Machine Preparation
Operator preparation and
training
Read the Operation & Safety
Manual
• If an operator or mechanic
cannot read English, it is the owner's responsibility
to explain this material to them. If any portion of
this material is unclear, contact your factory repre-
sentative for clarification.
• Become familiar with the safe operation of the
equipment, operator controls and safety signs. Be
prepared to stop the engine quickly in an emer-
gency. Do not operate or allow another person to
operate this machine if there are any questions
about safety.
• All operators and mechanics should be trained.
The owner is responsible for training the users.
• Wear appropriate clothing, including safety
goggles or safety glasses with side shields when
operating. Do not operate barefoot or wearing
open sandals. Long hair, loose clothing or jewelry
may get tangled in moving parts.
• Wear hearing protection.
• Wear safety glasses.
• Never allow underage children, unskilled or improperly
trained people to operate this equipment. Local regula-
tions can restrict the age of the operator.
• Keep warning labels and this operator's manual
legible and intact. Replacement labels and manu-
als are available from the factory.
•
Do not operate machine while under the influence
of drugs or alcohol.
• The owner/user can prevent and is responsible for
accidents or injuries occurring to themselves, other
people or property.
Site preparation and circumstances
• Evaluate the terrain to determine how to safely
perform the job. Only use accessories and attach-
ments approved by the manufacturer.
• Clear the area to be cut of objects such as rocks,
toys, wire or other debris that may be thrown or
get tangled in the sod cutter.
• Identify and mark objects to be avoided such as
sprinkler heads, stakes, water valves, etc.
• Be sure the area is clear of pets and people,
especially young children. Never assume they will
remain where you last saw them. Stop the ma-
chine if any enter the area.
•
Cut sod only in daylight or in good artificial light.
Machine Preparation
• Do not tamper with or defeat safety devices. Keep
guards, shields and interlock safety devices in
place and in proper working condition. They are
for your protection.
• Keep all fasteners such as nuts, bolts and pins
well secured.
• Visually inspect blade and blade bolts for wear or
damage. Replace worn or damaged blades and
bolts.
• Verify that machine and attachments, if any, are in
good operating condition.
• Do not engage blade until ready to cut sod.
OPERATING SAFELY
In General
• Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
• Use caution when making turns and crossing
roads and sidewalks. Stop blade when not cutting
sod.
• Do not run the engine in an enclosed area where
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
• Never leave a machine unattended. Always turn
off blade and stop engine when leaving the opera-
tor position. When leaving the machine be sure
the wheel drive clutch is engaged.
• Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling
machine towards you.
Storage Safety
• Stop the engine and allow to cool before storing.
• Drain the fuel tank outdoors only.
• Store fuel in an approved container in a cool, dry
place.
• Keep the machine and fuel containers in a locked
storage place to prevent tampering and to keep
children from playing with them.
• Do not store the machine or fuel container near
heating appliances with an open flame, such as a
water heater, or an appliance with a pilot light.
• Keep gasoline storage area free of grass, leaves
and excessive grease to reduce fire hazard.
• Clean grass and debris from cutting units, drives,
mufflers and engine to help prevent fires.
SAFETY
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