Ariens Pro Zoom 60 Owners Manual - Page 9

Do not wear headphones or listen to music while operating the deck. Operating the machinery safely requires your undivided attention. Keep the power unit and attachments clean. Accumulation of dirt, grease, or grass can lead to fires or personal injury. Do not modify the power unit or any of its attachments. Unauthorized modification of the machinery may affect its functionality, which could lead to personal injury. Do not wear loose-fitting clothing which could get caught in moving parts. Do not operate this machine while wearing shorts. Always be sure to wear adequate protective clothing. Wearing safety glasses and safety shoes is advisable. Operator hearing protection is recommended. Extended exposure to loud noise could lead to hearing loss. A fire extinguisher and first aid box should be carried with the power unit or be kept readily available at all times. Keep emergency numbers for immediate access. During Operation Do not bypass the starting circuit by shorting across the terminals of the starter motor to start the engine. This may cause the power unit to move suddenly. Periodically check the starting circuit to make sure all system components operate correctly. If the starting system does not work, consult your Ariens Dealer immediately. Operate the mower only in daylight or when the area to be mowed is lit well by artificial light. Never remove the discharge shield from the mower because the discharge shield directs material down toward the turf. If the shield is damaged, be sure to replace it immediately. Never try to clear the discharge area or the mower blades unless you have moved the steering control levers to the park position, put the PTO switch in the "Off" position, switched the ignition key to the "Off" position, removed the ignition key and disconnected the negative battery cable. Do not operate the power unit in a confined or non-ventilated area. Carbon monoxide gas is colorless, odorless, and can be fatal. Do not turn sharply when driving at high speeds. Park the mower on a firm level surface with the steering control levers in the park position. When backing, be sure to turn around and look to the rear. Do not mow in reverse unless it is absolutely necessary. When working in groups, use caution and watch out for others. Always be aware of mower discharge direction. Make sure it does not point at anyone. Be sure the engine and rotating blades have stopped before putting hands or feet near the blade. Disengage the blade drive when transporting the machine across drives, sidewalks, etc. Never raise the mower deck while the blades are turning. Do not put hands or feet under or into the mower when it is running. Do not touch the engine or muffler when the engine is running or immediately after the engine has stopped. These areas may be hot enough to cause serious burns. Do not drive the machine on streets or highways. Watch for traffic when crossing streets or while mowing close to roads. Always inspect the mower for damage after striking a foreign object. Always repair or replace damaged parts before restarting the mower deck. Do not operate the power unit without the mower deck attached. Make sure the machine and all attachments come to a complete stop before dismounting. Before dismounting, disengage the PTO, lower all attachments, place the steering control levers in the park position, turn off the engine, and remove the key. Operating On Slopes Avoid starting or stopping when going up or down a slope. Keep all movements on a slope gradual and slow. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction. If tires lose traction while on a slope, disengage the mower blades and back slowly and gradually down the slope. Do not turn on slopes unless necessary, and then turn slowly and gradually downhill if possible. Use extra caution when mowing on slopes. If you are unable to back up on the slope, or if you do not feel comfortable on it, then do not mow it. Do not operate the machine on slopes that exceed 15°. GB - 9