Dixon 503 - Manual (Page 15)

Page 12
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
The safe and successful operation of the Model 503 will depend upon the operator having
the correct knowledge of all controls used on the mower and making good judgments about the
terrain to be mowed. Never allow anyone to operate the mower without complete knowledge of
all controls and their functions.
Sound judgment by the owner will prevent accidents.
Controls and their functions. All controls described from operators position.
PARKING BRAKE:
The parking brake used on the Model 503 is designed to hold the mower from moving
and is not intended for use in stopping the mower while it is in motion. An
additional safety feature of the parking brake is that the engine cannot be started
unless the brake is applied.
THE HYDROSTATIC DRIVE SYSTEM:
Allows the mower to turn on its own axis (zero radius). Each lever controls one
side of the mower. The pressure required to operate the mower is very light and
a minimum of 1/2 hour should be spent simply driving the mower in a non-mowing
application to gain the confidence necessary to mow like a pro.
LEVER MOVEMENTS:
No shifting or clutching required.
TO GO FORWARD:
Release parking brake. From neutral position, gently push both drive levers
forward; to increase speed, move levers farther forward.
TO GO BACKWARD:
From neutral position, gently pull both drive levers toward you.
TURNING:
Turning is controlled by moving one drive lever slightly forward or rearward of the
other. To turn left, move left lever rearward of right lever. To turn "square
corners" move lever of desired direction to neutral. To turn on mower's own axis
(zero radius) reduce speed and move one lever to reverse position and the other to
forward position.
BRAKING:
To brake mower, move both levers in direction opposite of travel, release
levers to neutral, set parking brake. When stopping on incline, it may be
necessary to hold slight pressure on levers in direction opposite of slope
until parking brake is set.
GROUND SPEED:
Ground speed (controlled by movement of hand levers) must be carefully
controlled for safety and best mowing results. Never operate at high speed in
unfamiliar areas or on slopes.
CHOKE CONTROL LEVER:
"Used to start a cold engine. (Engine has not been operated for a length of time.
Located on control panel to operators right.