Operation Considerations - Scag Power Equipment Freedom Z SFZ-48H-24SR Operator's Manual

Section 2
2. Sit in the seat in the operating position, engage the
parking brake, move the PTO switch to the OFF
(down) position, move either of the steering control
handles out of the neutral lock position. Try to start
the engine; the engine should not start. Repeat for
the other steering control lever.
-NOTE-
All SFZ models will start with the parking brake
engaged or disengaged. For all test procedures
listed below, the engine should be started with the
parking brake engaged unless specified otherwise.
3. Sit in the seat in the operating position, engage the
parking brake, place the steering control levers in
the neutral lock position, move the PTO switch to the
OFF (down) position, and start the engine. With the
engine running, release the parking brake and rise
slightly off of the seat. The engine should shut off.
4. Sit in the seat in the operating position, engage the
parking brake, place the steering control levers in
the neutral lock position, move the PTO switch to the
OFF (down) position, and start the engine. With the
engine running, engage the PTO switch to the ON
(up) position, and rise slightly off of the seat. The
engine should shut off.
5. Sit in the seat in the operating position, engage the
parking brake, place the steering control levers in
the neutral lock position, move the PTO switch to the
OFF (down) position, and start the engine. With the
engine running, move either steering control lever
out of the neutral lock position. The engine should
shut off. Repeat for the other steering control lever.

2.5 OPERATION CONSIDERATIONS

1. Know the function of all controls and how to stop
quickly.
WARNING
DO NOT operate on steep slopes. To check a slope,
attempt to back up it (with the cutter deck down).
If the machine can back up the slope without the
wheels slipping, reduce speed and use extreme
caution. Under no circumstances should the
machine be operated on slopes greater than 15
degrees. See Figure 2-2, Page 7 to determine
approximate slope of area to be mowed. ALWAYS
FOLLOW OSHA APPROVED OPERATION.
2. Reduce speed and exercise extreme caution on
slopes and in sharp turns to prevent tipping or loss
of control. Be especially cautious when changing
directions on slopes.
3. Stay two cut widths away from slopes, drop offs,
ditches, water and retaining walls.
4. To prevent tipping or loss of control, start and stop
smoothly, avoid unnecessary turns and travel at
reduced speed. Use caution when operating the
mower on an incline with the optional grass catcher
installed.
5. Immediately apply the parking brake if you lose
steering control while operating. Inspect the machine
and correct the problem before continuing to operate.
6. When using any attachment, never direct the
discharge of material toward bystanders or allow
anyone near the machine while in operation.
7. Before attempting to start the engine, with the
operator in the seat, disengage power to the cutter
deck, place the steering control levers in the neutral
position and engage the parking brake.
8. If the mower discharge ever plugs, shut off the
engine, remove the ignition key, and wait for all
movement to stop before removing the obstruction.
WARNING
DO NOT use your hand to dislodge the clogged
discharge chute. Use a stick or other device to
remove clogged material after the engine has
stopped running and the blades have stopped
turning.
9. Be alert for holes, rocks, roots and other hidden
hazards in the terrain. Keep away from any drop-offs.
Beware of overhead obstructions (low limbs, etc.)
and underground obstacles (sprinklers, pipes, tree
roots, etc.). Cautiously enter a new area. Be alert for
hidden hazards.
10. Disengage power to cutter deck before backing up.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary
and then only after observation of the entire area
behind the mower. If you must mow in reverse,
maintain a constant lookout to the rear of the
machine and mow slowly.
11. DO NOT turn sharply. Use care when backing up.
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