Safety Rules; General Operation; Slope Operation - Craftsman 917.272244 Owner's Manual

MPORTANT: This cuttng machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructionscould result in
serious inju_ or death.
L GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and to[low all
instructionsin the manual and on the
machine before starting.
• Only allow responsibleadults, who are
familiar with the instructions, t o operate
the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, etc., which couldbe picked
up end thrown by the blade.
• Be sure the area is dear of other people
before mowing. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
• Never carry passengers.
• Do nuf mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing.
• Be aware Ofthe mower discharge
directionand do not point it at anyone.
Do not operate the mower withouteither
the entire grass catcher or the guard in
place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always turn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.
• Turn off bladeswhen not mowing.
• Stop engine before removing grass
catcher or uncloggingchute.
• Mow onlyin daylightor good artificial
light.
• Do not operate the machine while under
the inf_ance of alcohel or drugs.
• Watch fortrafficwhen operating near or
crossingroadways.
• Use extra care when Ioadlm:Jor unload-
ing the machine intoa trailer or truck.
• Data indicatesthat operators, age 60
years and above, are involved in a large
percentage of riding mower-ralated
injuries. These operators should
evaluate their ability to operate the riding
mower safely enough to protect them-
selves and others from serious injury.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or
other debds build-up which can touch
hot exhaust / engine parts and bum. Do
not allow the mower deck to plow leaves
or other debris which can cause build-
up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel
spillage before operating or storing the
machine. Allow m._chieeto cool before
storage.
I1. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to leas-of-
control and tipover accidents, which can re-
sult in severe injury or death. All slopes
requireextra caution, Ifyou cannotback up
the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not
mow it.
DO:
• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks,tree
limbs,etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven
terrain could overturnthe machine. Tat/
grass can hide obstacles.
Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so
that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
Fo_lowthe manufacturer's recommenda-
tions for wheel weights or counter-
weights to improve stability.
Use extra care with grass catchers or
other attachments. These can change
the stability of the machine.
Keep all movement on the slopes slow
and gradual. Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
DO NOT:
• Do not turn on slopesunless necessary,
and then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, |f possible.
• Do notmow near drop-effs, ditches,or
embankments. The mower could
suddenly turn ever if a wheel is over the
edge of a cliffor ditch,or if an edge
caves in.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
tractioncould cause sliding.
• DO not try to stabilizethe machine by
puttingyour foot on the ground.
• Do notuse grass catcher on steep
slopes.
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