DR XD26, Safety & Operating Instructions Manual

Page: 14 / 44

14
DR
®
FIELD and BRUSH MOWER
Operator Presence
Control Lever
Figure 18
XD 26 with Honda Engine
1. Ensure the Blade Engage Lever is Disengaged (Figure 16).
2. Move the Throttle Control Lever fully to the IDLE position.
Note: Close the Fuel Shut-Off Valve when transporting or storing the Mower
(Figure 15b).
Emergency Stopping When Mowing
Releasing the Operator Presence Control Lever with the Blade engaged with
stop the Engine (Figure 18). If the Blade is not engaged, releasing the Operator
Presence Control Lever will not stop the Engine.
Transmission Engagement
See “Engaging/Disengaging the Transmissions” on page 12
X-Drive Power Steering
The DR FIELD and BRUSH MOWER features the X-Drive Power Steering which gives you independent control of each wheel to
provide enhanced maneuverability and traction. The System has two configurations; Cross-Drive and Inline Drive. All Machines
are shipped from the factory in the Cross Drive Configuration. Some practice time is necessary to become comfortable with the
controls.
Cross Drive (as shipped)
In the Cross Drive Configuration, the machine will turn in the direction of the lever that is squeezed (i.e. squeeze right Lever to
turn right or squeeze left Lever to turn left) (Figure 19).
Inline Drive
In the Inline Drive Configuration, each wheel is controlled by the lever that is on the same side (i.e. squeeze right to operate the
right wheel to turn left and squeeze left to operate the left wheel to turn right).
Note: We recommend practicing and becoming comfortable with cross drive configuration at varying speeds and terrain before
considering changing to inline drive. If after practicing with cross drive you find that you would prefer the inline configuration, see
Chapter 4 “Changing Drive Configurations” for instructions on changing drive configurations.
Operating the X-Drive Power Steering

Practice and become comfortable with the controls at slow speed in a safe
environment before using faster speed or for mowing/cutting.

The X-drive power steering system is designed to minimize operator fatigue.
Use the hand controls as much as possible to drive the machine in the
desired direction rather than trying to muscle it around.

Mowing Speed will impact cutting performance. Mowing at a slower speed
will improve cut quality.

For best operator control of the DR Field and Brush Mower, always drive at
speed that matches the conditions. For example, use a slower speed when
operating in wet, heavy growth, slippery, and/or steeply sloped areas.

When improved traction is needed, apply a downward force on the handlebar
to get more grip on the tires
Figure 19
Right Turn
Controls Left Turn
Controls
Cross Drive
Configuration