6 ferrismowers.com
Slope Identification Guide
2
How to measure the slope of a lawn surface with a
smartphone or an angle finder tool:
WARNING
Do not operate on slopes greater than10degrees.
1. Use a straight edge at least two (2) feet long (A,
Figure2). A 2x4 or a straight piece of metal works well.
2. Angle finder tools.
a. Use your smartphone:Many smartphones (B,
Figure2) have an inclinometer (angle finder) located
under the compass application (app). Or, search an
app store for an Inclinometer app.
b. Use angle finder tools:Angle finder tools (C and
D, Figure2) are available at local hardware stores
or online (also called inclinometer, protractor, angle
meter, or angle gauge). Dial type (C) or digital type
(D) work, others may not.Read and obey the user
instructions supplied with the angle finder tool.
3. Put the two (2) feet long straight edge along the steepest
part of the lawn slope. Put the board up and down the
slope.
4. Lay the smartphone or angle finder tool on the straight
edge and read the angle in degrees. This is the slope of
your lawn.
Note:A paper gauge slope identification guide is included
in your product literature packet and is also available to
download from the manufacturer's website.
Safety Rules and Information
General Operation
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the
manual and on the unit before starting.
2. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under
the machine. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all
times.
3. Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the unit (local regulations can
restrict operator age).
4. Clear the area of objects such as rocks, toys, wire, etc.,
which could be picked up and thrown by the blade(s).
5. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing.
Stop the unit if anyone enters the area.
6. Never carry passengers.
7. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely necessary.
Always look down, behind, and to the side before
changing directions.
8. Never direct discharge material toward anyone. Avoid
discharging material against a wall or obstruction.
Material may ricochet back toward the operator. Stop the
blade(s) when crossing gravel surfaces.
9. Do not operate the machine without the entire grass
catcher, discharge guard (deflector), or other safety
devices in place.
10. Slow down before turning.
11. Never leave a running unit unattended. Always disengage
the PTO, set parking brake, stop engine, and remove
keys before dismounting.
12. Disengage blades (PTO) 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.
13. Operate the machine only in daylight or good artificial
light.
14. Do not operate the unit while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.
15. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing
roadways.
16. Use extra care when loading or unloading the unit into a
trailer or truck.
17. Always wear eye protection when operating this unit.
18. Data indicates that operators, age 60 years and above,
are involved in a large percentage of power equipment-
related injuries. These operators should evaluate their
ability to operate the equipment safely enough to protect
themselves and others from injury.
19. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for wheel
weights or counterweights.
20. Keep in mind the operator is responsible for accidents
occurring to other people or property.
21. All drivers should seek and obtain professional and
practical instruction.