IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safely 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.
•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 end 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. •Tum off blades when not mowing.
•Stop engine before removing grass catcher or unclogging chute.
•Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
•Do not operste 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 ma or factor relatedto loss.
DO:
•Mow up and downslopes, not across.
•Remove obstaclessuch as recks,tree limbs,etc.
•Watch for holes, ruts,or bumps.
Uneventerrain could overturnthe machine. Tall grass can hide obstacl_
•Use slow speed, Choose a low gear so that you will not have to stopor shL while on the slope.
•Followthe manufacturer'srecommen- dationsfor wheel weightsor counter- weightsto improvestability.
•Use extracare with grasscatchersor otherattachments. These can chang_ the stabilityof the machine.
•Keep all movementon the slopesslot and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction,
•Avoidstartingor stoppingon a slepe. tires losetraction, disengagethe blades and proceed slowlystraight
down the slope.
DO NOT:
•Do not turn on slopesunlessneces- sary and then, turnslowlyand gradu ally downhill,if possib e.
•Do not mow near
suddenlytum over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or ditch,or if an edg caves in.
•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced tracton could cause sliding.
•Do not tryto stabilizethe machineby puttingyourfoot on the ground.
•Do not use grasscatcher on steep slopes.
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