IMPORTANT: This cuttingmachine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwingobjects. Failure to observe the followingsafety instructionscould result in
serious injury or death.
I. GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand, and follow all
instructionsin the manual and on the
machine before starting.
•Onl_ allow responsibleadults, who are
famdiar with the instructions,to operate
the machine.
•Clear the area of objects such as
reeks, toys,wire, etc., whichcould be
picked up and thrown by the blade.
•Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine
ifanyone enters the area.
•Never carry passengers.
•Do notmow in reverse unless abso-
lutely necessary. Always lookdown
and behind before and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge
directionand do not point it at anyone.
Do not operate the mower without
either the entire grass catcher or the
guard in place.
• Slow down before turning.
•Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always turn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and
remove keys before dismounting.
•Turn off blades when notmowing.
•Stop engine before removing grass
catcher or unclogging chute.
• Mow 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.
•Data indicates that operators, age 60
i/aearaand above, are involved in a
rge percentage of dding mower-
related in udes. These et:!eratora
should eva uate their ability to operate
the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from
serious injury.
•Keep machinefree ofgrass, leaves or
other debris build-upwhich can touch
hot exhaust /engine partsand bum. Do
not allow the mower deck to plow leaves
or otherdebds which can cause build-
up to occur.Clean any oil or fuel
spilla_e before operating or storingthe
machine. Allow machine to cool before
storage. 3
I1.SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-
control and tipover accidents, which can
result in severe injuryor death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannotbeck up
the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not
mow it.
DO:
•Mow up and down slopes, not across.
•Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree
tirebs,etc.
Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.
Uneven terrain could overture the
machine. Ta/I grass can hide obstacles.
Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so
that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.
Follow the manufacturer's recommen-
dations for wheel weights or counter-
weights to improve stability.
Use extra care with grass catchers or
other attachments. These can change
the stabilityof the machine.
Keep all movement on the slopes slow
and gradual. Do not make sudden
changes in speed or direction.
Avoid starting or stoppingon a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the
blades and proceed slowly straight
down the slope.
DO NOT:
• Do not turn on slopes unless neces-
sary, and then, turn slowlyand gradu-
ally downhill, if possible.
•Do notmow near drepoffs, ditches, or
embankments, The mower could
suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the
edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge
caves in.
•Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced
traction could cause sliding.
•Do not try to stabilize the machine by
putting your foot on the ground.
•Do not use grass catcher on steep
slopes.
