Toro 30343 Operator's Manual page 4

– the need for care and concentration when
working with ride-on machines;
– control of a ride-on machine sliding on a slope
will not be regained by the application of the
brake. The main reasons for loss of control are:
◊ insufficient wheel grip;
◊ being driven too fast;
◊ inadequate braking;
◊ the type of machine is unsuitable for its task;
◊ lack of awareness of the effect of ground
conditions, especially slopes;
◊ incorrect hitching and load distribution.
• The owner/user can prevent and is responsible for
accidents or injuries occurring to himself or herself,
other people, or property.
Preparation
• While mowing, always wear substantial footwear,
long trousers, hard hat, safety glasses, and hearing
protection. Long hair, loose clothing, or jewelry may
get tangled in moving parts. Do not operate the
equipment when barefoot or wearing open sandals.
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment
is to be used and remove all objects which may be
thrown by the machine.
• Warning–Fuel is highly flammable. Take the
following precautions:
– Store fuel in containers specifically designed for
this purpose.
– Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while
refueling.
– Add fuel before starting the engine. Never
remove the cap of the fuel tank or add fuel while
the engine is running or when the engine is hot.
– If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the
engine but move the machine away from the
area of spillage and avoid creating any source of
ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated.
– Replace all fuel tanks and container caps securely.
• Replace faulty silencers/mufflers.
• Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories
and attachments are needed to properly and
safely perform the job. Only use accessories and
attachments approved by the manufacturer.
• Check the operator presence controls, safety
switches and shields to make sure they are attached
and functioning properly. Do not operate unless
they are functioning properly.
Operation
• Do not operate the engine in a confined space where
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
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.
• Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
• Before attempting to start the engine, disengage all
blade attachment clutches, shift into neutral, and
engage the parking brake.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
• Remember there is no such thing as a safe slope.
Travel on grass slopes requires particular care. To
guard against overturning:
– do not stop or start suddenly when going up or
downhill;
– engage clutch slowly, always keep machine in
gear, especially when travelling downhill'
– machine speeds should be kept low on slopes
and during tight turns;
– stay alert for humps and hollows and other
hidden hazards;
– never mow across the face of the slope.
• Stay alert for holes in the terrain and other hidden
hazards.
• Use care when pulling loads or heavy equipment.
– Use only approved drawbar hitch points.
– Limit loads to those you can safely control.
– Do not turn sharply. Use care when reversing.
– Use counterweight(s) or wheel weights when
suggested in the operator's manual.
• This machine is not designed or equipped for
on–road use and is a "slow–moving vehicle." If you
must cross or travel on a public road, you should
be aware of and comply with local regulations, such
as required lights, slow moving vehicle signs, and
reflector.
• Stop the blades rotating before crossing surfaces
other than grass.
• When using any attachments, never direct discharge
of material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near
the machine while in operation.
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