Operation; Safety System Tests - Craftsman C950-52123-0 Owner's Manual

OPERATION

BEFORE OPERATING SNOWTHROWER
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Check the fasteners. Make sure all fasteners are tight.
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Read this Operator's Manual and Operator Safety before op-
erating your snowthrower. Compare the illustrations with your
snowthrower to familiarize yourself with the location of vari-
ous controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future ref-
erence.
WARNING: The operation of any snowthrower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields before beginning snowthrower operation. We recommend
standard safety glasses or Wide Vision Safety Mask over spectacles.

SAFETY SYSTEM TESTS

WARNING
Amputation Hazard
This snowthrower is equipped with several mechanical safety
systems designed to keep the operator safe while using the unit.
Check the operation of these systems regularly using the safety
system tests listed. If the unit fails to operate as described, DO NOT
operate it. See your authorized dealer for service immediately.
Test 1 – Auger/Impeller Control
With the engine running:
• Press down on the auger control lever. (The auger/impeller
should rotate.)
• Release the auger control lever. (The auger/impeller should
stop within 5 seconds.)
Test 2 – Traction Drive Control
With the engine running and speed control in 1st gear:
• Press down on the traction control lever. (The unit should
move forward.)
• Release the traction control lever. (The unit should stop.)
OPERATE THE SNOWTHROWER
The most effective use of the snow thrower will be established by
experience, taking into consideration the terrain, wind conditions,
and building location which will determine the direction of the dis-
charge chute.
NOTICE: Do not throw snow toward a building as hidden objects
could be thrown with sufficient force to cause damage.
1. Start the engine. See "To Start Engine" in this section.
2. Rotate the crank (D, Figure 2) to set the direction (left or right)
of the discharge chute.
3. Adjust the snow chute deflector. Loosen the wing nut (E) on
the side of the snow chute and raise the chute deflector for
more distance, or lower it for less distance. Then tighten the
wing nut.
NOTE: This snowthrower was shipped WITH OIL in the
engine. See "Before Starting Engine" instructions in the
Operation section of this manual before starting engine.
CAUTION: Before operating, make sure the area in front
of the snowthrower is clear of bystanders or obstacles.
NOTE: Always release the traction control lever before moving
the speed select lever.
4. Use the speed select lever (A) to select the forward drive
speed. Set the speed select lever to one of the following posi-
tions as determined by snow conditions:
1-2 Wet, Heavy, Slushy, Extra Deep
3 Moderate
4-5 Very Light
6 Transport
NOTE: When clearing wet, heavy, snow, it is recommended that
the ground speed of the unit be reduced, maintain full throttle,
and do not attempt to clear the full width of the unit.
5. Engage the auger control lever (B).
DOWN Engage Position
UP Disengage Position
6. Engage the traction control lever (C). As the snowthrower
starts to move, maintain a firm hold on the handles and guide
the snow thrower along the cutting path. Do not attempt to
push the snow thrower.
7. To stop forward motion, release the traction control lever.
8. To stop the auger, release the auger control lever.
9. To move the snowthrower backwards, move the speed select
lever into first or second reverse (R1 or R2), and engage the trac-
tion control lever.
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