Dixon 115312327R1 - Manual (Page 23)

oPeRAtIon
23
Read the Safety section and following pages, if you
are unfamiliar with the machine.
Training
Zero turn mowers are far more maneuverable than
typical riding mowers due to their unique steering
capabilities.
We suggest that this section be reviewed in its entirety
prior to attempting to move the mower under its own
power. Additionally, we suggest when first operating
the mower, use a reduced throttle speed and reduced
ground speed by NOT moving control levers to the
furthest forward or reverse positions during initial
operation, or until operator becomes comfortable
with controls. We also suggest first time users, or new
users to Zero Turn mowers to become familiar with
the mower’s movement on a hard surface, such as
concrete or blacktop PRIOR to attempting to operate
on turf. Until operator becomes comfortable with
mower controls and zero turning capability, they may
damage turf due to overly aggressive maneuvers.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
When control levers are in the reverse position
they return to neutral when released. This may
cause the mower to suddenly stop.
Steering
To move forward and backward
The direction and speed of the mower’s movements
is effected by the movement of the control lever(s)
on each side of mower. The left control lever controls
the left wheel. The right control lever controls the right
wheel.
First time users should push mower (see Manual
Transport in the Operation section) to an open, flat
area, without other people or vehicles/obstacles
nearby. In order to move unit under its own power,
the operator must be in the seat, start engine (see
Before Starting in Operation section), adjust engine
speed to idle, disengage parking brake, do not
engage blades at this time, rotate control levers
inward. As long as the control levers have not been
moved forward or backwards, mower will not move.
Slowly move both control levers forward slightly. This
will allow mower to start moving forward in a straight
line. Pull back on control levers to the neutral position
and mower should stop moving. Pull back slightly on
control levers, this will allow mower to start moving
backwards. Push forward on control levers to the
neutral position and mower should stop moving.
To turn to the right
While moving in a forward direction, pull the right lever
back towards the neutral position while maintaining
the position of the left lever, this will slow the rotation
of the right wheel and cause the machine to turn in
that direction.
To turn to the left
While moving in a forward direction pull the left lever
back towards the neutral position while maintaining
the position of the right lever, this will slow the rotation
of the left wheel and cause the machine to turn in that
direction.
To zero turn
While moving in a forward direction, first pull both
control levers back until the mower stops or slows
dramatically.
Then by alternating one lever slightly to the forward
position and the other in the reverse position.