SAFE MOWING GUIDE
Use only original equipment or approved sub- stitutions as service parts. If you need profes- sional service, select a shop that is an Authorized Service Center for your brand of mower. If you plan to service the unit yourself, follow directions in the Instruction Book.
in the rain is no fun and it is dangerous. Always seek shelter in an electrical storm. In extreme- ly dry mowing conditions, your safety glasses can serve a dual purpose by protecting your eyes from dust and thrown objects, also a dust or pollen mask can be helpful.
As you mow, remember children and pets are sometimes attracted to the activity. Be espe- cially careful when trimming around shrubbery or when backing up. If at all possible, don’t mow when moving backwards. It is dangerous because vision is restricted. Also, blades are designed to cut while the unit is moving for- ward so cutting performance is reduced when mowing in reverse.
Never leave the mower running and unat- tended. Shut off the engine. Put the mower in a position so that it can not roll. If the unit is
When mowing, be aware of your condition and the weather conditions. After mowing a long time, you will be tired. This is the time when reactions slow down, your attention wanders; the time when you are wide open for an acci- dent. Take a short break. If temperatures are high, take precautions to avoid becoming de- hydrated. If you are angry, tired, or unable to give your full attention to mowing, if you have been consuming alcohol, medicines, or drugs, do not use your mower or any type of power equipment.
If weather conditions become worse while you are cutting, stop and finish later. Cutting grass
Your mower is equipped with a number of safe- ty features which are important to the safety of the operator and bystanders and must never be altered or removed. If a safety feature be- comes inoperable, lost, or damaged, it must be repaired or replaced before the mower is used. Engine speed is a key to safe mowing and a nice looking lawn. The maximum speed of the engine on your mower has been set at the fac- tory. Do not change the engine governor in any way.
Select the maximum engine and ground speed that is right for the terrain and the height of grass. You get the best cutting and bagging performance when using a grass catcher by operating the engine at maximum speed. Nev- er walk fast or run just to get the job done soon- er. On inclines, reduce ground speed and exercise extreme care.
It is best to mow only during daylight hours; however, if you must mow in the late afternoon or evening, make sure there is good artificial light.
Your mower will require maintenance including service and adjustments before and after use as with any machine. The frequency of the maintenance is generally based on hours of use, however, the frequency can vary because of mowing conditions. Check the Instruction Book for more detailed instructions. Proper maintenance protects your investment in the mower and helps insure that it will function safely and reliably.
Never attempt any service (with the pos- sible exception of car- buretor adjustment) with the engine run-
ning. After turning the engine off, always disconnect the spark
plug wire to prevent accidental restarting while the unit is being serviced.
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