Stopping The Rider; Zero-Turn Driving Practice - Ferris IS5100Z Series Operator's Manual

5. After the engine starts, move the engine throttle control to
SLOW. Warm up the engine by running it for at least a
minute.
6. Move the throttle to FULL before engaging the PTO switch
or driving the machine.
In the event of an emergency the engine can be stopped
by simply turning the ignition switch to STOP. Use this
method only in emergency situations. For normal engine shut
down follow the procedure given in Stopping the Rider .

Stopping the Rider

1. Returning the ground speed control levers to the middle
position will stop rider movement. Pivot the levers outward
and lock them in NEUTRAL.
2. Disengage the PTO by pushing down on the PTO switch.
3. Engage the parking brake by pulling the handle up until it
locks into position.
4. Move the throttle control to mid-throttle position and turn
the ignition key to OFF. Remove the key.

Zero-Turn Driving Practice

The lever controls of the Zero Turn rider are responsive, and
learning to gain a smooth and efficient control of the rider's
forward, reverse, and turning movements will take some
practice.
Spending some time going through the maneuvers shown and
becoming familiar with how the unit accelerates, travels, and
steers — before you begin mowing —is absolutely essential to
getting the most out of the Zero Turn rider.
Locate a smooth, flat area of your lawn — one with plenty of
room to maneuver. (Clear the area of objects, people and
animals before you begin.) Operate the unit at mid-throttle during
this practice session (ALWAYS operate at full throttle when
mowing), and turn slowly to prevent tire slippage and damage
to your lawn.
We suggest you begin with the Smooth Travel procedure to the
right, and then advance through the forward, reverse, and
turning maneuvers.
You must release the parking brake prior to moving the control
levers inward.
Smooth Travel
The lever controls of the Zero Turn rider are responsive.
The BEST method of handling the ground speed control levers
is in three steps — as shown in Figure 11.
18
11
FIRST place your hands onto the levers as shown.
SECOND, to go forward gradually push the levers forward with
your palms.
THIRD, to speed up move the levers farther forward. To slow
down smoothly, slowly move the levers toward neutral.
Basic Driving
Forward Travel Practice
12
Gradually move both ground speed control levers — evenly
FORWARD from neutral. Slow down and repeat.
NOTE: Straight forward travel takes practice. If necessary, top
speed can be balance-adjusted — see the Speed Balancing
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