Operation
5
16
General Safety
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RECEIVE INSTRUCTION — Entirely read this operator’s
manual. Learn to operate this machine SAFELY. Do not risk
INJURY or DEATH. Allow only those who have become
competent in its usage to operate this tractor.
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Before starting the engine or beginning operation, be
familiar with the controls. The operator should be in the
operator’s seat. The PTO switch must be in the disengaged
position and the parking brake engaged.
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Keep all shields in place. Keep away from moving parts.
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NO RIDERS! Keep all people and pets a safe distance away.
Look behind and down to both sides of the tractor before
and while backing up.
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DO NOT direct the mower discharge at people.
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Avoid slopes where possible. Never operate on slopes
greater than 15°. Slopes with a greater incline present
dangerous operating conditions. Tractors can be rolled over.
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Before leaving the operator’s seat shut off the PTO and
engage the parking brake, shut off the engine and remove
the ignition key. Wait for all movement to stop before
servicing or cleaning.
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Avoid any sudden movements of the steering wheel when
starting and stopping. Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel.
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Be careful when operating near roadways. Stop the tractor
motion and wait for vehicles to pass before operating
along the road.
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Do not operate the tractor with the mower deck removed.
Removal of the deck will change the balance of the tractor,
and could contribute to a tractor rollover.
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Avoid operation on traction surfaces that are unstable; use
extreme caution if the surface is slippery.
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Slow down before turning and come to a complete stop
before any zero turn maneuver.
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Do not stop the tractor or park the tractor over
combustible materials such as dry grass, leaves, debris, etc.
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Do not fill the fuel tank when the engine is running or
while the engine is hot. Allow the engine several minutes
to cool before refueling. Tighten the fuel cap securely.
Before Operating Your Tractor
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Before you operate the tractor, study this manual carefully
to familiarize yourself with the operation of all the
instruments and controls. It has been prepared to help you
operate and maintain your tractor efficiently.
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This engine is certified to operate only on clean, fresh,
unleaded regular gasoline. For best results, fill the fuel
tank with only clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline with a pump
sticker octane rating of 87 or higher.
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Unleaded gasoline is recommended because it leaves
less combustion chamber deposits and reduces harmful
exhaust emissions. Leaded gasoline is not recommended
and must not be used where exhaust emissions are
regulated.
NOTE:
Purchase gasoline in small quantities. Do not use
gasoline left over from the previous season, to minimize
gum deposits in the fuel system.
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Gasohol (up to 10% ethyl alcohol, 90% unleaded gasoline
by volume) is an approved fuel. Other gasoline/alcohol
blends are not approved.
•
Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether (MTBE) and unleaded gasoline
blends (up to a maximum of 15% MTBE by volume) are
approved fuels. Other gasoline/ether blends are not
approved.
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Check the engine oil level.
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Clean the air cleaner element if necessary.
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Check the tire inflation pressures.
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Adjust the seat for operator’s maximum comfort, visibility
and for maintaining complete control of the tractor.
Safety Interlock Switches
This tractor is equipped with a safety interlock system for the
protection of the operator. If the interlock system should ever
malfunction, do not operate the tractor. Contact your authorized
service dealer.
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The safety interlock system prevents the engine from
cranking or starting unless the parking brake is engaged,
and the PTO knob is in the disengaged (OFF) position.
•
The engine will automatically shut off if the operator leaves
the seat before engaging the parking brake.
WARNING!
Do not operate the tractor if the
interlock system is malfunctioning. This system was
designed for your safety and protection.
