Craftsman C459.60453 Operator's Manual page 15

THROTTLE/CHOKE CONTROL
The throttle/choke control is located on the LH console to
the left of the operator's seat. When set in a given position, a
uniform engine speed will be maintained.
Push the throttle/choke control handle forward to increase
the engine speed. The riding mower is designed to operate
with the throttle/choke control in the FAST
when the riding mower is being driven and the mower deck
is engaged.
Pull the throttle/choke control handle rearward to decrease
the engine speed.
When starting the engine, push the control handle fully
forward into the CHOKE position.
After starting and warming the engine, move the control handle
rearward until you feel it move past the choke detent.
PARKING BRAKE ENGAGEMENT LEVER
The parking brake engagement lever is located on the front/
left of the seat box frame, and is used to engage the parking
brake.
Pull the lever fully upward and to the left; then lower into the
short "J" slot to engage the brake.
Pull the lever up out of the "J" slot and to the right; then lower
completely to disengage the parking brake.
NOTE: If the LH and RH drive control levers are not fully
opened out to each side in the neutral position when engag-
ing the parking brake, the engine will stop. The parking brake
must be placed in the engaged position when starting the
riding mower engine.
OPERATION
GENERAL SAFETY
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15
RECEIVE INSTRUCTION — Entirely read this operator's manual.
Learn to operate this machine SAFELY. Do not risk INJURY or
DEATH. Allow only those who have become competent in its
usage to operate this riding mower.
Before starting the engine or beginning operation, be familiar with
the controls. The operator should be in the operator's seat. The
PTO switch must be in the disengaged position, the parking brake
engaged, and the RH and LH drive control levers moved fully
outward in the neutral position.
Keep all shields in place. Keep away from moving parts.
NO RIDERS! Keep all people and pets a safe distance away.
Look behind and down to both sides of the riding mower before
and while backing up.
DO NOT direct the mower discharge at people.
Avoid slopes where possible. Never operate on slopes greater
than 15°. Slopes with a greater incline present dangerous operat-
ing conditions. Riding mowers can be rolled over.
Before leaving the operator's seat: Shut off the PTO, move
the RH and LH drive control levers fully outward in the neutral
position, engage the parking brake
remove the ignition key. Wait for all movement to stop before
servicing or cleaning.
Operate the drive control levers smoothly and avoid any sudden
movements of the levers when starting and stopping. Keep a firm
grip on the control levers.
Be careful when operating near roadways. Stop the riding mower
motion and wait for vehicles to pass before operating along the
road.
Do not operate the riding mower with the mower deck removed.
Removal of the deck will change the balance of the riding mower,
and could contribute to a riding mower rollover.
Avoid operation on traction surfaces that are unstable; use
extreme caution if the surface is slippery.
Slow down before turning and come to a complete stop before
any zero turn maneuver.
Do not stop the riding mower or park the riding mower over
combustible materials such as dry grass, leaves, debris, etc.
Do not fill the fuel tank when the engine is running or while the
engine is hot. Allow the engine several minutes to cool before
refueling. Tighten the fuel cap securely.
, shut off the engine and