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 running 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.
– Stop operation if someone approaches.
– Never leave a running machine unattended.
Always disengage drive, and stop engine.
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 master clutch and wait until the
blade stops moving then disengage the blade
clutch:.
- when not cutting sod;
- for transport;
- when crossing surfaces other than grass.
- Disengage the master clutch, stop the engine,
and wait until the blade stops moving:
- before refueling;
- before making blade adjustment .
- Disengage the master clutch, stop the engine,
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 have repairs made
before restarting;
- if the machine begins to vibrate abnormally:
shut off machine immediately. Inspect
and have repairs made 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
-
Slopes are a major factor in loss of control and tip
over accidents that sometimes lead to severe injury
or death. All slopes require extra caution.
- Before operating on slopes, evaluate the risks
involved.
-
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.
- With walk behind machines, operate across slopes,
not up and down.
- Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If wheels lose
traction, disengage the cutter blade and proceed
straight down the slope.
