General Operation - Craftsman 917.28001 Operator's Manual

DANGER: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing
objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury
or death.
WARNING: In order to prevent acci-
dental starting when setting up, transporting,
adjusting or making repairs, always discon-
nect spark plug wire and place wire where
it cannot contact spark plug.
WARNING: Do not coast down a hitl
in neutral, you may lose control of the rid-
ing mower.
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its
constituents, and certain vehicle components
contain or emit chemicals known to the State
of Californiato cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.
WARNING:This unit is not intended
for the use of wheel weights. Onty use
attachments designed specifically for this
riding mower.
WARNING: Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead and
lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and birth
defects or other reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling,
I. GENERAL OPERATION
* Read, understand, and follow atl instruc-
tions on the machine and in the manual
before starting.
* Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts
or under the machine. Keep clear of the
discharge opening at all times.
* Onty allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate
the machine.
* Clear the area of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire, etc., which could be picked up
and thrown by the blade.
* Be sure the area is clear of bystanders
before operating. Stop machine if anyone
enters the area.
* Never carry passengers.
* Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind
before and while backing.
* Never direct discharged material toward
anyone. Avoid discharging material
against a walt or obstruction. Material may
ricochet back toward the operator. Stop
the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.
* Do not operate machine withoutthe entire
grass catcher, discharge chute, or other
safety devices in place and working.
* Slow down before turning.
* Never leave a running machine unat-
tended. Always turn off blade, set park-
ing brake, stop engine, and remove keys
before dismounting.
* Disengage blade when not mowing. Shut
off engine and wait for all parts to come
to a complete stop before cleaning the
machine, removing the grass catcher, or
unclogging the discharge chute.
* Operate machine only in daylight or good
artificial light.
* Do not operate the machine while under
the influence of alcohol or drugs.
* Watch for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
* Use extra care when loading or unloading
the machine into a trailer or truck.
* Always wear eye protection when operat-
ing machine.
* Data indicates that operators, age 60
years and above, are involved in a large
percentage of riding mower-related inju-
ries. These operators should evaluate
their ability to operate the riding mower
safely enough to protect themselves and
others from serious injury.
* Keep machine free of grass , leaves or
other debris build-up which can touch hot
exhaust / engine parts and burn. Do not
allow the mower deck to plow leaves or
other debris which can cause build-up to
occur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before
operating or storing the machine. Allow
machine to cool before storage.