9.If the cutting blades should strike a solid object or the equipment should start to vibrate abnor- mally, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wires, and check immediately for the cause. Vibra- tion is generally a warning of trouble. Check the machine for damaged or defective parts. Repair any damage before starting the engine or operating the cutter deck. Be sure the blades are in good condi- tion and the blade bolts are tight.
10.Reduce speed and exercise extreme caution on slopes and in sharp turns to prevent tipping or loss of control. Be especially cautious when changing directions on slopes.
WARNING:
DO NOT operate on steep slopes. To check a slope, attempt to back up it (with the cutter deck down). If the machine can back up the slope without the wheels slipping, reduce speed and use extreme caution. ALWAYS FOLLOW OSHA APPROVED OPERATION.
11.Do not touch the engine or muffler while the engine is running or soon after it is stopped. These areas could be hot enough to cause a burn.
12.Before leaving the operator’s position or leaving the mower unattended, move the right foot pedal into the neutral position, apply the parking brake, and move the blade engagement switch to OFF.
Shut the engine OFF and remove the key.
13.Do not pass or stand on the grass discharge side of any mower with the engine running. Stop the cutter blades when another person approaches.
WARNING:
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after han- dling.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
1.Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting of the engine when servicing, adjusting or storing the machine.
2.If the mower must be tipped to perform mainte- nance or adjustment, remove the battery, drain the gasoline from the fuel tank and the oil from the crankcase.
3.To reduce potential fire hazard, keep the engine free of excessive grease, grass, leaves and accu- mulations of dirt.
4.Be sure the machine is in safe operating condition by keeping nuts, bolts, and screws tight. Check the blade mounting bolts and nuts frequently to be sure they are tightened.
5.If the engine must be running to perform a maintenance adjustment, keep hands, feet, cloth- ing and other parts of the body away from the cutter deck blades and other moving parts.
6.Do not overspeed the engine by changing gover- nor settings. To be sure of safety and accuracy, have an authorized dealer check maximum engine speed with a tachometer.
7.The engine must be shut off before checking the oil or adding oil to the crankcase.
8.Allow the engine to cool before storing the mower in any enclosure such as a garage or storage shed. Make sure the fuel tank is empty if the machine is to be stored in excess of 30 days. Do not store the mower near any open flame or where gasoline fumes may be ignited by a spark.
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