15
Operation
General Operating Safety
Before first time operation:
  •  Be sure to read all information in the Operator 
Safety section before attempting to operate this rider 
and mower.
  •  Become familiar with all of the controls and how to 
stop the unit.
  •  Drive in an open area without mowing to become 
accustomed to driving the unit.
Checks Before Starting
  •  Check that the crankcase is filled to full mark on dip-
stick (A, Figure 1 - located under engine cover). See 
the engine owner’s manual for instructions and oil 
recommendations.
  •  Make sure all nuts, bolts, screws and pins are in 
place and secure.
  •  Adjust the seat position (B), and make certain you 
can reach all controls from the operator’s position.
  •  Fill the fuel tank (C) with fresh fuel. Refer to the 
engine owner’s manual for fuel recommendations.
WARNING
Never allow passengers to ride on the unit.
Before leaving the operator’s position for any 
reason, lock the ground speed levers in the 
START/PARK position, engage the parking brake, 
disengage the PTO, stop the engine and remove 
the key.
To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine, rider and 
mower free of grass, leaves and excess grease. 
Do not stop or park rider over dry leaves, grass 
or combustible materials.
Gasoline is highly flammable and must be 
handled with care. Never fill the tank when the 
engine is still hot from recent operation. Do not 
allow open flame, smoking or matches in the 
area. Avoid over-filling and wipe up any spills.
WARNING
Never operate on slopes greater than 18 percent 
(10°). 
Select slow ground speed before driving onto 
a slope. Use extra caution when operating on 
slopes with a rear-mounted grass catcher.
Mow up and down slopes, not across the face, 
use caution when changing directions and DO 
NOT START OR STOP ON SLOPE.
Do not load this zero-turn rider on a trailer or 
truck using two separate ramps. Only use a 
single ramp that is at least one foot wider than 
the width of the rear wheels of this rider. This 
rider has a zero turning radius and the rear 
wheels could fall off the ramps, or the rider could 
tip over injuring the operator or bystanders.
WARNING
WARNING
If you do not understand how a specific control 
functions, or have not yet thoroughly read the 
Features and Controls section, do so now. Do 
NOT attempt to operate the rider without first 
becoming familiar with the location and function 
of ALL controls.
Figure 1.  Pre-Start Checks
B
C
A