Operation
17
deactivate the interlock because the sound of the
tractor’s engine might prevent you from being aware
that a child or a bystander has entered the area where
you are operating the tractor.
If you are certain that you can safely mow in reverse
or operate an attachment, deactivate the no
operating-in-reverse interlock by turning the “Key
Choice” switch (Fig. 14), located on the seat bracket
on the right hand side just below the seat, after
engaging the blade (PTO). A red light on the front
console (Fig. 15) will turn on as a reminder that the
no operating-in-reverse interlock has been
deactivated. Once the interlock is deactivated it stays
in this mode—with your mower blade or PTO-driven
attachment operating whenever you back up—and the
console light stays on until either the blade (PTO) is
disengaged, or the engine is turned off.
m–4260
1
Figure 14
1. Reverse interlock key
Note: Do not insert the “Key Choice” key
unless it is absolutely necessary to
mow in reverse or operate an
attachment. The “Key Choice” key
should also be removed from the unit
if it will be operated by someone other
than a responsible, experienced
operator. This will prevent the unit
from operating in reverse with the
mower blade or other PTO attachment
engaged. Always remove both the
ignition and the “Key Choice” keys
and put them in a safe place out of the
reach of children when leaving the unit
unattended.
POTENTIAL HAZARD
• A child or bystander could be backed over
by a riding mower with its blade(s)
engaged.
WHAT CAN HAPPEN
• Blade contact will cause serious personal
injury or death.
HOW TO AVOID THE HAZARD
• Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary.
• Always look backward and down before
backing up.
• Use “Key Choice” key only if you are
certain no children or other bystanders will
appear in the mowing area.
• Always remove both the ignition and “Key
Choice” keys and put them in a safe place
out of the reach of children or unauthorized
users when leaving the unit unattended.
Testing the Safety Interlock System
Test the safety interlock system each time before you
use the machine. Do not operate the machine if the
safety system is not functioning properly. If the safety
system does not operate as described below, have an
Authorized Service Dealer repair the safety system
immediately.
1. Fully depress the brake pedal. Pull the power
take–off (PTO) switch to ON. Now turn the
ignition key to START. The starter should not
crank.
2. Push the power take–off (PTO) switch to OFF
and release the brake pedal. Now turn the
ignition key to START; the starter should not
crank.
3. Fully depress the brake pedal and set the parking
brake. Push the PTO switch to OFF and rise
from the seat. Now turn the ignition key to
START. The starter should not crank.