Toro 04383 Operator's Manual page 4

being driven too fast;
inadequate braking;
the type of machine is unsuitable for its task;
lack of awareness of the effect of ground
conditions, especially slopes;
incorrect hitching and load distribution.
The owner/user can prevent and is responsible for
accidents or injuries occurring to himself or herself,
other people, or property.
Preparation
While mowing, always wear substantial footwear, long
trousers, hard hat, safety glasses, and ear protection.
Long hair, loose clothing, or jewelry may get tangled
in moving parts. Do not operate the equipment when
barefoot or wearing open sandals.
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 tanks and container caps securely.
Replace faulty silencers.
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.
4
Before attempting to start the engine, disengage all
blade attachment clutches, shift into neutral, and
engage the parking brake.
Do not use on slopes of more than
– 5 when mowing on side hills;
– 10 when mowing uphill;
– 15 when mowing downhill.
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 clutch slowly, always keep machine in gear,
especially when travelling downhill;
– machine speeds 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
mower is designed for this 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 owner's manual.
Watch out for traffic when crossing or near roadways.
Stop the blades 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;