Cub Cadet SC 500 z SC 500 z Operator's Manual - Page 14

Operation Starting Engine WARNING: Be sure no one other than the operator is standing near the lawn mower while starting engine or operating mower. Never run engine indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and loose clothing away from any moving parts on engine and lawn mower. Refer to engine manual for help with the engine. 1. Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade control against upper handle. See Figure 5-1. 2. Pull the starter grip lightly until resistance is felt, then pull rapidly to overcome compression, prevent kickback and start engine. Repeat if necessary. IMPORTANT: Do not allow the starter grip to snap back against the engine. Return it gently to prevent damage to the starter. Stopping Engine 1. Release blade control to stop the engine and blade. WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop completely before performing any work on the mower or to remove the grass catcher. Using Your Lawn Mower Be sure lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other objects which could damage lawn mower or engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury to the operator and others. 1. Once the engine is running and while continuing to hold the blade control down, squeeze the drive control against the upper handle to propel mower. 2. To change speed, move speed control to the desired speed. See Figure 5-2. NOTE: When selecting a drive speed, use the first speed until you are comfortable and familiar with the operation of the mower. IMPORTANT: If you are shifting speeds while the mower is stationary it may be difficult to shift into first speed under certain conditions. This is easily remedied by briefly engaging the drive lever. WARNING: The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear safety glasses while operating the mower, or while performing any adjustments or repairs on it. 5 1 2 Figure 5-1 Figure 5-2 NOTE: Your mower is equipped with an advanced internal drive system for ease of use and smooth shifting. When turning or pulling the unit rearward, you may notice higher than normal resistance in the rear wheels under certain conditions. This is perfectly normal and can be remedied by allowing the unit to roll forward slightly without the drive lever(s) engaged before pulling backwards. 14