EMAK MISTRAL 72/12,5 K H Manuel D'utilisation Et D'entretien page 29

obstacles, sharp corners or ground-based metal grills.
Also check the consistency of the ground, particularly in the
presence of soft areas (e.g. freshly ploughed soil, marshy
ground and puddles) into which the wheels may suddenly sink,
throwing the machine off balance.
- Towing or pushing loads without the use of the specified
towing hitch.
WARNING: The machine may be used to tow certain
simple accessories of limited weight (see Accessories
chapter). Do not use the machine to tow objects or
accessories different from those specified by the
manufacturer; the towed objected may overturn,
resulting in injury to the operator and damage to
property. Towed objects alter the weight distribution
of the machine, which may itself overturn, particularly
when going up or downhill; when braking, a trailer
that is not fitted with brakes may strike the machine,
causing dangerous movements. Pay special attention
when towing accessories over hard surfaces.
Precautions for use of the machine
WARNING: Do not tamper with or remove the safety
devices fitted on the machine. REMEMBER THAT THE
USER IS ALWAYS RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGE AND
INJURY CAUSED TO OTHERS.
Before using the machine:
- Read the general safety recommendations, paying particular
attention to driving and cutting on slopes,
- Carefully read the instructions for use, make sure you are
familiar with the controls and know how to stop the blade
and the engine quickly.
WARNING
- If you encounter a situation where you are uncertain how
to proceed you should ask an expert. Contact your dealer
or an Authorised Service Centre. Avoid all usage which
you .consider to be beyond your capability.
- Do not use the machine unless you are able to call for
help in the event of an accident.
- Do not attempt to remove cut material while the engine
is running or the cutter assembly is rotating, as this can
result in serious injury.
- Sometimes branches or grass may get caught between
the speed adjustment pedals. Always stop the engine
before cleaning.
- Never leave the machine unattended with the engine
running or with the ignition key inserted. Always stop the
blade, engage the parking brake, switch off the engine
and remove the key. Stop the engine and remove the
ignition key before leaving the machine, refuelling,
carrying out maintenance work or cleaning the machine.
- The ride-on mower is a product designed exclusively for
cutting grass. It is inadvisable to cut other types of
material. Any other usage not indicated in these
instructions may damage the machine and constitutes a
serious risk to people and property.
- Periodically check the condition and pressure of the
tyres; tyres that are in poor condition or inflated to an
incorrect pressure may affect the machine's weight
distribution and cause uneven grass cutting.
- The machine must under no circumstances be driven on,
or even across, public roadways.
- Never use the machine to tow or push other objects.
- Model 13 H only: never open the side hatch of the cutting
deck when the engine is running; only attach the side
discharge device when the engine is switched off.
- Operate the machine only in daylight or well-lit
conditions; keep the machine a safe distance from holes
and other irregularities in the ground.
- Take great care when changing direction, especially
when working on slopes.
- Keep hands and feet well clear of the rotating blades.
- Never lift or transport the machine when the engine is
running.
- Slow down the engine before switching it off.
- Stop the machine if the blade strikes a foreign object.
Examine the unit and repair any damaged parts.
- Before star ting the engine, make sure the cutter
assembly is not in contact with any object.
- Keep the steering wheel, levers and control pedals clean,
dry and free from traces of oil or fuel.
- Check the surrounding area for possible obstacles (roots,
rocks, branches, ditches, etc.).
- Be particularly cautious and alert while wearing hearing
protection because such equipment may restrict your
ability to hear sounds indicating danger (calls, signals,
warnings, etc.).
- Slow down before turning.
- Stop the blade when you are not cutting.
- Be careful when rounding fixed objects, so that the
blades do not hit them. Never drive over foreign objects.
CAUTION: Never leave the machine in the same position
for long periods while the engine is running and the blade
is stopped; exhaust gases escape from the cutting deck
and may damage the lawn.
Using the machine in reverse drive
CAUTION: If the machine's direction of travel is reversed
while the blade is in operation, the engine will shut down;
to mow in reverse proceed as follows:
1. bring the machine to a standstill
2. disengage the blade drive (STOP pos.)
3. turn the ignition key from position 1 (on) to position R
(reverse mowing)
4. engage the blade drive (START pos.)
5. start mowing in reverse drive
Use the reverse mowing enable function only if strictly
necessary.
WARNING: When reversing the machine, whether
mowing or not, the operator must pay maximum
attention and be continuously alert to the presence of
obstacles and people.
Using the machine on sloping ground
WARNING
- Always apply the parking brake before leaving the
machine at a standstill and unattended.
- Start moving forwards very carefully on sloping ground
to prevent the risk of tipping over.
- Reduce speed before any change of direction on slopes.
- Never use reverse to reduce speed going downhill: this
could cause you to lose control of the vehicle, especially
on slippery ground.
Driving on slopes is one of the operations where the risk of
the driver losing control of the machine or of it overturning
is the greatest; both eventualities can result in serious injury
or death. Proceed with maximum caution. If you cannot
drive up a slope or if you feel unsure, do not mow it.
GB
25