Note: A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most effective
when mixed with fresh gasoline. To minimize the
chance of varnish deposits in the fuel system, use fuel
stabilizer at all times.
Filling the Fuel Tank
Note: Do not fill the fuel tank completely full. Fill the
fuel tank to the bottom of the filler neck. The empty
space in the tank allows the gasoline to expand.
1. Park the machine on level ground.
2. Shut the engine off and set the parking brake.
3. Clean around the fuel tank cap.
4. Fill the fuel tank to the bottom of the filler neck.
Ensure there is empty space in the tank to allow the
gasoline to expand (Figure 7).
1
3
2
4
5
G012429
Figure 7
Checking the Engine Oil Level
Before you start the engine and use the machine, check
the oil level in the engine crankcase; refer to Checking
the Engine Oil Level.
Breaking In a New Machine
New engines take time to develop full power. Mower
decks and drive systems have higher friction when new,
placing additional load on the engine. Allow 40 to 50
hours of break-in time for new machines to develop full
power and best performance.
Using the Rollover Protection
System (ROPS)
WARNING
To avoid injury or death from rollover: keep the
roll bar in the fully raised locked position and use
the seat belt.
Ensure that the rear part of the seat is secured with
G009189
the seat latch.
WARNING
There is no rollover protection when the roll bar
is in the down position.
• Lower the roll bar only when absolutely
necessary.
• Do not wear the seat belt when the roll bar is
in the down position.
• Drive slowly and carefully.
• Raise the roll bar as soon as clearance permits.
• Check carefully for overhead clearances (i.e.
branches, doorways, electrical wires) before
driving under any objects and do not contact
them.
Important: Lower the roll bar only when
absolutely necessary.
Important: Ensure that the rear part of the seat is
secured with the seat latch.
1. To lower the roll bar, apply forward pressure to the
upper part of the roll bar.
2. Pull both knobs out and rotate them 90° so they are
not engaged (Figure 8).
3. Lower the roll bar to the down position (Figure 8).
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