Cub Cadet Z Force S 54 Z-Force S 48 Operator's Manual - Page 17

Driving The Tractor WARNING! Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops. 1. Release the parking brake. Move the throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position. 2. To travel FORWARD, slowly press the drive pedal forward until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 5-2. Travel Forward Travel in Reverse Reverse Caution Mode The REVERSE CAUTION MODE position of the key switch module allows the tractor to be operated in reverse with the blades (PTO) engaged. NOTE: Mowing in reverse is not recommended. WARNING! Use extreme caution while operating the tractor in the REVERSE CAUTION MODE. Always look down and behind before and while backing. Do not operate the tractor when children or others are around. Stop the tractor immediately if someone enters the area. To use the REVERSE CAUTION MODE: NOTE: The operator MUST be seated in the tractor seat. 1. Start the engine as previously instructed on the previous page. 2. Turn the key from the NORMAL MOWING (Green) position to the REVERSE CAUTION MODE (Yellow) position of the key switch module. See Figure 5-3. Indicator Light Stop Position Reverse Push Button Reverse Caution Mode Position Figure 5-2 3. To stop or slow down the tractor, take your foot off of the forward or reverse drive pedal. To lock the parking brake, pull the lever fully rearward and to the right; then into the short "J" slot to engage the brake. Pull the lever up out of the "J" slot and to the left; then completely forward to disengage the parking brake. NOTE: The forward and reverse pedals must not be used when the brake is partially engaged. When the brake is locked in the "J" the drive belt is disengaged but if the brake is only part way back then the brakes are engaged but so is the drive belt so transmission damage will occur if you push forward or reverse. 4. To travel in REVERSE, check that the area behind is clear then slowly reverse pedal with the ball of your foot (NOT your heel) until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 5-2. CAUTION: Do NOT attempt to change the direction of travel when the tractor is in motion. Always bring the tractor to a complete stop before moving the tractor from forward to reverse or vice versa. WARNING! Do not leave the seat of the tractor without first placing the PTO/Blade Engage knob in the disengaged (OFF) position and engaging the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the engine off and remove the ignition key. Start Position Figure 5-3 3. Press the REVERSE PUSH BUTTON (Orange, Triangular Button) at the top, right corner of the key switch module. The red indicator light at the top, left corner of the key switch module will be ON while activated. See Figure 5-3. 4. Once activated (indicator light ON), the tractor can be driven in reverse with the cutting blades (PTO) engaged. 5. Always look down and behind before and while backing to make sure no children are around. After resuming forward motion, return the key to the NORMAL MOWING position. The REVERSE CAUTION MODE will remain activated until: a. The key is placed in either the NORMAL MOWING position or STOP position or b. The operator leaves the seat. Section 5 - Operation 17