Operation; Before First Time Operation; Checks Before Starting - Ferris 500S Series Operator's Manual

6
A.
FORWARD
B.
NEUTRAL
C.
REVERSE
D. NEUTRAL LOCK POSITION
Moving a lever forward (A, Figure 6) from the NEUTRAL
position (B) increases the FORWARD speed of the
associated wheel, and pulling back (C) on a lever increases
the REVERSE speed.
Moving a levers outwards (D) from the NEUTRAL position
locks the levers in the NEUTRAL position.
Note: The further a lever is moved away from the neutral
position, the faster the drive wheel will turn.
See the Zero-Turn Driving Practice section for steering
instructions.
Removable Floor Plate: The floor plate can be removed
for easy access to the mower deck. To remove the plate,
remove the retainer hardware and tilt the floor pan up and
then remove from the machine. Reverse the process for re-
installation.
Headlight: The headlight is controlled by the key
switch. When the key switch is turned to the RUN position the
headlight is on. When the the key switch is turned to the OFF
position the headlight is off.
Seat Adjustment Lever: The seat can be adjusted
forward and back. Move the lever, position the seat as
desired, and release the lever to lock the seat in position.

Operation

14

Before First Time Operation

• Be sure to read all information in the Safety and
Operation sections before attempting to operate this zero-
turn rider and mower deck.
• Become familiar with all of the controls and how to stop
the machine.
• Drive in an open area without mowing to become
accustomed to the unit.
WARNING
• Never operate on slopes greater than 10 degrees.
• Select slow ground speed before driving onto a slope.
Use extra caution when operating on slopes with a rear-
mounted grass catcher.
• Avoid turning down slopes; if possible turn up slopes.
Use caution when changing direction on slopes and do
NOT start or stop on a slope.
WARNING
• Never allow passengers to ride on the unit.
• Before leaving the operator's position for any reason,
engage the parking brake, disengage the PTO, turn the
ignition switch to OFF and remove the ignition key.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine, rider and
mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease.
Do NOT stop or park rider over dry leaves, grass or
combustible materials.
• Fuel is highly flammable and must be handled with
care. Never fill the tank when the engine is still hot from
recent operation. Do NOT allow open flame, smoking or
matches in the area. Avoid over-filling and wipe up any
spills.
WARNING
Do NOT load this zero-turn rider on a trailer or truck using
two separate ramps. Only use a single ramp that is at least
one foot wider than the width of the rear wheels of this rider.
This rider has a zero turning radius and the rear wheels
could fall off the ramps, or the rider could tip over injuring
the operator or bystanders.

Checks Before Starting

• Check that the crankcase is filled to the full mark on
the crankcase oil fill and dipstick. If necessary, add oil
through the engine oil fill. See the engine Operator's
manual for instructions, engine oil dipstick location and oil
recommendations.
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