Checks Before Starting; Starting The Engine; Stopping The Rider; Zero-Turn Driving Practice - Ferris 5900832 Operator's Manual

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.
• Mow across the face of slopes, not up and down, 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.
• 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 manual for
fuel recommendations.
• Check the hydraulic oil level.
14

Starting the Engine

WARNING
• If you do not understand how a specific control functions,
or have not yet thoroughly read the Features & Controls
section, do so now.
• Do NOT attempt to operate the tractor without first
becoming familiar with the location and function of all
controls.
1. While sitting in the operator's seat, engage the parking brake
and 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 atleast a
minute before engaging the PTO switch or driving the rider.
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 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.
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