Yard-Man 560 Series Operator's Manual page 11

NOTE: Engine may stop with a ratcheting sound. This
sound is the self starter being reactivated/energized for
the next start.
2. Turn safety key 1/4 turn counterclockwise to Lock
position. Remove key and store in a safe place.
WARNING: The blade continues to rotate for
a 3 seconds after the blade control lever is
released.
To De-Energize Self Starter
• Remove spark plug wire from spark plug.
• Turn safety key to RUN position (1/4 turn
clockwise).
• While standing in the operating position, depress
the starter control button fully with the thumb of your
right hand.
• Using your left hand, pull the control handle all the
way toward the upper handle. (Release button and
wait until blade and starter stop rotating).
• Release safety blade control handle (the start
control button will automatically return to the off/up
position).
• Remove safety key.
NOTE: Engine will crank over upon actuating
equipment starting controls, but will not spark if spark
plug wire was removed from spark plug as described
above. Once engine has stopped cranking, self starter
is de-energized.
WARNING: Self Starting System: If these
instructions are not followed, amputation or
severe laceration can result.
• ALWAYS disconnect spark plug, de-energize
starter, lock and remove safety key BEFORE
performing ANY service to the engine or mower.
• DO NOT attempt any maintenance or repairs to the
self starter.
• NEVER assume starter is de-energize, even if key
is in LOCK AND REMOVE position and/or removed
from engine.
• BEFORE removing grass or other debris from
under mower deck; BEFORE changing oil, air filter
or spark plug; BEFORE removing blade for
servicing; BEFORE performing any other service to
engine or mower; BEFORE transporting mower-
ALWAYS DE-ENERGIZE SELF STARTER.
• ALWAYS lock and remove safety key and store in a
safe place until next use. The safety key is
designed and intended to be removed from engine
when not in use. Removing key will prevent
unsupervised or unexpected starting of mower by
children or unsuspecting adults. The safety key
must be in the locked position before it can be
removed.
Using Your Rotary Mower
WARNING: Never operate your unit without
the rear deflector or the grass catcher
assembly in place.
• Be sure the lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage lawn mower or
engine. Such objects could be accidentally thrown
by the mower in any direction and cause serious
personal injury to the operator and others.
• For best results, do not cut wet grass because it
tends to stick to the underside of the mower,
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings, and
could cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick
grass or wet grass may require a narrower cut.
• For a healthy lawn, never cut more than one-third of
the length of the grass at any one cutting. Lawn
should be cut in the fall as long as there is growth.
• For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass
because it tends to stick to the underside of the
deck, preventing proper mulching of grass
clippings. New or thick grass may require a
narrower cut. The ground speed should be
adjusted to the condition of the lawn. If mowing has
been delayed and the grass has been allowed to
grow in excess of 4", mulching is not
recommended. Mow using the grass bag (if so
equipped) to reduce the grass height to 3-1/4"
maximum before mulching.
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object, stop
the engine. Remove wire from spark plug and
de-energize starter, thoroughly inspect the
mower for any damage, and repair the
damage before restarting and operating the
mower. Excessive vibration of the mower
during operation is an indication of damage.
The unit should be promptly inspected and
repaired.
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