Excel BigDog, Operator'S Manual

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603744_0911 3-1
OPERATION
Safe Operating Practices
This product is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Always follow all safety instructions to avoid
serious injury or death.
Safe Operation

Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and
attachments are needed to properly and safely perform
the job. Only use accessories and attachments approved
by the manufacturer.

Never leave a running mower unattended. Always stop
on level ground, disengage deck clutch, place steering
control levers in park brake position, stop the engine, and
remove ignition key before leaving operator’s seat for
any reason. Wait for engine and all moving parts to come
to a complete stop before leaving the mower for any rea-
son including emptying the catcher or unclogging the
chute.

Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed may
increase the hazard of personal injury.

Always remain seated while operating mower.

Always keep safety shields and covers in place, except
for servicing.

Always maintain a safe distance from people and pets
when mowing. Always stop mower if someone enters the
area.

Always operate mower in daylight or with adequate
working lights.

Follow daily and weekly checklists, making sure hoses
are tightly secured and bolts are tightened.

Always observe traffic laws while driving mower from
one location to another. Watch for traffic when operating
near or crossing roadways.

Always be alert for hazards such as rocks, metal objects
and other debris which may be thrown or entangled by
mower blades. Watch out for holes or deep depressions.

Inspect area to be mowed for hazards such as rocks,
metal objects and other debris which may be thrown or
entangled by mower blades. Remove these objects before
mowing.

Always inspect mower for damage after striking a foreign
object. If damage is found, repair mower immediately.
Be
sure to stop on level ground, disengage deck clutch, set
park brake, stop the engine, and remove the ignition
switch key when leaving the operator’s seat to inspect
damage.

Always wear adequate ear protection, such as earplugs,
when operating this equipment as prolonged exposure to
uncomfortable or loud noises can cause impairment or
loss of hearing. Do not wear radios or music headphones
while operating the machinery. Safe operation requires
your full attention.

Do not operate the equipment while wearing sandals, ten-
nis shoes, sneakers, shorts or any type of loose fitting
clothing. Do not use a towel as a headband or neck wrap
and do not hang towel from the waist. Long hair, loose
clothing or jewelry may get tangled in moving parts.
Always wear long pants, safety glasses, ear protection
and safety shoes when operating this mower.

Always be aware of what is behind the mower before
backing up. Never mow in reverse. Always look down
and behind before and while backing up.

Never push forward suddenly on your steering control
levers while the mower is in rearward motion because
mower may tip backwards.

Never pull back suddenly on your steering control levers
while the mower is in forward motion.

When mowing in reverse, push forward slowly on the
steering control levers and avoid sudden movement.
rapid movement of the steering control levers in either
direction could result in a reaction of the mower that can
cause serious injury.

Never operate a poorly maintained mower.

Never attempt high speed maneuvering, especially in
crowded or congested areas.

Never allow persons to operate this mower without
proper instruction or allow children to operate mower.
Allow only responsible adults who are familiar with
these instructions to operate this mower.

Never put hands or feet under any part of the mower
while it is running.

Never carry passengers.

Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Mate-
rial may ricochet back towards the operator. Always dis-
engage the mower blades and wait for them to stop
before crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.

Always keep clear of the mower blades and attachments
during their operation.

Do not use any unauthorized attachment or modify the
mower.

Turn off mower blades when not mowing.

Slow down before turning.

Stop the engine before removing the grass catcher or
unclogging the discharge chute. Never clear the discharge
chute with the engine running. Turn off the engine and be
sure the blades have stopped before cleaning. Use a stick
to clear a plugged discharge area.
Never use your hand!

Do not operate the mower if you are fatigued, sick or
while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, if your are
pregnant or under 18 years old.

Exercise caution when loading or unloading the mower
onto a trailer or truck.

Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating the mower.

Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are
involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related
injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to
operate the mower safely enough to protect themselves
and others from serious injury.