112601_1211 2-1
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
This safety alert symbol is used to call attention to a message
intended to provide a reasonable degree of PERSONAL
SAFETY for operators and other persons during the normal
operation and servicing of this equipment.
DANGER – denotes immediate hazards which WILL result
in severe personal injury or death.
WARNING – denotes a hazard or unsafe practice which
COULD result in severe personal injury or death.
This manual uses two other words to highlight information.
IMPORTANT calls attention to special mechanical information
and NOTE: emphasizes general information worthy of special
attention.
All operators should read this manual and be instructed about
safe operating and maintenance procedures. This is the owner’s
responsibility.
Improper use or maintenance by the operator or owner
can result in injury. To reduce the potential for injury,
comply with these safety instructions and always pay
attention to the safety alert symbol, which means
DANGER or WARNING - “personal safety instructions."
Failure to comply with the instructions may result in
personal injury or death.
Incorrect usage of this machine may result in severe
injury. Personnel operating and maintaining it should be
trained in the proper use and should read the manuals
completely and thoroughly before attempting to set-up,
operate, adjust, or service this machine.
It is the owner’s responsibility to make certain that the
operators and mechanics read and understand this manual. It is
also the owner’s responsibility to make certain that the
operators and mechanics are qualified and physically able
individuals, properly trained in the operation of this equipment.
All operators and mechanics must become familiar with the safe
operation of the equipment, operator controls and safety signs.
Never let children or untrained people operate or service the
equipment. Local regulations may restrict the age of the
operator.
The owner/user can prevent and is responsible for accidents or
injuries occurring to themselves, other people or property.
The owner should also ensure that the operator/mechanic
know that they are responsible for their own safety as well as the
safety of other persons within the vicinity. Remember, the
operator is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to
other people or their property.
Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and
attachments are needed to properly and safely perform
the job. Only use accessories and attachments approved
by the manufacturer.
Always stop on level ground, disengage deck clutch,
place steering control lever in the park brake position,
stop engine and remove ignition key before leaving oper-
ator’s seat for any reason including emptying the catcher
bags or unclogging the chute.
Always be aware of any obstructions, especially small
children, when backing or unloading the bags.
Always keep safety shields and covers in place, except
for servicing.
Never work on mower deck when the engine is running.
Never operate machine with bagger lid in the raised posi-
tion except for unloading.
Never attempt high speed maneuvering in crowded or
congested areas.
Always operate with complete catcher system, mulching
system or side discharge chute in place and in the lowest
position.
Always keep clear of the mower blades and attachments
during their operation.
Turn off blades when not mowing.
Stop the engine before removing the grass catcher or
unclogging the discharge chute. Never clear the discharge
chute with the engine running. Turn off the engine and be
sure the blades have stopped before cleaning. Use a stick
to clear a plugged discharge area. Never use your hand!
Clean flammable material from machine. Prevent
fires by keeping engine compartment, exhaust area,
battery, fuel line, fuel tank and operator’s station
clean of accumulated trash, grass clippings , and
other debris. Always clean up spilled fuel and oil.
Grass collection system components are subject to wear,
damage and deterioration, which could expose moving
parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check
components and replace with manufacturer’s recom-
mended parts when necessary.
Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Mate-
rial may ricochet back towards the operator. Always dis-
engage the blades and wait for them to stop before
crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
WARNING: Thrown objects! Part Number 601624
• Never operate the mower
deck with side deflector
damaged, altered, removed
or in raised position,
except when the entire
grass catcher attachment
or mulching system is
being used.
