Ryobi 454 - Manual (Page 8)

8
• To shift into forward wheels and tine drive, push
forward slightly on the gear selection handle and
slowly engage the clutch control allowing the gears
to synchronize.
• To stop forward movement and tine drive, release
the clutch control. Do not shift gears with the clutch
control engaged except when engaging the tines.
WARNING: Make certain unit is in
NEUTRAL when starting the engine.
Clutch Control
The clutch control is located beneath the handle.
Squeezing the clutch control against the handle
engages the wheel and tine drive mechanisms.
NOTE: Never engage clutch lever while shifting.
Handle Adjustment Crank
The handle may be adjusted to the height desired.
Loosen the handle adjustment crank a few turns. Pivot
handle up or down to desired position. Tighten lock.
Throttle Control
The throttle control lever is located on the engine. It
controls the engine speed and stops the engine.
Choke Lever
(If Equipped)
The choke lever is located by the throttle. It is used to
enrich the fuel mixture in the carburetor when starting a
cold engine.
Primer Button
(If Equipped)
The primer button is located behind the air cleaner. It is
used to enrich the fuel mixture in the carburetor when
starting a cold engine.
Depth Stake
The depth stake controls the tilling depth. Refer to
‘‘Setting the Depth’’ in the Operating Section.
Engine Controls
See the separate engine manual for additional
information and functions of the engine controls.
SECTION 4: OPERATING YOUR TILLER
WARNING: Read, understand, and
follow all instructions and warnings on the
machine and in this manual before
operating.
Before Starting
Gas And Oil Fill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the separate engine manual packed with your tiller.
Read instructions carefully.
WARNING: Use extreme care when
handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Never fuel machine indoors or while the
engine is hot or running.
Starting Engine
NOTE: When pushing the unit with the engine off, you
will hear a ratcheting sound (gear noise) which is
normal.
WARNING: Be sure no one is standing
in front of the tiller while the engine is
running or being started.
• Place gear selection lever in NEUTRAL.
• Place the throttle control lever in FAST position or if
equipped, place the engine speed control in the
START position.
• Move choke lever to CHOKE position or if
equipped, push primer two (2) or three (3) times.
Wait about two (2) seconds between each push.
NOTE: A warm engine may not require choking or to
be primed.
• Stand at side of tiller. Grasp the starter handle and
pull out slowly, until it pulls slightly harder. Let rope
rewind slowly.
• Pull starter handle rapidly. Do not allow handle to
snap back. Allow it to rewind slowly while keeping a
firm hold on the starter handle.
• Repeat previous steps until engine starts.
• As engine warms up and begins to operate evenly,
move choke lever gradually to RUN position. If
engine falters, return to choke position, then slowly
move to RUN position.
NOTE: See your engine manual packed with your unit
for more detailed instructions.
NOTE: After starting and prior to using the tiller for the
first time, be certain to check the clutch adjustment as
described in “Checking the Clutch Adjustment” section
of the Assembly Instructions.