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 rake 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.
— Release bails.
— Shut off the engine.
• Release bails:
— when not raking;
— for transport;
— when crossing surfaces other than grass.
• Release bails, wait until blades stop moving and
stop engine:
— before refueling;
— before making blades adjustment.
• Release bails, wait for blades to stop, stop the en-
gine and disconnect spark plug wires:
— 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 blades to come to a complete stop when
stopping operation to clear blockages, unclog, in-
spect 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 operation.
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 mainte
-
nance technician for maintenance/service. Replace
when work is complete.
• Adjust or repair only after the engine has been
stopped and the blades have 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
SAFETY
6
TURF RAKE
