Operation, Starting engine, Stopping engine – MTD Series 080 User Manual

Page 13: Using your lawn mower

Operation

Figure 5-1

Starting Engine

WARNING:

Be sure no one other than the operator

is standing near the lawn mower while starting

engine or operating mower. Never run engine

indoors or in enclosed, poorly ventilated areas.

Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an

odorless and deadly gas. Keep hands, feet, hair and

loose clothing away from any moving parts on

engine and lawn mower.

When starting the engine for the first time, push primer (if

equipped) five times. For all future starts, push the primer

three times. Wait about two seconds between each push.

See Fig. 5-1. Do not prime to restart a warm engine.
Standing behind the mower, squeeze the blade control

against upper handle.
Holding these two handles together firmly, grasp recoil

starter handle and pull rope out with a rapid, continuous,

full arm stroke. See Fig. 5-1. Keeping a firm grip on the

starter handle, let the rope rewind slowly. Repeat until

engine cranks. Let the rope rewind each time slowly.

Stopping Engine

Release blade control to stop the engine and blade.

WARNING:

Wait for the blade to stop completely

before performing any work on the mower or to

remove the mulching baffle (if equipped).

Using Your Lawn Mower

Be sure 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 personal injury to the operator and others.

WARNING:

The operation of any lawn mower can

result in foreign objects being thrown into the eyes,

which can damage your eyes severely. Always wear

safety glasses while operating the mower, or while

performing any adjustments or repairs on it.

Using as Mulcher (If Equipped)

For mulching grass, install the mulching baffle as instructed in

the “Assembly & Set-Up” section. For effective mulching, do not

cut wet grass. If the grass has been allowed to grow in excess of

four inches, mulching is not recommended. Use the grass catcher

(sold separately) to bag the clippings instead.

WARNING:

If you strike a foreign object, stop the

engine. Remove wire from the spark plug,

thoroughly inspect mower for any damage, and

repair damage before restarting and operating.

Extensive vibration of mower during operation is an

indication of damage. The unit should be promptly

inspected and repaired.