5
OPERATION
5.3
OPERATING PROCEDURES_________________________________________________
A Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) is included with this mower. Seat belts must be worn whenever operating
a mower with a ROPS. Always keep seat belt snugly adjusted. DO NOT use seat belts on a mower without a
ROPS.
If the mower is overturning, hold onto the steering wheel. Do not attempt to jump out or leave the seat.
To prevent injury, always wear safety glasses, leather work shoes or boots, a hard hat, and ear protection.
1. Under no circumstances should the engine be
started without the operator seated on the mower.
Never start the engine with operator or bystanders
standing behind a discharge chute.
2. Never run the engine in an enclosed area.
3. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts and
cutting units. If possible, do not make adjustments
with the engine running.
4. Do not operate mower or attachments with loose,
damaged
or
missing
possible mow when grass is dry.
5. First mow in a test area to become thoroughly
familiar with the operation of the mower and control
levers.
6. Study the area to determine the best and safest
operating procedure. Consider the height of the
grass, type of terrain, and condition of the surface.
Each condition will require certain adjustments or
precautions.
7. Be aware of mower discharge direction and never
direct discharge of material toward bystanders.
Never allow anyone near the machine while in
operation. The owner/operator is responsible for
injuries inflicted to bystanders and/or damage to
their property.
!
CAUTION
Before mowing, pick up all debris such as rocks, toys,
and wire which can be thrown by the machine. Enter a
new area cautiously. Always operate at speeds that
allow you to have complete control of the mower.
8. Use discretion when mowing near gravel areas
(roadway, parking areas, cart paths, etc.). Stones
discharged from the implement may cause serious
injuries
to
bystanders
equipment.
24
!
WARNING
!
CAUTION
components.
Whenever
and/or
damage
the
9. Always turn PTO switch OFF to stop blades when
not mowing.
10. Disengage the drive motors, raise the mowers and
slow down when crossing paths or roadways. Look
out for traffic.
11. Stop and inspect the equipment for damage
immediately after striking an obstruction, or if the
machine begins to vibrate abnormally. Have the
equipment repaired before resuming operation.
!
WARNING
Before you clean, adjust, or repair this equipment,
always disengage all drives, lower implements to the
ground, engage parking brake, stop engine, and
remove key from ignition switch to prevent injuries.
12. Slow down and use extra care on hillsides. Read
Section 5.9. Use caution when operating near drop
offs.
13. Look behind and down before backing up to be sure
the path is clear. Use care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees or other objects that may
obscure vision.
14. Never use your hands to clean cutting units. Use a
brush to remove grass clippings from blades.
Blades are extremely sharp and can cause serious
injuries.