Poulan PO14538LT User Manual - Page 11

OPERATION TO MOVE FORWARD AND BACKWARD (See Fig. 8) The direction and speed of movement is controlled by the gearshift lever (J). J Fig. 8 1. Start tractor with clutch/brake pedal depressed and gearshift lever in neutral position. 2. Move gearshift lever to desired position. 3. Slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement. IMPORTANT: Bring tractor to a complete stop before shifting or changing gears. Failure to do so will shorten the useful life of your transaxle. TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT (See Fig. 9) The position of the attachment lift lever (A) determines the cutting height. REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM (ROS) (See Fig. 10) Your tractor is equipped with a Reverse Operation System (ROS). Any attempt by the operator to travel in the reverse direction with the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine unless ignition key is placed in the ROS "ON" position. WARNING: Backing up with the attachment clutch engaged while mowing is strongly discouraged. Turning the ROS "ON", to allow reverse operation with the attachment clutch engaged, should only be done when the operator decides it is necessary to reposition the machine with the attachment engaged. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. USING THE REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM - Only use if you are certain no children or other bystanders will enter the mowing area. • Depress clutch/brake pedal all the way down and hold. • With engine running, turn ignition key counterclockwise to ROS "ON" position. • Look down and behind before backing. • Move gear shift lever to reverse (R) position and slowly release clutch/brake pedal to start movement. • When use of the ROS is no longer needed, turn the ignition key clockwise to engine "ON" position. A Fig. 9 • Put attachment lift lever in desired cutting height slot. The cutting height range is approximately 1" to 4". The heights are measured from the ground to the blade tip with the engine not running. These heights are approximate and may vary depending upon soil conditions, height of grass and types of grass being mowed. • The average lawn should be cut to approximately 2-1/2" during the cool season and to over 3" during hot months. For healthier and better looking lawns, mow often and after moderate growth. • For best cutting performance, grass over 6" in height should be mowed twice. Make the first cut relatively high; the second to desired height. ROS "ON" POSITION 02828 ENGINE "ON" POSITION (NORMAL OPERATING) Fig. 10 TO OPERATE MOWER Your tractor is equipped with an operator presence sensing switch. Any attempt by the operator to leave the seat with the engine running and the attachment clutch engaged will shut off the engine. You must remain fully and centrally positioned in the seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or cutting off when operating your equipment on rough, rolling terrain or hills. • Select desired height of cut (see "TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT") • Start mower blades by engaging attachment clutch control. 11