Countax B MK4 Series Operator's Manual page 8

Before Operating
1. 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 Countax.
2. Inspect the area where the equipment is to be
used and remove all objects such as rocks, toys
and wire which can be thrown by the machine.
3. Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
4. Maintain the machine to be in compliance with the
maintenance schedule.
5. Clean grass and debris from unit, especially from
around muffler and engine, to help prevent fires.
6. Check parking brake operation frequently. Adjust
and service as required.
7. Inspect unit before each use for missing or
damaged decals and shields, correctly operating
safety interlock system, and deterioration of grass
catchers. Replace or repair as needed.
8. Check that operator's controls, safety switches
and shields are attached and functioning properly.
Do not operate unless they are functioning
properly.
9. Ensure any safety systems, devices or guards are
functioning properly. DO NOT operate unit if safety
equipement is damaged or disabled.
10. Be sure all drives are disengaged and parking
brake is engaged before starting engine. Steering
must be in neutral and PTO disengaged. Only start
engine from the operator's position.
11. Operate unit only when seated in operator's
position.
12. Be sure the area is clear of bystanders and pets
before operating.
13. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.
14. Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other
debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage
and remove any fuel-soaked debris.
Operation
1. Never operate machine in a closed or poorly
ventilated area. Never run an engine in an
enclosed area.
2. ALWAYS maintain unit in safe operating condition.
A damaged or worn out exhaust system can
cause fire or explosion.
Safety Rules
3. Do not change the engine governor setting or
overspeed the engine.
4. Do not operate the mower under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
5. Keep hands and feet away from the cutting units.
Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or
under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge
opening at all times.
6. DO NOT touch parts which are hot. Allow parts to
cool.
7. Always keep hands and feet away from all
amputation hazard points.
8. Always keep hands and feet away from all pinch
points.
9. Avoid slippery surfaces. Use extreme caution if
operating on wet grass,
reduced footing could cause slipping.
10. Never carry passengers and keep pets and
bystanders away. Stop machine if anyone enters
the area.
11. Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do
not point it at anyone. Never direct discharged
material toward anyone. Avoid discharging
material against a wall or obstruction. Material
may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the
blade(s when crossing gravel surfaces, paths or
roads.
12. Never engage PTO when attachment, including
mower blades, is not in use. Always turn off power
to attachment when not in active use such as
traveling or crossing driveways.
13. Slow down and use caution when making turns
and crossing roads and sidewalks. Stop blades if
not mowing.
14. Stop on level ground, lower implements,
disengage drives, engage parking brake,
disengage PTO, shut off engine and allow moving
parts to stop before leaving the operator's position
for any reason including emptying the catchers or
unclogging accessories.
15. Never engage PTO while raising the attachment,
including mower blades.
16. Never raise deck with the blades running.
17. Never operate with the PTO shield, or other
guards not securely in place. Be sure all interlocks
are attached, adjusted properly, and functioning
properly. Never modify or remove safety devices.
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