Craftsman 917.274750 - Manual (Page 5)

SAFETY RULES
• Remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the
ground. If this is not possible, then
refuel such equipment with a portable
container, rather than from a gasoline
dispenser nozzle.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim
of the fuel tank or container opening at
all times until fueling is complete. Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change
clothing immediately.
• Never overfill fuel tank. Replace gas
cap and tighten securely.
GENERAL SERVICE
• Never operate machine in a closed are.
• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure
the equipment is in safe working condi­
tion.
• Never tamper with safety devices.
Check their proper operation regularly.
Keep machine free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean oil or fuel
spillage and remove any fuel-soaked
debris. Allow machine to cool before
storing.
If you strike a foreign object, stop and
inspect the machine. Repair, if neces­
sary, before restarting.
Never make any adjustments or repairs
with the engine running.
Check grass catcher components and
the discharge guard frequently and
replace with manufacturer’s recom­
mended parts, when necessary.
Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the
blade or wear gloves, and use extra
caution when servicing them.
Check brake operation frequently. Ad­
just and service as required.
Maintain or replace safety and instruc­
tion labels, as necessary.
Be sure the area is clear of by­
standers before operating. Stop
machine if anyone enters the area.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse unless
absolutely necessary. Always look
down and behind before and while
backing.
Never carry children, even with the
blades shut off. They may fall off
and be seriously injured or interfere
with safe machine operation. Chil­
dren who have been given rides in
the past may suddenly appear in
the mowing area for another ride
and be run over or backed over by
the machine.
Keep children out of the mowing
area and in the watchful care of a
responsible adult other than the
operator.
Be alert and turn machine off if a
child enters the area.
Before and while backing, look
behind and down for small children.
Mow up and down slopes (15°
Max), not across.
Choose a low ground speed so
that you will not have to stop or
shift while on the slope.
Avoid starting, stopping, or turning
on a slope. If the tireslose trac­
tion, disengage the blades and
proceed slowly straight down the
slope.
If machine stops while going uphill,
disengage blades, shift into reverse
and back down slowly.
Do not turn on slopes unless nec­
essary, and then, turn slowly and
gradually downhill, if possible.