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 and shift into neutral.
• Remember there is no such thing as a safe slope. Travel on grass slopes requires particular care. To guard against overturning:
  • Never mow across the face of a slope, unless the machine is designed for this purpose.
• Stop the blades from rotating before crossing surfaces other than grass.
• Never direct discharge of material toward bystanders nor allow anyone near the machine while in operation.
• Never operate the machine with defective guards, or without safety protective devices in place.
• Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed can increase the hazard of personal injury.
• Before leaving the operator’s position:
  • Disengage the drive to any attachments and lower them;
  • Change into neutral and lock the parking brake;
  • Stop the engine and remove the key.
• Disengage drive to attachments, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wires and remove the ignition key:
  • Before clearing blockages or unclogging chute;
  • 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).
• Disengage drive to attachments when transporting or not in use.
• Stop the engine and disengage drive to attachment:
  • Before refueling;
  • Before removing the grass catcher;
  • Before making height adjustment unless adjustment can be made from the operator’s position.
• Reduce the throttle setting during run-out and, if the engine is provided with a shut-off valve, turn the fuel off at the conclusion of mowing.
• Inspect machine before you operate. Repair or replace damaged, badly worn, or missing parts. Make any necessary adjustments before you operate.
• Do not operate mower without discharge chute or entire grass catcher in place. Never operate with the discharge deflector raised, removed, or altered, unless using a grass catcher.
• Stop machine if anyone enters the area.
• Use only accessories and attachments approved by the manufacturer of the machine. Keep safety labels visible when installing accessories and attachments.
• Never raise mower decks when blades are running.