9
Use a hand trimmer only near drop-offs, ditches, steep banks, or water. This area can be dangerous, see Figure 1.
Progressively greater care is needed as the slope increases.
Always avoid sudden starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed slowly
off the slope.
Avoid sudden starts when mowing uphill. Mower may tip backwards.
Be aware that loss of traction may occur going downhill. Weight transfer to the front wheels may cause drive wheels
to slip and cause loss of braking and steering.
Watch for ditches, holes, rocks, dips, and rises that change the operating angle, as rough terrain could overturn the
machine.
Use extreme care with grass catchers or attachments. These can change the stability of the machine and cause loss of
control.
1.4.5
Stop the blades when transporting the mower to and from the area to be mowed.
1.4.6
Never operate the mower with defective guards, shields, or covers. Always have safety shields, guards, switches,
and other devices in place and in proper working condition.
1.4.7
DO NOT change the engine governor setting or overspend the engine. Operating an engine at excessive speed may
increase the hazard of personal injury.
1.4.8
Disengage PTO before starting engine.
1.4.9
Start the engine carefully with feet well away from the blades.
1.4.10
Keep hands, feet, and clothing away from rotating parts while the mower is being operated.
1.4.11
Stop engine, wait for all mowing parts to stop, and remove key:
Before checking, cleaning, or working on the mower.
After striking a foreign object (inspect mower for damage and make repairs before restarting and operating the
mower).
Before clearing blockages.
Whenever you leave the mower.
Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop:
Before refueling.
Before dumping the grass catcher.
1.4.12
The fuel system is provided with a shut-off valve. CLOSE VALVE:
When the machine will not be used for a few days.
During transport to and from the job.
When parked inside a building.
1.4.13
This mower was designed for one operator only. Keep all others away from mower during operation.
1.4.14
DO NOT mow with the discharge deflector raised, removed, or altered unless there is a grass collection system or
mulch kit in place and working properly.
1.4.15
Be aware of the mower discharge and direct discharge away from others.
1.4.16
DO NOT operate the mower under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
1.4.17
Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.