Safety Instructions
10.Disengage the blade drive when transporting the machine across drives, sidewalks, etc.
Never raise the mower deck while blades are rotating.
11.The maximum recommended side slope op- erating angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade. When operating the machine on a slope, reduce ground 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.
12.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 leaving the operator position.
NOTE: A blade brake should normally stop drive line rotation within five (5) seconds of dis- engaging the PTO clutch.
13.For side discharge mower decks, do not oper- ate with the grass deflector chute removed. Keep the deflector in the lowest possible posi- tion.
14.For tractors equipped with
15.In case of a clogged or plugged mower deck:
a.Disengage the blade clutch (PTO) and turn the engine off before leaving the operator position (behind the handles).
b.LOOK to make sure blade drive shaft movement has stopped before trying to unclog the deck.
c.Disconnect the spark plug wires.
d.Never place hands under the deck - use a stick or similar tool to remove clogged material.
16.If the cutting blades strike a solid object or the machine begins to vibrate abnormally, immedi- ately disengage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the engine, and wait for all moving parts to stop. To prevent accidental starting, discon- nect 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 nuts are torqued to 60
17.Do not touch the engine, engine cover, or muffler while the engine is running or imme- diately after stopping the engine. These areas may be hot enough to cause serious burns.
18.When leaving the machine unattended, dis- engage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the en- gine, and remove the key.
MAINTENANCE
1.To prevent accidental starting of the engine when servicing or adjusting the machine, re- move the key from the ignition switch and dis- connect 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 nuts 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 man- ual when working on the engine. Unautho- rized 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 warran- ty and may cause hazardous conditions.
8.Never attempt to disconnect any safety devices or defeat the purpose of these safety devices.
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