MTD 21” Self Starter 589 - Manual (Page 10)

10
NOTE: The starter button must be depressed to start
the engine with either the self starter or recoil starting
system.
Engine Controls
See the separate engine manual for the location and
function of the controls on the engine.
Stopping Engine
• Release safety blade control handle (the start
control button will automatically return to the off/up
position), engine and blade will stop within a few
seconds.
NOTE: Engine may stop with a ratcheting sound. This
sound is the self starter being reactivated/energized for
the next start
• Turn safety key 1/4 turn counterclockwise to LOCK
position. Remove key and store in a safe place.
WARNING: The blade will continue to rotate
for three seconds after the blade control lever
is released.
SECTION 5: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER
WARNING: Read, understand, and follow
all instructions and warnings on the machine
and in this manual before operating.
Gas & Oil Fill-Up
• Check oil level and add oil if necessary. Follow
relevant instructions in the engine manual for this.
• Service the engine with gasoline as instructed in
the engine manual.
WARNING: 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.
Before Starting Mower
• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire
(inside the rubber boot) is fastened securely over
the metal tip on the spark plug.
First Time Starting Engine
NOTE: Use recoil starter rope to start engine for the
very first time. The mower is shipped with the safety key
in the locked position and the self starter in the de-
energized mode, follow instructions as follows.
1. Place lawn mower on a level surface outdoors.
2. Remove clear plastic packaging under fuel cap.
3. Check oil level.
4. Add fuel.
5. Open shut off valve (if equipped) 1/4 turn.
6. Push spark plug wire firmly on spark plug.
7. Turn safety key 1/4 turn clockwise to RUN position.
8. Firmly push primer bulb 3 times.
9. While standing in the operating position, depress
the starter control button fully with the thumb of
your right hand.
10. Using your left hand, pull the control handle all the
way toward the upper handle. See Figure 10.
11. Release the button.
12. Grasp the recoil rope starter handle with your right
hand and slowly pull towards you until you feel a
slight resistance, then pull firmly until your arm is
fully extended.
13. If engine does not start by the second pull, repeat
steps 8, 9, 10,11 and 12.
Second Time Starting Engine
NOTE: Follow these instructions if the self starter is
already in the energized mode.
WARNING: NEVER assume starter is in
the de-energized mode, even if the key is in
the locked position and/or removed from the
engine. ALWAYS de-energize starter prior to
performing any maintenance or service to the
engine and/or mower. Follow instructions on
the engine and/or machine to de-energize
starter.
Figure 10
Starter Control
Button
Blade Control
Handle