Honda BF40A Owner's Manual page 40

OPERATION
N (neutral)
SHIFT LEVER
2. Check the position of the gearshift
lever. It must be in the N (neutral)
position for starting.
The engine will not start if the
gearshift lever is in the F (forward)
or R (reverse) position.
38
THROTTLE GRIP
3. Align the engine start symbol
'' '' on the tiller handle with the
pointer '' '' on the throttle grip.
START
POSITION
OFF
POINTER
4. Turn the ignition switch key to the
START position and hold it there
until the engine starts.
When the engine starts, release the
key, allowing it to return to the ON
position.
If the engine fails to start within 5
seconds, release the key and wait
at least 10 seconds before
operating the starter again.
ON
START
IGNITION SWITCH KEY