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Safety Instructions & Operator's Manual for
OUT FRONT Z-RIDER
HYDRO DRIVE
SERIES 0
POWER UNIT MODELS
ZF2100DKU
ZF2300GKU
I MOWER UNIT MODELS
ZF5200M I ZF6100M
MODEL NUMBER EXPLANATION
DRIVE SYSTEM TYPE
MOWER ORIENTATION
ENGINE HP
POWER UNIT
Z - Zero Turning- Hydro Drive I
F- Out Front Mower
Z - Zero Turning - Hydro Drive
F - Out Front Mower
Thank you for buying a SNAPPER Productf Before operating your machine, read this manual carefully and pay particular
attention to the "IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS" on Pages 2 & 3. Remember that all power equipment can be
dangerous if used improperly. Also keep in mind that SAFETY requires careful use in accordance with the operating
instructions and common sense!
21 - Engine Horse Power
23 - Engine Horse Power
I
I 62 - M°wer cuttingwidths1- Mower Cutting Width I 00 - series Designati°n
00-SeriesDesignati°n I D- Diesel Fuel Engine IKU-Kub°taEngineGGasoline Fuel Engine
MOWER UNIT
001il
ENGINE MODEL
ENGINE TYPE
SERIES DESIGNATION
M - Mower Deck
SNAPPER, McDonough,GA.. 30253 U.S.A.
COPYRIGHT © 1999
SNAPPER INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
INSTRUCTION No. 4-5182 (REV. 3, 8/20/99)
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A IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: This powerful cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and can throw objects that
can cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following SAFETY instructions could result in serious
injury or death to the operator or other persons. The owner of the machine must understand these instructions
and must allow only persons who understand these instructions to operate machine. Each person operating the
machine must be of sound mind and body and must not be under the influence of any substance, which might
impair vision, dexterity or judgment. If you have any questions pertaining to your machine which your dealer
cannot answer to your satisfaction, call or write the Customer Service Department at SNAPPER, McDonough,
Georgia 30253. Phone: (1-800-935-2967).
PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert
to the presence of children. Children are often
attracted to the machine and the mowing activity.
Never assume that children will remain where you last
saw them.
1. KEEP children out of the mowing area and under
the watchful care of a responsible adult.
2. DO NOT allow children in yard when machine is
operated (even with the blades OFF).
3. DO NOT allow children or others to ride on
machine or on attachments (even with the blade
OFF). They may fall and be seriously injured.
4. DO NOT allow pre-teenage children to operate
machine.
5. ALLOW only adults or responsible teenagers with
mature judgment under close adult supervision to
operate machine.
6. DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES.
LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets
and hazards before and while backing.
7. USE EXTRA CARE when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure vision.
PROTECTION AGAINST TIPOVERS
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control
and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe
injury or death. All slopes require extra CAUTION. If
you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on
the slope, DO NOT mow it. Use extra care with grass
catchers or other attachments; these affect the
handling and the stability of the machine.
1. DO NOT operate machine on slopes exceeding 15
degrees (27% grade).
2. Exercise EXTREME CAUTION on slopes above 10
degrees (18% grade). Turn blades OFF when
traveling uphill. Use a slow speed and avoid
sudden or sharp turns.
3. DO NOT operate machine back and forth across
face of slopes. Operate up and down. Practice on
slopes with blades off.
PROTECTION AGAINST TIPOVERS
(Continued From Previous Column)
4. AVOID uphill starts. If machine stops going uphill
or tires lose traction, turn blades OFF and back
slowly down the slope.
5. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards.
Tall grass can hide obstacles. Keep away from
ditches, washouts, culverts, fences and
protruding objects.
6. KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE (at least 3 feet) away
from edge of ditches and other drop offs. The
machine could turn over if an edge caves in.
7. Always begin forward motion slowly and with
caution.
8. Use weights or a weighted load carrier in accordance
with instructions supplied with a grass catcher. DO
NOT operate machine on slopes exceeding 10
degrees (18% grade) when equipped with grass
catcher.
