Operation; Before First Time Operation; Checks Before Starting; Starting The Engine - Ferris 300S Series Operator's Manual

Operation

Before First Time Operation

• Be sure to read all information in the OPERATOR
SAFETY and OPERATION sections before attempting to
operate this unit.
• 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 10 degrees.
• 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 and zero-turn
riding mower free of grass, leaves, and excess grease.
Do NOT stop or park unit over dry leaves, grass or
combustible materials.
• Fuel is highly flammable and must be handled with
care. Do NOT remove the fuel cap(s) or add fuel with
the engine running or while hot. 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 riding mower 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
unit. This unit has a zero turning radius and the rear wheels
could fall off the ramps, or the unit 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.
• Make sure that all nuts, bolts, screws, and pins are in
place and tight.
• Adjust the seat position and make certain you can reach
all of the controls from the operator's position.
• Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel. Refer to the engine
operator's manual for fuel recommendations.
• Models with 52" Mower Decks: 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, make sure that the
PTO switch is disengaged and the ground speed control
levers are locked in the START/PARK position.
Note: The parking brake is automatically engaged when the
ground speed control levers are locked in the START/PARK
position.
2. Set the throttle control to the FAST position.
Note: This engine is equipped with a ReadyStart® feature
and does not require a manual choke lever.
3. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to
START.
4. After the engine starts, reduce to half throttle speed and
allow the 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 the
FAST throttle position 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 (NEUTRAL) position
to stop the unit's movement. Pivot the levers outward
to lock them in the START/PARK position. This action
automatically engages the parking brake.
2. Disengage the PTO by pushing down on the PTO
switch. Move the throttle control to the SLOW position
and turn the ignition switch to OFF. Remove the key.
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