Safety Instructions

MAINTENANCE

1.To prevent accidental starting of the engine when servicing or adjusting the machine, remove the key from the ignition switch and disconnect the spark plug wires.

2.To reduce fire hazards, keep the engine free of grass, leaves, excessive grease, and dirt.

3.Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to ensure the machine is in a safe, working condition. Check the blade mounting bolts frequently, mak- ing sure they are tight.

4.Perform only maintenance instructions de- scribed in this manual. Unauthorized main- tenance operations or machine modifications may result in unsafe operating conditions.

5.If the engine must be running to perform a main- tenance adjustment, keep hands, feet, and clothing away from moving parts. Do not wear jewelry or loose clothing.

6.Always use the proper engine service manual when working on the engine. Unauthorized maintenance operations or modifications to the engine may result in unsafe operating conditions.

7.Altering the equipment or engine in any manner which adversely affects its operation, perfor- mance, durability, or use will VOID the warranty and may cause hazardous conditions.

8.Never attempt to disconnect any safety devices or defeat the purpose of these safety devices.

9.Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. The governor has been factory-set for maximum-safe engine operating speed.

10.Use genuine factory replacement parts. Sub- stitute parts may result in product malfunction and possible injury to the operator and/or others.

11.Use care when charging the battery or per- forming maintenance on the battery and electrical system:

a.Make sure the battery charger is unplugged before connecting or disconnecting cables to the battery.

b.Charge the battery in a well-ventilated space, so gases produced while charging can dissipate. Make sure the battery vents in the caps are open.

c.Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materi- als away from the battery at all times. To avoid sparks, use care when removing bat- tery cables from posts.

d.Disconnect both battery cables before unplugging any wiring connectors or making repairs on the electrical system.

IMPORTANT: Keep all applicable manuals immediately accessible to anyone who may operate or service this machine.

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