Prevent Fires

• Please review these recommendations with all operators. See your John Deere dealer with questions.
• Always follow all safety procedures posted on the machine and in this operator manual. Before carrying out any inspection or cleaning always shut off engine, set parking brake and remove ignition key.
• Besides routine maintenance, one of the best ways to keep your John Deere equipment running efficiently and to reduce fire risk is to regularly remove debris buildup from the machine.
• After operating, allow machine to cool in an open area before cleaning or storing. Do not park machine near flammable materials such as wood, cloth or chemicals, or near an open flame or other sources of ignition, such as a water heater or furnace.
• Completely remove any combustible materials from equipment before storing, by emptying any grass catcher bags, containers and cargo boxes.
• Debris can accumulate anywhere on the machine, especially on horizontal surfaces. Remove grass and debris completely from engine compartment, muffler area, and from on top of the mower deck both before and after operating machine. Additional cleaning may be necessary when mowing or mulching in dry conditions.
• In addition to cleaning machine before using and storing, keeping engine area clean provides the greatest impact on fire prevention. Other areas requiring regular inspection and cleaning include behind wheel rims, wire harness, hose or line routing, mowing attachments, etc. Compressed air, leaf blowers, or high pressured water assists in keeping these areas clean.
• Frequency of these inspections and cleaning will vary depending on a number of factors including operating conditions, machine configuration, operating speeds and weather conditions particularly dry, hot and windy conditions. When you are operating in these conditions, inspect and clean these areas frequently throughout the day.
• Excess lubrication or fuel/oil leaks or spills on the machine can also serve as collection sites for debris. Prompt machine repair and oil and fuel clean-up reduces the potential for debris collection.
• Bearing failures or overheating can result in a fire. To reduce this risk, always follow the instructions in the machine operator’s manual regarding lubrication intervals and locations. Contact your local dealer if you have any questions about the lubrication intervals or location and if any unusual noises are coming from areas where bearings might be located. Washing the machine while warm may also reduce bearing life and increase potential for premature bearing failure.
• Always shut off fuel when storing or transporting machine, if the machine has a fuel shutoff.
• Check fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.