Safety Instructions - Operating
14.The maximum recommended slope operat- ing angle is 15 degrees or 26% grade. When operating the machine on a slope, reduce speed and use caution to start, stop, and maneuver. To prevent tipping or loss of control of the ma- chine, avoid sharp turns or sudden changes in direction. Do not operate the machine on a slope greater than 15 degrees.
15.Never adjust cutting height with the engine running. Before adjusting cutting height or servicing, disengage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the engine, and remove the ignition key. Wait for all movement to stop before getting off the seat.
NOTE: A blade/blower brake should normally stop drive line rotation within five (5) seconds of disengaging the PTO clutch.
16.For side discharge mower decks, do not oper- ate with the grass deflector shield removed. Keep the deflector in the lowest possible posi- tion.
17.For tractors equipped with
a.Do not move tractor with deck in
b.Never tilt body forward with deck in
18.Do not operate the machine with the grass catcher in the DUMP position or with the back door OPEN. Dangerous projectiles may be thrown out of the discharge chute or the back of the grass catcher.
19.Use care when closing the grass catcher door. Keep fingers and hands away from the hinge and pinch points when the door is being closed. Also, keep fingers and hands clear of the door frame. The door may slam shut with considerable force.
20.In case of a clogged or plugged mower deck or GHS catching system:
a.Disengage the blade clutch (PTO) and turn the engine off before leaving the seat.
b.LOOK to make sure blade drive shaft and blower drive pulley movement has stopped before trying to unclog the system.
c.Disconnect the spark plug wires.
d.Never place hands under the deck or in the GHS blower - use a stick or similar tool to remove clogged material.
21.If the cutting blades strike a solid object or the machine begins to vibrate abnormally, immediately disengage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the engine, and wait for all moving parts to stop. To prevent accidental starting, disconnect the spark plug wires. Thoroughly inspect the mower and repair any damage before restarting the engine and operating the mower. Make sure cutter blades are in good condition and blade nuts are torqued to 60 lb·ft (81 N·m) for gear driven decks, and blade bolts torqued to 70 lb·ft (90 N·m) for belt driven decks.
22.Do not touch the engine or muffler while the engine is running or immediately after stop ping the engine. These areas may be hot enough to cause serious burns.
23.When leaving the machine unattended, disen gage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the en- gine, and remove the key.
CAUTION
Use leg muscles and firm footing when lift- ing the catcher to dump; avoid bending at the waist and using back muscles in order to prevent back injury.
12