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7
Preparation
1. Read, understand, and follow instructions and warnings
in this manual and on the machine, engine and attach-
ments. Know the controls and the proper use of the
machine before starting.
2. Only mature, responsible persons shall operate the
machine and only after proper instruction.
3. Data indicates that operators age 60 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.
4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable and
vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel con-
tainer. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with engine
running. Add fuel outdoors only with engine stopped and
cool. Clean spilled fuel from machine. DO NOT smoke.
5. Practice operation of machine with BLADES OFF to
learn controls and develop skills.
6. Check the area to be mowed and remove all objects
such as toys, wire, rocks, limbs and other objects that
could cause injury if thrown by blade or interfere with
mowing.
7. Keep people and pets out of mowing area. Immediately
STOP blades, STOP engine, and STOP machine if any-
one enters the area.
8. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and
other safety devices frequently for proper operation and
location.
9. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if
damaged.
10. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses,
a dust mask, hearing protection, long pants and sub-
stantial footwear.
11. Know how to STOP blades and engine quickly in prepa-
ration for emergencies.
12. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine
into a trailer or truck.
13. Check grass catcher components frequently for signs of
wear or deterioration and replace as needed to prevent
injury from thrown objects going through weak or worn
spots.
Safe Handling of Gasoline
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable
and the vapors are explosive.
1. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.
2. Use only an approved fuel container.
3. DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
4. DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.
5. DO NOT store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such as
on a water heater or other appliances.
6. DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a truck
or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place the con-
tainers on the ground away from the vehicle before fill-
ing.
7. Remove gas-powered equipment from the vehicle or
trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible,
then refuel equipment using a portable container, rather
than a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
8. DO NOT start gas powered equipment in enclosed
vehicles or trailers.
9. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete.
DO NOT use a nozzle lock-open device
10. If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immedi-
ately.
11. Never overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten
securely.
Operation
1. Mount and dismount machine from left side. Keep clear
of discharge opening at all times.
2. Start engine from operator’s seat, if possible. Make sure
blades are OFF and parking brake is set.
3. DO NOT leave machine with engine running. STOP
engine, STOP blades, SET brake, and remove key
before leaving operators position of any reason.
4. DO NOT operate machine unless properly seated with
feet on feet rests or pedal(s).
5. STOP BLADES and ENGINE and make sure blades
have stopped before removing grass catcher or unclog-
ging mower to prevent loss of fingers or hand.
6. Blades must be OFF except when cutting grass. Set
blades in highest position when mowing over rough
ground.
7. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades under-
neath deck. DO NOT place foot on ground while
BLADES are ON or machine is in motion.
8. DO NOT operate machine without entire grass catcher
or guards in place and working. DO NOT point dis-
charge at people, passing cars, windows or doors.
9. Slow down before turning.
10. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing roadways.
11. STOP engine immediately after striking an obstruction.
Inspect machine and repair damage before resuming
operation.
12. Operate machine only in daylight or with good artificial
light.
13. Exercise CAUTION when pulling loads. Limit loads to
those you can safely control and attach loads to hitch
plate as specified with attachment instructions.
14. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may
cause loss of traction and loss of control. When towing,
travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
15. DO NOT operate engine in enclosed areas. Engine
exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly poi-
son.
16. DO NOT discharge material against a wall or obstruc-
tion. Material may ricochet back towards the operator.
17. Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer.
See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and
installation of accessories.
Operator Safety
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