Starting The Engine; Stopping The Engine - MTD 12AE46JA001 Operator's Manual

Check 0il Level
NOTE: Be sure to check the engine on a level surface with the
engine stopped.
1. Remove the oil filler cap and wipe the dipstick clean. See
Fig. 9-2.
Oil Fill Cap/
Dipstick
Figure 9-2
2.
3.
4.
Insert the dipstick into the oil filler neck, but do not screw
itin.
If the level is low, slowly add oil to the upper limit on the
dipstick. See Fig. 9-2 inset.
Tighten dipstick firmly before starting engine.
NOTE: Do not overfill. Overfilling with oil may cause
smoking, hard starting, spark plug fouling, or oil saturation
of air cleaner.
Fuel Recommendations
2.
Use automotive gasoline (unleaded or low leaded to minimize
combustion chamber deposits) with a minimum of 87 octane,
o
Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol or 15 _ MTBE (Methyl Tertiary 3.
Butyl Ether) can be used. Never use an oil/gasoline mixture, dirty
gasoline, or gasoline over 30 days old. Avoid getting dirt, dust, or
water in the fuel tank. DO NOT USE E85 GASOLINE.
WARNING: Gasoline is extremely flammable and is
explosive under certain conditions. Refuel in a well-
ventilated area with the engine stopped. Do not
smoke or allow flames or sparks in the area where
the engine is refueled or where gasoline is stored.
Avoid repeated or prolonged contact with skin or
breathing of va pot.
WARNING: Do not overfill the fuel tank (there
should be no fuel in the filler neck). After refueling,
make sure the tank cap is closed properly and
securely. Be careful not to spill fuel when refueling.
Spilled fuel or fuel vapor may ignite. If any fuel is
spilled, make sure the area is dry before starting the
engine.
Check Fuel Level
1. Clean around fuel fill before removing cap to fuel.
2. Fill tank to approximately 1-inch below lowest portion of
neck to allow for fuel expansion. Be careful not to overfill.
NOTE: Before refueling, allow engine to cool 2 minutes.
StartingTheEngine
_ ARNING: Always keep hands and feet clear of
equipment moving parts. Do not use a pressurized
starting fluid. Vapors are flammable.
1. Push primer 3 times. Wait about two seconds between
each push. See Fig. 9-3. In temperature below 50°F, prime
5 times. After the engine is warmed up, one prime may be
needed for all temperatures.
(
Figure 9-3
Standing behind the mower, squeeze and hold the blade
control against upper handle.
Recoil Start: Pull the recoil starter lightly until resistance
is felt, then pull rapidly to overcome compression, prevent
kickback, and start the engine. Repeat if necessary. See Fig.
9-3.
NOTE: Do not allow the recoil starter to snap back against
the rope guide.
Electric Start: Turn ignition key to the right to start the
engine. Release the key after the engine starts. See Fig. 9-3.
If engine does not start, it may be necessary to re-prime
the engine.
Stopping TheEngine
1. Release the blade control.
SECTION 9 -- OPERATION
23