Cub Cadet GT 2554 Operator's Manual page 15

STARTING THE ENGINE
WARNING: For
operator must be sitting in the tractor
seat when starting the engine. Never try
to start the engine while standing on the
ground.
1. Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat.
2. Pull choke control knob to full choke position.
Less choking may be necessary due to variations
in temperature, grade of fuel, etc. Little or no
choking will be needed when the engine is warm.
3. Place the throttle midway between the "SLOW"
and "FAST" position.
4. Place the PTO switch in the "OFF" position.
5. Fully depress the brake pedal.
6. Turn the ignition key clockwise to the "START"
position and release it as soon as the engine
starts. However, do not crank the engine
continuously for more than 10 seconds at a time.
If the engine does not start, allow a 60 second
cool down period between starting attempts.
Failure to follow these guidelines can burn out, or
permanently damage, the starter motor.
NOTE: If the engine develops sufficient speed to dis-
engage the starter but does not keep running, allow the
engine to come to a complete stop before attempting
to restart the engine. If the starter is engaged while the
flywheel is rotating, the starter pinion and the flywheel
ring gear may clash resulting in damage to the starter.
IMPORTANT: If the starter does not turn the engine
over, shut off starter immediately. Do not make further
attempts. Contact your Cub Cadet dealer.
7. After the engine starts, slowly release the brake
pedal. As the engine warms up, gradually push
the choke control knob all the way in. Do not use
the choke to enrich the fuel mixture, except as
necessary to start the engine.
NOTE: Upon start-up, a metallic ticking may occur.
This is caused by hydraulic lifter leakdown. Run the en-
gine for 5 minutes. The noise will normally cease in the
first minute. If noise continues, run the engine at mid-
throttle for 20 minutes. If the noise persists, contact
your Cub Cadet dealer.
personal safety, the
COLD WEATHER STARTING HINTS
WARNING: Engine exhaust gases are
dangerous. Do not run the engine in a
confined area such as a storage building
any longer than is necessary. Immedi-
ately move the tractor outdoors.
1. When starting the engine at temperatures near or
below freezing, ensure the correct viscosity motor
oil is used in the engine and the battery is fully
charged.
2. Disengage all possible external loads.
3. Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm
battery has much more starting capacity than a
cold battery.
4. Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade
gasoline has higher volatility to improve starting.
Do not use gasoline left over from summer.
5. Follow the previous instruction for STARTING
THE ENGINE.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
WARNING: Remove the key from the
ignition switch to prevent accidental
starting or battery discharge if the
equipment is left unattended.
Place the PTO switch in the "OFF" position. Move the
throttle control lever between the "MID" and "FAST"
positions. Wait a moment to allow the engine speed to
stabilize, then turn the ignition key to the "STOP" posi-
tion. Remove the key from the ignition switch.
TRACTOR BREAK-IN PROCEDURE
IMPORTANT: Never operate a new engine immedi-
ately under full load. Break it in carefully as shown in
the table below.
Engine Throttle
Control Lever
Period
1/2
1st hour
X
2nd hour
3rd through
12th hour
15
Position Load
3/4 Full
X None
Light drawbar load
X Mowing with tractor
at slow groundspeed
X Medium drawbar
load
X Normal mowing
or
or