Important Safety Precautions

This symbol is used to call attention to safe- ty precautions that should be followed by the operator to avoid accidents. When you see this symbol, carefully read the message that follows and heed its advice. Failure to comply with safety precautions could result in serious bodily injury.

In addition to the design and configuration of equipment, hazard control and accident prevention are depen- dent upon the awareness, concern, prudence and proper training of personnel in the operation, transport, maintenance and storage of equipment. Lack of attention to safety can result in accident, personal injury, reduction of efficiency and worst of all—loss of life. Watch for safety hazards and correct deficiencies promptly. Use the following safety precautions as a general guide to safe operations when using this machine. Additional safety precautions are used throughout this manual for specific operating and mainte nance procedures. Read this manual and review the safety precautions often until you know the limitations.

1.Read the Operator’s Manual. Failure to read the Operator’s Manual is considered a misuse of this equipment.

2.Become familiar with all the machine’s controls and all the caution, warning and danger decals affixed to the machine before attempting to start or operate.

3.Before starting or operating the machine, make a walk around inspection and check for obvious defects such as loose mounting bolts and damaged components. Correct any deficiency before starting.

4.Do not allow children to operate the implement. Do not allow adults to operate it without proper instruction.

5.Do not carry passengers.

6.Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children and pets. The operator should cease operation whenever anyone comes within the area.

7.Lower implement to ground, stop tractor engine and apply parking brake before leaving the tractor.

8.Keep hands and feet away from implement.

9.Wear personal protective equipment such as, but not limited to, protection for eyes, ears, feet, hands and head when operating or repairing the equipment. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that may catch on equipment moving parts.

10.When performing adjustments or maintenance on the implement, first lower it to the ground or block it securely at a workable height.

11.Never stand between tractor and implement while tractor is being backed to the hitch.

12.Reduce speed when transporting implement to avoid bouncing and momentary loss of steering.

13.Use tractor flashing warning lights, day or night, when transporting implement on road or highways unless prohibited by law.

14.Use a rollover protective structure and seat belt equipped tractor for all implement operations.