DR Power Walk-behind 13 - 17 HP (May 2001 - February 2003) - Manual (Page 10)

4
DR
®
ALL-TERRAIN
™
FIELD and BRUSH MOWER Safety & Operating Instructions
Operating Instructions
Before Starting the Engine
1. Check the oil level every time you use the machine.
2. Check the gas level.
3. Open the fuel shut-off valve (on the bottom of the gas tank), if your model is equipped with one.
Starting the Engine
Electric-Starting
1.
Move the shift lever to N (Neutral).
Note: Shift lever MUST be in neutral or the engine will not start.
2. Move the throttle to the CHOKE position (to the RUN position if the engine is already warm).
3. Turn the key to START and hold it until the engine starts.
4. Release the key, it will snap to the RUN position.
5. Move the throttle to the RUN position.
Manual-Starting (8 & 10 HP Models only)
1. Move the throttle to the CHOKE position (to the RUN position if the engine is already warm).
2. Turn the key to START.
3. Pull the recoil rope slowly until you feel resistance, then pull with a rapid stroke to start the
engine.
4. Move the throttle to the RUN position.
Engaging the Wheel Drive
The DR ® FIELD and BRUSH MOWER has a four-speed forward transmission and single-speed
reverse. Forward speeds range from 1.1 mph in first gear to 4.5 mph in fourth gear. Use the lower
gears for mowing in thick, woody vegetation and the higher gears for wide-open areas and lighter
vegetation, or as "travel gears." Reverse is ideal for maneuvering in tight spots.
Note: Always release the wheel clutch lever when shifting gears.
1. Disengage the parking brake.
2. Move the shift lever to the desired gear.
3. Gently squeeze the wheel clutch lever to engage a gear.
Engaging the Blade
1. Hold down the operator presence lever.
2. Engage the blade control lever.
Note: If you engage the blade control lever before holding down the operator presence
lever the engine will shut off.
Caution! Always disengage the blade before shifting into reverse.