Mountfield 1435E User manual

Dear Customer,
Thank you for having chosen one of our products. We hope that you will get complete
satisfaction from using your new machine and that it will fully meet all your expecta-
tions.
This manual has been written to help you become familiar with the machine and use it
safely and efficiently. Do not forget that it is an integral part of the machine, so keep it
close at hand for future reference and pass it on to the purchaser if you sell the
machine.
This new lawn tractor has been designed and built in compliance with current stan-
dards, and is safe and reliable if used for cutting and collecting grass following the
instructions given in this manual (proper usage). If you use the machine in any other
way or ignore the instructions for safe use, maintenance and repair, it is considered
"incorrect usage". In this case, the warranty is automatically voided and the Manufac-
turer is not held responsible for damage or injury to oneself or others.
Since we regular improve our products, you may find slight differences between your
machine and the descriptions contained in this manual. Modifications can be made to
the machine without notice and without the obligation to update the manual, although
the essential safety and function characteristics will remain unaltered. If in doubt, do
not hesitate to contact your dealer. And now enjoy your work!
AFTER-SALES SERVICE
This manual gives all the necessary instructions for using the machine and carrying out
basic maintenance.
Any adjustments or maintenance operations not described in this manual must
be carried out by your Dealer or a specialized Service Centre. Both have the nec-
essary knowledge and equipment to ensure that the work is done correctly with-
out affecting the safety of the machine.
If you wish, you can ask your dealer to prepare a maintenance programme person-
alised to your needs. This will help you keep your new purchase in peak performance
and maintain its value over time.
INTRODUCTION 1
EN
INTRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. SAFETY .................................................................................................................... 3
Regulations for using the machine safely
2. IDENTIFICATION OF THE MACHINE AND COMPONENTS ................................ 7
How to identify the machine and its main components
3. UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY .............................................................................. 9
How to remove the packing and assemble loose parts
4. CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS ....................................................................... 12
Position and functions of all the controls
5. HOW TO USE THE MACHINE .............................................................................. 16
Instructions for working efficiently and safely
5.1 Safety recommendations ................................................................................ 16
5.2 Why the safety devices cut in ......................................................................... 16
5.3 Preliminary operations before starting work ..................................................... 17
5.4 Using the machine .......................................................................................... 19
5.5 Using on slopes .............................................................................................. 26
5.6 Transporting the machine ............................................................................... 27
5.7 Lawn maintenance ........................................................................................... 27
6. MAINTENANCE ..................................................................................................... 29
All the information for maintaining the machine in peak efficiency
6.1 Safety recommendations ................................................................................ 29
6.2 Programmed maintenance ............................................................................... 29
6.3 Checks and adjustments ................................................................................ 32
6.4 Dismantling and replacing parts ..................................................................... 33
6.5 Information for Service Centres ..................................................................... 35
7. TROUBLESHOOTING............................................................................................. 37
A help in quickly solving problems
8. ACCESSORIES ON REQUEST ............................................................................ 39
A description of the accessories available for special requirements
9. SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................................. 40
A summary of the main specifications of your machine
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2EN

1.1 HOW TO READ THE MANUAL
Some paragraphs in the manual containing important information regarding safety and
operation are emphasized in the following ways:
or These give details or further information
on what has already been said, in the aim to prevent damage to the machine.
Non-observance will result in the risk of injury to oneself or
others.
Non-observance will result in the risk of serious injury or
death to oneself or others
This manual describes various versions of the machine, which mainly differ as follows:
–type of transmission: with either mechanical gear change or hydrostatic continuous
speed adjustment. The models with hydrostatic transmission are identified by the
word "HYDRO" on the identification label (☛ 2.1);
–the inclusion of components or accessories which are not widely available;
–special equipment fitted.
The symbol highlights all the differences in usage and is followed by the indication
of the version to which it refers.
The symbol “ ☛” refers to another part of the manual where further information can
be found.
Positions on the machine, such as “front”,
“back”, “left” or “right” hand side, refer to the direction of forward
travel.
For all operations regarding the use and mainte-
nance of the engine or the battery not described in this manual,
refer to the relevant manuals which form an integral part of all the
documentation supplied with the machine.
IMPORTANT
NOTE
➤

!DANGER!