9. DO NOT put your foot on the ground to try to
stabilize the machine.
10. DO NOT operate machine on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
11. DO NOT operate machine under any condition
where traction, steering or stability is doubtful.
12. Operator Protective Structures are available for
this machine through your local Snapper dealer.
PREPARATION
1. Read, understand and follow
warnings in this manual and on the machine,
engine and attachments. Know the controls and
the proper use of the machine before starting.
.
Only mature, responsible persons shall operate
the machine and only after proper instruction.
3.
Data indicates that operators age 60 and above,
are involved in a large percentage of mower-
related injuries. These operators should evaluate
their ability to operate the mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from serious injury.
.
Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable
and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved
fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add
fuel with engine running. Add fuel outdoors only
with engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel
from machine. DO NOT smoke.
instructions and
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A IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
PREPARATION
(Continued From Previous Page)
5. Practice operation of machine with
OFF to learn controls and develop skills.
6. Check the area to be mowed and remove all
objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and
other objects that could cause injury if thrown
by blades or interfere with mowing.
7. Keep people and pets out of mowing area.
Immediately, STOP blades, STOP engine, and
STOP machine if anyone enters the area.
8. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade
controls and other safety devices frequently for
proper operation and location.
9. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible.
Replace if damaged.
10. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety
glasses, long pants and substantial footwear.
11. Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly
in preparation for emergencies.
12. Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
13. Check grass catcher components frequently for
signs of wear or deterioration and replace as
needed to prevent injury from thrown objects
going through weak or worn spots.
BLADES
OPERATION
1. Mount and dismount machine from left side.
2. Start engine from operator's seat, if possible.
Make sure blades are OFF and parking brake is
set.
3. DO NOT leave machine with engine running.
Stop engine. Stop blades. Set brake. Remove
key.
4. DO NOT operate machine unless properly
seated with feet on feet rests or pedal(s).
5. STOP BLADES and ENGINE and make sure
blades have stopped before removing grass
catcher or unclogging mower to prevent loss of
fingers or hand.
6. Blades must be OFF except when cutting grass.
Set blades in highest position when mowing
over rough ground.
7. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades
underneath deck. DO NOT place foot on ground
while BLADES are ON or machine is in motion.
8. DO NOT operate machine without entire grass
catcher or guards in place. DO NOT point
discharge at people, passing cars, windows or
doors.
.
Slow down before turning.
10. Watch out for traffic when
roadways.
near or crossing
OPERATION
(Continued From Previous Column)
11. STOP engine immediately after striking an
obstruction. Inspect machine and repair damage
before resuming operation.
12. Mow only in daylight or with good artificial light.
13. Move motion control levers SLOWLY to maintain
control during speed and directional changes.
14. Exercise CAUTION when pulling loads. DO NOT pull
loads greater than 300 pounds. Avoid jack knifing.
DO NOT turn sharply.
15. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine
exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly
poison.
MAINTENANCE
1. DO NOT store machine or fuel container inside
where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or
pilot lightsuch as in a water heater, furnace, clothes
dryer or other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool
before storing machine in an enclosure. Store fuel
container out of the reach of children in a well
ventilated, unoccupied building.
2. Keep engine free of grass, leaves or excess grease
to reduce fire hazard and engine overheating.
3. When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved
container outdoors and away from open flame.
4. Check brakes frequently; adjust, repair or replace as
needed.
5. Keep all bolts, nuts and screws properly tight.
Check that all cotter pins are in proper position.
6. Always provide adequate ventilation when running
engine. Engine exhaust gases contain carbon
monoxide, an odorless and deadly poison.
7. Disconnect negative (black) cable from battery
before performing maintenance or service.
Cranking engine could cause injury.
8. DO NOT work under machine without safety blocks.
9. Service engine and make adjustments only when
engine is stopped. Remove spark plug wire(s) from
spark plug(s) and secure wire(s) away from spark
plug(s).
10. DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or
overspeed engine.
11. Lubricate machine at intervals specified in manual
to prevent controls from binding.
12. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blades or wear heavy leather gloves and use
CAUTION when handling them.
13. DO NOT test for spark by grounding spark plug
next to spark plug hole; spark plug could ignite gas
exiting engine.
14. Have machine serviced by an authorized SNAPPER
dealer at least once a year and have the dealer
install any new safety devices.
15. Use only genuine SNAPPER replacement parts to
assure that original standards are maintained.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1 - IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .................................... 2-3
TABLE OF CONTENTS ...................................................................................... 4
SECTION 1 - FAMILIARIZATION ....................................................................... 5
SECTION 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS ................................................. 6-10
Pre-start Checklist ................................................................................................. 6
Starting & Stopping Engine, Blades & Parking Brake ......................................... 7-9
Starting & Stopping Mower Blades ......................................................................... 8
Parking Brake ......................................................................................................... 9
Cutting Height Adjustment ...................................................................................... 9
Driving & Stopping Machine ................................................................................. 10
SECTION 3- MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS ......................................... 11-15
Change Engine Oil ................................................................................................ 11
Check Mower Blade ............................................................................................. 11
Check Mower Drive Belt ..................................................................................... 12
Check Belt Tension ............................................................................................ 12
Service- After every 25 Hours (Engine) ............................................................ 12
Service - After every 25 Hours (Mower Components) ....................................... 12
Mower Blade Spindle Lubrication .................................................................... 12
Mower Deck Linkage Lubrication .................................................................... 12
Front Wheel Bearings Lubrication ................................................................... 13
Transaxle Lubrication ...................................................................................... 13
Power Transfer Shaft Lubrication .................................................................... 13
Other Lubrication ............................................................................................... 13
Before Operating Mower ...................................................................................... 13
Annually - End of Season Service ................................................................... 13-14
Fuel Filter Replacement ....................................................................................... 14
Deck Removal ................................................................................................. 14-15
Power Transfer Shaft Removal ............................................................................ 15
SECTION 4 - ADJUSTMENTS AND REPAIR .............................................. 16-22
Neutral Position Adjustments ............................................................................... 16
Mower Deck Adjustment (Levelness) .............................................................. 16-17
Parking Brake Adjustment .................................................................................... 17
Engine Adjustments & Repair ............................................................................... 17
Mower Blade Replacement ............................................................................. 17-18
Blade Sharpening ................................................................................................. 18
Mower Drive Belt, Engine Belt & Hydro Pump Belt Removal & Replacement ..... 19
Battery Removal ................................................................................................... 20
Battery Installation ................................................................................................ 20
Battery Service & Charging .................................................................................. 20
Battery Testing ...................................................................................................... 21
New Battery Preparation ....................................................................................... 21
Mower Spindles (Field Serviceable Spindles) Bearing Replacement ................... 22
TROUBLESHOOTING ................................................................................. 23-24
SERVICE SCHEDULE ...................................................................................... 25
Maintenance/Replacement Parts ......................................................................... 25
WARRANTY ..................................................................................................... 26
PRIMARY MAINTENANCE .......................................................................... 27-30
NOTICE: Operator Protective Structures are available as optional kits for the Mid-Mount and Out-Front Z-Rider machines. These
structures, when installed and used properly can offer additional security to the operator against serious injury in the event of a tip over
accident. Operator Protective Structures may be required by local ordinances. Discuss your mowing application and ordinances with
your local Snapper Dealer.
DIESEL IN GAS MACHINE. ENGINE DAMAGE MAY RESULT.
