Cub Cadet 3186 - Manual (Page 12)

12
SECTION 7: OPERATION
Safety Interlock Switches
This tractor is equipped with a safety
interlock system for the protection of
the operator. If the interlock system
should ever malfunction, do not
operate the tractor. Contact your
authorized Cub Cadet Dealer. The
safety interlock system prevents the
engine from cranking or starting
unless the brake pedal is fully
depressed, and the PTO is “OFF”.
• The safety interlock system will
automatically shut off the engine if
the operator leaves the seat before
engaging the brake lock.
• The safety interlock system will
automatically shut off the engine if
the operator leaves the seat with the
PTO “ON”, regardless of whether
the brake lock is engaged. The PTO
switch must be “OFF” to restart the
engine.
• The safety interlock system will
automatically shut off the PTO if the
reverse control pedal is depressed
with the PTO “ON”.
Fueling The Tractor
NOTE: Some fuels, called oxygen-
ated or reformulated gasolines, are
gasoline blended with alcohols or
ethers. Excessive amounts of these
blends can damage the fuel system or
cause performance problems. Do not
use gasoline which contains Metha-
nol. If any undesirable operating
symptoms occur, use gasoline with a
lower percentage of alcohol or ether.
Do not fill the fuel tank when the
engine is running or while the engine
is hot. Tighten the fuel cap securely.
This engine is certified to operate on
unleaded gasoline. Fill the fuel tank
with only clean, fresh, unleaded gaso-
line with a minimum of 87 octane. Do
not mix oil with gasoline. Purchase
fuel in a quantity that can be used
within 30 days to assure fuel fresh-
ness. In countries other than the
U.S.A., leaded gasoline may be used
if it is commercially available and
unleaded is not available.
The fuel fill point is located on the
fender to the left of the seat. Unscrew
the fuel cap and fill tank from an
approved gasoline container.
Starting The Engine
• Operator must be sitting in the
tractor seat.
• Push choke lever to the full choke
position. Less choking may be
necessary due to variations in
temperature, grade of fuel, etc. Little
or no choking will be needed when
the engine is warm.
• Place the throttle midway between
the “SLOW” and “FAST” position.
• Make sure the PTO switch is in the
“OFF” position.
• Fully depress the brake pedal.
• Turn the ignition key clockwise to
the “START” position and release it
as soon as the engine starts;
however, do not crank the engine
continuously for more than 10
seconds at a time. If the engine
does not start within this time, turn
the key to “OFF” and wait a minute
to allow the engine’s starter motor to
cool. Try again after waiting.
• After the engine starts, slowly
release the brake pedal. As the
engine warms up, gradually pull the
choke lever all the way back. Do not
use the choke to enrich the fuel
mixture, except when necessary to
start the engine.
Stopping The Engine
NOTE: Remove the key from the
ignition switch to prevent accidental
starting or battery discharge if the
equipment is left unattended.