!WARNING!
IMPORTANTNOTE
SAFETY 3
EN
1. SAFETY

1.2 GENERAL SAFETY REGULATIONS
Read carefully
before using the machine.
A) TRAINING
1) Read the instructions carefully. Be
familiar with the controls and how to use
the equipment properly.
2) Never let children or people unfamiliar
with these instructions use the machine.
Local regulations can restrict the age of
the user.
3) Never mow while people, especially
children, or pets are nearby.
4) Keep in mind that the operator or user
is responsible for accidents or hazards
occurring to other people or their proper-
ty.
5) Do not carry passengers.
6) All drivers should seek and obtain pro-
fessional and practical instruction. Such
instruction should emphasise:
–the need for care and concentration
when working with ride-on machines;
–you cannot use the brake to regain
control of a ride-on machine sliding down
a slope. The main reasons for loss of con-
trol are:
–insufficient wheel grip;
–overspeeding;
–inadequate braking;
–the type of machine is unsuitable for
its task;
–unawareness of the effect of ground
conditions, especially slopes;
–incorrect hitching and load distribu-
tion.
B) PREPARATION
1) While mowing, always wear sturdy

!WARNING!
footwear and long trousers. Do not
operate the equipment barefoot or wear-
ing open sandals.
2) Thoroughly inspect the area where the
equipment is to be used and remove all
objects which can be ejected from the
machine.
3) DANGER! Petrol is highly flammable:
–store fuel in containers specifically
designed for this purpose;
–refuel outdoors only and do not smoke
while refuelling;
–add fuel before starting the engine.
Never remove the cap of the fuel tank
or add petrol while the engine is run-
ning or when the engine is hot;
–if you spill petrol, do not start the
engine and move the machine away from
the area of spillage. Do not create any
source of ignition until the petrol vapours
have evaporated;
–put back and tighten all fuel tank and
container caps securely.
4) Replace faulty silencers.
5) Before use, always inspect the
machine to check that the blades, blade
bolts and cutter assembly are not worn or
damaged. Replace worn or damaged
blades and bolts in sets to preserve bal-
ance.
6) On multi-bladed machines, remember
that the rotation of one blade can cause
other blades to rotate.
C) OPERATION
1) Do not start the engine in a confined
space where dangerous carbon monox-
ide fumes can collect.
2) Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
3) Before starting the engine, disengage
the blades and shift into neutral.
4) Do not use on slopes of more than
10° (17%).
SAFETY
4EN

