602471_1009
3-7
IMPORTANT:
Do not attempt to weld or straighten the
ROPS.
WARNING:
If the ROPS or cab is removed or
replaced, make sure that the proper hardware is used
and the recommended torque values are applied to the
attaching bolts.
WARNING:
The ROPS structure’s protective
capability may be impaired by structural damage,
overturn or alteration.
Do not remove or alter any of
the ROPS parts. Do not attempt to weld or straighten
ROPS. Failure to adhere to these instructions could
result in severe injury or death.
Driving the mower
DANGER:
Never make sudden stops or reverse
direction, especially when maneuvering on a slope.
The steering is designed for sensitive response. Rapid
movement of the control levers in either direction
could result in a reaction of the machine that can cause
serious injury.
After starting engine, engage the control levers and steer as
follows:
To go forward,
push control levers forward an equal distance
(Figure 3-9).
To go in reverse,
pull control levers rearward an equal
distance (Figure 3-9).
To turn left,
move the right control lever farther forward from
neutral than the left control lever.(Figure 3-9)
To turn right,
move the left control lever farther forward
from neutral than the right control lever. (Figure 3-9)
Zero radius turn,
move one control lever forward and the
other control lever back of neutral. This will allow the drive
wheels to counter-rotate. (Figure 3-9)
To stop or decrease speed,
move control levers to neutral.
When going forward pull back gently on control levers. When
going in reverse push forward gently on control levers.
For emergency stop,
when traveling forward or rearward,
place the steering control levers in the park brake position
immediately.
DANGER:
When moving in the rearward direction
push forward gently on steering control levers and
avoid sudden movement. Any sudden movement
could cause the front of the mower to come off of the
ground resulting in possible loss of control, causing
serious injury or death.
To make a three point turn to the right,
move the left
control lever farther forward from neutral than the right control
lever and start the turn. Next, pull back on the control levers
until they are past neutral and the machine starts to go rearward.
Pull right control lever farther rearward from neutral than the
left control lever until the rear of the machine has pivoted
around. Then, push the control levers forward until they are both
past neutral and the machine starts to go forward. Push the left
control lever farther forward from neutral than the right control
lever and finish the turn. (Figure 3-10)
IMPORTANT:
Rapid movement of control levers is not rec-
ommended as damage to the hydraulic system components may
occur.
To increase speed,
increase control lever’s distance from
neutral. The farther forward control levers are from neutral, the
faster mower will travel forward. The farther back control levers
are from neutral, the faster mower will go in reverse.
Operating suggestions
DANGER:
Prior to operating the mower the operator
should be thoroughly familiar with the proper use and
operation of the equipment, should read the manual
completely and thoroughly, and should have attempted
slow moving maneuvers to become familiar with the
operation of the equipment before attempting normal
speed operation. An inexperienced operator should not
mow on slopes or on uneven terrain.
WARNING:
If you lose steering control while oper-
ating the machine, place the steering control levers
in the park brake position immediately. Inspect the
machine and involve your BigDog™ Mowers
dealer to resolve the problem before continuing to
operate.
WARNING:
The unit’s steering control levers are
very responsive:
Easy does it!
For smooth operation,
move lever slowly, avoid sudden movement. Skill and
ease of operation come with practice and experience.
The machine can spin very rapidly. Use caution when
making turns and slow down before making sharp
turns.
Inexperienced operators may have a tendency to oversteer and
lose control. Slow-moving practice maneuvers are
recommended to become familiar with these characteristics
before attempting normal speed operation.
WARNING:
Sharp depressions or raised obstacles
(such as gutters or curbs) should not be directly
approached at high speed in an attempt to “jump”
them as the operator could be thrown from the equip-
ment. Approach at a slow speed and angle one drive
wheel at the obstruction. Continue at an angle until the
wheel clears and then pivot the opposite wheel around.
When turning on soft wet turf, keep both wheels rolling either
forward or backward. Pivoting on one stopped wheel can
damage turf. This is especially important when mowing.
Mower performance is maximum when the throttle is set at
full rpm. This gives maximum power to the drive wheels and
deck when needed. Use the control levers to control ground
speed rather than engine rpm.
Keep blades sharp.
Many professional mowing companies
have additional sets of blades and change blades twice a day:
once in the morning and again at noon.
Many problems
with
incorrect cutting patterns are
due to dull blades
or blades which
have been
sharpened incorrectly.
Information on sharpening
