4
Safety Rules & Information

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels.
They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
a) Use only an approved container.
b) Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the
engine running. Allow engine to cool before refu-
eling. Do not smoke.
c) Never refuel the unit indoors.
• 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.
• Replace all fuel tank caps and fuel container caps
securely.
• 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.
• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or
trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possi-
ble, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a gasoline dis-
penser nozzle.
• Keep nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is com-
plete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immedi-
ately.
• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as
necessary.
• Never run a unit in an enclosed area.
• Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment
bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly and make necessary repairs if
they are not functioning properly.
• Keep unit free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-
up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an
object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
running unless specified otherwise in the engine man-
ufacturer's manual.
• Do not remove the fuel filter when the engine is hot
as spilled gasoline may ignite. Do not spread fuel line
clamps further than necessary. Ensure clamps grip
hoses firmly over the filter after installation.
• Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL, gasohol
containing more than 10% ETHANOL, gasoline addi-
tives, or white gas because engine/fuel system dam-
age could result.
• Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when
servicing them.
• Check blade brake operation frequently. Adjust and
service as required.
• Use only factory authorized replacement parts when
making repairs.
• Always comply with factory specifications on all set-
tings and adjustments.
• Only authorized service locations should be utilized
for major service and repair requirements.
• Never attempt to make major repairs on this unit
unless you have been properly trained. Improper ser-
vice procedures can result in hazardous operation,
equipment damage and voiding of manufacturer's
warranty.
• Do not change engine governor settings or over-
speed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive
speed can increase the hazard of personal injury.
• Disengage drive attachments, stop the engine,
remove the key, and disconnect the spark plug wire(s)
before: clearing attachment blockages and chutes,
performing service work, striking an object, or if the
unit vibrates abnormally. After striking an object,
inspect the machine for damage and make repairs
before restarting and operating the equipment.

SAFETY DECALS

This unit has been designed and manufactured to pro-
vide you with the safety and reliability you would expect
from an industry leader in outdoor power equipment
manufacturing.
Although reading this manual and the safety instructions
it contains will provide you with the necessary basic
knowledge to operate this equipment safely and effec-
tively, we have placed several safety labels on the unit to
remind you of this important information while you are
operating your unit.
All DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION and instructional
messages on your mower should be carefully read and
obeyed. Personal bodily injury can result when these
instructions are not followed. The information is for your
safety and it is important! All of the safety decals below
are on your mower.
If any of these decals are lost or damaged, replace them
at once. See your local dealer for replacements.
These labels are easily applied and will act as a constant
visual reminder to you, and others who may use the
equipment, to follow the safety instructions necessary for
safe, effective operation.