Cutting Blade Hazard
The cutting blades are sharp, and they turn at high speed. Accidental con-
tact can cause serious injury.
l Keep your hands and feet away from the mower deck while the engine
is running.
l Stop the engine, disengage the Power Take Off (P.T.O.) clutch and
remove the key before inspection or maintenance of the deck or blades.
l Disconnect the spark plug cap to prevent any possibility of accidental
starting. Wear heavy gloves to protect your hands from the blades
when cleaning out the mower deck, or when inspecting or replacing the
blades.
Thrown Object Hazard
Objects hit by the cutting blades can be thrown from the mower with great
force, and may cause serious injury.
l Before mowing, clear the mowing area of sticks, stones, dog bones,
and other litter and loose objects. Mow only in daylight, or in well-lit
areas at night, so you can see and avoid objects in the grass.
l Before operating the mower, be sure the side discharge guard is down,
or that the optional grass catcher bags and discharge chute are in place.
l Disengage the Power Take Off (P.T.O.) lever to stop the blades before
crossing a gravel driveway or any other area with loose stones.
l Always inspect the mower for damage after striking a foreign object.
Repair or replace any damaged parts before continued use.
l Broken pieces thrown from a worn or damaged blade can cause serious
injury. Always inspect the blades before using the mower.
Fire and Burn Hazard
Gasoline is extremely flammable, and gasoline vapor can explode.
Use extreme care when handling gasoline. Keep gasoline out of reach of
children.
l Refuel in a well ventilated area with the engine stopped.
l Allowed the engine to cool before refueling. Fuel vapor or spilled fuel
may ignite.
l The accumulation of dry grass and leaves around the engine or exhaust
may ignite.
l It is illegal in some areas to operate an engine without a USDA qualified
spark arrester. Periodic maintenance is required to keep it functioning
as designed.
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