Stiga EL 380 Operator's Manual page 38

4. CONTROLS
• Switch control
The motor is controlled by a dual-action switch to prevent
accidental start ups.
Press the button and pull the lever, or one of the two levers
for start up (Fig. 5).
• Cutting height adjustment
By lowering or raising the chassis the grass can be cut at
different heights. (Fig. 6)
IMPORTANT This operation must be carried out when the
cutting device is stationary.
5. USING THE MACHINE
IMPORTANT For instructions regarding the engine and the
battery (if supplied), read the relevant manual.
5.1. PRELIMINARY PROCEDURES
Place the machine in a stable horizontal position on the ground.
• Preparing the machine before starting work
IMPORTANT Carry out this operation with the cutting de-
vice stationary.
With this machine, it is possible to mow the lawn in several ways:
• Setting up for cutting the grass and collecting it in the
grass catcher (Fig. 7)
• Setting up for cutting and rear grass discharge onto the
ground (Fig. 8)
• Setting up for cutting and shredding the grass ('mulching'
function) (Fig. 9)
5.2. SAFETY CHECKS
• Check the integrity and correct assembly of all machine
components;
• Make sure that all fasteners are tightened correctly;
• Keep every surface of the machine clean and dry.
Action
1. Start the machine.
2. Release the switch control.
1. Start the machine.
2. Engage the drive lever.
3. Disengage the drive lever.
1. Test drive.
If any of the results fail to match the indications
provided in the tables, do not use the machine!
Contact a service centre to have it checked and
repaired if necessary.
5.3. START-UP AND WORK
NOTE Start the machine on a level surface free from obsta-
Result
1. The cutting means should
move.
2. The levers must return to the
neutral position automatically
and quickly, the engine must
switch off and the cutting
device must stop within a few
seconds.
2. The machine moves forward.
3. The machine comes to a
standstill.
1. No abnormal vibrations.
No abnormal sound.
cles or grass.
Start the machine as shown in (Fig. 10).
IMPORTANT Always maintain a safe distance from the cut-
ting device while working, corresponding to the length of the
handle.
Emptying the grass catcher
1. Release the switch lever and wait for the cutting device
to stop.
2. Lift the rear discharge guard, take hold of the handle and
remove the grass catcher by holding it in an upright position.
5.4. STOP
At the end of the work, release the switch control (Fig. 11).
In models with the electric cable, disconnect the extension
cable from the main socket FIRST and THEN from the switch
side of the lawnmower.
When you have stopped the machine, it will take
a few seconds for the cutting means to stop.
5.5. AFTER OPERATION
• Cleaning procedure (Par. 6.1).
• If necessary, replace the damaged components and tighten
any loose screws and bolts.
Whenever you leave the machine unused or unattended:
• Disconnect the machine from the mains (for models with
electric cable).
6. MAINTENANCE
The safety regulations to follow are described in chap. 1. Strictly
comply with these indications to avoid serious risks or dangers.
Before conducting any inspections, cleaning or maintenance/
adjustment interventions on the machine:
• Stop the machine.
• Make sure that every moving component has come to
a standstill.
• Disconnect the machine from the mains (for models with
electric cable).
• Use suitable clothing, protective gloves and goggles.
6.1. CLEANING
Clean thoroughly following the instructions below every time
it is used.
• Do not spray water onto the motor and electrical
components and prevent them from getting wet.
• Remove grass debris and mud accumulated inside the
chassis.
• Always make sure the air intakes are free of debris.
• Do not use aggressive liquids to clean the chassis.
• To reduce the risk of fire, keep the engine free of grass
mulch, leaves or excessive grease.
6.2. CUTTING MEANS MAINTENANCE
Do not touch the cutting device until the safety
key has been removed and the cutting device is
completely stationary. Be careful because the
cutting device can move even if the key has been
removed (for battery models).
EN - 4