Cub Cadet RZT 54 - Manual (Page 15)

15
engine does not start within this time, turn the key
to “OFF” and wait at least 15 seconds to allow the
engine’s starter motor to cool. Try again after
waiting. If after a few attempts the engine fails to
start, do not keep trying to start it with the choke
closed as this will cause flooding and make start-
ing more difficult.
• As the engine warms up, gradually push the
choke knob downward to open the choke. Do not
use the choke to enrich the fuel mixture, except
as necessary to start the engine.
• Allow the engine to run for a few minutes at mid
throttle before putting the engine under load.
• Observe the hour meter/indicator panel. If the
battery indicator light or oil pressure light come
on, immediately stop the engine. Have the tractor
inspected by your Cub Cadet dealer.
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:
• Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm
battery has much more starting capacity than a
cold battery.
• Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade
gasoline has higher volatility to improve starting.
Do not use gasoline left over from summer.
• 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:
• Connect the end of one cable to the disabled
tractor battery’s positive terminal; then connect
the other end of that cable to the booster
battery’s positive terminal.
• 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 dis-
abled tractor, as far from the battery as possible.
• Start the disabled tractor following the normal
starting instructions previously provided; then
disconnect the jumper cables in the exact reverse
order of their connection.
• Have the tractor’s electrical system checked and
repaired as soon as possible to eliminate the
need for jump starting.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
• Place the PTO switch in the “OFF” position.
• Move the RH and LH drive control levers fully
outward in the neutral position.
• Engage the parking brake.
• Move the throttle control to the SLOW position
and allow the engine to idle for about one minute.
• Turn the ignition key to the “OFF” position and
remove 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 be-
cause a zero turn tractor is more maneuverable, get-
ting used to operating the control levers takes some
practice.
We strongly recommend that you locate a reason-
ably 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 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.
Carefully practice maneuvering the tractor using the
instructions in the following section "Driving the Trac-
tor." Practice until you are confident that you can
safely operate the tractor.
DRIVING THE TRACTOR
WARNING: Avoid sudden starts, exces-
sive speed and sudden stops.
WARNING: Do not leave the seat of the
tractor without disengaging the PTO,
moving drive control levers fully outward
in the neutral position, and engaging the
parking brake. If leaving the tractor
unattended, turn the ignition key off and
remove key.