4
Jr.
Sodcutter
OPERATING SAFELY
IN GENERAL
– Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
– Use caution when making turns and crossing
roads and sidewalks. Stop blade when not
cutting sod.
– Do not run the engine in an enclosed area where
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
– Never leave a machine unattended. Always
turn off blade and stop engine when leaving the
operator position. When leaving the machine be
sure the wheel drive clutch is engaged.
– Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling
machine towards you.
STARTING
– Start according to instructions in this manual or
on the machine.
– Before attempting to start the engine, make sure
the master clutch is disengaged.
– When starting the engine, make sure hands and
feet are clear of the blade.
– Do not change engine governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Operating the engine
at excessive speed can increase the hazard of
personal injury.
INTERRUPTING OPERATION
– Before leaving the operator's position:
- Park on level ground.
- Disengage the master clutch.
- Shut off the engine.
– Disengage the red master clutch and wait until
the blade stops moving then disengage the
yellow blade clutch:.
- when not cutting sod;
- for transport;
- when crossing surfaces other than grass.
– Stop the engine, disengage the red master clutch
and wait until the blade stops moving:
- before refueling;
- before making blade adjustment .
– Stop the engine, disengage the red master
clutch, and disconnect the spark plug wire(s):
- before clearing blockages;
- before checking, cleaning or working on the
machine;
- after striking a foreign object. Inspect the
machine for damage and make repairs before
restarting;
- if the machine begins to vibrate abnormally:
shut off machine immediately. Inspect and
make repairs as needed before restarting;
- except for repairs or adjustments as specifically
noted, such as for carburetor adjustment,
where the engine must be running. Keep
hands and feet clear of moving parts in these
circumstances.
– Allow the blade to come to a complete stop when
stopping operation to clear blockages, unclog,
inspect the machine, do maintenance or repair.
– Reduce the throttle setting during engine shut-
down and, if the engine is provided with a shut-
off valve, turn the fuel off at the conclusion of
operation.
SAFETY
OPERATING ON SLOPES
USE EXTRA CARE WHEN WORKING ON
SLOPES
– Do not operate on slopes if uneasy or uncertain.
Ultimate responsibility for safe operation on slopes
rests with the operator.
– Do not operate on steep slopes.
– Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual.
– Do not cut sod near drop-offs, ditches or embank-
ments. The machine could suddenly turn over if
a wheel runs over the edge or an edge caves in.
– Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then
turn slowly and downhill when possible.
– Be sure of your footing on slopes.
