MTD 580 Series Operator's Manual page 12

TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE
BLADE
1. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit is
equipped with a rubber boot over the end of the
spark plug wire, make certain the metal cap on
the end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber
boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on
the spark plug.
2. Move throttle control lever all the way forward.
3. If unit is equipped with a primer, prime engine
as instructed in the separate engine manual.
4. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade
control handle and hold it against the upper
handle. See Figure 11.
Depress Blade
Control Handle
Figure 11
5. Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly
until engine reaches start of compression cycle
(rope will pull slightly harder at this point). Let
the rope rewind slowly.
6. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm
stroke. Keep a firm grip on starter handle.
Return it slowly to the rope guide.
7. After engine starts, move throttle control to
desired engine speed. (Mower is designed to be
operated at full throttle.)
NOTE:
If any problems are encountered, refer to
the Trouble Shooting Guide on page 18.
TO STOP ENGINE AND BLADE
1. Release the blade control handle to stop the
engine and blade.
WARNING:
rotate for a few seconds after the engine
is shut off.
2. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine to prevent accidental starting
while equipment is unattended.
The blade continues to
USING YOUR ROTARY MOWER
WARNING:
without either the discharge chute or entire
grass catcher assembly in place.
Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage lawn mower or
engine. Such objects could be accidentally thrown
by the mower in any direction and cause serious
personal injury to the operator and others.
For the best results, do not cut wet grass because it
tends to stick to the underside of the mower, prevent-
ing proper discharge of grass clippings, and could
cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick grass or
wet grass may require a narrower cut. Blade speed
should be adjusted to the condition of the lawn.
For a healthy lawn, never cut more than one-third
of the total length of the grass at any one cutting.
Lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there is
growth.
This mower is designed to be operated at full throttle
to give you the best cut and do the most effective job
of bagging the cut grass.
WARNING:
object, stop the engine. Remove wire from
spark plug, thoroughly inspect the mower
for any damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating the mower.
Extensive vibration of the mower during
operation is an indication of damage. The
unit should be promptly inspected and
repaired.
USING YOUR MULCHER
(Mulching Kit is Optional Equipment)
For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass
because it tends to stick to the underside of the
deck, preventing proper mulching of grass clippings.
New or thick grass may require a narrower cut. The
ground speed should be adjusted to the condition of
the lawn. If mowing has been delayed and the grass
has been allowed to grow in excess of 4", mulching
is not recommended. Mow using the grass bag (if
so equipped) to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4"
maximum before mulching.
12
Never operate your unit
If you strike a foreign