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601396_0109 4-1
OPERATION
Safe Operating Practices
This product is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Always follow all safety instructions to avoid
serious injury or death.
Operation
V Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and
attachments are needed to properly and safely perform
the job. Only use accessories and attachments approved
by the manufacturer.
V Never leave a running machine unattended. Always stop
on level ground, disengage deck clutch, place steering
control levers in park brake position, stop tractor engine,
and remove ignition key before leaving operator’s seat
for any reason including emptying the catcher or unclog-
ging the chute.
V Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine.
V Always remain seated while operating machine.
V Always keep safety shields and covers in place, except
for servicing.
V Always maintain a safe distance from people and pets
when mowing. Always stop machine if someone enters
the area.
V Always operate machine in daylight or with adequate
working lights.
V Follow daily and weekly checklists, making sure hoses
are tightly secured and bolts are tightened.
V Always observe traffic laws while driving machine from
one location to another. Watch for traffic when operating
near or crossing roadways.
V Always be alert for hazards such as rocks, metal objects
and other debris which may be thrown or entangled by
mower blades. Watch out for holes or deep depressions.
V Inspect area to be mowed for hazards such as rocks,
metal objects and other debris which may be thrown or
entangled by mower blades. Remove these objects
before mowing.
V Always inspect machine for damage after striking a for-
eign object. If damage is found, repair machine immedi-
ately. Be sure to stop on level ground, disengage deck
clutch, place steering control levers in park brake posi-
tion, stop tractor engine, and remove ignition key when
leaving operator’s seat to inspect damage.
V Always wear adequate ear protection, such as earplugs,
when operating this equipment as prolonged exposure to
uncomfortable or loud noises can cause impairment or
loss of hearing. Do not wear radios or music headphones
while operating the machinery. Safe operation requires
your full attention.
V Do not operate the equipment while wearing sandals, ten-
nis shoes, sneakers, shorts or any type of loose fitting
clothing. Long hair, loose clothing or jewelry may get
tangled in moving parts. Always wear long pants, safety
glasses, ear protection and safety shoes when operating
this machine.
V Always be aware of what is behind the machine before
backing up. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before and
while backing up.
V Never push forward suddenly on your steering control
levers while the machine is in rearward motion because
machine may tip backwards.
V Never pull back suddenly on your steering control levers
while the machine is in forward motion.
V When moving in reverse, push forward slowly on steer-
ing control levers and avoid sudden movement. Rapid
movement of the steering control levers in either direc-
tion could result in a reaction of the tractor that can cause
serious injury.
V Never operate a poorly maintained machine.
V Never attempt high speed maneuvering, especially in
crowded or congested areas.
V Never allow persons to operate this machine without
proper instruction or allow children to operate machine.
Allow only responsible adults who are familiar with
these instructions to operate this machine.
V Never put hands or feet under any part of the machine
while it is running.
V Never carry passengers.
V Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Mate-
rial may ricochet back toward the operator. Always dis-
engage the blades and wait for them to stop before
crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
V Always keep clear of the mower blades and attachments
during their operation.
V Turn off blades when not mowing.
V Slow down before turning.
V Stop the engine before removing the grass catcher or
unclogging the discharge chute. Never clear the dis-
charge chute with the engine running. Turn off the
engine and be sure the blades have stopped before clean-
ing. Use a stick to clear a plugged discharge area. Never
use your hand!
V Do not operate the machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
V Exercise caution when loading or unloading the machine
onto a trailer or truck.
V Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating the mower.
V 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 mower safely enough to protect themselves
and others from serious injury.
V Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for wheel
weights or counterweights.
V If any attachment or additional weight is mounted on the
rear of the unit, any rapid movement of the steering con-
trol levers in either direction could result in a reaction of
the tractor that can cause serious injury.