Not for
Reproduction
8
Operator Safety
EMISSIONS
1. Engine exhaust from this product contains
chemicals known, in certain quantities, to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
2. Look for the relevant Emissions Durability Period
and Air Index information on the engine emissions
label.
IGNITION SYSTEM (GASOLINE MODELS)
1. This spark ignition system complies with Canadian
ICES-002.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use
extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is
extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Safe Handling of Gasoline
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.
2. Use only approved gasoline containers.
3. Never remove the gas cap or add fuel with the
engine running. Allow the engine to cool before
refueling.
4. Never fuel the machine indoors.
5. Never store the machine or fuel container where
there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such
as near a water heater or other appliance.
6. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck bed with a plastic bed liner. Always place
containers on the ground away from your vehicle
before filling.
7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck
or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer
with a portable container, rather than from a
gasoline dispenser nozzle.
8. Keep nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank
or container opening at all times until fueling is
complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
9. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
10. Never over-fill the fuel tank. Replace gas cap and
tighten securely.
11. Use extra care in handling gasoline and other
fuels. They are flammable and vapors are
explosive.
12. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine
but move the machine away from the area of
spillage and avoid creating any source of ignition
until fuel vapors have dissipated.
13. Replace all fuel tank caps and fuel container caps
securely.
Maintenance and Storage
1. Always observe safe refueling and fuel
handling practices when refueling the unit after
transportation or storage.
2. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
storage preparations before storing the unit for
both short and long term periods.
3. Always follow the engine manual instructions for
proper start-up procedures when returning the unit
to service.
4. Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, such as in a water
heater. Allow unit to cool before storing.
5. Shut off fuel while storing or transporting. Do not
store fuel near flames or drain indoors.
6. Keep all hardware, especially blade attachment
bolts, tight and keep all parts in good working
condition. Replace all worn or damaged decals.
7. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.
8. 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.
9. Clean grass and debris from cutting units, drives,
mufflers, and engine to prevent fires. Clean up oil
or fuel spillage.
10. Let engine cool before storing and do not store
near flame.
11. Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an
object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
12. Park machine on level ground. Never allow
untrained personnel to service machine.
13. Use jack stands to support components when
required.
14. Carefully release pressure from components with
stored energy.
15. Disconnect battery or remove spark plug wire
before making any repairs. Disconnect the
negative terminal first and the positive last.
Reconnect positive first and negative last.
16. Use care when checking blades. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves, and use caution when
servicing them. Only replace blades. Never
straighten or weld them.
17. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
If possible, do not make adjustments with the
engine running.
18. Charge batteries in an open well ventilated area,
away from spark and flames. Unplug charger
before connecting or disconnecting from battery.
Wear protective clothes and use insulated tools.
19. Grass catcher components are subject to wear,
damage, and deterioration, which could expose
moving parts or allow objects to be thrown.
Frequently check components and replace
with manufacturer’s recommended parts, when
necessary.
20. Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and
service as required.
21. Use only factory authorized replacement parts
when making repairs.
22. Always comply with factory specifications on all
settings and adjustments.
23. Only authorized service locations should be
utilized for major service and repair requirements.
24. Never attempt to make major repairs on this unit
unless you have been properly trained. Improper
service procedures can result in hazardous
operation, equipment damage and voiding of
manufacturer’s warranty.
25. Units with hydraulic pumps, hoses, or motors:
WARNING: Hydraulic fluid escaping under
pressure may have sufficient force to penetrate
skin and cause serious injury. If foreign fluid is
injected into the skin it must be surgically removed
within a few hours by a doctor familiar with this
form of injury or gangrene may result. Keep body
and hands away from pin holes or nozzles that
eject hydraulic fluid under high pressure. Use
paper or cardboard, and not hands, to search for