5) Remember there is no such thing as
a “safe” slope. Travelling on grass slopes
requires particular care. To guard against
overturning:
–do not stop or start suddenly when
going up or downhill;
–engage the drive slowly and always
keep the machine in gear, especially
when travelling downhill;
–machine speeds should be kept low on
slopes and during tight turns;
–tay alert for humps and hollows and
other hidden hazards;
–never mow across the face of the
slope.
6) Use care when pulling loads or using
heavy equipment:
–use only approved drawbar hitch
points;
–limit loads to those you can safely con-
trol;
–do not turn sharply. Use care when
reversing;
–use counterweight(s) or wheel weights
whenever advised in the instructions
manual.
7) Disengage the blades before crossing
surfaces other than grass.
8) Never use the machine with dam-
aged guards, or without the safety pro-
tective devices in place.
9) Do not change the engine governor
settings or overspeed the engine.
Operating the engine at excessive speed
can increase the risk of personal injury.
10) Before leaving the driving seat:
–disengage the blades and lower the
attachments;
–go into neutral and apply the parking
brake;
–stop the engine and remove the ignition
key.
11) Disengage the blades, stop the
engine and remove the ignition key:
–before clearing blockages or unclog-
ging the collector channel;
–before cleaning, checking or servicing
the machine;
–after striking a foreign object. Inspect
the machine for damage and make
repairs before restarting and operating
the machine;
–If the machine starts to vibrate abnor-
mally (check for the causes immediately).
12) Disengage the blades for transport or
whenever they are not in use.
13) Stop the engine and disengage the
blades:
–before refuelling;
–before removing the grass-catcher.
14) Reduce the throttle during engine
run-out. If the engine is provided with a
shut-off valve, cut off the fuel when you
have finished mowing.
D) MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
1) Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to
be sure the equipment is in safe working
condition.
2) Never store the equipment with petrol
in the tank inside a building where fumes
may reach an open flame or spark.
3) Allow the engine to cool before storing
in any enclosure.
4) To reduce fire hazards, keep the
engine, silencer, battery compartment
and petrol storage area free of grass,
leaves, or excessive grease.
5) Check the grass-catcher frequently for
wear or deterioration.
6) Replace worn or damaged parts for
safety purposes.
7) If the fuel tank has to be drained, this
should be done outdoors.
8) On multi-bladed machines, remember
that the rotation of one blade can cause
other blades to rotate.
9) When the machine is to be stored or
left unattended, lower the cutting deck.
SAFETY 5
EN

SAFETY
6EN
1.3 SAFETY LABELS
Your machine must be used with care. This is why labels with illustrations have been
placed on the machine, to remind you of the main precautions to take during use.
These labels are to be considered an integral part of the machine.
Should a label come off or become illegible, contact your dealer to replace it. Their
meaning is explained below.
1.4 REGULATIONS FOR TOWING
A kit for towing a small trailer is available on request.
This accessory is to be fitted following the instructions provid-
ed. When using the towing kit, do not exceed the recommend-
ed loads stated on the label and follow the safety instructions
(☛1.2, C-6).
Warning: Read the instruc-
tions before operating this
machine.
Warning: Disconnect the igni-
tion key and read the instructions
before carrying out any repair or
maintenance work.
Danger! Ejected objects: Do
not operate without the stone-
guard or grass-catcher in place.
Danger! Ejected objects:
Keep bystanders away.
Danger! Machine rollover: Do
not use this machine on slopes
steeper then 10°.
Danger! Dismemberment: Make sure that children stay
clear of the machine at all time when engine is running.
Danger of cutting yourself. Blades in movement. Do not
put hands or feet near or under the opening of the cutting plate.
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
max 245 N (25 kg)
max 980 N (100 kg)
12
56
7
3 4

2.1 IDENTIFICATION OF THE MACHINE
The label located near the battery housing has
the essential data of each machine.
1. Acoustic power level according to
directive 2000/14/CE
2. Conformity mark according to
directive 98/37/EEC
3. Year of manufacture
4. Engine speed in r.p.m (if indicated)
5. Type of machine
6. Serial number
7. Weight in kg
8. Name and address of manufacturer
9. Type of transmission (if indicated)
2.2 IDENTIFICATION OF MAIN COMPONENTS
The main components of the machine have the following functions:
11. Cutting deck: this is the guard housing the rotating blades.
12. Blades: these are what cut the grass.
The wings at the ends help convey the
cut grass towards the collector chan-
nel.
13. Collector channel: this is the part con-
necting the cutting deck to the grass-
catcher.
14. Grass-catcher: as well as collecting
IDENTIFICATION OF THE MACHINE AND COMPONENTS 7
EN
2. IDENTIFICATION OF THE MACHINE AND COMPONENTS
16 17 19 18 15 14
11 12 13
LWA
dB
kg
S/N
min-1
8 5 4 7
3 9 6 2 1
Write your machine’s serial
number here (6)
✍

