Poulan PB1842LT User Manual - Page 2

SAFETY RULES Safe Operation Practices for Ride-On Mowers IMPORTANT: THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF AMPUTATING HANDS AND FEET AND THROWING OBJECTS. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. WARNING: In order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs, always disconnect spark plug wire and place wire where it cannot contact spark plug. WARNING: Do not coast down a hill in neutral, you may lose control of the tractor. WARNING: Tow only the attachments that are recommended by and comply with specifications of the manufacturer of your tractor. Use common sense when towing. Operate only at the lowest possible speed when on a slope. Too heavy of a load, while on a slope, is dangerous. Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause you to lose control of your tractor. WARNING • Do not operate machine without the entire grass catcher, discharge guard, or other safety devices in place and working. • Slow down before turning. • Never leave a running machine unattended. Always turn off blades, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting. • Disengage blades when not mowing. Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come to a complete stop before cleaning the machine, removing the grass catcher, or unclogging the discharge guard. • Operate machine only in daylight or good artificial light. • Do not operate the machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. • Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. • Use extra care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck. • Always wear eye protection when operating machine. • Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above, are involved in a large percentage of riding mower-related injuries. These operators should evaluate their ability to operate the riding mower safely enough to protect themselves and others from serious injury. • Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for wheel weights or counterweights. Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. • Keep machine free of grass , leaves or other debris build-up which can touch hot exhaust / engine parts and burn. Do not allow the mower deck to plow leaves or other debris which can cause build-up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel spillage before operating or storing the machine. Allow machine to cool before storage. WARNING II. SLOPE OPERATION Battery posts, terminals and related accessories Slopes are a major factor related to loss of control and contain lead and lead compounds,chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands tip-over accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. Operation on all slopes requires extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not mow it. after handling. • Mow up and down slopes, not across. • Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden I. GENERAL OPERATION • Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual before starting. • Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times. • Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the machine. objects. Uneven terrain could overturn the machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles. • Choose a low ground speed so that you will not have to stop or shift while on the slope. • Do not mow on wet grass. Tires may lose traction. Always keep the machine in gear when going down slopes. Do not shift to neutral and coast downhill. • Avoid starting, stopping, or turning on a slope. If the tires lose traction, disengage the blades and proceed • Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc., slowly straight down the slope. which could be picked up and thrown by the blades. • Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. • Be sure the area is clear of bystanders before operat- Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction, ing. Stop machine if anyone enters the area. which could cause the machine to roll over. • Never carry passengers. • Use extra care while operating machine with grass • Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary. catchers or other attachments; they can affect the Always look down and behind before and while back- stability of the machine. Do no use on steep slopes. ing. • Do not try to stabilize the machine by putting your foot • Never direct discharged material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction. Ma- • terial may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the blades when crossing gravel surfaces. 2 on the ground. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The machine could suddenly roll over if a wheel is over the edge or if the edge caves in.