Hustler Turf 4300 - Manual (Page 10)

• Do not operate where the machine could slip or tip.
• Install a ROPS and seat belt on the tractor when
operating on slopes.
▲ The Hustler mower is capable of operating horizontally
(traverse) on moderately steep slopes. When operating
on slopes of 15 degrees or more, be aware of any
conditions that may cause the tractor drive tires to lose
traction resulting in a possible loss of control of the
machine. An operator should not operate on a slope
until he is thoroughly familiar with the equipment.
It is strongly recommended that the operator drive the
machine off of the slope, using extreme caution, if any
sign of loss of traction is detected. Wait until the
condition that caused the problem is resolved before
attempting to operate on the slope again.
Terrain conditions can affect traction resulting in
possible loss of control of the machine. Some of the
conditions to be aware of are:
1. Wet terrain
2. Depressions in the ground; i.e. holes, ruts,
washouts
3. Soil type; i.e. sand, loose dirt, gravel, clay
4. Grass type, density, and height
5. Extremely dry conditions of grass
6. Tire pressure
The attachments mounted to the tractor will also affect
the way it handles on a slope. Attachments such as the
grass collection system may affect the machine
differently than another attachment would. Be aware
that each attachment’s characteristics vary.
Another consideration to safe mowing on slopes is to
be aware of what is located at the bottom of the slope.
Extreme caution should be used when there is a hazard
located at the bottom of the slope. Some examples are:
1. Water; i.e. lake, river
2. Cliff
3. Roads, highways
4. Buildings
5. Rocks
These are just a few examples of situations when
caution must be used when operating on a slope. There
are many other possibilities too numerous to mention.
Just remember to always exercise extreme caution when
operating on any slope.
▲ Never allow persons to operate this machine without
proper instruction or allow children to operate machine.
▲ Never put hands or feet under any part of the machine
while it is running.
▲ 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.
▲ Never leave machine unattended with ignition key in
switch, especially with children present.
▲ Never refuel tractor while engine is running; never
refuel near an open flame or near devices which can
create a spark. Refuel outdoors preferably, or in well
ventilated areas.
▲ Never attempt to start engine when there is a strong
odor of gasoline fumes present. Locate and correct
cause.
▲ Never run the engine in an enclosed area unless exhaust
is vented to the outside. Exhaust gases contain carbon
monoxide which is odorless and deadly poison.
▲ Never attempt to make any adjustments or repairs to the
tractor drive system or attachment while the tractor
engine is running. Repairs or maintenance requiring
engine power should be performed by trained personnel
only.
▲ Never work under the machine or attachment unless it is
safely supported with stands, blocks or a hoist.
▲ Do not touch hot parts of machine.
▲ Never attempt to back machine onto transport trailer
with attachment in raised position.
▲ Never direct discharge of material from mower deck or
snow thrower towards bystanders.
▲ Always disengage the blades and wait for them to stop
before crossing gravel drives, walks or roads.
▲ When operating on terrain where there is a potential
for a roll over, it is important that a ROPS be
installed on the equipment. The ROPS will prevent
serious injury in the event of roll over. Seat belt
must be fastened while operating a machine
equipped with ROPS. Failure to use seat belt will
result in serious injury in the event of a roll over.
▲ ▲ Clean flammable material from machine. Prevent
fires by keeping engine compartment, battery,
hydraulic lines, fuel line, fuel tank and operator’s
station clean of accumulated trash, grass clippings,
and other debris. Always clean up spilled fuel and
oil.
Specific safety warning decals are located on the
equipment near the immediate areas of potential hazards.
These decals should not be removed or obliterated. Replace
them if they become non-readable.
▲ Replace all safety decals that are damaged, lost, or
otherwise illegible. Replace all decals after repainting.
If a part is replaced that has a decal on it, obtain a
replacement decal from your Hustler dealer and install
the decal in the same location.
728444 Rev. 11/02 2-2
Read Owner’s Manual and Quick
Reference Card before attempting to
operate this machine.
The following illustrations show the various safety decals that are located on the machine. A brief explanation is shown to
help the operator understand the meanings of these decals.