Not for
Reproduction
• OSHA regulations may require the use of hearing protection
when exposed to sound levels greater than 85 dBA for an
8 hour time period.
CAUTION
This machine produces sound level in excess of 85 dBA at
the operator's ear and can cause hearing loss through
extended periods of exposure.
Wear hearing protection when operating this machine.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tip-over
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you
feel uneasy on it, do not drive on it.
WARNING
Operating on a steep slope can cause sliding and loss of
steering, control, and rollover.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto a slope. Use
extra caution when operating on slopes with rear mounted
grass catchers.
Mow across the face of slopes, not up and down, use caution
when changing directions and DO NOT START OR STOP
ON A SLOPE.
Do:
• Mow across slopes, not up and down.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the unit. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a slow speed so that you will not
have to stop or change speed while on the slope.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments.
These can change the stability of the unit.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction.
• See your authorized dealer for recommendations of
available weights to improve stability.
Do not:
• Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If tires lose
traction (i.e. machine stops forward motion on a slope),
disengage the blade(s) (PTO) and drive slow off the slope.
• Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn
slowly.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The
operator could lose footing or balance or mower could
suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff or
ditch, or if an edge caves in.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing or traction could
cause sliding.
• Do not mow excessively steep slopes.
• Do not use grass catcher on steep slopes.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the unit
and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain
where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of another responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn unit off if children enter the area.
• Before and during reverse operation, look behind and down
for small children.
• Never allow children to operate the unit.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
Emissions
• Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known,
in certain quantities, to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm.
• Look for the relevant Emissions Durability Period and Air
Index information on the engine emissions label.
Ignition Systems (Gasoline Models)
• This spark ignition system complies with Canadian
ICES-002.
Service and Maintenance Safety
WARNING
Amputation and crushing hazard
Specific steps must be taken in order to perform service and
maintenance procedures safely.
Read and follow all the applicable safety and instructional
messages in this manual.
Always disengage the mower blades, set the parking brake,
turn the engine OFF, remove the ignition key, and wait for all
movement to stop prior to performing service and maintenance
procedures.
Always disconnect the spark plug wire(s) and fasten it away
from the plug before beginning any maintenance or service
procedures on order to prevent accidental ignition.
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