IMPORTANT: DIESEL AND GAS UNITS LOOK VERY SIMILIAR. DO NOT PUT GAS IN DIESEL MACHINE OR I
IMPORTANT
I
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Section 1 - FAMILIARIZATION
CONTROLPANEL
IGNITION AMP BLADE SWITCH
SWITCH METER ,/
MOTION
CONTROL
(JOYSTICK)
CONTROL PANEL
(SEEINSET)
DECK HEIGHT OF
CUT DECAL
OPERATOR'S SEAT
HOUR
METER
FUEL TANK
PARKING BRAKE
ENGINESPEED
CONTROL
LIGHT LIFT
DECK
SWITCH SWITCH
DECK COVER
CASTER
WHEEL
BRACKET
DISCHARGE
DEFLECTOR
1.1 INTRODUCTION
This manual has been prepared for the operator's of the
SNAPPER OUT FRONT Z-RIDER. Its purpose, aside
from recommending standard operating procedures and
routine service requirements, is to promote SAFETY
through the use of accepted operating practices. Read,
Understand and Follow the IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS on Page 2 and 3 of this manual and All
SAFETY messages on the OUT FRONT Z-RIDER and its
attachments before operating. SNAPPER recommends
returning the OUT FRONT Z-RIDER to an authorized
SNAPPER dealer annually for inspection and addition of
any new devices which might upgrade the safety of the
mower.
FIGURE 1.1
1.2 NOMENCLATURE
The nomenclature information above, Figure 1.1, shows
the essential parts of the SNAPPER OUT FRONT Z-
RIDER. It is recommended that all operator's of this
equipment become thoroughly familiar with the controls,
components, and operation of this machine before
operating. Specific details involving the engine are
found in the separate engine owner's manual. Study
these manuals before operating and keep both handy
for future reference. For the nearest SNAPPER dealer
in your area, check the yellow pages under the heading
LAWN MOWERS. For engine parts and service, look
for the engine manufacturer's dealers under the
heading, ENGINES - gasoline.
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Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.1
2.1.1.
PRE-START CHECK LIST 2.1.5.
Make the following checks and perform the
service required before each start-up.
Check tires and add or release air as needed to
bring pressure in drive tires to: 12 psi (Turf Type
Tires), 5 psi (All Terrain Type Tires) and 25 psi in 2.1.6.
rear caster tires. Pressure in front deck caster
wheels should be 25 psi.
Check guards, deflectors and covers to make
sure all are in place and securely tightened. 2.1.7.
Check engine oil and add oil as needed to bring
level up to the FULL mark. Refer to engine owner's
manual for oil specifications. See Figure 2.1.
FULL
MARK
AIR FILTER ASSEMBLY IS
SHOWN REMOVED
DO NOT remove cap from radiator when engine and I
coolant are hot. Coolant is pressurized, severeI
burns could result. I
OIL DIP
STICK
Clean exterior surfaces of cutting deck and
engine of any accumulation of dirt, grass, oil, etc.
Keep engine radiator air intake screen and
cooling fins clear at all times. Check often in dry
operating conditions.
Add fresh fuel to tank of the Out Front Z-Rider
outside where fumes can safely dissipate. Make
sure fuel filler cap is tight. Refer to engine
owner's manual for fuel specifications.
COLD ENGINE ONLY - Check engine coolant
(antifreeze/water) and add coolant in the reserve
tank as needed to bring level up to the FULL
mark. Refer to engine owner's manual for
coolant ratio specifications. See Figure 2.3.
WARNING IIL I
2.1.4.
Check Blade switch to insure itworks freely. Switch
is pulled "OUT" for blade engagement or pushed
back "IN" for blade disengagement. See Figure 2.2.
IMPORTANT: Disengagement stops blades.
IGNITION METER
SWITCH
FIGURE 2.1
BLADE
SWITCH
AMP _
LIGHT
HOUR SWITCH
METER
•............................................................ q
BLADE SWITCH:
PULL"OUT'TO ENGAGE BLADE.
PUSH"IN'TO DISENGAGE BLADE.
• ............................................................ i
FIGURE 2.2
DECK
LIFT
SWITCH
FULL COOLANT
MARK
LOW COOLANT MARK
(COOLANT SHOULD BE
ADDED)
COOLANT RESERVE
TANK
FIGURE 2.3
2.1.8. (Diesel Engine Models Only) Move fuel cock to
the "ON" position See Figure 3.8.
