This manual identifies potential hazards and has safety
messages identified by the safety alert symbol (Figure 2),
which signals a hazard that may cause serious injury
or death if you do not follow the recommended
precautions.
Figure 2
1.
Safety alert symbol
This manual uses 2 words to highlight information.
Important
calls attention to special mechanical
information and
Note
emphasizes general information
worthy of special attention.
For models with stated engine horsepower, the gross
horsepower of the engine was laboratory rated by the
engine manufacturer in accordance with SAE J1349.
As configured to meet safety, emission, and operating
requirements, the actual engine horsepower on this class
machine will be significantly lower.
Safety
This cutting machine can amputate hands and feet
and throw objects. Failure to observe the following
safety instructions could result in serious injury or
death.
General Operation
•
Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before starting.
•
Do not put hands or feet near or under the machine.
•
Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with
the instructions, to operate this machine.
•
Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible
for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or
their property.
•
Clear the area of objects such as rocks, wire, toys, etc.,
which could be thrown by the blade or cutting line.
Stay behind the handle when the engine is running.
•
Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before
operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
•
Do not operate machine barefooted or while wearing
sandals. Always wear substantial footwear and long
pants.
•
Do not pull machine backward unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before and
while moving backward.
•
Never direct discharged material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or
obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the
operator.
•
Stop the engine of the machine when crossing
surfaces other than grass, and when transporting the
machine to and from the area to be cut.
•
Stop the blade(s) if the machine has to be tilted for
transportation when crossing surfaces other than
grass, and when transporting the machine to and
from the area to be mowed.
•
Do not operate machine without the safety protective
devices in place and working.
•
Never leave a running machine unattended.
•
Stop the engine, wait until the blade comes to a
complete stop, and disconnect the spark plug wire
before cleaning or unclogging the machine.
•
Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial
light.
•
Do not operate machine while under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.
•
Never operate machine in wet grass. Always be sure
of your footing; walk; never run.
•
If the machine should start to vibrate abnormally,
stop the engine and check for the cause immediately.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
•
Always wear eye protection when operating machine.
•
See manufacturer's instructions for proper operation
and installation of accessories. Only use accessories
approved by the manufacturer.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents,
which can result in severe injury. Operation on all slopes
require extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do
not mow it.
•
Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction
on slopes.
•
Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden
objects. Uneven terrain could cause a slip and fall
accident. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
•
Do not mow on wet grass or excessively steep slopes.
Poor footing could cause a slip and fall accident.
•
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or
embankments. You could lose your footing or
balance.
•
When using the machine, always keep both hands on
the handlebar.
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