Craftsman 486.243292 owner manual Safety Rules, General Operation

SAFETY RULES

Safe Operation Practices for Tow Behind Mowers

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

I.GENERAL OPERATION

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

•Read this operator's manual carefully. Become familiar with the controls and know how to operate your mower properly.

•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 absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and during backing.

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

•Slow down before turning.

•Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades and stop engine.

•Turn off blades when not mowing.

•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 crossing or operating near roadways.

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

•Do not attempt to operate your tractor or mower when not in drivers seat.

•Disengage power to mower and stop engine when transporting or when not in use.

•Exercise special care when mowing around fixed objects in order to prevent the blades from striking them. Never deliberately run tractor or mower onto or over any foreign object.

•Use mower only as the manufacturer intended and as described in this manual.

•Do not operate mower if it has been dropped or damaged in any manner. Always have damage repaired before using your mower.

•Always wear safety glasses or eye shields when starting and while using your mower.

•Dress properly. Do not operate mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Wear only solid shoes with good traction when mowing.

•Always make cutting height adjustments before starting your mower. Never attempt to do this while the engine is running.

•Keep your eyes and mind on your mower and the area being cut. Do not let other interests distract you.

•Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.

•Before cleaning, inspecting, or repairing your mower, stop the engine and make absolutely sure the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Then disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.

•Do not operate your mower if it vibrates abnormally. Excessive vibration is and indication of damage; stop the engine, safely check for the cause of vibration and repair as required.

•Never operate your mower without proper guards, plates or other safety devices in place.

II.SLOPE OPERATION

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. 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. 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 recommendations for wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.

•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 necessary, 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.

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