General Operating Safety Instructions
WARNING
Read these safety rules and follow them closely. Failure to
obey these rules could result in loss of control of unit, severe
personal injury or death to you, or bystanders, or damage to
property or equipment. This mowing deck is capable of
amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. The
triangle in text signifies important cautions or warnings which
must be followed.
General Operation
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual
and on the unit before starting.
2. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
3. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the unit (local regulations can restrict
operator age).
4. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s).
5. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
Stop the unit if anyone enters the area.
6. Never carry passengers.
7. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always
look down and behind before and while traveling in reverse.
8. Never direct discharge material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material
may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blade(s)
when crossing gravel surfaces.
9. Do not operate the machine without the entire grass catcher,
discharge guard (deflector), or other safety devices in place.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leave a running unit unattended. Always disengage
the PTO, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys
before dismounting.
12. Disengage blades (PTO) when not mowing. Shut off engine
and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before
cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or
unclogging the discharge guard.
13. Operate the machine only in daylight or good artificial light.
14. Do not operate the unit while under the influence of alcohol
or drugs.
15. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
16. Use extra care when loading or unloading the unit into a
trailer or truck.
17. Always wear eye protection when operating this unit.
18. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are
involved in a large percentage of power equipment-related
injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to
operate the equipment safely enough to protect themselves
and others from injury.
19. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights.
20. Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents
occurring to other people or property.
21. All drivers should seek and obtain professional and practical
instruction.
22. Always wear substantial footwear and trousers. Never
operate when barefoot or wearing sandals.
23. Before using, always visually check that the blades and
blade hardware are present, intact, and secure. Replace
worn or damaged parts.
24. Disengage attachments before: refueling, removing an
attachment, making adjustments (unless the adjustment
can be made from the operator’s position).
25. When the machine is parked, stored, or left unattended,
lower the cutting means unless a positive mechanical lock
is used.
26. Before leaving the operator’s position for any reason,
disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake (if equipped),
stop the engine, and remove the key.
27. To reduce fire hazard, keep the unit free of grass, leaves,
& excess oil. Do not stop or park over dry leaves, grass, or
combustible materials.
28. It is a violation of California Public Resource Code Section
4442 to use or operate the engine on or near any
forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless
the exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester
meeting any applicable local or state laws. Other states or
federal areas may have similar laws.
Transporting And Storage
1. When transporting the unit on an open trailer, make sure it
is facing forward, in the direction of travel. If the unit is facing
backwards, wind lift could damage the unit.
2. Always observe safe refueling and fuel handling practices
when refueling the unit after transportation or storage.
3. Never store the unit (with fuel) in an enclosed poorly
ventilated structure. Fuel vapors can travel to an ignition
source (such as a furnace, water heater, etc.) and cause
an explosion. Fuel vapor is also toxic to humans and
animals.
4. Always follow the engine manual instructions for storage
preparations before storing the unit for both short and long
term periods.
5. Always follow the engine manual instructions for proper
start-up procedures when returning the unit to service.
6. Never store the unit or fuel container inside where there is
an open flame or pilot light, such as in a water heater. Allow
unit to cool before storing.
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