Craftsman 917.271742 owner manual General Operation, II. Slope Operation

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious inJuryor death.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

•Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual and on the machine before starting.

•Only allow responsible adults, who are

familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine.

•Clear the area of objects such as rocks,toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the blade.

•Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.

•Never carry passengers.

•Do not mow in reverse unless abso- lutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing.

•Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone. Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the guard in place.

•Slow down before turning.

•Never leave a running machine unattended. Always tum off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting.

•Turn off blades when not mowing.

•Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.

•Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.

•Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

•Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.

•Use extra care when loading or

unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

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

II. SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of- control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up

the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it.

DO:

•Mow up and down slopes, not across.

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

•Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could overturn the

machine. Ta// grass can hide ob- stac/es.

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

•Follow the manufacturer'srecommen- dations 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 s/ow 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 gradu- ally downhill, if possible.

•Donotmowneardrep-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 notuse grass catcher on steep slopes.

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