I. general operation, Ii. slope operation, Safety rules – Craftsman 917.272057 User Manual

Page 3

Attention! The text in this document has been recognized automatically. To view the original document, you can use the "Original mode".

Advertising
background image

SAFETY RULES

IMPORTANT: This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in
serious injury or death.

I. GENERAL OPERATION

Read, understand, and follow all
instructions in the manual and on the
machine before starting.
Only allow responsible adults, who are
familiar with the instructions, to operate

the machine.

Clear the area of objects such as

rocks, toys, wire, etc., which could be

picked up and thrown by the blade.
Be sure the area is clear of other
people before mowing. Stop machine
if anyone enters the area.
Never carry passengers.
Do not mow in reverse unless abso­
lutely necessary. Always look down

and behind before and while backing.

Be aware of the mower discharge
direction and do not point it at anyone.
Do not operate the mower without
either the entire grass catcher or the
guard in place.
Slow down before turning.
Never leave a running machine
unattended. Always turn off blades, set
parking brake, stop engine, and
remove keys before dismounting.
Turn off blades when not mowing.

Stop engine before removing grass

catcher or unclogging chute.
Mow only in daylight or good artificial
light.
Do not operate the machine while
under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Watch for traffic when operating near or
crossing roadways.
Use extra care when loading or
unloading the machine into a trailer or
truck.
Data indicates that operators, age 60

years and above, are involved in a

large percentage of riding mower-
related injuries. These operators
should evaluate their ability to operate
the riding mower safely enough to
protect themselves and others from
serious injury.
Keep machine free of grass , leaves or
other debris build-up which can touch
hot exhaust / engine parts and bum . Do
not allow the mower deck to plow leaves

or other debris which can cause build­

up to occur. Clean any oil or fuel

spillage before operating or storing the

machine . Allow machine to cool before

storage.

II. SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to loss-of-

control and tipover accidents, which can

result in severe injury or death. All slopes
require extra caution. If you cannot back up

the slope or if you feel uneasy on it, do not
mow it.

DO;

• Mow up and down slopes, not across.
• Remove obstacles such as rocks, tree

limbs, etc.

• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps.

Uneven terrain could overturn the

machine. Tall grass can hide obstacles.

• Use slow speed. Choose a low gear so

that you will not have to stop or shift
while on the slope.

• Follow the manufacturer’s recommen­

dations for wheel weights or counter­

weights to improve stability.

• Use extra care with grass catchers or

other attachments. These can change

the stability of the machine.

• Keep all movement on the slopes slow

and gradual. Do not make sudden

changes in speed or direction.

• Avoid starting or stopping on a slope. If

tires lose traction, disengage the

blades and proceed slowly straight

down the slope.

DO NOT:

Do not turn on slopes unless neces­

sary, and then, turn slowly and gradu­

ally downhill, if possible.

Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or

embankments. The mower could
suddenly turn over if a wheel is over the

edge of a cliff or ditch, or if an edge

caves in.

Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced

traction could cause sliding.

Do not try to stabilize the machine by

putting your foot on the ground.

Do not use grass catcher on steep

slopes.

Advertising