Safety Instructions

6.Disengage the blade clutch and put the FSC in the NEUTRAL-PARKposition before starting the engine (an ignition interlock switch normally prevents starting of the machine if these controls are in the OPERATING position).

7.Do not run the engine in a confined area without adequate ventilation. Exhaust fumes are hazardous and can be deadly.

8.Do not carry passengers - maximum seating capacity is one (1) person.

9.Watch for holes, rocks, and roots in the terrain and for other hidden hazards. When mowing tall grass, mow higher than desired to expose any hidden obstacles. Then, clean the area and mow to the desired height.

10.Avoid sudden starts or stops. Before backing the machine up, look to the rear to be sure no one is behind the machine. Watch carefully for traffic when crossing or working near roadways.

11.Disengage the blade drive when transporting the machine across drives, sidewalks, etc. Never raise the mower deck while blades are rotating.

12.The maximum recommended side slope operating angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade. When operating the machine on a slope, reduce speed and use caution to start, stop, and maneuver. To prevent tipping or loss of control of the machine, avoid sharp turns or sudden changes in direction.

13.Never adjust cutting height while the mower is moving. Before adjusting cutting height or servicing, move the Forward Speed Control (FSC) into the NEUTRAL-PARK position, engage the parking brake, and disengage the blade clutch (PTO). Tractor should not be mov- ing while adjusting cutting height.

NOTE: The clutch brake should normally stop drive line rotation within five (5) seconds of dis- engaging the PTO clutch.

14.Do not operate with the grass deflector chute removed. Keep the deflector in the low- est possible position.

15.When using the tilt-up deck, observe the fol- lowing recommendations:

a.Do not move tractor with deck in tilt-up position.

b.Never tilt body forward with deck in tilt-up position.

16.In case of a clogged or plugged mower deck:

a.Disengage the blade clutch (PTO), set the parking brake, and turn the engine off before leaving the seat.

b.LOOK to make sure blade drive shaft move- ment has stopped before trying to unclog the system.

c.Disconnect the spark plug wires.

d.Never place hands under the deck - use a stick or similar tool to remove clogged ma- terial.

17.If the cutting blades strike a solid object or the machine begins to vibrate abnormally, immediately disengage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the engine, and wait for all moving parts to stop. To prevent accidental starting, disconnect the spark plug wires. Thoroughly inspect the mower and repair any damage before restarting the engine and operating the mower. Make sure cutter blades

are in good condition and blade bolts are torqued to 64 ft-lb (86.8 N·m).

18.Do not touch the engine or muffler while the engine is running or immediately after stop- ping the engine. These areas may be hot enough to cause serious burns.

19.When leaving the machine unattended, disen- gage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the engine, and remove the key.

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