Be sure the transmission is out of gear and the mower blade clutch disengaged before starting the engine.
Engage the mower drive at low engine RPM and the equipment at maximum cutting height. Check for excessive vibration and unusual noises. If there is any indication of trouble, shut the machine down and carry out an inspection. Mower blades may continue to rotate for some time, so wait until all movement has stopped before leaving the tractor seat. Block the raised mower before inspection.
Raise speed to rated RPM, and lower the mower to the desired working height.
Proper ground speed will depend on the height, type and density of material to be cut, and the nature of the terrain.
Slow down on slopes and when turning sharply to avoid a rollover. Be alert for holes or other hidden dangers.
With under mount, rear mount, pull-type, and wing mowers, always try to mow down slopes, never up or across the face.
With side mount, offset, and sicklebar mowers, always mow across the slope with the mower on the uphill side. Never operate with the mower pointed downhill. Avoid turning uphill quickly or sharply with this class of mowers.
Use extreme caution when operating on very uneven terrain. Ground speed should be slow, and turns wide and gradual.
Pass diagonally through sharp dips. Avoid sudden drop-offs to prevent "hanging up" of the tractor and mower.
Extreme caution is required when mowing ditch banks. If a wing or side mount mower hits an obstruction, the front of the tractor will usually swerve toward the ditch.
Do not mow in reverse unless specifically recommended in the operator's manual. Always look behind before backing up. Small children or bystanders may have strayed into the area without your knowledge.
Keep feet and hands away from v-belts, shafts, and other moving parts. In fact, the mower should not be running unless the operator is sitting on the seat.
Follow recommended shutdown procedures before leaving the mower. Set the brakes, disengage power to the mower, turn off the engine, and remove the key. Never leave a mower on a slope.
