Operation - MTD 31A-2M1A729 Operator's Manual

Operation
BeforeStarting
_ WARNING! Read, understand and follow all the
instructions and warnings on the machine and in
this manual before operating.
1. The spark plug wire was disconnected for safety. Attach the
spark plug wire to the spark plug before starting.
Starting the Engine
1. To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, make sure the
engine is outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
2. Insert the key into the slot. See Fig. 5-1.
Figure 5-1
NOTE: Do not attempt to turn the key. Doing so may cause
it to break.
3. Move the choke lever to the CHOKE I_1 position (cold
engine start).
4. If the engine is warm, place the choke in the RUN I _ I
position instead of CHOKE
I -I.
5. Push the primer five (5) times, making sure to cover the
vent hole when pushing.
6. If the engine is warm, push the primer button only once.
NOTE:Always cover the vent hole in the primer button
when pushing. Additional priming may be necessary for
the first start if the temperature is below 15° F.
7. Grasp the starter handle and pull the rope out slowly, until
it pulls slightly harder. Let the rope rewind slowly.
8. Pull the starter handle rapidly. Do not allow the handle to
snap back. Allow it to rewind slowly while keeping a firm
hold on the handle.
9_
As the engine warms up and begins to operate evenly, slide
the choke lever slowly to the 1/2-choke(mid-way between
RUNI _ land CHOKEI_kl)position. When the engine
begins to run smoothly, move the choke to the RUN I _ I
position. If the engine falters, return to CHOKEI_IKI, then
slowly move to 1/2-chokethen the RUNI _ I position.
Stopping the Engine
1. Run the engine for a few minutes before stopping to help
dry off any moisture on the engine.
2. To stop the engine remove the key and store it in a safe
place.
3. Wipe all the snow and moisture from the area around the
engine.
_ ARNING!
Muffler, engine and surrounding areas
become hot and can cause a burn. Be careful and do
not touch when they are hot.
Engaging the Auger
Engage the auger by squeezing the auger control against the
upper handle. Release the control to stop the auger.
Engaging the Drive
Lift up slightly on the handle to allow the rubber paddles on the
auger to contact the pavement and propel the snow thrower
forward. Pushing downward on the handle will raise the auger
offthe ground and stop the forward motion.
NOTE: Excessive upward pressure on the handle will result
in premature wear on the rubber auger blades which are
not be covered by the warranty.
Clearinga CloggedDischarge Chute
Hand contact with the rotating impeller inside the discharge
chute is the most common cause of injury associated with snow
throwers. Never use your hand to clean out the discharge chute.
To clear the chute:
1. SHUTTHE ENGINE OFF!
2. Wait 10 seconds to be sure the impeller blades have
stopped rotating.
3. Always use a clean-out tool, not your hands.