Operation - Craftsman C459-60116 Operator's Manual

SAfeTY INTerlOCk SWITCHeS
This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system for the protection
of the operator. If the interlock system should ever malfunction, do not
operate the tractor. Contact a Sears or other qualified service dealer.
• The safety interlock system prevents the engine from cranking or
starting unless the parking brake is engaged, and the PTO (Blade
Engage) knob is in the disengaged (OFF) position.
• The engine will automatically shut off if the operator leaves the
seat before engaging the parking brake.
• The electric PTO (Blade Engage) clutch will automatically shut
off if the operator leaves the tractor's seat with the PTO (Blade
Engage) knob in the engaged (ON) position, regardless of
whether the parking brake is engaged.
• With the ignition key in the NORMAL MOWING position, the
electric PTO (Blade Engage) clutch will automatically shut off if
the PTO (Blade Engage) knob is moved into the engaged (ON)
position with the drive pedal in position for reverse travel.
WArNINg
Do not operate the tractor if the interlock system is malfunctioning.
This system was designed for your safety and protection.
STArTINg THe eNgINe
NOTE: Refer to the Assembly & Set-Up section of this manual for
Gasoline and Oil fill-up instructions.
1. Insert the tractor key into the ignition switch module.
2. Place the PTO (Blade Engage) knob in the disengaged (OFF)
positio .
3. Engage the tractor's parking brake.
4. Activate the choke control by moving the throttle/choke control all
the way forward into the choke position.
5. Turn the ignition key clockwise to the START position. After
the engine starts, release the key. It will return to the NORMAL
MOWING position.
CAUTION
Do NOT hold the key in the START position for longer than ten
seconds at a time. Doing so may cause damage to your engine's
electric starter.
6. After the engine starts, deactivate the choke control.
NOTE: Do NOT leave the choke control on while operating the tractor.
Doing so will result in a "rich" fuel mixture and cause the engine to run
poorly.

OPERATION

STOppINg THe eNgINe
If you strike a foreign object, stop the engine and disconnect the
spark plug wire(s). Thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage.
Repair the damage before restarting and operating.
1. If the blades are engaged, place the PTO/Blade Engage knob in
the disengaged (OFF) position.
2. Place the throttle control near the SLOW position.
3. Turn the ignition key counterclockwise to the STOP position.
4. Remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent unintended
starting.
DrIVINg THe TrACTOr
Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed and sudden stops.
Lightly press the brake pedal to release the parking brake. Move the
throttle lever into the FAST (rabbit) position.
1. To travel FORWARD, slowly press the drive pedal forward until
the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 7.
2. To travel in REVERSE, check that the area behind is clear then
slowly depress the reverse pedal with the ball of your foot (NOT
your heel) until the desired speed is achieved. See Figure 7.
Do NOT attempt to change the direction of travel when the tractor is
in motion. Always bring the tractor to a complete stop before moving
from forward to reverse or vice versa.
Do not leave the seat of the tractor without first placing the PTO/
Blade Engage knob in the disengaged (OFF) position and engaging
the parking brake. If leaving the tractor unattended, also turn the
engine off and remove the ignition key.
16
WArNINg
WArNINg
Drive Pedal
Reverse Pedal
Figure 7
CAUTION
WArNINg