever is disengaged.

3. Push down brake pedal.

4. 
   MXT015183-UN-20JUL15

   Check starting conditions:

   If engine is cold:

   • Move throttle lever (A) between the half throttle and fast throttle positions, and move choke lever (B) up to the choke position.
   
   

   If engine is warm:

   • Move throttle lever (A) to the half throttle position, and move choke lever (B) half way up or do not use at all depending on engine temperature.
   
   

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5. IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! 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.
   • Refer to Ignition Interlock System or Sit-on-Seat Diagnostics in this section or the Troubleshooting section if engine will not start.
   
   

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

6. Release key to run position and gradually release choke lever down to the off position when engine starts. If engine does not start:

   1. Wait 10 seconds.

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

   3. Repeat procedure if necessary.

7. IMPORTANT: Avoid damage! 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.