12OPERATIONBlade ControlThe blade control is attached to the upper handle of the mower. Depress andsqueeze it against the upper handle to operate the unit. Release it to stop engineand blade.WARNINGThis blade control is a safety device. Never attempt to bypass its operation.Drive Control - Bail or Single Lever (If Equipped)The drive control is located on top of the upper handle and is used to engage thedrive. Squeeze it against the upper handle to engage the drive; release it to slowdown or stop mower from propelling.Drive Control - Dual Lever (If Equipped)The drive controls are located on top of the upper handle and are used to engagethe drive. Squeeze the right, left, or both right and left controls against the upperhandle to engage the drive; release it/them to slow down or stop mower frompropelling.Cutting Height Adjustment LeverOne adjustment lever is located on the right rear wheel and one is located on theright front wheel. Both levers have to be at the same position to ensure a uniformcut. To adjust the cutting height, refer to the Assembly Section.Side Discharge Cover (If Equipped)Your mower is shipped as a mulcher. To discharge the grass clippings to the sideinstead, follow the instructions in the Assembly section to attach the side dischargecover.WARNINGKeep hands and feet away from the chute area on cutting deck. Refer towarning label on the unit.Grass Catcher (If Equipped)The grass catcher, located at the rear of the mower, is used to bag the grassclippings for disposal at another site. Once the bag is full, remove it up through thehandles and empty it before any further mowing.Mulch Cover (If Equipped)The mulch cover is used for mulching purposes. Instead of collecting the grassclippings in a grass catcher or using the side discharge chute, some mower modelshave the option of recirculating the clippings back to the lawn. This is calledmulching.Trail Shield (If Equipped)The trail shield is attached to the rear of the mower and is there to protect theoperator from flying debris. Do not use the mower unless the shield is fullyfunctional and in place.Deck Wash (If Equipped)Your mower’s deck is equipped with a water port on its surface as part of its deckwash system. Use the deck wash to rinse grass clippings from the deck’s underside.Recoil StarterThe recoil starter is attached to the right upper handle. Stand behind the unit andpull the recoil starter rope to start the unit.Oil Fill Cap/DipstickRefer to the Engine Operator’s Manual packed with your mower for detailed oilfilling, checking and changing instructions.Electric Starter Push Key (If Equipped)The electric starter push key is located on the right side of the upper handle. It isboth a removable key and push button and is only provided on electric start models.Meets ANSI Safety StandardsCraftsman Lawn Mowers conform to the safety standard of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).