Operation - Toro 12004TC Operator's Manual

to drive cautiously, use the headlights, and even
consider adding additional lights.
• Be extremely careful when operating around people.
Always be aware of where bystanders might be.
• Before operating the vehicle, always check the
designated areas of the vehicle that are stated in the
pre-starting section of this manual. If something
is wrong, do not use the vehicle. Make sure that
the problem is corrected before the vehicle or
attachment is operated.
• Since gasoline is highly flammable, handle it carefully.
– Use an approved gasoline container.
– Do not remove the cap from the fuel tank when
the engine is hot or running.
– Do not smoke while handling gasoline.
– Fill the fuel tank outdoors, and fill it to about
1 inch (25 mm) below the top of the tank (the
bottom of the filler neck). Do not overfill it.
– Wipe up any spilled gasoline.
– Do not fill fuel containers in the cargo box; place
fuel containers on the ground before filling.

Operation

Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide,
which is an odorless, deadly poison that can
kill you.
Do not run engine indoors or in an enclosed
area.
• The operator and passenger should remain seated
whenever the vehicle is in motion. The operator
should keep both hands on the steering wheel
whenever possible, and the passenger should use
the hand holds provided. Keep your arms and legs
within the vehicle body at all times.
• Drive slower and turn less sharply when you are
carrying a passenger. Remember your passenger may
not be expecting you to brake or turn and may not
be ready.
• Always watch out for and avoid low overhangs such
as tree limbs, door jambs, and over-head walkways.
Make sure there is enough room over head to easily
clear the vehicle and your head.
• Always shift into neutral and apply the parking brake
before leaving an idling vehicle, or else the vehicle
may creep.
• Failure to operate the vehicle safely may result in an
accident, tip over of the vehicle, and serious injury
or death. Drive carefully. To prevent tipping or loss
of control:
– Use extreme caution, reduce speed, and maintain
a safe distance around sand traps, ditches, creeks,
ramps, unfamiliar areas, or any areas that have
abrupt changes in ground conditions or elevation.
– Watch for holes or other hidden hazards.
– Use extra caution when operating the vehicle on
wet surfaces, in adverse weather conditions, at
higher speeds, or with a full load. Stopping time
and distance will increase with a full load.
– Avoid sudden stops and starts. Do not go from
reverse to forward or forward to reverse without
first coming to a complete stop.
– Slow down before turning. Do not attempt
sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers or other unsafe
driving actions that may cause a loss of vehicle
control.
– When dumping, do not let anyone stand behind
the vehicle and do not dump the load on anyone's
feet. Release the tailgate latches from the side of
the box, not from behind.
– Only operate the vehicle when the cargo box is
down and latched.
– Before backing up, look to the rear and ensure
that no one is behind you. Back up slowly.
– Watch out for traffic when you are near or
crossing roads. Always yield the right of way
to pedestrians and other vehicles. This vehicle
is not designed for use on streets or highways.
Always signal your turns or stop early enough
so that other people know what you plan to do.
Obey all traffic rules and regulations.
– The electrical and exhaust systems of the vehicle
can produce sparks capable of igniting explosive
materials. Never operate the vehicle in or near an
area where there is dust or fumes in the air which
are explosive.
• Do not touch the engine or muffler while the engine
is running or soon after it has stopped. These areas
may be hot enough to cause burns.
• If the machine ever vibrates abnormally, stop
immediately, wait for all motion to stop, and inspect
the vehicle for damage. Repair all damage before
commencing operation.
• Before getting off of the seat:
1. Stop the movement of the machine.
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