Operation - Briggs & Stratton 1696563 Operator's Manual

Operation

Before Operating the Snowthrower
WARNING
Read the operator's manual before operating the
machine. This machine can be dangerous if used
carelessly.
• Never operate the snowthrower without all guards,
covers, and shields in place.
• Stop the engine whenever leaving the operating posi-
tion.
• Remove the key before unclogging the impeller hous-
ing or discharge chute, and before making repairs or
adjustments.
• When leaving the machine, remove the key.
• To reduce the risk of fire, keep the machine clean and
free from spilled fuel, oil, and debris.
• On electric start models, disconnect the extension cord
before operating.
• Be sure to check the engine oil level before starting the
engine. See the engine operator's manual for oil recom-
mendations.
Operating the Snowthrower
DANGER
Amputation hazard
The discharge chute contains a rotating impeller to
throw snow. Fingers can quickly become caught in
the impeller. Never clear or unclog the discharge
chute with your hands. Always use a clean-out tool.
Failure to observe these safety instructions will result
in traumatic amputation or severe laceration.
Hand contact with the rotating impeller inside the dis-
charge chute is the most common cause of injury associ-
ated with snowthrowers. Never use your hands to clean out
the discharge chute.
To safely clear a clogged discharge chute, follow
these instructions:
1. Shut OFF the engine.
2. Wait 10 seconds to be sure the impeller blades have
stopped rotating.
3. Always use a clean-out tool, not your hands.
10
DANGER
Toxic fume hazard
Engines give off carbon monoxide, an odorless, col-
orless, poison gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide can cause nausea, faint-
ing, or death.
• Start and run the engine outdoors.
• Do not run the engine in an enclosed area, even if
doors and windows are open.
WARNING
Thrown objects hazard
This machine is capable of throwing objects that could
injure bystanders, or cause damage to buildings.
Be sure the operating area is clear of bystanders. Never
direct the discharge toward anyone, or toward buildings or
cars.
1. Start the engine. Please refer to the engine operator's
manual for engine information.
2. Rotate the chute rotation crank (C or D, Figure 3) or use
the chute rotation switch (E) to set the direction of the
discharge chute.
3. Models with manual defector adjustment: Loosen the
wingnut securing the chute deflector (I, Figure 3). Raise
the deflector to throw snow further. Set the defector to the
desired position and tighten the wingnut.
Models with in-dash deflector control lever: Use the
deflector control lever (H, Figure 3) to move the deflector
up or down. Raise the deflector to throw snow further.
Models with electric deflector control: Use the deflec-
tor control switch (J, Figure 3) to move the deflector up or
down. Raise the deflector to throw snow further.
4. Use the speed select lever (B, Figure 3) to select the
forward or reverse drive speed. Use lower speeds when
clearing wet, heavy snow. Use higher speeds for light
snow or transporting.
NOTE: Always set engine speed to FAST (full throttle).
5. Fully press the auger control lever (A, Figure 3) to
engage the auger. Release the lever to stop the auger.
6. Fully press and hold the traction control lever / Free Hand
control (F/G, Figure 3) to engage the traction drive and
begin moving the snowthrower. To stop, release the lever.
NOTE: Always release the traction control lever before
changing speeds.
7. On models equipped with Free Hand controls, when both
the auger (A, Figure 3) and traction control levers (F) are
pressed, the Free Hand control is activated. This allows
you to release the auger control lever (A) to use other