•
Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed
the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed may
increase the hazard of personal injury.
•
Before leaving the operator's position, do the following:
– Stop on level ground.
– Disengage the power take-off and lower the
attachments.
– Change into neutral and set the parking brake.
– Stop the engine and remove the key.
•
Disengage drive to attachments when transporting or not
in use.
•
Stop the engine and disengage drive to attachment for
the following:
– Before refuelling
– Before removing the grass catcher/catchers
– Before making height adjustment unless adjustment
can be made from the operator's position
– Before clearing blockages
– Before checking, cleaning or working on the mower
– After striking a foreign object or if an abnormal
vibration occurs. Inspect the mower for damage
and make repairs before starting and operating the
equipment
•
Reduce the throttle setting during engine run-out and, if
the engine is provided with a shut-off valve, turn the fuel
off at the conclusion of mowing.
•
Keep hands and feet away from the cutting units.
•
Look behind and down before backing up to be sure of
a clear path.
•
Slow down and use caution when making turns and
crossing roads and sidewalks. Stop the cylinders/reels if
you are not mowing.
•
Do not operate the mower if you are tired, ill, or under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•
Lightning can cause severe injury or death. If lightning
is seen or thunder is heard in the area, do not operate
the machine; seek shelter.
•
Use care when loading or unloading the machine into a
trailer or truck.
•
Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees,
or other objects that may obscure vision.
Rollover Protection System (ROPS)
•
The ROPS is an integral and effective safety device. Keep
a folding ROPS in the raised and locked position and use
the seat belt when operating the machine.
•
Lower a folding ROPS temporarily only when absolutely
necessary. Do not wear the seat belt when the ROPS is
folded down.
•
Be aware there is no rollover protection when a folded
ROPS is in the down position.
•
Be certain that the seat belt can be released quickly in
the event of an emergency.
•
Check the area to be mowed and never fold down a
folding ROPS in areas where there are slopes, drop offs,
or water.
•
Check carefully for overhead clearances (i.e., branches,
doorways, electrical wires) before driving under any
objects and do not contact them.
•
Keep the ROPS in safe operating condition by
periodically thoroughly inspecting for damage and
keeping all mounting fasteners tight.
•
Replace a damaged ROPS. Do not repair or revise.
•
Do not remove the ROPS.
•
Any alterations to a ROPS must be approved by the
manufacturer.
Slope Safety
•
Slow down the machine and use extra care on hillsides.
Travel in the recommended direction on hillsides. Turf
conditions can affect the stability of the machine.
•
Avoid starting, stopping, or turning the machine on a
slope. If the tires lose traction, disengage the blade(s) and
proceed slowly straight down the slope.
•
Do not turn the machine sharply. Use care when reversing
the machine.
•
When operating the machine on a slope, always keep all
cutting units lowered.
•
Avoid turning the machine on slopes. If you must turn,
turn slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
•
Use extra care while operating the machine with
attachments; they can affect the stability of the machine.
Follow the recommendations for using the machine on a
slope in this Operator's Manual.
Maintenance and Storage
•
Keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight to be sure that the
equipment is in safe working condition.
•
Never store the equipment with fuel in the tank inside a
building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
•
Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.
•
To reduce the fire hazard, keep the engine,
silencer/muffler, battery compartment, and fuel storage
area free of grass, leaves, or excessive grease.
•
Check the grass catcher frequently for wear or
deterioration.
•
Keep all parts in good working condition and all hardware
and hydraulic fittings tightened. Replace all worn or
damaged parts and decals.
•
If you must drain the fuel tank, do this outdoors.
•
Be careful while adjusting the machine to prevent
entrapment of the fingers between moving blades and
fixed parts of the machine.
5