Section 9: Operation; Gas And Oil Fill-Up - Yard Machines 580 Series Operator's Manual

Drive Clutch Control
Squeeze the drive clutch control against the upper handle of the mower to engage the drive mechanism and
move the wheels. Release the drive clutch control to slow down the mower when negotiating an obstacle,
making a turn, or stopping the mower.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter rope is attached to the handle. Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter to start the
unit.
Blade Control Handle
WARNING: This control mechanism is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operations.
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle of the mower. See Figure 12. The blade control
handle must be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release the blade control handle to stop the engine
and blade.
WARNING: The blade will be rotating whenever the engine is running.
Throttle Control
(Optional)
Your lawn mower may be equipped with one of three types of throttle controls described below. Follow
instructions which pertain to your unit.
1. The throttle control is located on the left side of the upper handle. It is used to regulate the engine speed.
2. The throttle control is located on the engine. It is used to regulate the engine speed.
3. The mower engine is equipped with a constant speed throttle, which is set at full throttle for best
performance.
WARNING: The throttle control cannot be used to stop the engine. Also if your mower's throttle
control is located on the engine, do not adjust the throttle control while the engine is running.
Primer
(If equipped)
The primer is located on the engine as shown in Figure 12 and is used to pump gas into the carburetor. Use it
to start a cold engine, but do not use it to restart a warm engine after short shutdown.
Height Adjustment Lever
The height adjustment lever is located on each wheel and is used to adjust the cutting height. See Figure 12.
All four levers have to be put at the same level for uniform cutting height.

SECTION 9: OPERATION

WARNING: Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting deck. Refer to warning label
in Figure 2.
The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes, which can
result in severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields. We recommend wide vision
safety mask for over spectacles or standard safety glasses.

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

• Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine manual packed with your
mower. Read instructions carefully.
WARNING: Never fill fuel tank indoors, with engine running or until the engine has been allowed to
cool for at least two minutes after running.
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