Stihl RZ 142 Instruction Manual - Page 9

the mower without either the entire grass catcher or the deflector in place. • Slow down and use caution when making turns and when changing directions on slopes. • Never raise deck with the blades running. • Never leave a running unit unattended. Always disengage the PTO, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove keys before dismounting. Keep hands and feet away from the blades. • Turn off the PTO switch to disengage the blades when not mowing. • Never operate without guards securely in place. Be sure all interlocks are attached, adjusted properly and functioning properly. • Never operate with the discharge deflector raised, removed or altered, unless using a grass catcher. • Stop on level ground, disengage the PTO, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine before leaving the operator's position for any reason including emptying the grass catchers or unclogging the chute. • Stop equipment and inspect blades after striking objects or abnormal vibration occurs. Make necessary repairs before resuming operations. • Keep hands and feet away from the blades. Moving Parts WARNING This unit has many moving parts that can injure you or someone else. Remain seated during operation and follow the safety instructions in this operator's manual to reduce the risk of injury. The mower deck has spinning mower blades that can amputate hands and feet. Do not allow anyone near the unit while it is running. Keep safety devices (guards, shields, and switches) in place and working. This zero-turn riding mower is equipped with an operator presence interlock system. Do NOT attempt to alter or bypass the system. See your authorized STIHL servicing dealer immediately if the system does not pass all the safety interlock system tests found in this manual. Check that operator's presence controls, safety switches and shields are attached and functioning properly. Do not operate unless they are functioning properly. Slope Operation WARNING Operation on slopes can be dangerous. Using the unit on a slope that is too steep where you do not have adequate wheel traction (and control) can cause sliding, loss of steering, control, and possible roll over. Do not operate the unit under any condition where traction, steering, or stability is in question. Tires could slide even if the wheels are stopped. Do not operate on a slope greater than 10 degrees (a 3.5 foot rise over a 20 foot length). Avoid turning down slopes; if possible turn up slopes. Avoid sudden turns or rapid speed changes. Reduce speed and use extreme caution on ALL slopes. The surface condition you are on can greatly impact your ability to safely operate this unit. Operating on wet or slippery slopes can cause sliding and loss of steering and control. Do not operate on slopes that are slippery, wet, or have soft soil conditions. If you feel uncomfortable about operating the unit on a slope, don't do it. WARNING Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-control and tipover accidents, which can result in severe injury or death. All slopes require extra caution. If you cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not drive on it. Do not use this unit on slopes greater than 10 degrees. Select slow ground speed before driving onto slope. Use extra caution when operating on slopes with rear-mounted grass catchers. Avoid turning down slopes; if possible turn up slopes. Use caution when changing direction and do not start or stop on a slope. Do: • Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree limbs, etc. • Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and attachments are needed to properly and safely perform the job. Use only accessories and attachments approved by the manufacturer. • Avoid holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden hazards. Uneven terrain could overturn the unit, or cause the operator to lose their balance or footing. Tall grass can hide obstacles. • Slow down and use extra care on slopes. Be sure to travel in the recommended direction on slopes. Turf conditions can affect the unit's stability. Use caution when operating near drop-offs. • Slow down and use caution when making turns and when changing directions on slopes. • Use slow speed. Choose a slow speed so that you will not have to stop or change speed while on the slope. • Keep all movement on the slopes slow and gradual. Do not make sudden changes in speed or direction. 9