Driving The Tractor - Cub Cadet TANK SZ 54 Operator's Manual

Cold Weather Starting
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. Start the engine as follows:
1. Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm battery
has much more starting capacity than a cold battery.
2. Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade gasoline has
higher volatility to improve starting. Do not use gasoline
left over from summer.
3. Follow the previous instruction for Starting the Engine.
Using Jumper Cables To Start Engine
WARNING!
Batteries contain sulfuric acid and
produce explosive gasses. Make certain the area is
well ventilated, wear gloves and eye protection, and
avoid sparks or flames near the battery.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the engine,
recharge the battery. If a battery charger is unavailable and
the tractor must be started, the aid of a booster battery will be
necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows:
1. Connect the end of one cable to the disabled machine
battery's positive terminal; then connect the other end of
that cable to the booster battery's positive terminal.
2. Connect one end of the other cable to the booster battery's
negative terminal; then connect the other end of that cable
to the frame of the disabled tractor, as far from the battery
as possible.
3. Start the disabled tractor following the normal starting
instructions previously provided; then disconnect the
jumper cables in the exact reverse order of their connection.
4. Have the tractor's electrical system checked and repaired
as soon as possible to eliminate the need for jump starting.
Stopping the Engine
1. Place the PTO knob in the disengaged position.
2. Move the speed control pedals to the neutral position.
3. Engage the parking brake.
4. Move the throttle control to midway between the SLOW
and FAST positions.
5. Turn the ignition key to the STOP
the key from the ignition switch.
NOTE: Always remove the key from the ignition switch to prevent
accidental starting or battery discharge if the equipment is left
unattended.
Practice Operation (Initial Use)
Operating a zero-turn tractor is not like operating a conventional
type riding tractor. Although and because a zero turn tractor is
more maneuverable, getting used to operating the speed control
pedals and the steering wheel takes some practice.
It is strongly recommend that you locate a reasonably large,
level and open "practice area" where there are no obstructions,
pedestrians, or animals. You should practice operating the
tractor for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Carefully move (or have moved) the tractor to the practice area.
When performing the practice session, the PTO knob should not
be engaged. While practicing, operate the tractor at approximately
1⁄2-3⁄ 4 throttle and at less than full speed in both forward and reverse.
Always wear appropriate clothing and personal protection
equipment (e.g. safety glasses, long pants, gloves, hearing
protection, safety shoes, hard hat) when operating or
maintaining this machine. Follow all federal, state and local
guidelines regarding the use of personal protective equipment.
Carefully practice maneuvering the machine using the instructions
in the following section "Driving the Tractor." Practice until you are
confident that you can safely operate the tractor.

Driving the Tractor

1.
2.
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position and remove
7.
Ensure that the area is free of animals and bystanders,
especially children!
Survey the area where the equipment is to be used to make
sure it is free of debris, sticks, stones, wires, bones, and other
foreign objects which could cause injury to bystanders,
damage to the machine, or damage to nearby facilities.
WARNING!
Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed
and sudden stops.
Adjust the operator's seat to the most comfortable position
that allows you to operate the controls. Refer to the Assembly
& Set-Up section for instructions on adjusting the seat.
Adjust the steering wheel tilt with the steering column
adjustment lever.
Release the parking brake.
Move the throttle control lever forward to the fast
position.
NOTE: The tractor's engine is designed to run at full throttle,
but when performing a practice session the tractor must be
operated at less than full throttle. This only applies to practice.
WARNING!
Always maintain a firm grip on the
steering wheel.
To drive the tractor, firmly grasp the steering wheel with
your right and left hands and continue with Driving the
Tractor Forward.
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