SAFETY and the mower assembly are not worn and damaged. Replace worn and damaged blades and bolts in sets to preserve balance. Safety • Make sure spark plug, muffler, fuel cap and air cleaner are in place before starting the engine. Operating Safely 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. • Be sure all drives are in neutral and parking brake is locked before starting engine. Only start engine from the operator’s position. • Read, understand and follow all instructions on the machine and in manuals provided, and view safety video, before starting.
Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting. • Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed can increase the hazard of personal injury. • Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times. • If you hit an object or if abnormal vibration occurs, stop the machine and inspect it. Make repairs before you operate. • Use only accessories and attachments approved by the manufacturer of the machine. Keep safety labels visible when installing accessories and attachments.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate this machine. Local regulations may restrict the age of the operator. • Clear the area of objects such as rocks, wire and toys which could be thrown by the blades. • Do not wear radio or music headphones. Safe service and operation requires your full attention. • When machine is left unattended, stored, or parked, lower the mower deck unless a positive mechanical lock is used. • Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operating. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. Using a Spark Arrestor • Never carry passengers. The engine in this machine is not equipped with a spark arrestor muffler.
The California Public Resources Code, section 4442.5 provides as follows: • Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while backing. • Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces.
No person shall sell, offer for sale, lease, or rent to any person any internal combustion engine subject to Section 4442 or 4443, and not subject to Section 13005 of the Health and Safety Code, unless the person provides a written notice to the purchaser or bailee, at the time of sale or at the time of entering into the lease or rental contract, stating that it is a violation of Section 4442 or 4443 to use or operate the engine on any forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless the engine is equipped with a spark arrestor, as defined in Section 4442, maintained in effective working order or the engine is constructed, equipped, and maintained for the prevention of fire pursuant to Section 4443.
Cal. Pub. Res. Code 4442.5. • Do not operate the machine without the entire grasscatcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and working. Never operate with the discharge deflector raised, removed, or altered, unless using a grasscatcher. • Slow down before turning. • Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, lock park brake, stop engine and remove key before dismounting. Other states or jurisdictions may have similar laws. A spark arrestor for your machine may be available from your authorized dealer. An installed spark arrestor must be maintained in good working order by the operator. • Disengage blades when not mowing.
Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grasscatcher, or unclogging the discharge chute. Checking Mowing Area • Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial light. • Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. • Clear mowing area of objects that might be thrown. Keep people and pets out of mowing area. • Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. Stop blades before crossing roads or sidewalks. • Low-hanging branches and similar obstacles can injure the operator or interfere with mowing operation.
Before mowing, identify potential obstacles such as low-hanging branches, and trim or remove those obstacles. • Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck. • Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating machine. • Study mowing area. Set up a safe mowing pattern. Do not mow where traction or stability is doubtful. • Data indicates operators 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. • Test drive area with mower lowered but not running.
Slow down when you travel over rough ground. Parking Safely • Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights. 1. Stop machine on a level surface, not on a slope. • Inspect machine before you operate. Be sure hardware is tight. Repair or replace damaged, badly worn, or missing parts. Be sure guards and shields are in good condition and fastened in place. Make any necessary adjustments before you operate. 2. Disengage mower blades or any other attachments. 3. Lower attachments to the ground. 4. Lock the park brake. • Before using, always visually inspect to see that the blades, blade bolts 5. Stop the engine. Safety - 6