IMPORTANT: This machine is equipped with a
WARNING beeper. The beeper will sound when engine
oil pressure is low or engine temperature is high. If this
beeper sounds, stop operation immediately. Do not
resume operation until the cause has been determined
and proper action taken. Beeper function can be verified
(with engine stopped) by turning key to "RUN" position.
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Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
IMPORTANT: This Out Front Z-Rider is equipped with
hydrostatic drive. The forward and rearward movement
of the machine is controlled by a joystick lever,
Joystick operations should be performed only from the
operator's position in the seat. A small movement of
the joystick can cause the machine to move instantly.
Move joystick very carefully and slowly,
ROLL RELEASE: To roll the machine without the
engine running, pressure within the hydraulic pumps
must be released. There is one lever on the upper right
side of each pump that is used to release the pressure.
Rotate lever counter clockwise and secure in that
position. See Figure 2.4.
PRESSURE
RELEASE LEVER LEVER 18 IN POSITION FOR
PROPELLING RIDER UNDER
IT'S OWN POWER (RIDER
WILL NOT ROLL WITH LEVER
IN THIS POSITION)
2.2.1.
Moving the joystick farther from the neutral
position will cause the speed of motion to
increase. To turn, move the joystick towards
the side you want to turn to.
DO NOT make sudden changes in speed or
direction. Always slow machine motion before
turning. To stop the motion of the machine
bring the joystick back to the neutral position.
Engage parking brake.
STARTING ENGINE
When the ignition key is turned to "START", the
engine will not turn over unless the parking
brake is engaged and the blade switch is in the
"OFF" position!
Be seated on the Out Front Z-Rider before
attempting to start the engine with the key
switch.
1. Complete pre-start checklist.
2. Sit in operator's seat.
3. Push blade switch in to "OFF", blades
disengaged position and engage parking brake.
See Figure 2.2.
PARKING
BRAKE
PRESSURE LEVER 18 ROTATED COUNTER
RELEASE LEVE.R_ _ CLOCKWISE AND LATCHED IN A
RIDER (RIDER WILL NOT PROPEL
ITSELF WITH LEVER IN THIS
FIGURE 2.4
2.2 STARTING & STOPPING - ENGINE, BLADES &
PARKING BRAKE
This machine is equipped with dual
hydrostatic wheel drive transmissions. Each
transmission is controlled by a single motion
control lever or joystick. This single control
lever (joystick) controls the direction of
motion, Forward and Reverse, and the speed
of motion. Move the joystick forward to propel
the machine forward. Move the control
rearward to propel the machine in reverse.
The speed of motion is continuously variable
from neutral (zero) to maximum.
.o..o...°
\
)ISENGAGED /
FIGURE 2.5
4. Move engine speed control to a medium
speed setting. See Figure 2.6.
5. IMPORTANT: (Gasoline Engine Only).
Move engine choke control to the choke position
to start a cold engine. After starting, choke
control must be moved to "OFF" no choke
position.
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Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2.1. STARTING ENGINE (Continuedfrom previouspage)
FAST ENGINE
SPEED POSITION
SLOW ENGINE
SPEED POSITION
ENGINE SPEED CONTROL
SHOWN IN "FAST" POSITION
FIGURE 2.6
6. IMPORTANT: (Diesel Engine Only) Use the
Glow Plug only if engine is cold or outside
temperature is cold. Rotate key counter
clockwise to the preheat position (GL letter
designation on switch) to allow the glow lamp to
heat up. Hold key in the Glow Plug position for a
maximum of 5 seconds See Figure 2.7.
7. Rotate key clockwise to the start position until
engine starts. See Figure 2.7.
NOTE: If after 5 seconds of cranking the engine does
not start, release the key and attempt starting again after
waiting for approximately 20 seconds.
DIESEL ENGINE SWITCH POSITION
STOP
POSITION RUN
GLOW PLUG OFF POSITION
8. After engine starts, allow a brief warm-up until
engine runs smooth.
