Operation - Craftsman C950-52546-0 Operator's Manual

Before Operating the Snowthrower
WARNING
Read the operator's manual before operating the
machine. This machine can be dangerous if used
carelessly.
• 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 housing
or discharge chute, and before making repairs or
adjustments.
• When leaving the machine, remove the key.
• To reduce the risk of fire, keep the machine clean and free
from spilled fuel, oil, and debris.
• On electric start models, disconnect the extension cord
before operating.
• Be sure to check the engine oil level before starting
the engine. See the engine operator's manual for oil
recommendations.
Operating the Snowthrower
DANGER
Amputation hazard
The discharge chute contains a rotating impeller
to throw snow. Fingers can quickly become caught
in the impeller. Never clear or unclog the discharge
chute with your hands. Always use a clean-out tool.
Failure to observe these safety instructions will
result in traumatic amputation or severe laceration.
Hand contact with the rotating impeller inside the
discharge chute is the most common cause of injury
associated with snowthrowers. Never use your hands to
clean out the discharge chute.
To safely clear a clogged discharge chute, follow
these instructions:
1. Shut OFF the engine.
2. Wait 10 seconds to be sure the impeller blades have
stopped rotating.
3. Always use a clean-out tool, not your hands.
12

OPERATION

DANGER
Toxic fume hazard
Engines 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 doors
and windows are open.
WARNING
Thrown objects hazard
This machine is capable of throwing objects that could
injure bystanders, or cause damage to buildings.
Be sure the operating area is clear of bystanders. Never
direct the discharge toward anyone, or toward buildings
or cars.
1. Start the engine. See Start the Engine in this section.
2. Turn the chute rotation crank (C, Figure 3) to rotate the
discharge chute left or right.
3. Press the deflector control switch (D) to control the
angle of the chute deflector.
4. Fully press and hold the auger control lever (B) to
engage the auger rotation. Releasing the auger control
lever will disengage the auger - unless the Free-Hand™
control is activated.
5. Fully press and hold the traction/Free-Hand™ control
lever (G) to engage the traction drive and begin moving
the 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 auger
control lever to use the other controls. The auger will
continue to run until the traction/Free-Hand™ control
lever is released.
NOTE: Always release the traction control lever before
changing speeds.
7. Use the speed select lever (A) to select the forward or
reverse drive speed. Use lower speeds when clearing
wet, heavy snow. Use higher speeds for light snow or
transporting.
8. Press the grip warmer switch (K) to heat the hand grips.
9. To stop moving forward, release the traction control
lever (G).
10. To move the snowthrower backwards, move the speed
select lever into either first or second reverse position
and engage the traction control lever.