Dixon ZTR 503, Operator'S Manual

SAFETY 

Page 2 

SAFETY REMINDERS:  READ CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION

1. Wear appropriate, safe clothing when mowing - close fitting jeans or slacks and 

heavy leather or safety shoes with rough soles. Never operate this mower with bare 

feet or open sandals.

2. Do not operate on wet or slippery grass.

3. Always mow at the slowest speed that will cut satisfactorily. 

4. Keep hands and feet away from the blade at all times.

5. Keep persons clear of the discharge chute. Do not operate mower unless deflector is 

in place.

6. When mowing hills or slopes, use extreme caution. Reduce speed, do not make 

sudden starts, stops or turns.

7. Always disengage blades before taking the mower across walks or objects that 

project above the surface.

8. Stay alert for holes, rocks and roots in the terrain, and other hazards. Keep away 

from drop-offs.

9. When the mower is not in use, turn the engine off and remove key. Never leave the 

engine running unattended. Your Dixon mower is equipped with a weight-sensitive 

switch that kills the engine when operator leaves the seat while blades are engaged.

Note: This important safety feature must be tested prior to each mowing.

This 

may be done by starting engine, engaging blades and then ' rising 

slightly from seat. If engine does not stop, see your dealer for necessary 
repair.

10. Before adjusting or servicing your mower, turn off the engine and let it cool. Be 

sure all moving parts are stopped. Never run the 503 with the body open.

11. Never run the engine indoors; the fumes are dangerous.

12. Before backing your Dixon Mower; stop, turn around and look.

13. Handle gasoline with care - it is highly flammable.

A. Use approved gasoline container.

B. Never remove the fuel cap of, or add gasoline to, a running or hot engine, or an 

engine that has not been allowed to cool after running. Never fill the tank 

indoors and always clean up spilled gasoline.  

C. Never store the mower, with gasoline in the tank, inside the building where 

fumes may reach an open flame or spark. Allow the engine to cool before storing 

in any enclosure.

14. Never lift lawnmower by the body; lift only by the frame.

15. Never carry passengers.