Preparation

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1.Read, understand and follow instructions and warn- ings in this manual and on the machine, engine and attachments. Know the controls, the safety signs and the proper use of the machine before starting. If the operators or mechanics cannot read English, it is the owner’s responsibility to explain this material to them.

2.Only mature, responsible persons shall operate or service the machine and only after proper instruc- tion and training. The owner is responsible for train- ing the operators. Further, the owner/operator can prevent and/or is responsible for accidents or injuries occurring to themselves, other people or property.

3.Data indicates that operators age 60 and above, are involved in a large percentage of mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their abil- ity to operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury.

4.Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel container. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine running. Add or drain fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel from machine. DO NOT smoke.

5.Practice operation of machine with BLADES OFF to learn controls and develop skills.

6.Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that could cause injury if thrown by blades or inter- fere with mowing. Check for overhead clearances before driving under any objects.

7.Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and attachments are needed to properly and safely perform the job. Only use accessories and attach- ments approved by SNAPPER.

8.Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately, STOP blades, STOP engine, and STOP machine if anyone enters the area.

9.DO NOT operate machine unless all shields, deflec- tors, switches, blade controls and other safety devices are in place and functioning properly.

10.Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if damaged.

11.Protect yourself when mowing and wear appropri- ate clothing including safety glasses, long pants, ear protection, hardhat and substantial footwear with good traction. Long hair, loose clothing or jew- elry may get tangled in moving parts.

12.Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly in preparation for emergencies.

13.Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

PREPARATION

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14.Check grass catcher components frequently for signs of wear or deterioration and replace as need- ed to prevent injury from thrown objects going through weak or worn spots.

SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive

1.Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition.

2.Use only an approved fuel container.

3.DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.

4.DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.

5.DO NOT store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as on a water heater or other appliances.

6.DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place the containers on the ground away from the vehicle before filling.

7.Remove gas-powered equipment from the vehicle or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel equipment using a portable container, rather than a gasoline dispenser nozzle.

8.DO NOT start gas powered equipment in enclosed vehicles or trailers.

9.Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. DO NOT use a nozzle lock-open device

10.If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing imme- diately.

11.DO NOT overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten securely.

OPERATION

1.Mount and dismount machine from left side.

2.Start engine from operator's seat. Make sure blades are OFF and parking brake is set. Use seat belts if provided.

3.DO NOT leave machine with engine running. Stop engine. Stop blades. Set brake. Remove key.

4.DO NOT operate machine unless properly seated, with seat belt securely fastened and adjusted to a snug fit, and with feet on foot rests or pedal(s).

5.DO NOT operate machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

6.STOP MACHINE on level ground, lower deck, engage parking brake and make sure engine and blades have stopped before removing grass catch- er or unclogging mower to prevent injury to hands or feet.