Safety
DANGER
Operating on wet grass or steep slopes can cause sliding and loss of control. Loss of control and/or loss of operator’s footing could result in a fall with an arm or leg getting under the mower or engine deck which may result in serious injury, death or drowning.
•Mow across slopes, never up and down.
•Do Not mow slopes when grass is wet.
•Do Not mow near drop-offs or near water.
•Do Not mow slopes greater than 20 degrees.
•Reduce speed and use extreme caution on slopes.
•Avoid sudden turns or rapid speed changes.
•See inside the back cover to determine the approximate slope angle of the area to be mowed.
•Remove or mark obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. from the mowing area. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
•Watch for ditches, holes, rocks, dips and rises that change the operating angle, as rough terrain could overturn the machine.
•Avoid sudden starts when mowing uphill because the mower may tip backwards.
•Be aware that operating on wet grass, across steep slopes or downhill may cause the mower to lose traction. Loss of traction to the drive wheels may result in sliding and a loss of braking and steering.
•Always avoid sudden starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly off the slope.
•Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel weights or counter weights to improve stability.
•Use extreme care with grass catchers or attachments. These can change the stability of the machine and cause loss of control.
Maintenance and Storage
•Disengage drives, lower implement, set parking brake, stop engine and remove key or disconnect
spark plug wire. Wait for all movement to stop before adjusting, cleaning or repairing.
•Keep engine and engine area free from accumulation of grass, leaves, excessive grease or oil, and other debris which can accumulate in these areas. These materials can become combustible and may result in a fire.
•Let engine cool before storing and Do Not store near flame or any enclosed area where open pilot lights or heat appliances are present.
•Shut off fuel while storing or transporting. Do Not store fuel near flames or drain indoors.
•Park machine on level ground. Never allow untrained personnel to service machine.
•Use jack stands to support components when required.
•Carefully release pressure from components with stored energy.
•Use care when checking blades. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves, and use caution when servicing them. Only replace damaged blades. Never straighten or weld them.
•Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. If possible, Do Not make adjustments with the engine running.
•Keep all guards, shields and all safety devices in place and in safe working condition.
•Check all bolts frequently to maintain proper tightness.
•Frequently check for worn or deteriorating components that could create a hazard.
•All replacement parts must be the same as or equivalent to the parts supplied as original equipment.
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