Operator's Manual

7
OPERATOR SAFETY
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 travelling 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 and operational.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leave a running unit unattended. Always
disengage the blades (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, engage the parking brake (if equipped),
disengage the blades (PTO), 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. OSHA regulations may require the use of hearing
protection when exposed to sound levels greater
than 85 dBA for an 8 hour time period.
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.
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.
CAUTION
This machine produces sound levels
in excess of 85 dBA at the operator’s
ear and can cause hearing loss through
extended periods of exposure.
Wear hearing protection when operating this
machine.
WARNING
It is a violation of California Public Resource
Code, Section 4442, to use or operate the engine
on any forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-
covered land unless the exhaust system is
equipped with a spark arrester, as defined in
Section 4442, maintained in effective working
order. Other states or federal jurisdictions may
have similar laws. Contact an Authorized Service
Dealer to obtain a spark arrester designed for the
exhaust system installed on this engine.
Not for
Reproduction