Poulan 172787 User Manual - Page 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS Safety Rules 2-3 Assembly 4-8 Operation 9-17 Maintenance 18-21 Service and Adjustments 21-25 Storage 25-26 Troubleshooting 27-28 SAFETY RULES IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throw- ing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. Look for this symbol to point out • Clear the area of objects such as rocks, important safety precautions. It means toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! be picked up and thrown by the blade. YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED. • Be sure the area is clear of other people WARNING: In order to prevent acci- before mowing. Stop machine if anyone dental starting when setting up, enters the area. transporting, adjusting or making repairs, • Do not operate the mower when bare- always disconnect spark plug wire and foot or wearing open sandals. Always place wire where it cannot contact plug. wear substantial foot wear. WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its • Do not pull mower backwards unless constituents, and certain vehicle compo- absolutely necessary. Always look down nents contain or emit chemicals known to and behind before and while moving the State of California to cause cancer and backwards. birth defects or other reproductive harm. • Do not operate the mower without WARNING: Battery posts, terminals and proper guards, plates, grass catcher or related accessories contain lead and lead other safety protective devices in place. compounds, chemicals known to the State • See manufacturer's instructions for of California to cause cancer and birth proper operation and installation of defects or other reproductive harm. Wash accessories. Only use accessories ap- hands after handling. proved by the manufacturer. CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot during operation and remain hot after engine has stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact, stay away from these areas. • Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. • Stop the engine (motor) whenever you leave the equipment, before cleaning the mower or unclogging the chute. • Shut the engine (motor) off and wait until the blade comes to complete stop before removing grass catcher. • Mow only in daylight or good artificial light. • Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. • Never operate machine in wet grass. Al- I. GENERAL OPERATION • Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before starting. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the machine before starting. • Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times. • Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine. ways be sure of your footing: keep a firm hold on the handle and walk; never run. • Disengage the self-propelled mechanism or drive clutch on mowers so equipped before starting the engine (motor). • If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine (motor) and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. • Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating mower. 2