17
UNEVEN TERRAIN
Do not operate on steep slopes.
Operation on a steep slope could
cause loss of control, machine to
overturn and personal injury or
death.
•
Do not operate on steep slopes. This
machine was not specifi cally designed to
operate on steep slopes.
•
The operator is responsible for safe op-
eration on slopes. Only the operator can
determine the stability of the machine on
a given slope based on existing conditions
like: machine speed and direction, slope
variation, slipperiness, drop-off s, holes,
obstacles, etc.
•
To determine stability on a slope, start at
the bottom and try to drive the machine up
the slope slowly. If you cannot drive up
the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not
operate on it.
•
Always start mowing at the bottom of
slopes. Traveling up slopes, this machine
has more traction traveling in reverse than
forward. Be careful on slopes to avoid
driving into a position where there is not
enough traction to enable driving out or
stopping.
•
Tires may lose traction on slopes even
though the brakes are functioning prop-
erly.
•
Avoid sudden stops and deceleration
when traveling forward downhill as mower
may tip forwards.
•
Do not mow slopes when grass is wet
because slippery conditions will reduce
traction and braking which in turn aff ects
steering.
•
Use caution when making turns. Slow the
mower down before making sharp turns.
Unit can spin very rapidly by positioning
one lever too much ahead or behind the
other.
•
Look around you to be sure the area is
clear before turning or backing up.
•
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If
tires lose traction, disengage the blades
and proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
•
Keep all movement on slopes slow and
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in
speed or direction.
•
Pass diagonally through sharp dips and
avoid sharp drops.
•
Follow manufacturer’s recommendation
for counterweights for added stability
when operating on slopes or using front
or rear mounted attachments. Remove
weights when not required.
•
Use extra care with grass catchers or oth-
er attachments. These can change the
stability of the machine. Do not use grass
catcher on steep slopes.
•
Check carefully for overhead clearances
such as, branches, doorways, or electri-
cal wires, before driving under any objects
and do not contact them.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
•
Set the throttle at idle. Allow engine to idle
for several minutes.
•
Move throttle to half speed before turning
engine off to prevent run-on.
•
Turn ignition switch to “OFF” position and
remove key.
•
Never use the carburetor choke to stop
engine.
Always remove key from ignition
switch when leaving unit unattend-
ed or when not in use.
WARNING
CAUTION
