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 park brake is engaged before starting engine. Only start engine from the operator’s position. Use seat belts if provided.
• Keep a firm hold on the stationary handle at all times.
• Keep both feet on the operator platform at all times.
• Slow down and use extra care on hillsides. Be sure to travel in the recommended direction on hillsides. For this machine, drive across hillsides, not up and down. 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 raise the deck with the blades running.
• Never operate with the PTO shield, or other guards, not securely in place. Be sure all interlocks are attached, adjusted properly, and functioning properly.
• Never operate with the discharge deflector raised, removed or altered, unless using a grass catcher. Do not operate mower without discharge chute or entire grass catcher in place.
• 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 on level ground, lower implements, disengage drives, engage park brake, and shut off engine before leaving the operator’s position for any reason including emptying the grass catchers or unclogging the chute.
• Stop equipment and inspect blades after striking objects or if an abnormal vibration occurs. Make necessary repairs before resuming operations.
• Keep hands and feet away from the cutting units.
• Look behind and down before backing up to be sure of a clear path.
• Never carry passengers and keep pets and bystanders away.
• Slow down and use caution when making turns and crossing roads and sidewalks. Stop blades if not mowing. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways.
• Be aware of the mower discharge direction and do not point it at anyone.
• Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Use care when loading or unloading the machine into or off of a trailer or truck.
• Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
• Inspect machine before you operate. Be sure hardware is tight. Repair or replace damaged, badly worn, or missing parts. Be sure guards and shields are in good condition and fastened in place. Make any necessary adjustments before you operate.
• Before using, always visually inspect to see that the blades, blade bolts and the mower assembly are not worn and damaged. Replace worn and damaged blades and bolts in sets to preserve balance.
• Keep safety labels visible when installing accessories and attachments.
• Do not wear radio or music headphones. Safe service and operation require your full attention.
• When machine is left unattended, stored, or parked, lower the mower deck unless a positive mechanical lock is used.