Operation
Note:
Determine the left and right sides of the
machine from the normal operating position.
Before Operation
Before Operation Safety
General Safety
•
Always shut off the machine, remove the ignition
key (if equipped), wait for all moving parts to stop,
and allow the machine to cool before adjusting,
servicing, cleaning, or storing it.
•
Become familiar with the safe operation of the
equipment, operator controls, and safety signs.
•
Check that all guards and safety devices, such as
deflectors and/or grass catcher, are in place and
functioning properly.
•
Always inspect the machine to ensure that the
blades and blade bolts are not worn or damaged.
•
Inspect the area where you will use the machine,
and remove all objects that could interfere with
the operation of the machine or that the machine
could throw.
•
Contact with the moving blade will cause serious
injury. Do not put your fingers under the housing.
Fuel Safety
•
Fuel is extremely flammable and highly explosive.
A fire or explosion from fuel can burn you and
others and can damage property.
– To prevent a static charge from igniting the fuel,
place the container and/or machine directly on
the ground before filling, not in a vehicle or on
an object.
– Fill the fuel tank outdoors, in an open area,
when the engine is cold. Wipe up any fuel that
spills.
– Do not handle fuel when smoking or around an
open flame or sparks.
– Do not remove the fuel cap or add fuel to the
tank while the engine is running or hot.
– If you spill fuel, do not attempt to start the
engine. Avoid creating a source of ignition until
the fuel vapors have dissipated.
– Store fuel in an approved container and keep
it out of the reach of children.
•
Fuel is harmful or fatal if swallowed. Long-term
exposure to vapors can cause serious injury and
illness.
– Avoid prolonged breathing of vapors.
– Keep your hands and face away from the
nozzle and the fuel-tank opening.
– Keep fuel away from your eyes and skin.
Filling the Fuel Tank
Type
Unleaded gasoline
Minimum octane rating
87 (US) or 91 (research
octane; outside the US)
Ethanol
No more than 10% by volume
Methanol
None
MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl
ether)
Less than 15% by volume
Oil
Do not add to the fuel
Use only clean, fresh (no more than 30 days old), fuel
from a reputable source.
Important:
To reduce starting problems, add fuel
stabilizer/conditioner to fresh fuel as directed by
the fuel-stabilizer/conditioner manufacturer.
Refer to your engine owner’s manual for additional
information.
Fill the fuel tank as shown in
g230458
Figure 11
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