Safe Operation Practices - Cub Cadet 435A Operator's Manual

2
Safe
Operation
Practices
WARNING
This symbol points
out important safety
instructions which,
if not followed, could
endanger the per-
sonal safety and/or
property of yourself
and others. Read and
follow all instruc-
tions in this manual
before attempting to
operate or service
this vehicle. When
you see this symbol
- heed its warning.
Your
Responsibility
Restrict the use
of this power machine
to persons who read,
understand and
follow the warnings
and instructions
in this manual
WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle compo-
nents contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER: This vehicle is designed to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of vehicle, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in
serious injury. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or
death.
General Operation
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the vehicle
and in the manual before attempting to operate or service.
Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular
reference and for ordering replacement parts.
2. This is an off-road utility vehicle and it should not be oper-
ated on public highways. Know and comply with all laws
and regulations governing the use of off-highway vehicles in
your area.
3. This vehicle handles and maneuvers differently than a
normal passenger car. Sharp high speed turns and abrupt
maneuvers can cause vehicle to roll over or go out of con-
trol. Slow down when turning and avoid abrupt maneuvers.
4. Handling and maneuvering characteristics of vehicle
change depending upon cargo load. Heavy loads affect
steering, braking, stability, and overall handling of vehicle.
5. Be familiar with all instructions and controls and their proper
operation before starting vehicle.
6. Never allow adults to operate this vehicle without proper
instruction.
7. Never allow children under 16 years old to operate this
vehicle. Children 16 years old and over should read and
understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this
manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent.
8. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
This vehicle is not intended for use on any public roadway.
9. Do not operate this vehicle while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
10. Never carry more than one passenger. This vehicle is
designed to carry the driver and one passenger only. No
riders are allowed in cargo box or anywhere else on vehicle.
11. Keep all body parts (i.e. head, arms, hands, legs, feet)
inside vehicle when vehicle is in motion.
12. Always remain seated and keep both hands on the steering
wheel when driving the vehicle.
13. Sit on the center of the seat and keep both feet within the foot
platform perimeter. Clean foot platform if dirty and remove
any debris from around foot controls, e.g. brake pedal.
14. Do not misuse the utility vehicle. It is an utility vehicle, not
a recreation vehicle or toy. Recreational riding can lead to
accidents, severe bodily injury or death.
15. Inspect area around vehicle before moving, especially in
reverse. Back up slowly. Always look down and behind
before and while backing to avoid a back-over accident.
Keep bystanders out of area.
16. Avoid driving through water, since loss of control may occur.
Drive belt may slip if exposed to water thus reducing vehicle
pulling power and stopping vehicle entirely.
17. Always use vehicle lights while operating in low light
situations.
18. Do not mount or leave vehicle while it is in motion or in
actual operation.
19. Avoid sudden starts, stops, or turns and always use a level
turn-around area.
20. Never leave vehicle unattended with the key in the ignition.
Always turn key to the "Stop" position, set the parking brake
and remove key.
21. Check overhead clearances carefully before driving under low
hanging tree branches, wires, etc., where the operator may
be struck or pulled from the unit, which could result in serious
injury.
22. Improper use of the vehicle or failure to properly maintain it
could result in decreased vehicle performance or personal
injury.
23. Engine must be stopped when cleaning, servicing, adjusting,
repairing, or installing attachments on utility vehicle.
24. After striking foreign objects, stop the unit and shut off the
engine. Inspect for damage and repair the damage before
restarting and operating equipment.
25. Do not start or operate vehicle in an inside area, unless it
is adequately ventilated. Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide fumes, which are very poisonous and can be
deadly.
26. Do not change engine governor setting or over speed the
engine. The governor is set at the factory for safe operating
speed.
27. Assure safety interlock switch is adjusted correctly so engine
cannot be started unless gearshift is in the neutral position.
28. Do not touch engine or muffler while engine is running or soon
after it is stopped. They will be hot and can cause a burn.
29. Always inspect your vehicle each time you use it to make sure
it is in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection
and maintenance procedures and schedules described in this
manual.
30. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use
care and good judgement. Contact your local service center
or call toll free 1-877-282-8684 for assistance and the name
of your nearest service center.
Slope Operation
Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and rollover
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. If a slope is
steeper than a 15° incline, do not operate this unit on that area.
Exercise extreme caution while operating on slopes.
DO:
1. Travel straight up and down slopes, not across. Exercise
extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
2. Travel slowly while on a slope. Always keep the forward
speed limited when going down slopes to take advantage of
the motor braking action.
3. Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Avoid
starting or stopping on a slope.
4. Avoid slopes with slippery, loose, or bumpy surfaces as they
are especially hazardous.
5. Use extra care while carrying cargo. It may affect the stability
of the vehicle. Spread the load evenly or tie down.
4