SAFETY
Starting
• Start according to instructions in this manual or on
the machine.
• Before attempting to start the engine, make sure
the wheel drive and cutter blade are disengaged.
• When starting the engine, make sure hands and
feet are clear of the blade.
• Do not change engine governor settings or over-
speed the engine. Operating the engine at exces-
sive speed can increase the hazard of personal
injury.
Operating On Slopes
Use Extra Care When Working On Slopes
• Do not operate on slopes if uneasy or uncertain.
Ultimate responsibility for safe operation on slopes
rests with the operator.
• Do not operate on steep slopes.
• Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual.
• Do not cut sod near drop-offs, ditches or embank-
ments. The machine could suddenly turn over if a
wheel runs over the edge or an edge caves in.
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then
turn slowly and downhill when possible.
• Be sure of your footing on slopes.
Interrupting Operation
• Before leaving the operator’s position:
— Park on level ground.
— Disengage the wheel drive and cutter blade.
— Shut off the engine.
• Disengage the wheel drive and wait until the blade
stops moving then disengage the blade:
— when not cutting sod;
— for transport;
— when crossing surfaces other than grass.
• Stop the engine, disengage the wheel drive and
wait until the blade stops moving:
— before refueling;
— before making blade adjustment.
• Stop the engine, disengage the wheel drive, and
disconnect the spark plug wire(s):
— before clearing blockages;
— before checking, cleaning or working on the
machine;
— after striking a foreign object. Inspect the
machine for damage and make repairs before
restarting;
— if the machine begins to vibrate abnormally:
shut off machine immediately. Inspect and
make repairs as needed before restarting;
— except for repairs or adjustments as specifically
noted, such as for carburetor adjustment, where
the engine must be running. Keep hands and
feet clear of moving parts in these circumstanc-
es.
• Allow the blade to come to a complete stop when
stopping operation to clear blockages, unclog,
inspect the machine, do maintenance or repair.
• Reduce the throttle setting during engine shut-
down and, if the engine is provided with a shut-off
valve, turn the fuel off at the conclusion of opera-
tion.
MAINTENANCE SAFETY
In general
• Maintain machine according to manufacturer’s
schedule and instructions for maximum safety
and best results.
• Park machine on level ground.
• Never allow untrained personnel to service ma-
chine.
•
Guards should only be removed by qualified
maintenance technician for maintenance/service.
Replace when work is complete.
• Adjust or repair only after the engine has been
stopped and the blade has stopped moving.
• Disconnect spark plug wire(s) before doing any
maintenance.
• Replace parts if worn, damaged or faulty. For best
results, always replace with parts recommended by
the manufacturer.
• Do not dismantle the machine without releasing or
restraining forces which may cause parts to move
suddenly.
• Provide adequate support, e.g. jack stands for
lifted machine or parts if working beneath.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under
rotating parts.
• Clean up spilled oil or fuel thoroughly.
•
Replace faulty mufflers.
•
To reduce fire hazards, keep the engine, muffler,
and fuel storage area free of grass, leaves, debris
buildup or grease
.
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