Cub Cadet Z-Force S 48 Z-Force S 48 Operator's Manual - Page 16

Starting the Engine WARNING! This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system designed for the protection of the operator. Do not operate the tractor if any part of the interlock system is malfunctioning. Periodically check the functions of the interlock system for proper operation. WARNING! For personal safety, the operator must be sitting in the tractor seat when starting the engine. NOTE: Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual for oil fill-up instructions and refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section for gasoline fill-up instructions. 1. Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat. 2. Engage the parking brake. Refer to Figure 5-1. Engage the Parking Brake Figure 5-1 3. Make certain the PTO switch is in the disengaged (down) position. Refer to Figure 5-1. 4. Pull the choke control upward into the full choke position NOTE: If the engine is warmed up, it may not be necessary to place the throttle control in the choke position. 5. Move the throttle control to midway between its SLOW and FAST positions. 6. Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position. After the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the NORMAL MOWING position. CAUTION: Do NOT hold the key in the START position for longer than ten seconds at a time. Doing so may cause damage to your engine's electric starter. 7. After the engine starts, deactivate the choke control. NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while operating the tractor. Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel mixture and cause the engine to run poorly. 8. Allow the engine to run for a few minutes at mid throttle before putting the engine under load. 9. Observe the hour meter/indicator panel. If the battery indicator light or oil pressure light come on, immediately stop the engine. Have the tractor inspected by your Cub Cadet dealer. Cold Weather Starting When starting the engine at temperatures near or below freezing, ensure the correct viscosity motor oil is used in the engine and the battery is fully charged. Start the engine as follows: 1. Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm battery has much more starting capacity than a cold battery. 2. Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade gasoline has higher volatility to improve starting. Do not use gasoline left over from summer. 3. Follow the previous instruction for Starting the Engine. Using Jumper Cables To Start Engine WARNING! Batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce explosive gasses. Make certain the area is well ventilated, wear gloves and eye protection, and avoid sparks or flames near the battery. If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the engine, recharge the battery. If a battery charger is unavailable and the tractor must be started, the aid of a booster battery will be necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows: 1. Connect the end of one cable to the disabled tractor battery's positive terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the booster battery's positive terminal. 2. Connect one end of the other cable to the booster battery's negative terminal; then connect the other end of that cable to the frame of the disabled tractor, as far from the battery as possible. 3. Start the disabled tractor following the normal starting instructions previously provided; then disconnect the jumper cables in the exact reverse order of their connection. 4. Have the tractor's electrical system checked and repaired as soon as possible to eliminate the need for jump starting. Stopping the Engine 1. Place the PTO switch in the "OFF" position. 2. Engage the parking brake. 3. Move the throttle control to the SLOW position and allow the engine to idle for about one minute. 4. Turn the ignition key to the "OFF" position and remove the key from the ignition switch. NOTE: Always remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent accidental starting or battery discharge if the equipment is left unattended. 16 Section 5- Operation