Craftsman 917.273401 owner manual Do not, III. Children, IV. Service

DO:

•Mow up and down slopes, not across.

•Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.

•Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Un- even terrain could overturn the machine.

Tall grass can hide obstacles.

•Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope.

•Follow the manufacturer's recommend- ations for wheel weights or counter- weights to improve stability.

•Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments. These can change the stability of the machine.

•Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction.

•Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly straight down the

slope.

DO NOT:

°Do not turn on slopes unless neces- sary, and then, turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.

•Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The mower could

suddenly turn over if a wheel is over

the edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.

•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.

•Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.

•Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.

III.CHILDREN

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator

is not alert to the presence of children. Children are often attracted to the ma-

chine and the mowing activity. Neveras-

sume that children will remain where you last saw them.

•Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful care of another

responsible adult.

•Be alert and turn machine off if children enter the area.

•Before and when backing, look behind and down for small children.

•Never carry children. They may fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe machine operation.

•Never allow children to operate the machine.

•Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

IV. SERVICE

•Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive.

-Use only an approved container.

-Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke.

-Never refuel the machine indoors.

-Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, such as a water heater.

•Never run a machine inside a closed area.

•Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep equip- ment in good condition.

•Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.

•Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool before storing.

•Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.

•Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running.

•Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary.

•Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

•Check brake operation frequently. Ad- just and service as required.

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