Bigdog Mower Co. STOUT MP, General Service Manual, Page: 9 / 41

121366 2-3 REV E

Use a stick or similar instrument to clean under the
mower making sure that no part of the body, especially
arms and hands are under mower.

Keep your machine clean and remove any deposits of
trash and clippings, which can cause engine fires and
hydraulic overheating as well as excessive belt wear.
Clean up oil or fuel spillage.

Allow the mower, especially the engine, to cool in a well
ventilated area before storing inside a building or other
enclosure.

Always wear adequate eye protection when servicing
the hydraulic system and battery, or when grinding
mower blades and removing accumulated debris.

Never attempt to make any adjustments or repairs to
the mower drive system, mower deck or any
attachment while the engine is running or deck clutch
is engaged.

Exercise caution when releasing spring tension from
any of the belt idlers or when working with any of the
deck lift components.

Never work under the machine or attachment unless it
is safely supported with jack stands. Make certain
machine is secure when it is raised and placed on the
jack stands. The jack stands should not allow the
machine to move when the engine is running and the
drive wheels are rotating.
Use only certified jack stands.
Use only appropriate jack stands, with a minimum
weight rating of 2000 pounds to block the unit up. Use
in pairs only. Follow the instructions supplied with the
vehicle stands.

Keep nuts and bolts tight, especially the blade
attachment bolts. Keep equipment in good working
condition.

Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.

Exercise caution when working under the deck as the
mower blades are extremely sharp. Wrap the blade(s)
or wear gloves and use extra caution when servicing
them.

Use original BigDog
®
Mower replacement parts or
parts that are equivalent in overall performance.
• The mower may not comply with the appropriate
safety standards if aftermarket parts,
accessories, or attachments are used.
Maintenance Precautions
Avoid Fire Hazards

Be prepared if an accident or fire should occur. Know
where the first aid kit and the fire extinguishers are
located and how to use them.

Provide adequate ventilation when charging batteries.

Do not smoke near battery.

Never check fuel level with an open flame.

Never use an open flame to look for leaks anywhere on
the equipment.

Never use an open flame as light anywhere on or
around the equipment.

When preparing engine for storage, remember that fuel
stabilizer is volatile and therefore dangerous. Seal and
tape openings after adding the inhibitor. Keep
container tightly closed when not in use.

Inspect electrical wiring for worn or frayed insulation.
Install new wiring if wires are damaged.
Prepare for Emergencies

Be prepared if a fire starts.

Keep a first aid kit and fire extinguishers available.

Keep emergency numbers for doctor, ambulance
service, hospital, and fire department near the
telephone.
Prevent Battery Explosions

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories
contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer and
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Charge batteries in a well-ventilated open area, away
from sparks and flames. Unplug charger before
connecting or disconnecting from battery. Wear
protective clothing and use insulated tools.

Avoid skin and clothing contact with battery acid.
• Always wear eye protection when checking the
battery. Acid can cause serious injury to skin and
eyes. If contact occurs, flush area with clean
water and call a physician immediately. Acid will
also damage clothing.
• Do not drink the battery electrolyte.
• Do not allow open flame near the battery when
charging.
• Hydrogen gas forms inside the battery. This gas
is both toxic and flammable and may cause an
explosion if exposed to flame. Always
disconnect
the negative (black) battery cable(s) before
disconnecting the positive (red) cable(s). Always
connect the positive (red) battery cable(s) before
connecting the negative (black) cable(s).
• Do not overfill the battery.
• Electrolyte may overflow and damage paint,
wiring or structure. When cleaning the battery,
use soap and water. Be careful not to get soap
and water into the battery. Clean the battery
terminals with a solution of four parts water and
one part baking soda when they become
corroded.

Shorts caused by battery terminals or metal tools
touching metal mower components can cause sparks.