Walker MW 15 HP - Manual (Page 15)

Safety Instructions
11
10. Disengage the blade drive when transporting
the machine across drives, sidewalks, etc.
Never raise the mower deck while blades are
rotating.
11. The maximum recommended side slope op-
erating angle is 20 degrees or 33% grade.
When operating the machine on a slope, reduce
ground speed and use caution to start, stop,
and maneuver. To prevent tipping or loss of
control of the machine, avoid sharp turns or
sudden changes in direction.
12. Never adjust cutting height with the engine
running. Before adjusting cutting height or
servicing, disengage the blade clutch (PTO),
stop the engine, and remove the ignition key.
Wait for all movement to stop before leaving the
operator position.
NOTE: A blade brake should normally stop
drive line rotation within five (5) seconds of dis-
engaging the PTO clutch.
13. For side discharge mower decks, do not oper-
ate with the grass deflector chute removed.
Keep the deflector in the lowest possible posi-
tion.
14. For tractors equipped with tilt-up deck, do not
move tractor with deck in tilt-up position.
15. In case of a clogged or plugged mower
deck:
a. Disengage the blade clutch (PTO) and
turn the engine off before leaving the
operator position (behind the handles).
b. LOOK to make sure blade drive shaft
movement has stopped before trying to
unclog the deck.
c. Disconnect the spark plug wires.
d. Never place hands under the deck - use a
stick or similar tool to remove clogged
material.
16. If the cutting blades strike a solid object or the
machine begins to vibrate abnormally, immedi-
ately disengage the blade clutch (PTO), stop
the engine, and wait for all moving parts to
stop. To prevent accidental starting, discon-
nect the spark plug wires. Thoroughly inspect
the mower and repair any damage before re-
starting the engine and operating the mower.
Make sure cutter blades are in good condition
and blade nuts are torqued to 60 ft-lb (81.3
N
⋅
m).
17. Do not touch the engine, engine cover, or
muffler while the engine is running or imme-
diately after stopping the engine. These areas
may be hot enough to cause serious burns.
18. When leaving the machine unattended, dis-
engage the blade clutch (PTO), stop the en-
gine, and remove the key.
MAINTENANCE
1. To prevent accidental starting of the engine
when servicing or adjusting the machine, re-
move the key from the ignition switch and dis-
connect the spark plug wires.
2. To reduce fire hazards, keep the engine free of
grass, leaves, excessive grease, and dirt.
3. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to ensure
the machine is in a safe, working condition.
Check the blade mounting nuts frequently, mak-
ing sure they are tight.
4. Perform only maintenance instructions de-
scribed in this manual. Unauthorized main-
tenance operations or machine modifications
may result in unsafe operating conditions.
5. 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.
6. Always use the proper engine service man-
ual when working on the engine. Unautho-
rized maintenance operations or modifications
to the engine may result in unsafe operating
conditions.
7. Altering the equipment or engine in any manner
which adversely affects its operation, perfor-
mance, durability, or use will VOID the warran-
ty and may cause hazardous conditions.
8. Never attempt to disconnect any safety devices
or defeat the purpose of these safety devices.