21
CAUTION
n If machine is equipped with a foldable ROPS,
always wear seatbelt when ROPS is deployed.
n Be certain that the seatbelt can be released
quickly if the machine is driven or rolls into
ponds or water.
n Check carefully for overhead clearances such
as, branches, doorways, or electrical wires,
before driving under any objects and do not
contact them.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
n Set the throttle at 1/3 open. Allow engine to idle
at this setting for several minutes.
n Move ignition switch to “OFF” position (up-
right) and remove key.
n Never use carburetor choke to stop engine.
Always remove key from ignition
switch when leaving machine
unattended or when not in use.
MOVING MACHINE WITHOUT
POWER
(Refer to Fig. 7, page 22)
The hydro pumps are equipped with a dump
valve that allows the machine to be moved with-
out power by deactivating the pump. With the
dump valve in normal operating position, the fluid
in the pump will make it difficult to move the unit
(even with the steering levers in neutral posi-
tion). The dump valve is located on the side of
each hydro pump near the control arm. Be-
fore activating the dump valve, set the park
brake. Activate the dump valve by rotating
counter-clockwise one revolution with a .625
inch wrench. When BOTH hydro pumps are
deactivated, the unit becomes “freewheeling”,
allowing it to be moved. Before the hydro
pumps become operational, the dump valves
must be returned to their normal operating po-
sition. Do not tighten above 120 in lbs (10 ft
lbs) maximum.
given slope based on existing conditions
like: machine speed and direction, slope
variation, slipperiness, drop-offs, holes,
obstacles, etc.
n To determine stability on a slope, start at the
bottom and try to back the mower up the
slope slowly. If you cannot back up the slope
or if you feel uneasy on it, do not operate on it.
n Always start mowing at the bottom of slopes.
Traveling up slopes, this machine has more
traction traveling forward than reverse. Be
careful on slopes to avoid driving forward
into a position where there is not enough trac-
tion to enable backing out or stopping.
n Tires may lose traction on slopes even though
the brakes are functioning properly.
n Avoid sudden starts and acceleration when
traveling forward uphill as mower may tip
backwards.
n Do not mow slopes when grass is wet be-
cause slippery conditions will reduce
traction and braking which in turn affects
steering.
n Use caution when making turns. Slow the
mower down before making sharp turns.
Unit can spin very rapidly by positioning
one lever too much ahead or behind the
other.
n Look around you to be sure the area is clear
before turning or backing up.
n Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If tires
lose traction, disengage the blades and pro-
ceed slowly straight down the slope.
n Keep all movement on slopes slow and
gradual. Do not make sudden changes in
speed or direction.
n Follow manufacturer’s recommendation for
counterweights for added stability when op-
erating on slopes or using front or rear
mounted attachments. Remove weights when
not required.
n Use extra care with grass catchers or other
attachments. These can change the stability
of the machine. Do not use grass catcher on
steep slopes.
n Do not operate without ROPS deployed.
n If machine is equipped with a fixed ROPS, al-
ways wear seatbelt.
Rev 07-04