Cub Cadet Challenger 400 4x4 Operation Manual - Page 3

Important Safe Operation Practices 2 WARNING This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING! WARNING California Proposition 65 Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. DANGER This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death. Operation General Operation 1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the vehicle and in the manual before attempting to operate or service vehicle. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts. 2. This is an off-road utility vehicle and it should not be operated on public highways. Know and comply with all laws and regulations governing the use of off-highway vehicles in your area. 3. This vehicle handles and maneuvers differently than a normal passenger car. Sharp high speed turns and abrupt maneuvers can cause vehicle to roll over or go out of control. Slow down when turning and avoid abrupt maneuvers. 4. Handling and maneuvering characteristics of vehicle change depending upon cargo load. Heavy loads affect steering, braking, stability, and overall handling of vehicle. 5. Be familiar with all instructions and controls and their proper operation before starting vehicle. 6. Never allow adults to operate this vehicle without proper instruction. 7. Never allow children under 16 years old to operate this vehicle. Children 16 years old and over should read and understand the operation instructions and safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent. 8. Watch for traffic when operating near or crossing roadways. This vehicle is not intended for use on any public roadway. 9. Do not operate this vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 10. Never carry more than one passenger. This vehicle is designed to carry the driver and one passenger only. No riders are allowed in cargo box or anywhere else on vehicle, except in the driver and passenger seats. 11. Keep all body parts (i.e. head, arms, hands, legs, feet) inside vehicle when vehicle is in motion. 12. Always remain seated and keep both hands on the steering wheel when driving the vehicle. 13. Sit on the center of the seat and keep both feet within the foot platform perimeter. Clean foot platform if dirty and remove any debris from around foot controls, e.g. brake pedal. 14. Do not misuse the utility vehicle. It is an utility vehicle, not a recreation vehicle or toy. Recreational riding can lead to accidents, severe bodily injury or death. 15. Inspect area around vehicle before moving, especially in reverse. Back up slowly. Always look down and behind before and while backing to avoid a backover accident. Keep bystanders out of area. 16. Avoid driving through water, since loss of control may occur. Drive belt may slip if exposed to water thus reducing vehicle pulling power and stopping vehicle entirely. 17. Always use vehicle lights while operating in low light situations. 18. Do not mount or leave vehicle while it is in motion or in actual operation. 19. Avoid sudden starts, stops, or turns and always use a level turn-around area. 20. Never leave vehicle unattended with the key in the ignition. Always turn key to the STOP position, make sure the vehicle is in the PARK position and remove key. 21. Check overhead clearances carefully before driving under low hanging tree branches, wires, power lines, bridges, before entering or leaving buildings, or in any other situation where the operator and/or operator protective structure (OPS) may be struck, which could result in serious injury. 22. Use the operator protective structure (OPS) and seat belt for safe operation. Overturning the utility vehicle without a operator protective structure (OPS), or with a operator protective structure (OPS) and the seat belt unfastened, can result in death or injury. 23. Always use the seat belt, except if the operator protective structure (OPS) has been removed. 24. Improper use of the vehicle or failure to properly maintain it could result in decreased vehicle performance or personal injury. 25. Engine must be stopped when cleaning, servicing, adjusting, repairing, or installing attachments on utility vehicle. 26. After striking foreign objects, stop the unit and shut off the engine. Inspect for damage and repair the damage before restarting and operating equipment. 27. Do not start or operate vehicle in an inside area, unless it is adequately ventilated. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide fumes, which are very poisonous and can be deadly. 28. Do not change engine governor setting or over speed the engine. The governor is set at the factory for safe operating speed. 29. Assure safety interlock switch is adjusted correctly so engine cannot be started unless gearshift is in the neutral position with the brake engaged or the PARK position. 30. Do not touch engine or muffler while engine is running or soon after it is stopped. They will be hot and can cause a burn. 31. Always inspect your vehicle each time you use it to make sure it is in safe operating condition. Always follow the inspection and maintenance procedures and schedules described in this manual. 32. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgement. Contact your local service center or call toll free 1-877-282-8684 for the name of your nearest service center. 3