Starting The Engine - Cub Cadet RZT54 Operator's Manual

The safety interlock system will shut offthe engine if the
operator leaves the seat with the PTO engaged, regardless
of whether the parking brake is engaged.
NOTE:The PTO switch must be moved to the "OFF"
position to restart the engine.
The safety interlock system will shut offthe PTO and the
mower blades will stop if both drive control levers are
moved into the reverse position. The PTO will re-engage
when one or both of the levers are moved back to the
neutral or forward position.
Starting the Engine
WARNING! This tractor is equipped with a safety
interlock system designed for the protection of the
operator. Do not operate the tractor if any part of
the interlock system is malfunctioning. Periodically
check the functions of the interlock system for
proper operation.
WARNING! For personal safety, the operator must
be sitting in the tractor seat when starting the
engine.
1. Operator must be sitting in the tractor seat.
2. Engage the parking brake. Refer to Fig. 5-1.
J
Figure 5-1
3. Make certain the PTO switch is in the disengaged (down)
position. Refer to Fig. 5-1.
4. Pull the choke control upward into the full choke position.
NOTE: If the engine is warmed up, it may not be necessary
to place the throttle control in the choke position.
5. Move the throttle control to midway between its SLOW and
FAST positions.
6. Turn the ignition key clockwise to the "START" position
and release it as soon as the engine starts; however, do not
crank the engine continuously for more than 5 seconds at
a time. If the engine does not start within this time, turn
the key to "OFF" and wait at least 15 seconds to allow the
engine's starter motor to cool. Try again after waiting. If
after a few attempts the engine fails to start, do not keep
trying to start it with the choke closed as this will cause
flooding and make starting more difficult.
7. As the engine warms up, gradually push the choke control
knob downward into the choke off position. Do not use
the choke position to enrich the fuel mixture, except as
necessary to start the engine.
8. Allow the engine to run for a few minutes at mid throttle
before putting the engine under load.
9. Observe the hour meter / indicator panel. If the battery
indicator light or oil pressure light come on, immediately
stop the engine. Have the tractor inspected by your Cub
Cadet dealer.
C01d Weather Starting
When starting the engine at temperatures near or below
freezing, ensure the correct viscosity motor oil is used in the
engine and the battery is fully charged. Start the engine as
follows:
1. Be sure the battery is in good condition. A warm battery
has much more starting capacity than a cold battery.
2. Use fresh winter grade fuel. Winter grade gasoline has
higher volatility to improve starting. Do not use gasoline
left over from summer.
3. Follow the previous instruction for Starting the Engine.
UsingJumper Cables ToStart Engine
WARNING! Batteries contain sulfuric acid and
produce explosive gasses. Make certain the area is
well ventilated, wear gloves and eye protection, and
avoid sparks or flames near the battery.
If the battery charge is not sufficient to crank the engine,
recharge the battery. Ira battery charger is unavailable and
the tractor must be started, the aid of a booster battery will be
necessary. Connect the booster battery as follows:
I. Connect the end of one cable to the disabled tractor
battery's positive terminal; then connect the other end of
that cable to the booster battery's positive terminal.
2. Connect one end of the other cable to the booster
battery's negative terminal; then connect the other end of
that cable to the frame of the disabled tractor, as far from
the battery as possible.
3. Start the disabled tractor following the normal starting
instructions previously provided; then disconnect
the jumper cables in the exact reverse order of their
connection.
4. Have the tractor's electrical system checked and repaired
as soon as possible to eliminate the need for jump starting.
SECTION 5-- OPERATION