the grass cuttings, this is also a safety
element that stops any objects drawn up
by the blades from being thrown outside
of the machine.
15. Stone-guard or deflector (optional):
this can be fitted in place of the grass-
catcher and prevents objects drawn up
by the blades from being thrown outside
of the machine.
16. Engine: this moves the blades and drives the wheels. Its specifications and regu-
lations for use are described in a specific manual.
17. Battery: provides the energy for starting the engine. Its specifications and regula-
tions for use are described in a specific manual.
18. Driving seat: this is where the machine operator sits. It has a sensor connected to
safety devices for detecting the presence of the operator.
19. Regulation and safety labels: give reminders on the main regaulations for work-
ing safely, each of which is explained in chapter 1.
IDENTIFICATION OF THE MACHINE AND COMPONENTS
8EN
16 17 19 18 15 14
11 12 13

For storage and transport purposes, some components of the machine are not
installed in the factory and have to be assembled after unpacking. Follow the instruc-
tions below.
The machine is supplied without engine oil or fuel. Before starting
the engine, fill with oil and fuel following the instructions given in the engine manual.
3.1 UNPACKING
When unpacking the machine, take care to gather all individual parts and fittings, and
do not damage the cutting deck when taking the machine off the pallet.
The packaging contains:
–the machine;
–the steering wheel;
–the seat;
–the front bumper (if provided);
–the battery;
–the grass-catcher (with instructions);
–an envelope containing:
–the instruction manuals and documents,
–nuts and bolts including a pin for locking the steering wheel,
–starter keys and a spare 10A fuse.
To prevent damage to the cutting deck, raise it to its maximum
height and take utmost care when taking the machine off the pallet.
On hydrostatic drive models: to make it easier to move or take the machine off
the pallet, put the transmission disengagement lever in position «B» (
☛ 4.33).
3.2 FITTING THE STEERING WHEEL
Put the machine on a flat surface and
straighten up the front wheels.
Fit the steering wheel (1) onto the protruding
shaft (2) with the spokes directed towards
the seat.
Line up the hole on the steering wheel hub
➤
NOTE
IMPORTANT
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY 9
EN
3. UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY
1
3
2

with the hole on the shaft and insert the pin (3) using a hammer. Make sure the end
comes right through to the opposite side.
To avoid damage to the steering wheel, use a punch or a screw-
driver of the same size as the pin when hammering it through the hole.
3.3 FITTING THE SEAT
Mount the seat (1) on the plate (2) using the
screws (3).
3.4 MOUNTING THE FRONT BUMPER (if
provided)
Mount the front bumper (1) on the bottom of
the frame (2) using the four screws (3).
3.5 ACTIVATING AND CONNECTING THE BATTERY
The battery (1) is housed behind the engine
and secured with an elastic tie-rod (2).
Battery acid is cor-
rosive and polluting. Wear protective
gloves and goggles when handling the

!WARNING!

➤
Acid battery:
NOTE
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY
10 EN
1
2
3 3
1
2
3
1

battery and dispose of the battery
in accordance with the regula-
tions in force.
Unfasten the elastic tie rod (2) and
remove the battery and the guard
(3).
Pour the electrolytic solution (4) (acid not supplied: specific
weight 1.280 or 31.5° Baumé) up to the indicated level, dis-
tributing it evenly among the six cells.
Close the six caps (5) supplied and charge the battery.
Put the battery back on the machine. The elastic tie-rod (2)
should be positioned behind the battery filler caps (5).
After activating the battery, always charge the battery com-
pletely with the help of your dealer, who will have all the right equipment. The battery
charger is NOT able to charge the battery for the first time after activation.
First connect the red wire (6) to the positive
pole (+) and then the black wire (7) to the neg-
ative pole (–), using the screws supplied as
shown.
Apply silicone grease to the terminals and
check that the protective cap for the red wire
(6) is in place.
To prevent the safety device in the electronic circuit board from
cutting in, never start the engine until the battery is fully charged!
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT
UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY 11
EN
1
27
6
5
4
3

