Before First Time Operation; Checks Before Starting; Starting The Engine; Stopping The Zero-Turn Riding Mower - Ferris IS700Z Series Operator's Manual

Before First Time Operation

• Be sure to read all information in the Safety and
Operation sections before attempting to operate this
tractor and mower.
• Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop
the unit.
• Drive in an open area without mowing to become
accustomed to the unit.
WARNING
• Never operate on slopes greater than 15°.
• Select slow ground speed before driving onto a slope.
Use extra caution when operating on slopes with a rear-
mounted grass catcher.
• Avoid turning down slopes; if possible turn up slopes.
Use caution when changing direction on slopes and do
NOT start or stop on a slope.
WARNING
• Never allow passengers to ride on the unit.
• Before leaving the operator's position for any reason,
engage the parking brake, disengage the PTO, stop the
engine and remove the key.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine, rider and
mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease.
Do NOT stop or park rider over dry leaves, grass or
combustible materials.
• Fuel is highly flammable and must be handled with
care. Never fill the tank when the engine is still hot from
recent operation. Do NOT allow open flame, smoking or
matches in the area. Avoid over-filling and wipe up any
spills.
WARNING
Do NOT load this zero-turn rider on a trailer or truck using
two separate ramps. Only use a single ramp that is at least
one foot wider than the width of the rear wheels of this rider.
This rider has a zero turning radius and the rear wheels
could fall off the ramps, or the rider could tip over injuring
the operator or bystanders.

Checks Before Starting

• Check that the crankcase is filled to the full mark on
the crankcase oil fill and dipstick. If necessary, add oil
through the engine oil fill. See the engine operator's
manual for instructions, engine oil dipstick location, and
oil recommendations.
20
• Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins are in place
and tight.
• Adjust the seat position and make certain you can reach
all the controls from operator's position.
• Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel. Refer to engine operator's
manual for fuel recommendations.
• Check the hydraulic oil level.

Starting the Engine

WARNING
• If you do not understand how a specific control
functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the
FEATURES AND CONTROLS section, do so now.
• Do NOT attempt to operate the unit without first
becoming familiar with the location and function of all
controls.
1. While sitting in the operator's seat, engage the parking
brake, make sure the PTO switch is disengaged, and
the ground speed control levers are locked in the neutral
position.
2. A warm engine may not require choking. Set the
engine throttle control to FAST throttle position. Then fully
close the choke by pulling the knob OUT fully.
3. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to
START.
4. After the engine starts, gradually open the choke (push
knob down fully). Reduce to half throttle speed and allow
engine to warm. Warm up the engine by running it for at
least a minute before engaging the PTO switch or driving
the unit.
5. After warming the engine always operate the unit at FULL
throttle when mowing.
In the event of an emergency the engine can be stopped
by simply turning the ignition switch to OFF. Use this
method only in emergency situations. For normal engine shut
down follow the procedure given in Stopping the Zero-Turn
Riding Mower.

Stopping the Zero-Turn Riding Mower

1. Drive the unit to a flat, level surface and return the ground
speed control levers to the middle position to stop the
unit's 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 switch to OFF. Remove the key.

Zero-Turn Riding Mower Driving Practice

Before attempting to drive the zero-turn riding mower make
sure you have read the FEATURES AND CONTROLS
ferrismowers.com