Cub Cadet SLT-1554 User Manual
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•
Make sure the fuel tank is filled with clean, fresh 
gasoline.
•
Make sure the fuel tank cap vent is not blocked and 
that it is operating properly.
•
If the fuel tank is equipped with a shut-off valve, 
make sure it is open.
•
Make sure that the in-line fuel filter is clean and 
unobstructed. Replace the filter if necessary.
•
Make sure fuel is reaching the carburetor. Check 
the fuel lines and fuel pump for restrictions or faulty 
components, replace as necessary.
•
Make sure the air cleaner element is clean and all 
air cleaner element components are secure.
If, after checking the items listed above, the engine is 
hard to start, runs roughly, or stalls at low idle speed, it 
may be necessary to adjust or service the carburetor.
Adjustment
NOTE:
Engines may have a fixed idle or limiter cap on
the idle fuel adjusting needle. Step 2 can only be
performed within the limits allowed by the cap.
1.
Start the engine and run at half throttle for five to 10 
minutes to warm up. The engine must be warm 
before performing steps 2 and 3.
2.
Low Idle Fuel Needle Setting: Place the throttle 
into the “idle” or “slow” position. Turn the low idle 
fuel adjusting needle out (counterclockwise) from 
the preliminary setting until engine speed 
decreases (rich). Note the position of the needle. 
Now turn the adjusting needle in (clockwise). The 
engine speed may increase, then it will decrease as 
the needle is turned in (lean). Note the position of 
the needle. Set the adjusting needle midway 
between the rich and lean settings. See Figure 19.
Figure 19
3.
Low Idle Speed Setting: Place the throttle control 
into the “idle” or “slow” position. Set the low idle 
speed to 1500 RPM* (± 75 RPM) by turning the low 
idle speed adjusting screw in or out. Check the 
speed using a tachometer. 
NOTE:
To ensure best results when setting the low
idle fuel needle, the low idle speed must not exceed
1500 RPM* (± 75 RPM).
Lean
Rich
Adjust to Midpoint
