MTD series 780 Operator's Manual page 13

Throttle/ ChokeControl
The throttle control lever is located on the left side
of the tractor's dash panel. This lever controls the
speed of the engine, as well as the choke when it
is pushed all the way forward. When set in a given
position, the throttle will maintain a uniform engine
speed.
IMPORTANT:
When operating the tractor with the
cutting deck engaged, be certain that the throttle
lever is always in the FAST (rabbit) position.
Moving the throttle lever all the way forward
activates the engine's choke control. Activating
the choke control closes the choke plate on the
carburetor and aids in starting the engine.
Refer to Starting The Engine in the Operation
section of this manual for detailed starting
instructions.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is activated to start the engine.
Insert key into the ignition switch and turn clockwise to the
START position. Release the key into the ON position once engine
has fired. See Figure 4-2.
WARNING! Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always disengage PTO, move shift lever
into neutral position, set parking brake, stop engine
and remove key to prevent unintended starting.
IMPORTANT: Prior to operating the tractor, refer to both Safety
Interlock Switches and Starting The Engine in the Operation section
of this manual for detailed instructions regarding the Ignition Switch.
off
On/Lights
Figure 4=2
Shift Lever
The shift lever is located on the left side of the fender and has
three positions, FORWARD, NEUTRAL and REVERSE.The tractor
must not be in motion when the moving shift lever. See Figure
4-3.
IMPORTANT: Never force the shift lever. Doing so may result in
serious damage to the tractor's transmission.
f
4_
REVERSE _
Figure 4=3
BrakePedal
The brake pedal is located on the left side of the lawn tractor,
along the running board. Depress the pedal all the way down to
engage the disc brake and bring the tractor to a complete stop.
NOTE:The pedal must be depressed to start the engine. Refer to
Safety Interlock Switches in the Operation section of this manual.
ParkingBrake
To set the parking brake: Fully depress the
brake pedal. Move the parking brake lever into the
parking brake position. Release the brake pedal to
allow the parking brake to engage.
To release the parking brake: Depress the brake
pedal and the parking brake lever will move out of
the parking brake position on its own. The parking
brake will then be released. Release the brake
pedal.
NOTE:The parking brake must be set if the
operator leaves the seat with the engine running
or the engine will automatically shut off.
SECTION 4 -- CONTROLS & FEATURES
13