Bolens 124-848L401 - Manual (Page 7)

TO START ENGINE AND ENGAGE BLADE
Self-Propelled Models Only:
IMPORTANT: Move the shift lever only when the
engine is running. Shifting the speeds with the engine
off can cause damage to the unit. Disengage the drive
clutch control when shifting speeds.
A WARNING: When starting the unit for the
first time, place mower in first speed
(slow) position. Face the mower against a
solid object such as a waii, fence, etc.
Start the unit, and if it shows any signs of
motion with the drive ciutch control disen­
gaged, shut the engine off immediateiy.
Make certain the drive ciutch controi is
adjusted so the drive beit is as ioose as
possible. Refer to the Adjustment Section.
Ail Units:
1. Move the throttle control lever to all the way for­
ward.
2. Prime engine as instructed in the separate engine
manual packed with your unit.
3. Standing behind the unit, depress the blade con­
trol handle and hold it against the upper handle.
Make certain drive clutch control handle (self-pro­
pelled models only) is released.
4. Grasp starter handle and puli rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope
will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope
rewind slowly.
5. Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke.
Keep a firm grip on starter handle. Return it slow­
ly to the rope guide.
6. After engine starts, move throttle control to FAST
or desired engine speed.
NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to the
Trouble Shooting Guide on page 12.
A WARNING: Never operate your unit with­
out either the side chute defiector or
entire rear discharge chute and grass
catcher assembiy in piace.
TD STDP ENGINE AND BLADE
1. Release the blade control handle to stop the
engine and blade.
A WARNING: The blade continues to rotate
for a few seconds after the engine is shut
off.
2. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine to prevent accidental starting
while equipment is unattended.
USING YDUR RDTARY MDWER
Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage lawn mower or
engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by
the mower in any direction and cause serious person­
al injury to the operator and others.
For the best results, do not cut wet grass because it
tends to stick to the underside of the mower, prevent­
ing proper discharge of grass clippings, and could
cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick grass or
wet grass may require a narrower cut. Speed of the
mower should be adjusted to the condition of the lawn.
When using the side discharge mower, the best mow­
ing pattern is one that allows the clippings to dis­
charge towards the uncut part of the lawn. This per­
mits recutting of the clippings to further pulverize
them. When cutting high weeds, discharge towards
cut portion, then recut at right angles to first direction.
For a healthier lawn, always cut off one-third or
less of the total length of the grass. Lawn should
be cut in the fall as long as there is growth.
This mower is designed to be operated at full throttle
to give you the best cut and do the most effective job
of bagging the cut grass.
A
WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove wire from spark
plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for
any damage, and repair the damage
before restarting and operating the
mower. Extensive vibration of the mower
during operation is an indication of dam­
age. The unit should be promptly
Inspected and repaired.
USING THE MULCHER
For effective mulching, do not cut wet grass because
it tends to stick to the underside of the deck, prevent­
ing proper mulching of grass clippings. New or thick
grass may require a narrower cut. The ground speed
should be adjusted to the condition of the lawn. If
mowing has been delayed and the grass has been
allowed to grow in excess of 4", mulching is not rec­
ommended. Mow using the grass bag to reduce the
grass height to 3-1/4" maximum before mulching.
Never cut more than one-third off the total length of
the grass at any one cutting.
ADJUSTMENTS
A WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustment to lawn mower without first
stopping engine and disconnecting spark
piug wire.
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
Self-Propelled Models:
The height adjustment handle is located on the left
side of the deck. The handle may be placed in one of