! | Important Operator Safety Instructions (Continued) | ! |
Read these safety rules and follow them closely. Failure to obey these rules could result in loss of control of unit, severe personal injury or death to you, or bystanders, or damage to property or equipment.
This mowing deck is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. The triangle 
in text signifies
important cautions or warnings which must be followed.
GENERAL OPERATION
1.Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the unit before starting.
2.Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
3.Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the unit (local regulations can restrict operator age).
4.Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s).
5.Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop the unit if anyone enters the area.
6.Never carry passengers.
7.Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while travelling in reverse.
8.Never direct discharge material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel surfaces.
9.Do not operate the machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard (deflector), or other safety devices in place and operational.
10.Slow down before turning.
11.Never leave a running unit unattended. Always disengage the blades (PTO), set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.
12.Disengage blades (PTO) when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard.
13.Operate the machine only in daylight or good artificial light.
14.Do not operate the unit while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
15Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
16.Use extra care when loading or unloading the unit into a trailer or truck.
17.Always wear eye protection when operating this unit.
18.Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of power equipment- related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the equipment safely enough to protect themselves and others from injury.
19.Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights.
20.Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents occurring to other people or property.
21.All drivers should seek and obtain professional and practical instruction.
22.Always wear substantial footwear and trousers. Never operate when barefoot or wearing sandals.
23.Before using, always visually check that the blades and blade hardware are present, intact, and secure. Replace worn or damaged parts.
24.Disengage attachments before: refueling, removing an attachment, making adjustments (unless the adjustment can be made from the operator’s position).
25.When the machine is parked, stored, or left unattended, lower the cutting means unless a positive mechanical lock is used.
26.Before leaving the operator’s position for any reason, engage the parking brake (if equipped), disengage the blades (PTO), stop the engine, and remove the key.
27.To reduce fire hazard, keep the unit free of grass, leaves, & excess oil. Do not stop or park over dry leaves, grass, or combustible materials.
28.It is a violation of California Public Resource Code Section 4442 to use or operate the engine on or near any
29.OSHA regulations may require the use of hearing protection when exposed to sound levels greater than 85 dBA for an 8 hour time period.
CAUTION
This machine produces sound levels in excess of 85 dBA at the operator’s ear and can cause hearing loss through extended periods of exposure.
Wear hearing protection when operating this machine.
TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE
1.When transporting the unit on an open trailer, make sure it is facing forward, in the direction of travel. If the unit is facing backwards, wind lift could damage the unit.
2.Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling practices when refueling the unit after transportation or storage.
3.Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed poorly ventilated structure. Fuel vapors can travel to an ignition source (such as a furnace, water heater, etc.) and cause an explosion. Fuel vapor is also toxic to humans and animals.
4.Always follow the engine manual instructions for storage preparations before storing the unit for both short and long term periods.
5.Always follow the engine manual instructions for proper
6.Never store the unit or fuel container inside where there is an open flame or pilot light, such as in a water heater. Allow unit to cool before storing.
5