slope operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and tip-over accidents
which can result in severe injury or death. Attachments can also affect the
stability of the machine. All slopes require extra caution.
For your safety, use the slope guide included as part of this manual to
estimate the angle of slopes before operating this machine on a sloped or hilly
area. If the slope is greater than 10 degrees as shown on the slope guide, do
not operate the mower with the grass bag attachment installed on that area or
serious injury could result.
Do:
1.
Mow up and down slopes, not across. Exercise extreme caution when
changing direction on slopes.
2.
Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven
terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3.
Use slow speed. Choose a low enough speed setting so that you will not
have to stop or shift while on the slope. Tires may lose traction on slopes
even though the brakes are functioning properly. Always keep machine
in gear when going down slopes to take advantage of engine braking
action.
4.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for wheel weights or
counterweights to improve stability. For recommendations, contact
1-800-659-5917.
5.
Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sud-
den changes in speed or direction. Rapid engagement or braking could
cause the front of the machine to lift and rapidly flip over backwards
which could cause serious injury.
6.
Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires lose traction, disengage the
blade(s) and proceed slowly straight down the slope.
saFety symbols
This section depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine
before attempting to assemble and operate.
Symbol
SAFETY InSTrUCTIOnS
READ THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and
operate
STOP
Turn off the engine before opening the bagger cover.
Do not:
1.
Do not turn on slopes unless necessary; then, turn slowly and gradually
downhill, if possible.
2.
Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments. The mower could
suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge of a cliff, ditch, or if an
edge caves in.
3.
Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on the ground.
4.
Do not use a grass catcher on steep slopes.
5.
Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced traction could cause sliding.
general serViCe
1.
Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain the blade(s)
and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wire and
ground against the engine to prevent unintended starting.
2.
Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe
working condition.
3.
Never tamper with your mower's safety interlock system or other safety
devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
4.
Never attempt to make adjustments or repairs while the mower's engine
is running.
5.
Grass catcher components and the discharge cover are subject to wear
and damage which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be
thrown. For safety protection, frequently check components and replace
immediately with original equipment manufacturer's (O.E.M.) parts only,
listed in this manual. Use of parts which do not meet the original equip-
ment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise
safety!
6.
Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary.
Description
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