Operation; General Operating Safety; Checks Before Starting - Briggs & Stratton Zero Turn Rider Operator's Manual

General Operating Safety

Before first time operation:
• Be sure to read all information in the Operator Safety
section before attempting to operate this rider and
mower.
• Become familiar with all of the controls and how to
stop the unit.
• Drive in an open area without mowing to become
accustomed to driving the unit.
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 18 percent
(10°).
Select slow ground speed before driving onto a slope.
Use extra caution when operating on slopes with a
rear-mounted grass catcher.
Mow up and down slopes, not across the face, use
caution when changing directions and DO NOT
START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
WARNING
Never allow passengers to ride on the unit.
Before leaving the operator's position for any reason,
lock the ground speed levers in the START/PARK
position, engage the parking brake, disengage the
PTO, stop the engine and remove the key.
To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine, rider and
mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease.
Do not stop or park rider over dry leaves, grass or
combustible materials.
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be handled
with care. Never fill the tank when the engine is still
hot from recent operation. Do not allow open flame,
smoking or matches in the area. Avoid over-filling and
wipe up any spills.
WARNING
If you do not understand how a specific control
functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the Features
and Controls section, do so now. Do NOT attempt to
operate the rider without first becoming familiar with
the location and function of ALL controls.

checks before starting

• Check that the crankcase is filled to full mark on dip-
stick (A, Figure 1 - located under the engine cover on
some models). See the engine owner's manual for
instructions and oil recommendations.
• Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in
place and secure.
• Adjust the seat position (b), and make certain you
can reach all controls from the operator's position.
• Fill the fuel tank (C) with fresh fuel. Refer to the
engine owner's manual for fuel recommendations.
b
A
Figure 1. Pre-Start Checks
WARNING
Do not load this zero-turn rider on a trailer or truck
using two separate ramps. Only use a single ramp
that is at least one foot wider than the width of the
rear wheels of this rider. This rider has a zero turning
radius and the rear wheels could fall off the ramps,
or the rider could tip over injuring the operator or
bystanders.

Operation

C
en
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