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Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used and remove all objects which may be thrown by
the machine.
Warning—fuel is highly flammable. Take the
following precautions:
– Store fuel in containers specifically designed for this
purpose.
– Refuel outdoors only and do not smoke while
refuelling.
– Add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove
the cap of the fuel tank or add fuel while the engine
is running or when the engine is hot.
– If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine
but move the machine away from the area of
spillage and avoid creating any source of ignition
until fuel vapors have dissipated.
– Replace all fuel tank and container caps securely.
Replace faulty silencers/mufflers.
Before using, always visually inspect to see that the
blades, blade bolts, and cutting assembly are not worn
or damaged. Replace worn or damaged blades and bolts
in sets to preserve balance.
On multi-bladed machines, take care as rotating one
blade can cause other blades to rotate.
Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and
attachments are needed to properly and safely perform
the job. Only use accessories and attachments approved
by the manufacturer.
Check that operator's presence controls, safety
switches, and shields are attached and functioning
properly. Do not operate unless they are functioning
properly.
Operation
Do not operate the engine in a confined space where
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
Before attempting to start the engine, disengage all
blade attachment clutches, shift into neutral, and engage
the parking brake. Only start the engine from the
operator's position. Use seat belts, if provided.
Remember there is no such thing as a safe slope. Travel
on grass slopes requires particular care. To guard
against overturning:
– Do not stop or start suddenly when going up or
downhill.
– Engage the clutch slowly, always keep the machine
in gear, especially when travelling downhill.
– The machine speed should be kept low on slopes
and during tight turns.
– Stay alert for humps and hollows and other hidden
hazards.
– Never mow across the face of the slope, unless the
machine is designed for that purpose.
Stay alert for holes in the terrain and other hidden
hazards.
Use care when pulling loads or using heavy equipment.
– Use only approved drawbar hitch points.
– Limit loads to those you can safely control.
– Do not turn sharply. Use care when reversing.
– Use counterweight(s) or wheel weights when
suggested in the operator's manual.
Watch out for traffic when crossing or near roadways.
Stop the blades from rotating before crossing surfaces
other than grass.
When using any attachments, never direct discharge of
material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the
machine while in operation.
Never operate the machine with damaged guards,
shields, or without safety protective devices in place. Be
sure all interlocks are attached, adjusted properly, and
functioning properly.
Do not change the engine governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive
speed may increase the hazard of personal injury.
Before leaving the operator's position:
– Stop on level ground.
– Disengage the power take-off and lower the
attachments.
– Change into neutral and set the parking brake.
– Stop the engine and remove the key.
Disengage drive to attachments, stop the engine, and
disconnect the spark plug wire(s) or remove the ignition
key:
– before clearing blockages;
– before checking, cleaning, or working on the
machine;
– after striking a foreign object. Inspect the machine
for damage and make repairs before restarting and
operating the equipment;
– if the machine starts to vibrate abnormally (check
immediately).
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