12 EN
4.1 STEERING WHEEL
Turns the front wheels.
4.2 THROTTLE
This regulates the engine's r.p.m. The positions are indicated on a plate showing the
following symbols:
«CHOKE» cold starting
«SLOW» for minimum engine speed
«FAST» for maximum engine speed
–The «CHOKE» position enriches the mixture so must only be used for the time nec-
essary when starting from cold.
–When moving from one area to another, put the lever in a position between «SLOW»
and «FAST».
–When cutting, shift into «FAST».
4.3 KEY IGNITION SWITCH
This key operated control has three positions:
«OFF» everything is switched off;
«ON» activates all parts;
CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS
4. CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS
4.2
4.8
4.6 4.3
4.5
B
A
4.4
4.9
4.1
4.7
A
B

13
EN
CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS
«START» connects the starter motor.
If you release the key on «START», it will automatically return to «ON».
4.4 PARKING BRAKE
This brake stops the machine from moving when it has been parked. There are two
positions:
«A» = Brake off
«B» = Brake on
–The brake is applied by pressing the pedal right down (4.21 or 4.31) and moving the
lever to position «B». When you take your foot off the pedal it will be blocked by the
lever in the lowered position.
–To disengage the parking brake, press the pedal (4.21 or 4.31). The lever will return
to position «A».
4.5 HEADLIGHT SWITCH ( if fitted)
For turning on the headlights when the key (4.3) is in the «ON» position.
4.6 PILOT LAMP AND SOUND WARNINGS
This lamp comes on when the key (6) is in the «ON» position and stays on while the
machine is running.
–When it flashes, it means that the engine is not ready to start (☛5.2).
–The sound warning signals that the grass-catcher is full (☛5.4.6).
4.7 BLADE ENGAGEMENT AND BRAKE CONTROL
The mushroom switch allows you to engage the blades using the electromagnetic
clutch:
«A» Pressed = Blades disengaged
«B» Pulled = Blades engaged
–If you engage the blades without taking the necessary safety precautions, the
engine shuts down and cannot be restarted (☛5.2).
–Blade disengagement (Pos. «A»), simultaneously activates a brake which stops their
rotation in a few seconds.
➤

14 EN
4.8 CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT LEVER
There are seven positions for this lever (shown as «1» to «7» on the label), which corre-
spond to various heights between 3 and 8 cm.
–To go from one height to another, press the release button at the end of the lever.
4.9 LEVER FOR TIPPING THE GRASS-CATCHER ( if present)
This pull-out lever tips and empties the grass-catcher. This means less work for the
operator.
4.21 CLUTCH / BRAKE PEDAL
This pedal has two functions: during the first part of its travel it acts as a clutch,
engaging and disengaging drive to the wheels, and in the second part it acts as a
brake on the rear wheels
Do not keep the pedal halfway between clutch engagement or
disengagement, as this can cause overheating and damage the transmission belt.
When the
machine is moving, keep your foot
off the pedal.
4.22 SPEED CHANGE LEVER
This lever has seven positions for
the 5 forward speeds, the neutral
position «N», and reverse «R».
To go from one speed to another,
press the pedal (4.21) halfway and
shift the lever as shown on the
label.
Only shift into
reverse when the machine has
stopped moving.

!WARNING!
NOTE
IMPORTANT

➤
Mechanical transmission
➤
CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS
4.22
4.21
5
R
2
3
4
N
1

15
EN
CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS
4.31 BRAKE PEDAL
This pedal works the brake on the rear wheels.
4.32 DRIVE PEDAL
This pedal engages drive in the wheels and controls the machine's forward and
reverse speeds.
–To engage forward drive, press it towards «F» with your toe-cap. As you increase
the pressure on the pedal, the speed of the machine increases.
–Reverse is engaged by pressing the pedal with the heel towards «R».
–The pedal automatically goes into neutral «N» when released.
Only shift into reverse when the machine has stopped
moving
If the drive pedal is used, whether forwards or for reverse, the
engine stops as soon as the parking brake (4.4) is engaged.
4.33 HYDROSTATIC TRANSMIS-
SION DISENGAGEMENT LEVER
This lever has two positions as
shown on the label:
«A»=Transmission engaged: for
all uses, when moving and
during cutting;
«B»=Transmission disengaged:
this makes it much easier to
move the machine by hand,
with the engine turned off.
To avoid dam-
age to the transmission unit, this
operation must be carried out
only when the engine has stopped
with the pedal (4.32) on position
“N”.
IMPORTANT
NOTE

!WARNING!

