Operating The Controls For Mowing; Stopping The Engine; Safe Mowing Practices - Honda HRX217VKAA Owner's Manual

OPERATING THE CONTROLS FOR MOWING

Smart Drive Control
With the engine running and
the blades rotating, slowing
push the Smart Drive control
to propel the mower forward.
Ground speed will increase
as more pressure is applied
to the Smart Drive control.
After maximum ground
speed is obtained, applying
additional force will not further increase ground speed. Apply only
enough pressure to achieve the desired speed.
Ground speed control sensitivity will vary with such factors as terrain,
grass height, slope, and grass bag weight. For example, achieving a
very slow ground speed on smooth level terrain requires very light
force be applied to the smart drive control. However, additional force
may be required to achieve the same ground speed on slopes, tall
grass, or uneven terrain. The Smart Drive control is designed to allow
you to move the control to maintain the desired ground speed under
constantly changing mowing conditions.
Release the Smart Drive control to disengage (stop) the rear wheels.
STOPPING THE
ENGINE
1. Release the blade control
lever to stop the engine.
2. When the mower is not in
use, turn the fuel valve to
the OFF position.
™
CONTROL
SMART DRIVE CONTROL
OFF

SAFE MOWING PRACTICES

For your safety, keep all four wheels on the ground and be careful to
avoid losing your footing and your control of the mower. Keep a firm
grip on the handlebar and walk, never run, with the mower. Be very
careful when mowing uneven or rough ground.
If stuck, do not kick or shove the mower with your foot. Use the
handlebar to control the mower.

WARNING
The blades are sharp and spin at high speed.
Spinning blades can cut you severely and can
amputate fingers and toes.
• Wear protective footwear.
• Keep your hands and feet away from the
mower deck while the engine is running.
• Stop the engine before performing any
adjustment, inspection, or maintenance.
Slopes
Mow across slopes, not up and
down. Avoid steep slopes (more
°
than 20 ), and be careful when
changing direction. Mowing on a
slope when the grass is damp or
wet could cause you to slip, fall,
and lose control of the mower.
Obstacles
Use the side of the mower to cut
close to large obstacles, such as
fences or walls.
Release the Smart Drive control to disengage the drive when mowing
around trees and other obstacles. Push the mower around obstacles
for better directional control. Be careful when mowing over obstacles
embedded in the lawn, such as sprinkler heads, paving, edging,
raised tree roots, etc. Avoid anything that sticks up above the surface
of the lawn.
If a blade hits something or the mower starts to vibrate, stop the
engine immediately, disconnect the spark plug cap, and check for
damage (page 9). Striking objects may damage the blades, bend the
crankshaft, and/or break the mower deck or other components.
Vibration usually indicates serious trouble.
The Distributor's Limited Warranty (page 18) does not cover parts
damaged by accident or collision.
Gravel and Loose Objects
Gravel, loose stones, and landscaping material can be picked up by
the mower and thrown many feet with enough force to cause serious
personal injury and/or property damage. The best way to prevent
potential injury from thrown objects is to release the blade control
lever to stop the engine, and then push the mower across areas with
gravel, loose stones, or landscaping material.
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