I have an older riding mower which my husband always used! He passed away without showing me how to use it and I am trying to work it out myself. They one thing that completely baffles me is the mower clutch. What is is supposed to do and when am I supposed to use it? Any help will be most gratefully received.:confused:

Mower deck clutch. The leaver.

It's how you turn the blade off, but yet still have power to the wheels.

The clutch or clutch/brake (the pedal you put your foot on)

Separates the engine and the wheels so you can start it up and let the engine run
Without the wheels turning. Some have separate pedals for clutch and the brake, some do it with one.

So I have to engage the mower clutch to make the darn thing cut the grass. Is that correct?
Thank you.

That's right. The blades don't turn until you do. The leaver that you push or pull moves a pulley that tightens up the belt that makes the blades turn. When engaged you will feel the difference in the vibration of the mower.

Bless you, Harold. After your message yesterday, I actually was able to mow half of my grass today (my yard is 90 X 150). Tomorrow the rest gets done! Without you, I never could have done this. And, no, I am not lazy... I am 66 years old! But I am finally getting it done and it makes me so proud!!

When you get to the Pearly Gates, give Hubby what for.

You got that right but, in the meantime, I guess I have to live in the here and now! So, I have one more question, if you don't mind me being a pest: About the oil, does it take 2 cycle or car oil? Thanks again.

Not 2 cycle. I recommend straight 30 weight oil. It will say "sae30" on the label. You don't need a multi-weight oil in a small engine (like you would use in a car).

Morrowrj