Operation - Husqvarna W548 Operator's Manual

OPERATION

Read the Safety section and following pages, if
you are unfamiliar with the machine.
Training
Due to unique steering capabilities, zero turn
mowers are far more maneuverable than typical
mowers.
Review this section fully prior to trying to move the
mower under its own power. When first operating
the mower or until becoming comfortable with
controls, use a reduced throttle speed and
reduced ground speed. DO NOT move control
levers to the furthest forward or reverse positions
during initial operation.
First time users must become familiar with the
mower's movement on a hard surface, such as
concrete or asphalt PRIOR to trying to operate
on turf.
Steering
The direction and speed of the mower's
movements are effected by the movement of the
control lever(s) on each side of mower.
First time users must push the mower (see
Moving Machine By Hand in the Operation
section) to an open, flat area without other
persons, vehicles or obstacles nearby.
To move forward and back
Slowly move the two control levers forward
slightly. This will let the mower start moving
forward in a straight line. Release the control
levers back to the neutral position and stop the
mower from moving.
Pull back slightly on control levers, letting the
mower move backwards. Release the control
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levers to the neutral position to stop the mower
from moving.
To turn to the right
While moving in a forward direction, pull the right
lever back towards the neutral position while
maintaining the position of the left lever, this will
slow the rotation of the right wheel and cause the
machine to turn in that direction.
To turn to the left
While moving in a forward direction pull the left
lever back towards the neutral position while
maintaining the position of the right lever, this will
slow the rotation of the left wheel and cause the
machine to turn in that direction.
To zero turn
While moving in a forward direction, first pull the
two control levers back until the mower stops or
slows significantly. By moving one lever slightly
forward and the other in the reverse, complete
the turn.
Warning! Make sure the work area is
free from objects that could be thrown by the
rotating blades. Clean the lawn of stones and
other objects.
Before Starting
1. Read the sections on Safety and Controls
before starting the machine.
2. Do the daily maintenance before starting (see
Maintenance Schedule in the Maintenance
section).
3. Check that there is sufficient fuel in the fuel
tank.
4. Adjust the mower deck to the desired
cutting height. See Cutting Height in the
Maintenance section.
Warning! The engine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide, which is a odorless,
colorless, poisonous gas. Do not use the
machine in enclosed spaces.
Starting the Engine
1. Adjust the safety bar halfway back and tighten
the speed adjustment lock for moderate a
mowing speed.
2. Engage the park brake.
3. Disengage the mower blades by pressing the
blade switch down.
4. Move the throttle lever to the mid throttle
position. If the engine is cold, the choke
control should be pulled up.