Safety Instructions

OPERATING

1.Operate the mower only in daylight or in good artificial light with good visibility of the area being mowed.

2.Sit on the seat when starting the engine and operating the machine. Keep feet on the deck footrests at all times when the tractor is moving and/or mower blades are operating. Never op- erate the tractor without a deck or implement installed.

3.For a beginning operator, learn to steer (ma- neuver) the tractor with a slow engine speed before attempting any mowing operation. Be aware that, with the front mounted mower configuration, the back of the tractor swings to the outside during turns.

DANGER

Do not mow around overhanging tree branches or bushes at the same height as the operator’s torso and head where inadvertent contact may cause injury.

4.Remember, for an emergency stop, the forward motion of the tractor can always be stopped by pulling the Forward Speed Control (FSC) into the NEUTRAL-PARKposition.

5.In case either of the transmission drive belts break during operation, and if the machine is on a slope, the machine will freewheel down the slope. To maintain control, immediately (1) Release the steering levers and simultaneously

(2) Move the FSC to the NEUTRAL-PARKpo- sition. When the machine is stopped or moving slowly, engage the parking brake.

NOTE: The emergency stop procedure is exactly the same procedure as used to normally stop and park this machine.

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 con- trols are in the OPERATING position).

7.Do not operate machine if the operator pres- ence safety switch system is not working. Verify proper operation by having the operator lift off the seat with the engine running and mov- ing two controls, one at a time; (1) Move the FSC lever out of the NEUTRAL-PARK position, and (2) Engage the PTO Clutch. Moving either control should stop the engine after a 1-1/2 sec- ond delay.

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

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

10.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.

11.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.

12.Disengage the blade drive when transporting the machine across drives, sidewalks, etc. Ne- ver raise the mower deck while blades are rotating.

DANGER

Do not mow or dump grass within 5 feet (1.5 meters) of an embankment or retaining wall with drop off.

13.The maximum recommended side slope op- erating angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade. When operating the machine on a slope, re- duce 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.

14.Never adjust cutting height with the engine running. Before adjusting cutting height or servicing, disengage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the engine, and remove the ignition key. Wait for all movement to stop before getting off the seat.

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