Operating Your Lawnmower - MTD Series 020 Operator's Manual

5
Operating
Your Lawn
Mower
WARNING
Read, understand,
and follow all instruc-
tions and warnings
on the machine and
in this manual before
operating.
This blade control
mechanism is a
safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its
operations.
Use extreme care
when handling
gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable
and the vapors are
explosive. Never fuel
the machine indoors
or while the engine
is hot or running.
Extinguish cigarettes,
cigars, pipes and
other sources of
ignition.
Blade Control Handle
The blade control handle is located on the upper handle
of the mower. See Figure 5-1. The blade control handle
must be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release
the blade control handle to stop the engine and blade.
Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle.
Stand behind the unit and pull the recoil starter rope to
start the unit.
Before Starting
1. Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed
in the separate engine manual.
2. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If unit is
equipped with a rubber boot over the end of the
spark plug wire, make certain the metal loop on the
end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber boot)
is fastened securely over the metal tip on the spark
plug.
To Start Engine
1. If your unit is equipped with a primer, prime engine as
instructed in the separate engine manual packed with
your unit.
2. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control
handle and hold it against the upper handle as shown
in Figure 5-2.
Know Your Lawn Mower
Figure 5-1
3. Grasp the starter handle as shown and pull slowly until
12
Figure 5-2
resistance is felt, then pull rapidly to start engine and
avoid kickback. Return it slowly to the rope guide.