Scag Power Equipment Freedom Z SFZ52-27BS, Operator'S Manual

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Section 2
2.4 OPERATION CONSIDERATIONS
1. Know the function of all controls and how to stop
quickly.
WARNING
DO NOT operate on steep slopes. To check a slope,
attempt to back up it (with the cutter deck down).
If the machine can back up the slope without the
wheels slipping, reduce speed and use extreme
caution. Under no circumstances should the
machine be operated on slopes greater than 15
degrees. See Figure 2-2, Page 7 to determine
approximate slope of area to be mowed. ALWAYS
FOLLOW OSHA APPROVED OPERATION.
2. Reduce speed and exercise extreme caution on
slopes and sharp turns to prevent tipping or loss
of control. Be especially cautious when changing
directions on slopes.
3. Stay two cut widths away from slopes, drop offs,
ditches and retaining walls.
4. To prevent tipping or loss of control, start and stop
smoothly, avoid unnecessary turns and travel at
reduced speed. Use caution when operating the
mower on an incline with the optional grass catcher
installed.
5. Immediately apply the parking brake if you lose
steering control while operating. Inspect the machine
and correct the problem before continuing to operate.
6. When using any attachment, never direct the
discharge of material toward bystanders or allow
anyone near the machine while in operation.
7. Before attempting to start the engine, with the
operator in the seat, disengage power to the cutter
deck, place the steering control levers in the neutral
position and engage the parking brake.
8. If the mower discharge ever plugs, shut off the
engine, remove the ignition key, and wait for all
movement to stop before removing the obstruction.
WARNING
DO NOT use your hand to dislodge the clogged
discharge chute. Use a stick or other device to
remove clogged material after the engine has
stopped running and the blades have stopped
turning.
9. Be alert for holes, rocks, roots and other hidden
hazards in the terrain. Keep away from any drop-offs.
Beware of overhead obstructions (low limbs, etc.)
and underground obstacles (sprinklers, pipes, tree
roots, etc.). Cautiously enter a new area. Be alert for
hidden hazards.
10. Disengage power to cutter deck before backing up.
Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary
and then only after observation of the entire area
behind the mower. If you must mow in reverse,
maintain a constant lookout to the rear of the
machine and mow slowly.
11. DO NOT turn sharply. Use care when backing up.
12. Disengage power to cutter deck before crossing
roads, walks or gravel drives.
13. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
14. NEVER raise the deck with the blades engaged.
15. Take all possible precautions when leaving the
machine unattended, such as disengaging the
mower, lowering the attachments, setting the parking
brake, stopping the engine, and removing the key.
16. Disengage power to the attachments when
transporting or when not in use.
17. The machine and attachments should be stopped
and inspected for damage after striking a foreign
object, and damage should be repaired before
restarting and operating the machine.
CAUTION
Do not touch the engine or the muffler while the
engine is running or immediately after stopping.
These areas may be hot enough to cause a
burn.