40
WARNING
§ Never shift gears with the engine running.
§ Before inserting the Shift Wrench, verify that the ignition is OFF.
§ Disengage the Shift Lock before shifting, and engage the Shift Lock
after shifting.
§ Remove the Shift Wrench before starting engine.
Shifting Gears
1. Verify that the ignition switch is OFF. This prevents accidentally starting the
engine while shifting gears.
2. Insert the Shift Wrench through the marked hole in the belt guard.
3. Pull and rotate the Shift Lock to disengage it.
4. Shift gears by turning the Shift Lever counter-clockwise from 3à1à2à4 or
clockwise from 4à2à1à3.
• Slightly rock the Shift Wrench while turning the Shift Lever to the desired
gear, to make shifting easier.
5. Push and turn the Shift Lock, to lock the selected gear.
6. Slightly rotate the Shift Lever to verify the gear shift lock has popped into
place.
7. Remove the Shift Wrench before starting the engine.
WARNING
§ DO NOT leave the Shift Wrench in the belt guard when starting the
engine. Injury to the operator or equipment damage is likely to
result.
8. Use the Blade Shaft tachometer to verify that recommended blade rpm
matches blade manufacturer’s recommendation.
Fig. 21 — Gear Shift Components
Shift Instruction Decal
Insert
Shift Wrench
Here
Shift Lock
Shift Lever