Ariens 304 Lawn Mower User Manual


 
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When taking unit out of extended storage:
1. Check for any damage or loose parts. Repair,
replace, or tighten hardware before operation.
2. If a preservative fluid was used in fuel tank, drain
and discard. Fill fuel tank with fresh new fuel.
2.8 SAFETY RULES
Walk Around Inspection
Complete a walk around inspection of unit and work
area to understand:
Work area.
Your unit.
All safety decals.
Work Area
ALWAYS check overhead and side clearances
carefully before operation. ALWAYS be aware of traffic
when operating along streets or curbs.
ALWAYS keep hands and feet within the limits of the
unit.
Keep children, people, and animals away. Keep
children out of work area and under watchful care of a
responsible adult.
Keep area of operation clear of all toys, pets, and
debris. Stay alert for hidden hazards.
Clear work area of objects which might be picked up
and thrown. Remove all stones, sticks, wires, and other
foreign objects. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
DO NOT run engine in an enclosed area. Always
provide good ventilation.
Unit
ALWAYS keep protective structures, guards, and
panels in good repair, in place and securely fastened.
NEVER modify or remove safety devices.
Check Safety Interlock System for proper operation
daily (see Operation section). Do not operate unless
system operates properly.
Keep equipment in good condition.
ALWAYS keep discharge cover in place.
NEVER operate the engine with the Rear Door open
unless the Grass Bag is in place.
When mulching, the Side Discharge Opening Cover
must be installed and the Rear Door fully closed
whenever the engine is operating.
Operation
Understand:
How to operate all controls
The functions of all controls
How to STOP in an Emergency
Speed ranges
ALWAYS operate unit in good visibility and light.
DO NOT pull mower backwards unless absolutely
necessary. Look down and back before and while
moving backwards.
DO NOT start the engine or operate mower unless
either the Side Discharge Opening Cover or the Side
Discharge Deflector is installed.
Keep the area of operation clear of all persons,
children and pets.
ALWAYS clear area before operation to avoid thrown
objects.
Stop mower if anyone enters the area.
Keep safety devices or guards in place and functioning
properly. NEVER modify or remove safety devices.
ALWAYS keep hands away from all rotating parts
during operation.
Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Keep clear of the discharge opening and mower pan at
all times. NEVER open the Rear Door without the
Grass Bag in place when the engine is operating.
ALWAYS keep feet and hands away from all rotating
parts during operation. Rotating parts can cut off body
parts.
DO NOT mow at too fast a rate. DO NOT change
engine governor setting or over-speed the engine.
ALWAYS operate unit when there is good visibility and
light.
Use extra care when approaching blind corners,
shrubs, trees, or other objects which may obscure
vision.
ALWAYS be sure of your footing.
Do not operate mower in wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing. Keep a firm hold on handlebar. Walk,
never run.
If equipment vibrates abnormally, stop engine at once,
wait for moving parts to stop and remove wire from
spark plug. Repair any damage before restarting unit.
Avoid uneven work areas and any rough terrain.
Be familiar with area of operation. Stay alert for holes,
rocks, roots, and hidden hazards in area of operation.
Operator could lose footing or balance.
DO NOT operate on steep slopes.
NEVER leave unit unattended on a slope. Chock
wheels if parking on a slope.
Mow across the face of slopes, never up and down. Be
especially cautious when changing direction on slopes.
Remove the key when parking.
Take all possible precautions when leaving unit
unattended.
ALWAYS shut off engine, remove key and remove
spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting or
unauthorized use.