OPERATION
18
.
Slopes
Mow across slopes, not up and
down. Avoid steep slopes (more
than 20°), and be careful when
changing direction. Mowing on a
slope when the grass is damp or wet
could cause you to slip, fall, and lose
control of the mower.
Obstacles
Use the side of the mower to cut
close to obstacles, such as fences
or walls. Release the Smart Drive
control to disengage the drive when mowing around trees and other
obstacles for better directional control. Be careful when mowing over
obstacles embedded in the lawn, such as sprinkler heads, paving,
edging, etc. Avoid anything sticking up above the surface of the lawn.
If the blade hits something, or if the mower starts to vibrate, stop the
engine immediately, disconnect the spark plug cap, and check for
damage (page 25). Striking objects may damage the blade, bend the
crankshaft, and/or break the mower deck or other components.
Vibration usually indicates serious trouble.
WARNING
The blades are sharp and spin at high speed.
A spinning blade can cut you severely and can
amputate fingers and toes.
• Wear protective footwear
• Keep your hands and feet away from the
mower deck while the engine is running.
• Stop the engine before performing any
adjustment, inspection, or maintenance.