➤
Hydrostatic transmission:
4.33
4.31
N
B
A
4.32
F
R

16 EN HOW TO USE THE MACHINE
5.1 SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS
The machine must only be used for the purpose for which it
was designed (cutting and collecting grass).
Do not tamper with or remove the safety devices fitted on the machine.
REMEMBER THAT THE USER IS ALWAYS RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGE AND
INJURY TO OTHERS. Before using the machine:
–read the general safety regulations (
☛ 1.2), paying particular attention to
driving and cutting on slopes;
– carefully read the instructions for use, make sure you are familiar with the
controls and know how to stop the blades and the engine quickly;
– never put your hands or feet next to or beneath the rotating parts and always
keep away from the exit.
Do not use the machine when in a precarious state of health or under the
effect of medicine or any other substances that can reduce your reflex actions
and your ability to concentrate.
It is the user's responsibility to assess the potential risk of the area where work
is to be carried out, and to take all the necessary precautions to ensure his
own safety and that of others, particularly on slopes or rough, slippery and
unstable ground.
Do not leave the machine on high grass with the engine running to avoid the
risk of starting a fire.
This machine must not be used on slopes steeper than 10°
(17%) (
☛ 5.5). If the machine is likely to be used mostly on sloping ground
(never steeper than 10°), fit counterweights (supplied on reques
☛ 8.1) beneath
the cross-member of the front wheels. These improve stability at the front and
reduce the chances of tipping over.
All the references relating to the positions of controls are
described in chapter 4.
5.2 WHY THE SAFETY DEVICES CUT IN
The safety devices work in two ways:
–hey prevent the engine from starting if all the safety requirements have not been
met;
–they stop the engine if even just one of the safety requirements is lacking.
a) To start the engine, it is necessary that:
–the transmission is in “neutral”;
IMPORTANT

!WARNING!

!DANGER!
5. HOW TO USE THE MACHINE

17
EN
HOW TO USE THE MACHINE
–the blades are not engaged;
–the operator is seated or the parking brake is engaged.
b) The engine stops when:
–the operator leaves his seat when the blades are engaged;
–the operator leaves his seat when the transmission is not in “neutral”;
–the operator leaves his seat with the transmission in “neutral” but without applying
the parking brake;
–the grass-catcher is lifted or the stone-guard is removed when the blades are
engaged;
–the parking brake is engaged without disengaging the blades.
5.3 DIRECTIONS BEFORE STARTING WORK
Before starting to mow, it is necessary to carry out several checks and operations to
ensure you can work efficiently and in maximum safety.
5.3.1 Seat adjustment
To change the seat position, loosen the four fixing
bolts (1) and slide it along the slots.
Once you have found the right position, tighten
the four screws (1).
5.3.2 Tyre pressure
Having the right tyre pressure is the main condi-
tion for ensuring that the cutting deck is horizon-
tal and mows evenly.
Unscrew the valve caps and connect a com-
pressed air line with a gauge to the valves.
The pressures are:
FRONT 1.5 bar (13 x 5.00-6)
1.0 bar (15 x 5.00-6)
REAR 1.2 bar
1 1

