Operation
Note:
Determine the left and right sides of the
machine from the normal operating position.
Important:
Do not operate the machine without
the fan guard and gear-case guard in place (
g023971
Figure 18
1.
Fan guard
2.
Gear case guard
Operation Safety
Before Operation Safety
•
Never allow children or untrained people to
operate or service the machine. Local regulations
may restrict the age of the operator. The owner
is responsible for training all operators and
mechanics.
•
Become familiar with the safe operation of the
equipment, operator controls, and safety signs.
•
Always wait for all moving parts to stop and allow
the machine to cool before adjusting, repairing,
cleaning, or storing the machine. Know how to
stop the machine quickly.
•
Keep all guards, safety devices, and decals in
place. Repair or replace all safety devices and
replace all illegible or missing decals. Do not
operate the machine unless they are present and
functioning properly.
•
Do not modify this equipment in any manner.
During Operation Safety
•
The owner/operator can prevent and is responsible
for accidents that may cause personal injury or
property damage.
•
Wear appropriate clothing, including eye
protection; long pants; substantial, slip-resistant
footwear; and hearing protection. Tie back long
hair and do not wear loose jewelry.
•
Do not operate the machine while ill, tired, or
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
•
Use your full attention while operating the
machine. Do not engage in any activity that
causes distractions; otherwise, injury or property
damage may occur.
•
Discharged air has considerable force and could
cause injury or loss of footing. Stay away from the
blower nozzle when the machine is operating.
•
Keep all bystanders away; shut off the machine
when bystanders enter the area, do not direct
discharge toward them.
•
Do not carry passengers on the machine and
keep bystanders and pets away from the machine
during operation.
•
Operate the machine only in good visibility to avoid
holes or hidden hazards.
•
Look behind and down before backing up to be
sure of a clear path.
•
Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure your
vision.
•
Never leave a running machine unattended.
•
If the machine ever vibrates abnormally, stop the
machine immediately, shut off the engine, remove
the key, wait for all moving parts to stop, and
inspect for damage. Repair all damage to the
machine before resuming operation.
•
Reduce speed when operating on rough, uneven
terrain, and near curbs, holes, and other sudden
changes in terrain.
Slope Safety
•
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control
and rollover accidents, which can result in severe
injury or death. You are responsible for safe slope
operation. Operating the machine on any slope
requires extra caution.
•
Review the traction unit specifications to ensure
that you do not exceed its slope capabilities.
•
Evaluate the site conditions to determine if the
slope is safe for machine operation, including
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