Operation; General; Checks Before Starting; Starting The Engine - Ferris 5900543 Operator's Manual

Choke
Close the choke for cold starting. Open the choke
once the engine starts. A warm engine may not
require choking. Pull the knob UP to close the choke.
Push to knob DOWN to open the choke.
Ground Speed Control
Handles
These handles control the ground speed of the
mower. The left and right handles are tied together so
you can operate either lever to control the mower's
ground speed.
Moving a handle forward to "F" increases the
FORWARD speed of the mower. Moving a handle
back to "R" increases the REVERSE speed. Moving
the handles to to "N" neutral position stops mower
travel.
Note: The further a handle is moved away from the
neutral position the faster the mower will travel.
Cutting Height Adjust Handle
The cutting height adjust handle controls the mower
cutting height. To adjust the mower cutting height,
turn the crank handle clockwise to raise the cutting
height. Turn the crank handle counterclockwise to
lower the cutting height. Observe the cutting height
indicator on the left side of the mower deck.

Operation

General Operating Safety:
Before first time operation:
• Be sure to read all information in the Safety and
Operation sections before attempting to operate
this tractor and mower.
• Become familiar with all of the controls and how to
stop the unit.
• Drive in an open area without mowing to become
accustomed to the unit.
WARNING
If you do not understand how a specific control
functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the
FEATURES & CONTROLS section, do so now.
Do NOT attempt to operate the tractor without
first becoming familiar with the location and
function of ALL controls.
Features and Controls

Checks Before Starting

• Check that crankcase is filled to full mark on
dipstick. See the engine Operator's Manual for
instructions and oil recommendations.
• Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in
place and tight.
• Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel. Refer to engine
manual for fuel recommendations.
• Make sure fuel shut off valve is in the ON position.
WARNING
Before leaving the operator's position for any
reason, disengage the PTO, stop the engine
and remove the key.
To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine, tractor
and mower free of grass, leaves and excess
grease. Do not stop or park tractor over dry
leaves, grass or combustible materials.
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be
handled with care. Never fill the tank when the
engine is still hot from recent operation. Do not
allow open flame, smoking or matches in the
area. Avoid over-filling and wipe up any spills.

Starting the Engine

• Make sure the PTO switch is disengaged and the
parking brake is engaged.
• Set the engine throttle control to FAST throttle
position. Then fully close the choke by pulling the
knob OUT fully.
NOTE: A warm engine may not require choking.
• Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn it to
START.
• After the engine starts, gradually open the choke
(push knob down fully). Reduce to half throttle
speed and allow to warm up
Warm up the engine by running it for at least a minute
before engaging the PTO lever/switch or driving the
mower.
After warming the engine, ALWAYS operate the
unit at FULL THROTTLE when mowing.
In the event of an emergency the engine can be
stopped by simply turning the ignition switch to
STOP. Use this method only in emergency situations.
For normal engine shut down follow the procedure
given in STOPPING THE MOWER.
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