DANGER
This machine is capable of throwing objects that could
injure bystanders or cause damage to buildings.
• Do not operate the machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge chute, or other safety devices in
place and functioning properly. Check frequently for
signs of wear or deterioration and replace as needed.
• Clear the operating area of any objects which could
be thrown by or interfere with the operation of the
machine.
3. Move the rider mower outside, before you start the
engine.
WARNING
Engines give off carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless,
poison gas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause nausea,
fainting, or death.
4. Note all slopes and drop-offs.
DANGER
Operating on slopes, or near water, or drop-offs can result
in loss of control and roll-over.
• Mow up and down slopes not across.
• Reduce speed and be careful on slopes.
• Do not operate on slopes over 10 degrees, which is a
3.5 foot rise over a 20 foot length.
• Give yourself a minimum of two mower widths of
clearance around water, retaining walls, or drop-offs.
• Avoid mowing wet grass.
• Do not operate machine under any condition where
traction, steering, or stability is in question. Tires could
slide even if the wheels are stopped.
• Avoid starting and stopping on slopes.
• Avoid making sudden changes in speed or direction.
• Make turns slowly and gradually.
• Be careful while operating machine with a grass catcher
or other attachment(s). They can affect the stability of
the machine.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for weight
limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes.
See Towed Equipment.
5. Make sure that the operating area is clear of bystanders,
especially children.
DANGER
This rider mower is capable of amputating hands and feet.
• Stop the mower when children or others are near.
• Keep children out of the operating area and under the
watchful care of a responsible adult.
• Do not carry passengers, especially children, even
with the blade(s) shut off. Children can fall off and be
seriously injured or interfere with the safe machine
operation. Children who have been given rides in
the past can suddenly appear in the mowing area for
another ride and be run over or backed over by the
machine.
• Use care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that obscure vision.
Safety Interlock System Tests
This machine is equipped with a Safety Interlock System.
Do not attempt to bypass or tamper with the switches
and devices.
WARNING
If the machine does not pass a safety test, do not operate
the machine. See an Authorized Dealer.
Test 1 — Engine will NOT crank if:
• Power Take Off (PTO) switch is ON, OR
• Brake pedal is NOT fully pushed down (parking brake
OFF)
Test 2 — Engine will crank and start if:
• PTO switch is OFF, AND
• Brake pedal is fully pushed down (parking brake ON).
Test 3 — Engine will SHUT OFF if:
• Operator rises off seat with PTO engaged, OR
• Operator rises off seat with brake pedal NOT fully pushed
down (parking brake OFF).
Test 4 — Mower Blade Stopping Time Check
The mower blades and mower drive belt will come to a
complete stop in five seconds after the PTO switch is OFF.
If the mower drive belt does not stop in five seconds, see an
Authorized Service Dealer.
Test 5 — Reverse Mowing Option (RMO) Check
• The engine will STOP when reverse travel is attempted
with the PTO switched ON and the Reverse Mowing
Option (RMO) not activated.
• The RMO light will come on when the RMO has been
activated.
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