Section 4

3.Check that all systems function correctly.

4.When traveling, the throttle control can be adjusted to increase or decrease travel speed.

5.Reduce speed when turning around trees, shrubs, etc.

IMPORTANT:

Avoid high-speed turns on all surfaces. Tires can slip on grass and can wear rapidly on concrete and asphalt.

6.When going over curbs, first activate the mower deck lift switch to fully raise the deck to clear the curb. Go FORWARD over the curb.

4.8 ENGAGING THE MOWER

1.Set engine throttle about 1/2 speed. Do not attempt to engage the blade at high engine speed as this shortens the electric clutch life — use only moderate engine speed when engaging the blades.

2.Engage the mower blades by moving the blade brake lever down and to the right.

WARNING:

A safety interlock switch (left foot pedal) will cause the engine to stop if the blade brake is disengaged, and the left foot pedal is not depressed. The function of the switch should be checked by the operator raising his left foot and disengaging the blade brake; the engine should stop. If the switch is not working, it should be repaired or replaced before operating the mower. Do not disconnect the interlock safety switches because they are for the operator’s protec- tion.

-IMPORTANT-

Do not engage the mower blades when transporting the mower across drives, loose materials, etc.

3.Always operate the engine at full throttle to properly maintain cutting speeds. If the engine starts to lug down, reduce the forward speed to allow the engine to operate at maximum RPM.

4.9 HILLSIDE OPERATION

WARNING:

To minimize the possibility of overturning, the least dangerous method of operating on hills and terraces is to travel vertically up and down the slope, not horizontally along the slope. Avoid any unnecessary turns and travel at reduced speed.

1.The mower has been designed for good traction and stability under normal mowing conditions. However, caution must be used when traveling on slopes, especially when the grass is wet. Wet grass limits traction and steering control.

2.To inhibit tipping or loss of control, do not start or stop suddenly, avoid unnecessary turns and travel at a reduced speed.

3.Keep tires properly inflated.

4.Always travel up or down the slope, whenever pos- sible; NEVER across the slope.

5.If the mower cannot climb the slope, the grade is too steep for safe operation. Do not make another attempt to climb the slope. Engage the blade brake to stop the blades and back down slowly.

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Scag Power Equipment MAG manual Engaging the Mower, Hillside Operation