Perform a system check. Remove the dipstick in the rear of the trowel. Check the oil level of the machine. Check the fuel level to confirm there is enough fuel. Confirm that the fuel switch is in the "On" position.
Start the machine trowel. Position the throttle to the halfway position. Hold down the brake lever. Yank the engine cord firmly to start the engine. Allow the engine some time to warm up.
Place the trowel on the concrete slab. Adjust the pitch of the blades with the pitch release lever. Adjust the trowel speed with the throttle.
Set the trowel in motion over the concrete. Run the trowel in even rows. Repeat to achieve the level of smoothness desired.