5
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Section 2
13. Test the operation of the safety interlock system. See
Section 4.2, Page 13.
14. Be sure the interlock switches are functioning
correctly.
15. Equipment must comply with the latest requirements
per SAE J137 and/or ANSI/ASAE S279 when driven
on public roads.
- NOTE -
If the mower is driven on public roads, it must
comply with state and local ordinances as well as
SAE J137 and/or ANSI / ASAE S279 requirements.
Contact your local authorities for regulations and
equipment requirements.
16. Do not operate without the side discharge chute
installed and in the down position or with an optional
grass catcher or mulch plate completely installed.
17. Check the blade mounting bolts at frequent intervals
for proper tightness.
18. Make sure all hydraulic fluid connections are tight
and all hydraulic hoses and lines are in good
condition before starting the machine.
2.6 SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable
and the vapors are explosive.
1. See Section 7.4 ENGINE FUEL SYSTEM for fueling
procedure.
2. Fuel is flammable; handle it with care. Clean up any
spilled fuel immediately. If fuel spills on clothing,
change clothing immediately. If fuel is spilled near
the machine, DO NOT attempt to start the engine but
move the machine away from the area of spillage.
Avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors
have dissipated.
3. Prevent fire and explosion caused by static electric
discharge. Static electric discharge can ignite fuel
vapors in an ungrounded fuel container.
4. Never store the machine or fuel container where
there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as a
water heater or other appliances.
5. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.
6. Keep flammable objects (cigarettes, matches, etc.),
open flames and sparks away from the fuel tank and
fuel container.
7. Use only approved containers. Use only non-
metal, portable fuel containers approved by the
Underwriter's Labratory (U.L.) or the American
Soceity for Testing & Materials (ASTM).
2.7 OPERATION CONSIDERATIONS
1. Know the function of all controls and how to stop
quickly.
2. NEVER operate the machine in a closed area.
3. Keep hands and feet away from cutter blades.
Contact can injure.
4. DO NOT put hands or feet near rotating parts or
under the machine.
5. Keep clear of the discharge opening.
6. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for
wheel weights and counterweights.
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 2-1, Page 7 to determine
approximate slope of area to be mowed. ALWAYS
FOLLOW OSHA APPROVED OPERATION.
7. Reduce speed and exercise extreme caution on
slopes and in sharp turns to prevent tipping or loss
of control. Be especially cautious when changing
directions on slopes.
8. Stay two cut widths away from slopes, drop offs,
ditches and retaining walls.
9. 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.
10. Immediately apply the parking brake if you lose
steering control while operating. Inspect the machine
and correct the problem before continuing to operate.
11. Never direct the discharge of material toward
anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall
or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward
operator.
