Craftsman C950-52546-0 Operator's Manual

Not forReproductionDANGERToxic fume hazardEngines give off carbon monoxide, an odorless,colorless, poison gas.Breathing carbon monoxide can cause nausea,fainting, or death.• Start and run the engine outdoors.• Do not run the engine in an enclosed area, even if doorsand windows are open.WARNINGThrown objects hazardThis machine is capable of throwing objects that couldinjure bystanders, or cause damage to buildings.Be sure the operating area is clear of bystanders. Neverdirect the discharge toward anyone, or toward buildingsor cars.1. Start the engine. See Start the Engine in this section.2. Turn the chute rotation crank (C, Figure 3) to rotate thedischarge chute left or right.3. Press the deflector control switch (D) to control theangle of the chute deflector.4. Fully press and hold the auger control lever (B) toengage the auger rotation. Releasing the auger controllever will disengage the auger - unless the Free-Hand™control is activated.5. Fully press and hold the traction/Free-Hand™ controllever (G) to engage the traction drive and begin movingthe snow-thrower. To disengage the traction drive,completely release the lever.6. When BOTH levers are pressed, the Free-Hand™control is activated. This allows you to release the augercontrol lever to use the other controls. The auger willcontinue to run until the traction/Free-Hand™ controllever is released.NOTE: Always release the traction control lever beforechanging speeds.7. Use the speed select lever (A) to select the forward orreverse drive speed. Use lower speeds when clearingwet, heavy snow. Use higher speeds for light snow ortransporting.8. Press the grip warmer switch (K) to heat the hand grips.9. To stop moving forward, release the traction controllever (G).10. To move the snowthrower backwards, move the speedselect lever into either first or second reverse positionand engage the traction control lever.Before Operating the SnowthrowerWARNINGRead the operator’s manual before operating themachine. This machine can be dangerous if usedcarelessly.• Never operate the snowthrower without all guards, covers,and shields in place.• Stop the engine whenever leaving the operating position.• Remove the key before unclogging the impeller housingor discharge chute, and before making repairs oradjustments.• When leaving the machine, remove the key.• To reduce the risk of fire, keep the machine clean and freefrom spilled fuel, oil, and debris.• On electric start models, disconnect the extension cordbefore operating.• Be sure to check the engine oil level before startingthe engine. See the engine operator’s manual for oilrecommendations.Operating the SnowthrowerDANGERAmputation hazardThe discharge chute contains a rotating impellerto throw snow. Fingers can quickly become caughtin the impeller. Never clear or unclog the dischargechute with your hands. Always use a clean-out tool.Failure to observe these safety instructions willresult in traumatic amputation or severe laceration.Hand contact with the rotating impeller inside thedischarge chute is the most common cause of injuryassociated with snowthrowers. Never use your hands toclean out the discharge chute.To safely clear a clogged discharge chute, followthese instructions:1. Shut OFF the engine.2. Wait 10 seconds to be sure the impeller blades havestopped rotating.3. Always use a clean-out tool, not your hands.OPERATION12