BEFORE OPERATION CONSIDERATIONS (CONT'D)
5.Operator hearing protection is recommended, particularly for continuous operation of the mower. Wear suitable hearing protection. Prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause hearing impairment or hearing loss.
6.Keep the machine and attachments in good operating condition. Keep all shields and safety devices in place. If a shield, safety device or decal is defective or damaged, repair or replace it before operating the machine.
WARNING:
This machine is equipped with an interlock system intended to protect the operator and others from injury. This is accomplished by preventing the engine from starting unless the deck drive is disengaged, the parking brake is on, and the speed adjustment lever is in the neutral position. The system shuts off the engine if the operator releases the operator presence levers with the deck drive engaged and/or the speed adjustment lever not in the neutral position, or the parking brake disengaged. Never operate equipment with the interlock system disconnected or malfunctioning.
8.Before attempting to start the engine, move the speed adjustment lever into the neutral position, move the blade engagement switch to the OFF position, apply the parking brake, and move the neutral latches to neutral.
WARNING
DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT DISCHARGE CHUTE, MULCHING
KIT, OR ENTIRE GRASS CATCHER INSTALLED
9.The discharge chute must always be installed and in the down position on the side discharge cutter deck except when the Scag optional grass catcher or mulching plate are properly installed.
ROTATING BLADES
NEVER PUTYOUR HANDS INTO THE DISCHARGE CHUTE FOR ANY REASON! Shut off the engine and remove the key and only then use a stick or similar object to remove material if clogging has occurred.
7.Gasoline is highly flammable, handle it carefully. Fill the fuel tank outdoors. Never indoors. Fill the fuel tank with clean, fresh gasoline, with a minimum octane rating of 87. Use a funnel or spout to prevent spillage.
A.Use an approved gasoline container.
B.DO NOT add fuel to a running or hot engine. Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before adding fuel.
C.Keep flammable objects (cigarettes, matches, etc.), open flames and sparks away from the fuel tank and fuel container.
D.Fill the fuel tank outdoors and up to approxi- mately 1" (25 mm) below the bottom of the filler neck.
E.Wipe up any spilled gasoline.
10.If the mower discharge ever plugs, shut off the engine, remove the ignition key, and wait for all movement to stop before removing the obstruction. Do not use your hand to dislodge the clogged discharge chute. Use a stick or other device to remove clogged material.
11.Check the blade mounting bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness.
12.Make sure all hydraulic fluid connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses and lines are in good condition before starting the machine.
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