Craftsman CMXGRAM1130049 Instruction Manual page 16

To use the REVERSE CAUTION MODE:
Note: The operator MUST be seated in the tractor seat.
1. Start the tractor as previously instructed.
2. Press and hold the RCM button down for three seconds
until the red indicator light illuminates. The red indicator
will remain on as long as the REVERSE CAUTION MODE is
on.
3. Once activated (indicator light ON), the tractor can
be driven in reverse with the cutting blade(s) (PTO)
engaged.
4. Always look down and behind before and while backing
to make sure no children are around. After resuming
forward motion, press the RCM button to return to
normal mowing operation.
The REVERSE CAUTION MODE will remain activate until:
a. The RCM button is pressed or
b. The operator leaves the seat.
Driving on Slopes
Refer to the SLOPE GAUGE in the Important Safe Operation
Practices section to help determine slopes where you may
operate the tractor safely.
Do not mow or drive on inclines with a slope in excess of 12°/21% (a rise
of approximately 2.1 feet for every 10 feet). The tractor could overturn
and cause serious injury.
1. Mow up and down slopes, NEVER across.
2. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.
3. Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden
objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the tractor. Tall
grass can hide obstacles.
4. Avoid turns when driving on a slope. If a turn must be
made, turn down the slope. Turning up a slope increases
the chance of a roll-over.
5. Avoid stopping when driving up a slope. If it is necessary
to stop while driving up a slope, start up slowly and
carefully to reduce the possibility of flipping the tractor
over backward.
Engaging the PTO
Engaging the PTO transfers power to the cutting deck. To
engage the blade(s), proceed as follows:
Press the PTO button for one second. When activated the
green indicator light under the PTO button is illuminated.
OPERATION
WARNING
Mulching (If equipped)
Mulching is a process of recirculating grass clippings
repeatedly beneath the cutting deck. The ultra-fine clippings
are then forced back into the lawn where they act as a
natural fertilizer. Refer to the Assembly & Set-up section of
this manual for instructions on how to install the mulch kit (if
equipped).
Using the Deck Lift Lever
To raise the cutting deck, move the deck lift lever to the left,
then place it in the notch best suited for your application.
Refer to Setting the Cutting Height in this section.
Mowing
To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury, keep bystanders,
helpers, children and pets at least 75 feet from the machine while it is
in operation. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
Plan your mowing pattern to avoid discharge of materials toward
roads, sidewalks, bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging
material against a wall or obstruction which may cause discharged
material to ricochet back toward the operator.
The following information will be helpful when using the
cutting deck with your tractor:
1. Do not mow or drive at high ground speed, especially if a
mulch kit or grass collector is installed.
2. For best results it is recommended that the first two laps
be cut clockwise with the discharge facing towards the
center of your lawn. After the first two laps, reverse the
direction to discharge to the outside for the balance of
cutting. This will give a better appearance to the lawn.
3. Do not cut the grass too short. Short grass invites weed
growth and yellows quickly in dry weather.
4. Under heavier conditions it may be necessary to go back
over the cut area a second time to get a clean cut.
5. Do NOT attempt to mow heavy brush and weeds and
extremely tall grass. Your tractor is designed to mow
lawns, NOT clear brush.
6. Keep the blade sharp and replace the blade when worn.
Refer to Cutting Blade in the Service section of this
manual for proper blade sharpening instructions.
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WARNING
WARNING