4
SAFETY RULES
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDE-ON MOWERS
DANGER !
THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY
OR DEATH.
GENERAL OPERATION
• Read, understand and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the machine before starting.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar
with the instructions, to operate the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as rocks, stones,
toys, wire etc., which could be picked up and
thrown by the blades.
• Be sure the area is clear of all people and pets
before mowing. Stop the machine if anyone enters
the area.
• Never carry passengers or children even with
blades off.
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before
and while backing.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and
do not direct it towards anyone. Do not operate
the mower without either the entire grass catcher
or the guard in place.
• Slow down before turning.
• Never leave the machine unattended when the
engine is running. Always turn off the blades, set
the parking brake, stop the engine and remove
the key before leaving the machine.
• Turn off blades when not mowing.
• Stop engine before removing grass catcher or
unclogging chute.
• Mow only in daylight or good articial light.
• Do not operate the machine while under the
inuence of alcohol or drugs.
• Watch out for trafc when operating near or
crossing roadways.
• Use extra care when loading and unloading the
machine onto a trailer or truck.
• Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and
above, are involved in a large percentage of
riding mower-related injuries. These operators
should evaluate their ability to operate the riding
mower safely enough to protect themselves and
others from serious injury.
• DO NOT operate mower with grass catcher,
unless the front weights are installed.
• Keep machine free of grass, leaves or other
debris buildup which can touch hot exhaust/
engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower
deck to plow leaves or other debris which can
cause buildup to occur. Clean any oil or fuel
spillage before operating or storing the machine.
Allow machine to cool before storage.
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and
tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or
death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot
back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not
mow it.
DO
• Mow up and down slopes (10° Max.), not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain
could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.
• Use slow speed. Choose a low speed so that you
will not have to stop while on the slope.
• Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments. These can change the stability of the
machine.
• Keep all movement on the slopes slow and
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed
or direction.
• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires
lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed
slowly straight down the slope.
WARNING!
DO NOT tow any trailers, etc. with this mower.
They may jackknife or over turn causing
damage to the mower and possibly serious
injury to the operator.