18 EN HOW TO USE THE MACHINE
5.3.3 Filling with oil and fuel
The engine manual
indicates what type of oil and fuel you can
use.
With the engine off, check the oil level.
According to the instructions in the engine
manual, this must be between the MIN and
MAX marks on the dipstick.
Refuel using a funnel, but do not completely
fill the tank. The tank's capacity is about 6
litres.
Refuelling should be
carried out in an open or well-ventilated
area with the engine off. Always
remember that petrol fumes are inflam-
mable. DO NOT USE A NAKED FLAME
TO LOOK INSIDE THE TANK AND DO
NOT SMOKE WHEN REFUELLING.
Do not drip petrol onto the plastic parts to avoid damaging them.
In the event of accidental spills or leaks, rinse immediately with water. The warranty
does not cover for damage to plastic parts of the bodywork or the engine caused by
petrol.
5.3.4 Fitting the protection at the exit
(grass-catcher or stone-guard)
Never use the machine with-
out having fitted the exit guards!
Attach the grass-catcher (1) to the brackets (2) and
centre it up with the rear plate, so that the two ref-
erence marks (3) coincide.
Centering is ensured by using the right bracket as
lateral support.
Make sure that the lower pipe of the grass-catcher
opening is attached to the pawl (4).

!WARNING!
IMPORTANT

!DANGER!
NOTE
MAX
MIN
4
3
21

19
EN
HOW TO USE THE MACHINE
If you decide to mow without the grass-catcher,
you can mount an optional stone-guard kit (☛8.2).
This has to be attached to the rear plate as indicat-
ed in the instructions.
5.3.5 Checking machine safety and efficiency
1. Check that the safety devices function as described (☛5.2).
2. Check that the brake is in perfect working order.
3. Do not start mowing if the blades vibrate or if you are unsure whether they are
sharp enough. Always remember that:
–Abadly sharpened blade pulls at the grass and causes the lawn to turn yellow.
–Aloose blade causes unwanted vibrations and can be dangerous.
Do not use the machine if you are unsure whether it is work-
ing safely or efficiently. If in doubt, contact your Dealer immediately to make
the necessary checks and repairs.
5.4 USING THE MACHINE
5.4.1 Starting
The engine must be started in an open or well-ventilated
area! ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT EXHAUST GASES ARE TOXIC!
To start the engine:
–open the fuel stopcock (1) ( if fitted);
–shift in the gear into neutral («N») (☛4.22 or 4.32);
–disengage the blades (☛4.7);
–apply the parking brake on sloping ground;
–when starting from cold, move the throttle to the
«CHOKE» position shown on the label;
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!DANGER!
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1

20 EN HOW TO USE THE MACHINE
–if the engine is already warm, position the lever between «SLOW» and «FAST»;
–put in the ignition key and turn to «ON» to make electrical contact, then turn to
«START» to start the engine;
–release the key once the engine has started.
When the engine has started, move the throttle to «SLOW».
The choke must be closed as soon as the engine is running
smoothly. Using it when the engine is already warm can foul the spark plugs and
cause the engine to run erratically.
If there are engine starting problems, do not insist as you can risk
running the battery flat and flooding the engine. Turn the key to «OFF», wait for a few
seconds and then repeat the operation. If the malfunction persists, refer to the
engine manual and chapter «7» in this manual.
Always bear in mind that the safety devices prevent the engine
from starting if safety requirements have not been met (
☛ 5.2).
In these cases, once the situation has been corrected, the key must first be turned
back to «OFF» before the engine can be restarted.
5.4.2 Starting and moving without mowing
This machine has not been approved for use on public roads.
It has to be used (as indicated by the highway code) in private areas closed to
traffic.
When moving the machine, the blades must be disengaged and the cutting deck
raised as high as possible (position «7»).
Position the throttle between «SLOW» and
«FAST», and the gear lever in 1st gear (☛4.22).
Keep the pedal pressed down and release the parking brake. Slowly release the
pedal to shift from “brake” to “clutch”, thus operating the rear wheels (☛4.21).
The pedal has to be released gradually, as a sudden
engagement may cause the vehicle to tip over and the driver to lose control.
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!WARNING!
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Mechanical transmission:
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!WARNING!
IMPORTANT
NOTE
IMPORTANT