Grasshopper 600 Series - Operation; Controls and Switches; Pro-Start Check List

OPERATION
The safe operation of this machine is the respon-
sibility of the operator. The operator should be
familiar with the tractor and all attachments that
will be used before starting operation. Read all
safety information on pages 6 through 9.
CONTROLS AND SWITCHES
Know your controls and how to stop tractor, en-
ginc and attachments quickly in an cmergency.
e Stop tractor by moving steering levers to
neutral position (refer to section on
steering lever operation, page 14).
¢ Stop engine by turning key to “OFF”
position.
¢ Disengage power to attachments by moving
PTO switchto “OFF” (down) position.
Operating this unit is not difficult once you mas-
ter the use of the controls. We recommend you
equip the tractor with the attachment you will be
using and practice in a flat open area at a me-
dium throttle setting until you are comfortable
with the controls.
A WARNING
Before operating this machine be sure
the operator-presence safety system
works. Do not run the engine without an
operator in the seat if the PTO
switch is “ON” or either steering lever
is in the run position.
Several safety switches arc incorporated in the
unit’s design to prevent it from being started out
of neutral or with the PTO engaged. All controls
must be in the “OFF” or neutral position before
the unit can be started. There is a safety switch
under the operator’s seat that will cause the en-
gine to stop, should the operator leave the seat
with any control engaged.
PRE-START CHECK LIST
e Place tractor on level surface.
e Check crankcase oil level (refer to “Engine
Manual” for proper level and type of oil used).
12
A CAUTION
Never attempt to check oil while
engine is running.
Clean rotating air intake screen. When mow-
ing in dusty conditions, dry grass or long
grass it may be necessary to frequently clean
rotating air intake screen to prevent engine
overheating.
A WARNING
Never attempt to clean rotating air
intake screen while engine is running.
Check for grass wrapped around PTO shaft.
When mowing long grass, turn off key and
check for grass wrapped around PTO shaft
every 30 minutes of operation.
A WARNING
Remove spark plug wire to prevent
accidentally starting engine before
attempting to remove grass from
around PTO shaft.
Check air cleaner (refer to “Engine
Manual”). When mowing in dusty condi-
tions, dry grass or long grass it may be
necessary to frequently clean the foam
precleaner and paper cartridge.
Check to be sure engine is free of dirt and debris.
Check fuel level. Refer to “Engine Manual”
for correct fuel for your requirements.
A DANGER
Do not fill fuel tank while engine is
running. Allow engine to cool two
minutes before refueling. If fuel is
spilled do not start engine; avoid
creating any source of ignition until
the fuel has evaporated.
Check tire pressure (see page 16). Improper
pressure will adversely affect traction, steer-
ing and level cutting height.
Check that cooling fins on the hydrostatic
transmissions are clean.