STOPPING - ENGINE
ENGINE
1. Stop engine by turning key to the "OFF"
position. Move engine speed control to turtle
"SLOW" position and key to "STOP" position.
See Figure 2.7.
DO NOT leave machine with engine running.
blades. STOP engine. Set brake. Remove key.
2.2.2. STARTING MOWER BLADE
1. With engine running, move engine speed
control to the Rabbit or "fast" position.
2. Pull the blade switch out into the "ON"
position to engage the mower blades.
3. Release the parking brake.
4. Move joystick carefully in the desired direction to
propel the machine. A small movement of the
joystick can cause the machine to move instantly.
Move joystick carefully and slowly.
i, WARNING
DO NOT operate blades in reverse. STOP BLADES.I
LOOK and SEE behind and down for children, pets I
and hazards before and while backing.
2.2.3. STOPPING MOWER BLADE
1. Push the blade switch in to "OFF" position to
disengage or stop the mower blades. See Figure
2.2.
PRE-HEAT GL_//_
ST START
GAS ENGINE SWITCH POSITION
STOP
POSITION
OFF
POSITION
ON_ ST
FIGURE 2.7
POSITION
RUN
START
POSITION
WARNING
Once blades are disengaged, they should come to a
complete stop in 7 seconds. If the blades continue to
rotate after 7 seconds, the electric clutch should be
checked. Replacement of electric clutch may be
necessary. Return the machine to an authorized
Snapper dealer for replacement. DO NOT CONTINUE
to operate mower if blades fail to stop in 7 seconds.
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Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.2.4. PARKING BRAKE 2.2.5.
1. Engage parking brake by pulling the parking
brake lever back to the "ON" position. See
Figure 2.8.
2. Release parking brake by moving brake lever
down to the "OFF" position. See Figure. 2.9.
JOYSTICK IN
NEUTRAL
POSITION
PARKING
BRAKE
LEVER IN
ENGAGED
"ON"
POSITION
FIGURE 2.8
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
1. Adjust cutting height as desired to any
position, using deck lift switch. When in desired
height of cut, release switch. See Figure 2.10.
Observe the height of cut decal located on the
upper right top side of the deck to place deck at
the correct height of cut. See Figure 2.10.
NOTE: The engine does not have to be running
to adjust cutting height, but key switch must be
in the "ON" position.
FIGURE 2.9
PARKING BRAKE
DISENGAGED "OFF"
POSITION
t/
DECK LIFT
SWITCH
FIGURE 2.10
DO NOT park the machine on slopes. DO NOT
machine with engine running. Stop engine.
blades. Engage parking brake. Remove key.
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Section 2 - OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
2.3 OPERATION - MOTION CONTROL
2.3.1. DRIVING MACHINE
IMPORTANT: The joystick lever has to be manually
moved to propel machine. Always return the joystick
with hand assistance to the neutral position to stop
machine. Release the joystick and it will gradually
return toward the neutral position. When the parking
brake is engaged, it will lock joystick lever in the
neutral position. The engine will only crank or start if
parking brake lever is engaged and the blade switch
is in the "OFF" position.
1. With engine running, adjust engine speed
control to Rabbit or "FAST" position.
2. Release parking brake.
3. Move joystick lever carefully and slowly into
desired speed position. A small movement of the
joystick can cause the machine to move instantly.
Move joystick carefully and slowly.
FORWARD - Move control forward.
REVERSE - Move control to the rear.
LEFT TURN - Move control towards left.
RIGHT TURN - Move control towards right.
ZERO RADIUS TURN - Move control diagonally
from neutral in desired direction. See Figure 2.11.
WARNING
DO NOT make turns at high speed. Slow machine
motion. Move motion control lever gently and with
caution. DO NOT make sudden changes in speed or
direction.
REARWARD
MOVEMENT
,_ RIGHT
\
TURN
LEFT
TURN
FORWARD
MOVEMENT
FIGURE 2.11
10