Operation – Hustler Turf 3500 User Manual
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OPERATION
Safe Operating Practices
This product is capable of amputating hands and feet and
throwing objects. Always follow all safety instructions to
avoid serious injury or death.
Operation
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Evaluate the terrain to determine what accessories and
attachments are needed to properly and safely perform
the job. Only use accessories and attachments
approved by the manufacturer.
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Never leave a running machine unattended. Park the
machine on level ground. Place park brake lever in the
brake engaged position, place the PTO lever in the
“OFF” position, lower attachment, remove ignition
switch key before leaving operator’s seat for any rea-
son including unclogging the chute.
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Do not change the engine governor setting or over-
speed the engine.
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Always remain seated while operating machine.
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Always keep safety shields and covers in place, except
for servicing.
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Always maintain a safe distance from people and pets
when mowing. Always stop machine if someone
enters the area.
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Always operate machine in daylight or with adequate
working lights.
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Follow daily and weekly checklists, making sure hoses
are tightly secured and bolts are tightened.
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Always observe traffic laws while driving machine
from one location to another. Watch for traffic when
operating near or crossing roadways.
V
Always be alert for hazards such as rocks, metal
objects and other debris which may be thrown or
entangled by mower blades. Watch out for holes or
deep depressions.
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Inspect area to be mowed for hazards such as rocks,
metal objects and other debris which may be thrown or
entangled by mower blades. Remove these objects
before mowing.
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Always inspect machine for damage after striking a
foreign object. If damage is found, repair machine
immediately. Be sure to stop on level ground, place
park brake lever in the brake engaged position, place
the PTO lever in the “OFF” position, lower attachment,
remove ignition switch key before leaving operator’s
seat to inspect damage.
V
Never engage the PTO Control Lever unless the PTO
shaft is securely connected to a power driven attach-
ment.
V
Always wear adequate ear protection, such as earplugs,
when operating this equipment as prolonged exposure
to uncomfortable or loud noises can cause impairment
or loss of hearing. Do not wear radios or music head-
phones while operating the machinery. Safe operation
requires your full attention.
V
Do not operate the equipment while wearing sandals,
tennis shoes, sneakers, shorts or any type of loose fit-
ting clothing. Long hair, loose clothing or jewelry may
get tangled in moving parts. Always wear long pants,
safety glasses, ear protection and safety shoes when
operating this machine.
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Always be aware of what is behind the machine before
backing up. Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely
necessary. Always look down and behind before and
while backing up.
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Never push down suddenly on brake pedal while the
machine is in forward motion because machine may tip
forward causing loss of control.
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Never push down suddenly on the HST reverse pedal
while the machine is in forward motion because
machine may tip forward causing loss of control.
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Never drive the tractor at high speeds without a front-
end attachment mounted to the tool bars. Keep the
attachment as low to the ground as possible, mower
decks should rest on the gauge wheels.
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Never operate a poorly maintained machine.
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Never attempt high speed maneuvering, especially in
crowded or congested areas.
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Never allow persons to operate this machine without
proper instruction or allow children to operate
machine. Allow only responsible adults who are famil-
iar with these instructions to operate this machine.
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Never put hands or feet under any part of the machine
while it is running.
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Never carry passengers.
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Never direct discharged material toward anyone.
Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruc-
tion. Material may ricochet back toward the operator.
Always disengage the blades and wait for them to stop
before crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
V
Always keep clear of the mower blades and attach-
ments during their operation.
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Turn off blades when not mowing.
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Slow down before turning.
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Stop the engine before removing the grass catcher or
unclogging the discharge chute. Never clear the dis-
charge chute with the engine running. Turn off the
engine and be sure the blades have stopped before
cleaning. Use a stick to clear a plugged discharge area.
Never use your hand!
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Do not operate the machine while under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.
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Exercise caution when loading or unloading the
machine onto a trailer or truck.
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Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating the tractor.
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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 mower safely enough to protect
themselves and others from serious injury.
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Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for wheel
weights or rear counter-balance weights.
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If any attachment or additional weight is mounted on
the front of the unit, any rapid movement of the HST