112479_0510 3-7
Driving the mower
DANGER: Never make sudden stops or reverse
direction, especially when maneuvering on a slope.
The steering is designed for sensitive response. Rapid
movement of the steering control levers in either
direction could result in a reaction of the machine that
can cause serious injury.
WARNING: Make sure seat pan is securely bolted
down prior to each use to prevent seat from moving/
tilting in the event of mower tipping or rollover.
After starting the traction drive system, engage the steering
control levers and steer as follows:
To go forward, push steering control levers forward an equal
distance (Fig. 3-7).
To go in reverse, pull steering control levers rearward an
equal distance (Fig. 3-7).
To tur n l eft, move the right steering control lever farther
forward from neutral than the left steering control lever.
(Fig. 3-7)
To turn right, move the left steering control lever farther
forward from neutral than the right steering control lever.
(Fig. 3-7)
Zero radius turn, move one steering control lever forward
and the other steering control lever back of neutral. This will
allow the drive wheels to counter-rotate. (Fig. 3-7)
To stop or decrease speed, move steering control levers to
neutral. When going forward pull back gently on steering
control levers. When going in reverse push forward gently on
steering control levers.
For an emergency stop, there are two methods that can be
used in an emergency situation.
1. When traveling forward or rearward, place the steering
control levers in the park brake position immediately.
When moving in the rearward direction push forward
gently on steering control levers and avoid sudden
movement. Any sudden movement could cause the front
of the mower to come off of the ground resulting in
possible loss of control causing serious injury or death.
2. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position. This will shut
down the traction drive system and the deck drive
system.
To make a three point turn to the right, move the left
steering control lever farther forward from neutral than the right
steering control lever and start the turn. Next, pull back on the
steering control levers until they are past neutral and the
machine starts to go rearward. Pull right steering control lever
farther rearward from neutral than the left steering control lever
until the rear of the machine has pivoted around. Then, push the
steering control levers forward until they are both past neutral
and the machine starts to go forward. Push the left steering
control lever farther forward from neutral than the right steering
control lever and finish the turn. (Fig. 3-8)
WARNING: Always be aware of what is behind the
machine before backing up. Do not mow in reverse
unless absolutely necessary. Always look down and
behind before and while backing up.
IMPORTANT: Rapid movement of steering control levers
is not recommended as damage to the electric system compo-
nents may occur.
To increase speed, increase steering control lever’s distance
from neutral. The farther forward steering control levers are
from neutral, the faster the machine will travel forward. The
farther back steering control levers are from neutral, the faster
the machine will go in reverse.
Operating suggestions
DANGER: Prior to operating the mower the operator
should be thoroughly familiar with the proper use and
operation of the equipment, should read the manual
completely and thoroughly, and should have attempted
slow moving maneuvers to become familiar with the
operation of the equipment before attempting normal
speed operation. An inexperienced operator should not
mow on slopes or on uneven terrain.
WARNING: If you lose steering control while operat-
ing the machine, place the steering control levers in
the park brake position immediately and turn key to
the OFF position. Inspect the machine and involve
your Hustler
®
dealer to resolve the problem before
continuing to operate.
WARNING: The unit’s steering control levers are
very responsive: Easy does it! For smooth operation,
move lever slowly, avoid sudden movement. Skill and
ease of operation come with practice and experience.
The machine can spin very rapidly. Use caution when
making turns and slow down before making sharp
turns.
Inexperienced operators may have a tendency to oversteer and
lose control. Slow-moving practice maneuvers are
recommended to become familiar with these characteristics
before attempting normal speed operation.
WARNING: Sharp depressions or raised obstacles
(such as gutters or curbs) should not be directly
approached at high speed in an attempt to “jump”
them as the operator could be thrown from the equip-
ment. Approach at a slow speed and angle one drive
wheel at the obstruction. Continue at an angle until the
wheel clears and then pivot the opposite wheel around.
When turning on soft wet turf, keep both wheels rolling either
forward or backward. Pivoting on one stopped wheel can
damage turf. This is especially important when mowing.
Keep blades sharp. Many professional mowing companies
have additional sets of blades and change blades twice a day:
once in the morning and again at noon. Many problems with
incorrect cutting patterns are due to dull blades or blades
which have been sharpened incorrectly. Information on
sharpening blades is listed in this manual’s maintenance section.
In addition, most communities have individuals or companies
which specialize in sharpening mower blades. Blade sharpness
should be checked daily.
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