108548_1208 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
Never leave a running machine unattended. Always stop
on level ground, release blade lever and drive clutch lever
and set the throttle lever to the “STOP” position before
leaving machine for any reason including emptying the
catcher or unclogging the discharge chute.
Always keep safety shields and covers in place, except
for servicing.
Do not block the muffler outlet.
Always maintain a safe distance from people and pets
when mowing. Always stop machine and disengage the
blade if someone enters the area.
Always operate machine in daylight or with adequate
working lights.
Follow daily and weekly checklists, making sure blade is
tightly secured and bolts are tightened.
Always observe traffic laws while driving machine from
one location to another. Watch for traffic when operating
near or crossing roadways.
Always keep engine and machine clean, removing accu-
mulated dirt, trash and other material from machine.
Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow machine to cool
before storing.
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. Stay behind the handle when the engine
is running.
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.
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.
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.
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, release blade lever
and drive clutch lever and set the throttle lever to the
“STOP” position when leaving operator’s position to
inspect damage. Disconnect the spark plug wire before
checking the blades, being careful to not touch the hot
engine or muffler.
Do not pull machine backward unless absolutely neces-
sary. Always look down and behind before and while
moving backward. Always be aware of what is behind
the machine before backing up.
Never operate a poorly maintained machine.
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.
Never put hands or feet under any part of the machine
while it is running. Keep clear of the discharge opening
at all times.
Stop the engine before changing the cutting height.
Never direct discharge of material from mower deck
towards bystanders. Do not operate the mower without
either the entire mulching system (spacer, stand/stopper
and plug) or the entire grass collection system in place.
Always disengage the blades and wait for them to stop
before crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
Always keep clear of the mower blades and attachments
during their operation.
Turn off blades when not mowing.
Slow down before turning.
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. Disconnect the spark plug wire before cleaning,
being careful to not touch the hot engine or muffler. Use a
stick to clear a plugged discharge area. Never use your
hand!
Do not operate the machine while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
Never operate the mower in wet grass as you may slip
and fall. Always be sure of you
r footing; walk; never run.
Never lift the machine while the engine is running.
Exercise caution when loading or unloading the machine
onto a trailer or truck. Use two people to lift unit.
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating the mower.
Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are
involved in a large percentage of mower-related injuries.
These operators should evaluate their ability to operate
the mower safely enough to protect themselves and oth-
ers from serious injury.
Never make sudden starts, stops, turns, or reverse direc-
tion, especially when maneuvering on slopes. .
Clean flammable material from machine. Prevent
fires by keeping the mower clean of accumulated
trash, grass clippings and other debris. Always clean
up spilled fuel and oil.