SAFETY
MAINTENANCE SAFETY
in general
Maintain machine according to manufacturer's schedule and instructions for maximum safety and best mowing results.
Park machine on level ground.
Never allow untrained personnel to service ma- chine.
Adjust or repair only after the engine has been stopped and the blades have quit rotating.
Inspect grass catcher components regularly. If worn, damaged or deteriorated, they may expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown.
Replace parts if worn, damaged or faulty. For best results, always replace with parts recommended by the manufacturer.
Disconnect battery or remove spark plug wire(s) before making any repairs. Disconnect the negative terminal first and the positive last. Re- connect positive first and negative last.
Do not dismantle the machine without releasing or restraining forces which may cause parts to move suddenly.
Provide adequate support, e.g. jackstands for lifted machine or parts if working beneath.
Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Clean up spilled oil or fuel thoroughly.
Replace faulty mufflers.
To reduce fire hazards, keep the engine, muffler, battery compartment and fuel storage area free of grass, leaves, debris buildup or grease.
Hydraulic fluid can penetrate skin, use paper to check for leaks. Relieve hydraulic pressure before disconnecting hoses. Make sure connections are tight and hoses are in good condition.
WARNING
Blades
Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Use extra caution when handling. Remove ob- structions with care. Wrap the blade(s) or wear gloves.
Be aware that rotating one
blade on
Only replace blades. Never straighten or weld them.
Keep other persons away from blades.
WARNING
Fuel
Gasoline and diesel fuels are flammable; gasoline vapors are explosive. Use extra care when handling.
Store only in containers spe- cifically designed for fuel.
When refueling or checking fuel level:
-Stop the engine and allow to cool;
-Do not smoke;
-Refuel outdoors only;
-Use a funnel;
-Do not overfill;
-If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the
engine until the spill is cleaned up and vapors have cleared.
Sparks from static electricity can start fires or cause explosions. Flowing fuel can generate static
electricity. To prevent static electricity sparks:
Keep containers electrically grounded. Do not fill containers in a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed
with a plastic liner. Fill containers on the ground away from the vehicle.
When practical, remove gas powered equip- ment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If equipment must be refueled on the truck or trailer, refuel from a portable container rather than a dispenser nozzle.
Keep the dispenser nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle
Replace caps on fuel cans and tanks securely.
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