Cub Cadet RZT 50 Operator's Manual page 36

Operating Instructions
Also read the operating instructions of the equipment this
engine powers.
Pre-Start Checklist
• Check oil level. Add oil if low. Do not overfill.
• Check fuel level. Add fuel if low.
• Check cooling air intake areas and external
surfaces of engine. Make sure they are clean and
unobstructed.
• Check that the air cleaner components and all
shrouds, equipment covers, and guards are in
place and securely fastened.
• Check that any clutches or transmissions are
disengaged or placed in neutral. This is especially
important on equipment with hydrostatic drive.
The shift lever must be exactly in neutral to
prevent resistance which could keep the engine
from starting.
WARNING: Lethal Exhaust Gases!
Engine exhaust gases contain poisonous carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless, and can cause death if
inhaled. Avoid inhaling exhaust fumes, and never run the
engine in a closed building or confined area.
Cold Weather Starting Hints
1. Be sure to use the proper oil for the temperature
expected. See Figure 2 on page 4.
2. Declutch all possible external loads.
3. Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm
battery has much more starting capacity than a
cold battery.
4. Use fresh winter grade fuel. NOTE: Winter grade
gasoline has higher volatility to improve
starting. Do not use gasoline left over from
summer.
Starting
1. Place the throttle control midway between the
"slow" and "fast" positions. Place the choke
control into the "on" position.
2. Start the engine by activating the key switch.
Release the switch as soon as the engine starts.
NOTE: Do not crank the engine continuously for
more than 10 seconds at a time. If the engine
does not start, allow a 60 second cool down
period between starting attempts. Failure to
follow these guidelines can burn out the
starter motor.
6
NOTE: If the engine develops sufficient speed to
disengage the starter but does not keep
running (a false start), engine rotation must
be allowed to come to a complete stop before
attempting to restart the engine.
If the starter is engaged while the flywheel is rotating,
the starter pinion and flywheel ring gear may clash,
resulting in damage to the starter.
If the starter does not turn the engine over, shut off
starter immediately. Do not make further attempts to
start the engine until the condition is corrected. Do not
jump start using another battery (refer to "Battery").
See your Kohler Engine Service Dealer for service
assistance.
3. For a Cold Engine – Gradually return the choke
control to the "off" position after the engine
starts and warms up.
The engine/equipment may be operated during
the warm-up period, but it may be necessary to
leave the choke partially on until the engine
warms up.
4. For a Warm Engine – Return choke to "off"
position as soon as engine starts.
Stopping
1. Remove the load by disengaging all PTO driven
attachments.
2. For Engines without a Shutdown Solenoid:
Move the throttle to the ''slow'' or ''low'' idle
position. Allow the engine to run at idle for 30-60
seconds; then stop the engine.
For Engines Equipped with a Shutdown
Solenoid: Position the throttle control between
half and full throttle; then stop the engine.
Battery
A 12 volt battery is normally used. Refer to the
operating instructions of the equipment this engine
powers for specific battery requirements.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the
engine, recharge the battery.
Operating
Angle of Operation
This engine will operate continuously at angles up to
25°. Check oil level to assure crankcase oil level is at
the "FULL" or "F" mark on the dipstick.