Operation; Before First Time Operation; Checks Before Starting; Starting The Engine - Ferris Voyager FS5250 Series Operator's Manual

Operation

Before First Time Operation

• Be sure to read all information in the Operator
Safety and Operation sections before attempting to
operate this unit.
• Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop
the unit.
• Drive in an open area without operating the spreader and/
or sprayer to become accustomed to the unit.
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 14 degrees.
• Select slow ground speed before driving onto a slope.
Use extra caution when operating on slopes with any
accessories attached to the unit.
• Operate across 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 platform for any reason,
engage the parking brake, and turn off spreader and
sprayer functions.
• Fuel is highly flammable and must be handled with
care. Never fill the tank when the engine is hot from
recent operation. Do NOT allow open flame, smoking,
or matches in the area. Avoid over-filling and wipe up
any spills.

Checks Before Starting

• Fill the fuel tank to the bottom of the filler neck with fresh
fuel. This will allow for fuel expansion. Do not overfill.
Refer to the engine manual for fuel recommendations. Do
not add oil to the gasoline.
• Understand the controls, their locations, their functions,
and their safety requirements.
• Refer to Maintenance, Storage, and Safety section to
learn how to perform all the necessary inspection and
maintenance steps.

Starting the Engine

WARNING
Read the operator's manual before attempting to operate
this unit.
• If you do not understand how a specific control
functions, or have not thoroughly read the Features and
Controls section, do so now.
• Do NOT attempt to operate the unit without first
becoming familiar with the location and function of all
controls.
1. While standing on the operator's platform, engage the
parking brake, make sure that the spreader/sprayer
controls are turned OFF, and that the ground speed
control levers are in the NEUTRAL position.
2. A warm engine may not require choking. Set the
engine throttle control to the FAST throttle position and
then fully close the choke
3. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn to
START. If the engine does not start after five (5) seconds,
turn the ignition switch to OFF, and refer to the engine
owner's manual.
4. After the engine starts, gradually open the choke. Reduce
the engine throttle speed to half and allow the engine to
warm.
Warm up the engine by running it for at least a minute
before attempting to drive the unit or engage the
spreader/sprayer functions.
5. Disengage the parking brake before driving the unit.
In the event of an emergency the engine can be stopped
by simply turning the ignition switch to OFF. Use this
method only in emergency situations. For normal engine shut
down follow the procedure given in Stopping the Unit.

Stopping the Unit

1. Turn off the spreader/sprayer function controls.
2. Drive the unit to a flat, level surface.
3. Allow the ground speed control levers to return to the
NEUTRAL position. This will stop the movement of the
rider.
4. Engage the parking brake by pressing down the parking
brake pedal with your foot.
5. Move the engine throttle control lever to the SLOW
position and then turn the ignition key to the OFF position.
Remove the ignition key.

Driving the Unit

Read the Features and Controls section and understand the
location and function of all of the unit's controls before driving
the unit.
Keep both feet on the operator platform at all times.
The ground speed control levers of this unit are responsive.
Learning to gain a smooth and efficient control of the unit's
forward, reverse, and turning movements will take some
practice.
Practicing the maneuvers shown and becoming familiar with
how the unit accelerates, travels, and steers before you begin
spreading or spraying is essential to getting the most out of
your unit.
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, and turn slowly to prevent tire
slippage and damage to your lawn.
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