Cub Cadet Challenger 400LX Operation Manual - Page 3

Important Safe Operation Practices 2 WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING! CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. WARNING: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. Operation 13. Sit on the center of the seat and keep both feet 27. Do not change engine governor setting or over within the foot platform perimeter. Clean foot speed the engine. The governor is set at the platform if dirty and remove any debris from factory for safe operating speed. General Operation around foot controls, e.g. brake pedal. 28. Assure neutral safety interlock switch is 1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions 14. Do not misuse the utility vehicle. It is a utility adjusted correctly so engine cannot be started on the vehicle and in the manual before vehicle, not a recreation vehicle or toy. unless shift lever is in the neutral position. attempting to operate or service vehicle. Recreational riding can lead to accidents, Keep this manual in a safe place for future and severe bodily injury or death. regular reference and for ordering replacement parts. 15. Inspect area around vehicle before moving, especially in reverse. Back up slowly. Always 2. This is an off-road utility vehicle and it should look down and behind before and while not be operated on public highways. Know and backing to avoid a back-over accident. Keep comply with all laws and regulations governing bystanders out of area. the use of off-highway vehicles in your area. 16. Avoid driving through water, since loss of 29. Do not touch engine or muffler while engine is running or within 30 minutes after it is stopped. They will be hot and can cause a burn. 30. Always inspect your vehicle each time you use it to make sure it is in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection and maintenance procedures and schedules described in this manual. 3. This vehicle handles and maneuvers differently than a normal passenger car. High speed turns and abrupt maneuvers can cause vehicle to roll over or go out of control. Slow down when turning and avoid abrupt maneuvers. 17. control may occur. Drive belt may slip if exposed to water thus reducing vehicle pulling power and stopping vehicle entirely. Always use vehicle lights while operating in low light situations. 31. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgement. Contact your local service center or call toll free 1-877-282-8684 for the name of your nearest service center. 4. Handling and maneuvering characteristics of vehicle change depending upon driving mode and cargo load, particularly when operating 18. Do not enter or leave vehicle while it is in motion or in actual operation. Occupant Size and Capacity on paved surfaces. Heavy loads affect steering, 19. Avoid sudden starts, stops, or turns and always 1. Make sure operators are at least 16 years old braking, stability, and overall handling of use a level turn-around area. and have a valid driver's license. vehicle. 20. Never leave vehicle unattended with the key 2. Each occupant should be able to sit with their 5. Be familiar with all instructions and controls in the ignition. Always turn key to the "Stop" back against the seat, feet flat on the floor, and and their proper operation before starting position, set the parking brake and remove key. hands on the steering wheel or handholds. vehicle. 21. Check overhead clearances carefully before 3. The operator should be tall enough to wear the 6. Never allow adults to operate this vehicle driving under low hanging tree branches, wires, seat belt properly and reach all controls. without proper instruction. 7. Never allow children under 16 years old to operate this vehicle. Children 16 years old and over should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and power lines, bridges, before entering or leaving buildings, or in any other situation where the operator and/or operator protective structure (OPS) may be struck, which could result in serious injury. 4. Passengers should also be tall enough for the seat belt to fit properly and be able to brace themselves, as necessary, by placing both feet firmly on the floor while gripping the handholds. Keep all body parts completely should be trained and supervised by a parent 22. Use the seat belt for safe operation. inside the vehicle. unless driver has obtained a state-issued motor Overturning the utility vehicle without the seat vehicle driver's license. belt fastened, can result in death or injury. Dress Properly 8. Watch for traffic when operating near or 23. Improper use of the vehicle or failure to crossing roadways. This vehicle is not intended properly maintain it could result in decreased for use on any public roadway. vehicle performance or personal injury. 9. Do not operate this vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 10. Never carry more than one passenger. This vehicle is designed to carry the driver and one passenger only. No riders are allowed in cargo bed or anywhere else on vehicle, except in the driver and passenger seats. 24. Engine must be stopped when cleaning, servicing, adjusting, repairing, or installing attachments on utility vehicle. 25. After an unexpected impact, stop the unit and shut off the engine. Inspect for damage and repair the damage before restarting and operating equipment. 11. Keep all body parts (i.e. head, arms, hands, legs, 26. Do not start or operate vehicle indoors, unless feet) inside vehicle when vehicle is in motion. it is adequately ventilated. Engine exhaust 12. Always remain seated and keep both hands on the steering wheel when driving the vehicle. contains carbon monoxide fumes, which are very poisonous and can be deadly. 1. Proper clothing can reduce the severity of injury in the event of an accident. 2. Always wear appropriate eye protection and protective clothing. It is also recommended that you wear a properly fitting D.O.T. approved helmet. Slope Operation Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and rollover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. If a slope is steeper than a 15° incline, do not operate this unit on that area. Exercise extreme caution while operating on slopes. 3