4
Safety Rules & Information
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
Safe Handling of Gasoline
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.
2. Use only approved gasoline containers.
3. Never remove the gas cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
4. Never fuel the machine indoors.
5. Never store the machine or fuel container where
there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as
near a water heater or other appliance.
6. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck bed
with a plastic bed liner. Always place containers on
the ground away from your vehicle before filling.
7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or
trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possi-
ble, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a gasoline dis-
penser nozzle.
8. Keep nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is com-
plete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.
9. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immedi-
ately.
10. Never over fill the fuel tank. Replace gas cap and
tighten securely.
11. Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels.
They are flammable and vapors are explosive.
12. If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but
move the machine away from the area of spillage and
avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors
have dissipated.
13. Replace all fuel tank caps and fuel container caps
securely.
Service & Maintenance
1. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as
necessary.
2. Never run the unit in an enclosed area where carbon
monoxide fumes may collect.
3. Keep nuts and bolts, especially blade attachment
bolts, tight and keep equipment in good condition.
4. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly and make necessary repairs if
they are not functioning properly.
5. Keep unit free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-
up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage.
6. Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an
object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
7. Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine
running unless specified otherwise in the engine man-
ufacturer’s manual.
8. Do not remove the fuel filter when the engine is hot
as spilled gasoline may ignite. Do not spread fuel line
clamps further than necessary. Ensure clamps grip
hoses firmly over the filter after installation.
9. Do not use gasoline containing METHANOL, gasohol
containing more than 10% ETHANOL, gasoline addi-
tives, or white gas because engine/fuel system dam-
age could result.
10. If the fuel tank must be drained, it should be drained
outdoors.
11. Replace faulty silencers/mufflers.
12. Grass catcher components are subject to wear, dam-
age, and deterioration, which could expose moving
parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check
components and replace with manufacturer’s recom-
mended parts, when necessary.
13. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the
blade(s) or wear gloves, and use extra caution when
servicing them.
14. Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service
as required.
15. Use only factory authorized replacement parts when
making repairs.
16. Always comply with factory specifications on all set-
tings and adjustments.
17. Only authorized service locations should be utilized
for major service and repair requirements.
18. Never attempt to make major repairs on this unit
unless you have been properly trained. Improper ser-
vice procedures can result in hazardous operation,
equipment damage and voiding of manufacturer’s
warranty.
19. On multiple blade mowers, take care as rotating one
blade can cause other blades to rotate.
20. Do not change engine governor settings or over-
speed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive
speed can increase the hazard of personal injury.
21. Disengage drive attachments, stop the engine,
remove the key, and disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) before: clearing attachment blockages and
chutes, performing service work, striking an object, or
if the unit vibrates abnormally. After striking an
object, inspect the machine for damage and make
repairs before restarting and operating the equip-
ment.
22. Never place hands near the moving parts, such as a
hydro pump cooling fan, when the tractor is running.
(Hydro pump cooling fans are typically located on top
of the transaxle).
