3. Use extra care with grass catchers or other attachments;
these affect the handling and the stability of the machine.
Preparation
1. Read, understand, and obey instructions and warnings in
this manual and on the mower, engine and attachments.
Know the controls and the proper use of the mower
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
others from serious injury.
4. Handle fuel with extra care. Fuels are flammable
and vapors are explosive. Use only an approved fuel
container. DO NOT remove the fuel cap or add fuel with
engine running. Add fuel outdoors only with the engine
stopped and cool. Clean spilled fuel and oil from the
machine. DO NOT smoke.
5. 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 the blade or interfere with
mowing. Also note the location of holes, stumps, and
other possible hazards.
6. Keep people and pets out of the mowing area.
Immediately, STOP Blade, Stop engine and Stop mower
if anyone enters the area.
7. Check shields, deflectors, switches, blade controls and
other safety devices frequently for proper operation and
location.
8. Make sure all safety decals are clearly legible. Replace if
damaged.
9. Protect yourself when mowing and wear safety glasses,
long pants and substantial footwear. DO NOT mow
barefooted or with sandals.
10. Know how to STOP the blade and engine quickly in
preparation for emergencies.
11. Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine
into a trailer or truck.
12. 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 torn
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
containers on the ground away from the vehicle before
filling.
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 immediately.
11. DO NOT overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten
securely.
Operation
1. DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
Keep clear of discharge area while engine is running.
2. STOP engine when crossing gravel drives, walks, or
roads, and under any conditions where thrown objects
might be a hazard.
3. Mow only in daylight or good artificial light.
4. DO NOT operate mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
5. After striking a foreign object or if the mower vibrates
abnormally, STOP the engine, disconnect and secure the
spark plug wire. Inspect the mower for any damage and
repair the damage before starting.
6. DO NOT mow near drop offs, ditches or embankments.
Operator could lose footing or balance.
7. STAY ALERT for holes and other hidden hazards. Tall
grass can hide obstacles. Keep away from ditches,
washouts, culverts, fences and protruding objects.
8. DO NOT mow on wet grass. Always be sure of your
footing. Keep a firm hold on the handle and walk, never
run. Slipping could cause injury.
9. ALWAYS stay behind handle when engine (motor) is
running.
10. DO NOT leave the machine with the engine running.
STOP BLADE and STOP ENGINE before leaving the
operators position for any reason.
11. Before cleaning, repairing or inspecting make certain
the engine, blade and all moving parts have STOPPED.
Disconnect and secure the spark plug wire away from
plug to prevent accidental starting.
12. STOP the engine and wait until the blade comes to
complete STOP before removing the grass bag and/or
clearing grass.
7