Starting Engine; Stopping Engine - Cub Cadet 18M Operator's Manual

Starting Engine

Refer to the separate engine manual packed with
your unit.
NOTE: Some models are equipped with an automatic
choke.
1. If equipped, pull out the choke knob located on the left
side of the upper handle, Figure 4-2.
For models without a manual choke, proceed to step
2.
NOTE: Use of the choke may not be necessary if the
engine is warm or the air temperature is high.
2. Standing behind the mower, squeeze and hold the
blade control against upper handle, Figure 4-2.
3. Grasp the starter handle as shown and pull slowly until
resistance is felt, then pull rapidly to start engine and
avoid kickback. Return it slowly to the rope guide.
IMPORTANT: Do not allow the recoil starter to snap back
against the rope guide.
4. As the engine warms, slowly push in the choke knob,
if equipped. See Figure 4-2.

Stopping Engine

1. Release blade control handle to stop the engine and
the blade.
2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug and
ground against the engine.
WARNING: The blade continues to
rotate for a few seconds after the engine
is shut off.
Using Your Lawn Mower
WARNING: Never operate your mower
without either the rear door or the entire
grass catcher assembly firmly secured.
Be sure the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or other
objects which could damage the lawn mower or the
engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by the
mower in any direction and cause serious personal injury
to the operator and others.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove wire from
the spark plug, thoroughly inspect the
mower for any damage, and repair the
damage before restarting and operating
the mower. Extensive vibration of the
mower during operation is an indication
of damage. The unit should be promptly
inspected and repaired.
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Figure 4-2 Models with manual choke only.
Operating Tips
1. For best results and effective mulching, do not cut
wet grass.
2. New grass, thick grass, or wet grass may require a
narrower cut.
3. For a healthier lawn, never cut off more than one-
third of the total length of the grass.
4. Your lawn should be cut in the fall as long as there
is growth.
5. Adjust ground speed according to condition of lawn.
6. If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of 4
inches, mulching is not recommended. Mow using
the grass catcher to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4
inches or less before mulching.
WARNING: Wait for the blade to stop
completely before doing any work
on the mower or to remove the grass
catcher.
NOTE: To operate your unit using the grass catcher,
mulcher or optional side discharge refer to page 6.
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Operating
Your Lawn
Mower
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1
WARNING
The operation of any
lawn mower can result
in foreign objects
being thrown into
the eyes, which can
damage your eyes
severely. Always wear
safety glasses while
operating the mower,
or while performing
any adjustments or
repairs on it.
Be sure no one other
than the operator is
standing near the lawn
mower while starting
engine or operating
mower. Never run
engine indoors or
in enclosed, poorly
ventilated areas. En-
gine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly
gas. Keep hands, feet,
hair and loose clothing
away from any moving
parts on engine and
lawn mower.
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