Operating Safely

• Never run an engine in an enclosed area where dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
• Only operate in good light, keeping away from holes and hidden hazards.
• Be sure all drives are in neutral and parking brake is engaged before starting engine. Only start engine from the operator’s position.
• Be sure of your footing while using pedestrian-controlled equipment, especially when backing up. Walk, don’t run. Never operate on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause slipping.
• Slow down and use extra care on hillsides. Be sure to travel in the recommended direction on hillsides. Turf conditions can affect the machine’s stability. Use caution while operating near drop-offs.
• Slow down and use caution when making turns and when changing directions on slopes.
• Never operate with guards not securely in place. Be sure all interlocks are attached, adjusted properly, and functioning properly.
• Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed the engine. Operating the engine at excessive speed can increase the hazard of personal injury.
• Stop equipment and inspect tines and turf guards after striking objects or if an abnormal vibration occurs. Make necessary repairs before resuming operations. Keep machine and attachments properly maintained and in good working order.
• Keep hands and feet away from the tines and verticutter blades (if equipped).
• Look down and behind before moving machine to be sure of a clear path.
• Never carry passengers and keep pets and bystanders away.
• Do not operate machine if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Use care when loading or unloading the machine into or off of a trailer or truck. Load the machine coring head first (reverse direction).
• Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
• Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions to operate the machine.
• Inspect machine before you operate. Be sure hardware is tight. Repair or replace damaged, badly worn, or missing parts. Replace faulty mufflers or silencers. Be sure guards and shields are in good condition and fastened in place. Make any necessary adjustments before you operate.
• Do not rapidly engage bail in high idle during transport.
• Use caution when moving aerator in restricted areas.
• Check brake function before you operate. Adjust or service brakes as necessary.
• Do not leave machine unattended when it is running.
• Raise the aeration head and stop tining action before crossing surfaces other than grass.
• Use only accessories and attachments approved by the manufacturer of the machine. Keep safety labels visible when installing accessories and attachments.
• Check before each use that operator presence controls are functioning correctly. Test safety systems. Do not operate unless they are functioning correctly.
• Do not wear radio or music headphones. Safe service and operation require your full attention.
• Reduce the throttle setting during engine run-out and, if the engine is provided with a fuel shut-off valve, turn the fuel off at the conclusion of aeration.
• When the machine is left unattended, make sure the coring head is in its normal up position.
• When the machine is stored, engage the transport stops.