Slope Operation - Briggs & Stratton SIMPLICITY SZT275 Manuel D'utilisation

WARNING
Unsafe Operation Hazard
Do not load this zero-turn rider on a trailer or truck using two
separate ramps. Only use a single ramp that is at least one
foot wider than the width of the rear wheels of this rider. This
rider has a zero turning radius and the rear wheels could fall
off the ramps, or the rider could tip over injuring the operator
or bystanders.

Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover
accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation
on all slopes requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a
slope, do not operate on it.
Control of a walk-behind or ride-on machine sliding on a slope
will not be regained by the application of the brake. The main
reasons for loss of control are: insufficient tire grip on the ground,
speed too fast, inadequate braking, the type of machine is
unsuitable for its task, lack of awareness of the ground
conditions, incorrect hitching and load distribution.
1. Mow up and down slopes, not across.
2. Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Uneven terrain could
overturn the unit. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
3. Choose a slow speed so that you will not have to stop or
change speeds while on the slope.
4. Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may loose traction.
5. Always keep unit in gear especially when traveling down
slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill.
6. Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If tires lose
traction, disengage the blade(s) and proceed slowly straight
down the slope.
7. Keep all movement on slopes slow and gradual. Do not
make sudden changes in speed or direction, which could
cause the machine to rollover.
8. Use extra care while operating machines with grass catchers
or other attachments; they can affect the stability of the unit.
Do not use on steep slopes.
9. Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot on
the ground (ride-on units).
10. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The
mower could suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the edge
of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge caves in.
11. Do not use grass catchers on steep slopes.
12. Do not mow slopes you cannot back up.
13. See your authorized dealer/retailer for recommendations
of wheel weights or counterweights to improve stability.
14. Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
15. Use slow speed. Tires may lose traction on slopes even
through the brakes are functioning properly.
16. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then, turn
slowly and gradually downhill, if possible.
WARNING
Unsafe Operation Hazard
Never operate on slopes greater than 17.6 percent (10°) which
is a rise of 3-1/2 feet (106 cm) vertically in 20 feet (607 cm)
horizontally.
When operating on slopes use additional wheel weights or
counterweights. See your dealer/retailer to determine which
weights are available and appropriate for your unit.
Select slow ground speed before driving onto slope. In addition
to front weights, use extra caution when operating on slopes
with rear-mounted grass catchers.
Mow UP and DOWN the slope, never across the face, use
caution when changing directions and DO NOT START OR
STOP ON SLOPE.
Towed Equipment (Ride-On Units)
1. Tow only with a machine that has a hitch designed for
towing. Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch
point.
2. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for weight limit
for towed equipment and towing on slopes.
3. Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.
4. On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause
loss of traction and loss of control.
5. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.
6. Do not shift to neutral and coast down hill.
Children
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the unit
and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain
where you last saw them.
1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of another responsible adult.
2. Be alert and turn unit off if children enter the area.
3. Before and during reverse operation, look behind and down
for small children.
4. Never carry children, even with the blade(s) off. They may
fall off and be seriously injured or interfere with safe unit
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