ryan 544283D - Safe Operation Procedures

4
MATAWAY
OPERATING SAFELY
In general
- Use extra care when loading or unloading the
machine into a trailer or truck.
- Slow down and use caution when making turns
and crossing roads and sidewalks. Stop blades if
not dethatching/seeding.
- Do not run the engine in an enclosed area where
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
- Stop operation if someone approaches.
- Keep housing service openings closed when
dethatching/seeding.
- Do not turn sharply. Use care when reversing.
- Use counter-weight(s) or wheel weights when
suggested in the operator's manual.
- Never leave a machine running unattended.
Always turn off blades, set parking brake (if
equipped), stop engine and remove key (if
equipped) before leaving the operator's position.
Starting
- Start only according to instructions in this manual
or on the machine.
- Before attempting to start the engine, make sure:
- the master clutch is disengaged;
- the traction drive is in NEUTRAL.
- When starting the engine, make sure hands and
feet are clear of the blades.
- Do not start the machine while standing in front
of the discharge chute or with the chute directed
at someone.
- Do not engage master clutch at full throttle.
Throttle to idle or lowest possible engine speed.
- Do not change engine governor settings or
overspeed the engine. Operating the engine
at excessive speed can increase the hazard of
personal injury.
Interrupting operation
- Before leaving the operator's position:
- Park on level ground.
- Disengage the master clutch.
- Shut off the engine.
- Disengage the master clutch and wait until the
blades quit rotating:
- before raising blade assembly;
- when not dethaching/seeding;
- for transport;
- when crossing surfaces other than grass.
- Disengage the master clutch, stop the engine, :
- before refueling;
- before making height adjustment unless the
adjustment can be made from the operator's
position.
- Disengage the master clutch, stop the engine,
allow the blades to come to a complete stop, and
disconnect the spark plug wire:
- before clearing blockages;
- before checking, cleaning or working on the
machine;
- before performing maintenance or repair;
- after striking a foreign object. Inspect the
machine for damage and make repairs before
restarting;
- if the machine begins to vibrate abnormally:
shut off machine immediately. Inspect and
make repairs as needed before restarting;
- except for repairs or adjustments as specically
noted, such as for carburetor adjustment,
where the engine must be running. Keep
hands and feet clear of moving parts in these
circumstances.
- Reduce the throttle setting during engine shut-
down and, if the engine is provided with a shut-
off valve, turn the fuel off at the conclusion of
operation.
SAFETY