R21 Safety Instructions
13
● In case of a clogged or plugged mower
deck:
1. Disengage the blade clutch (PTO), engage
the parking brake, and turn the engine off
and remove the ignition key before leaving
the seat.
2. Listen to make sure all moving parts have
stopped before attempting to lift and visu-
ally inspect the deck.
3. Never place hands under the deck. Use
a stick or similar tool to remove clogged
material.
● If the cutting blades strike a solid object
or the machine begins to vibrate abnor-
mally, immediately disengage the blade clutch
(PTO), stop the engine, and wait for all moving
parts to stop. To prevent accidental starting,
disconnect the spark plug wires. Thoroughly
inspect the mower and repair any damage
before restarting the engine and operating the
mower. Make sure cutter blades are in good
condition and blade bolts are torqued to 70
lb·ft (95 N·m).
● Do not touch the engine or mufer while
the engine is running or immediately after
stop ping the engine. These areas may be
hot enough to cause serious burns.
● When leaving the machine unattended,
disen gage the blade clutch (PTO), engage
parking brake, stop the engine, and remove
the ignition key.
● When using a ramp to load or unload the
mower, use extreme caution. Avoid sudden
acceleration and do not exceed a 15 degree
angle incline.
● Only use a full-width ramp which helps
prevent the mower from tipping and reduces
the risk of a wheel going off the ramp. Do not
use an individual ramps for each side of the
mower.
Safety During Maintenance
● To prevent accidental starting of the engine
when servicing or adjusting the machine,
remove the key from the ignition switch and
disconnect the spark plug wires.
● Keep the engine free of grass, leaves,
excessive grease, and dirt to reduce re
hazards.
● Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to
ensure the machine is in a safe, working
condition. Check the blade mounting bolts
frequently, mak ing sure they are tight.
● Perform only maintenance instructions de-
scribed in this manual. Unauthorized main-
tenance operations or machine modications
may result in unsafe operating conditions.
● If the engine must be running to perform a
main tenance adjustment, keep hands, feet,
and clothing away from moving parts. Do
not wear jewelry or loose clothing.
● Always use the proper engine service man-
ual when working on the engine. Unauthor-
ized maintenance operations or modications
to the engine may result in unsafe operating
conditions.
IMPORTANT: Altering the equipment or en-
gine in any manner which adversely affects its
operation, perfor mance, durability, or use will
VOID the warranty and may cause hazardous
conditions.
● Never attempt to disconnect any safety de-
vices or defeat the purpose of these safety
devices.
● Do not change the engine governor set-
tings or overspeed the engine. The gover-
nor has been factory-set for maximum-safe
engine operating speed.
● Use genuine factory replacement parts.
Sub stitute parts may result in product malfunc-
tion and possible injury to the operator and/or
others.