While Operating With Cutting Blade, After Use

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

•The cutting attachment shield must always be in place while operating the unit. Do not operate unit without both trimming lines extended, and the proper line installed. Do not extend the trimming line beyond the length of the shield.

•This unit has a clutch. The cutting attachment remains stationary when the engine is idling. If it does not, have the unit adjusted by an authorized service technician.

•Adjust the J-Handle to your size to provide the best grip.

•Be sure the cutting attachment is not in contact with anything before starting the unit.

•Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.

•Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position whenever pulling the starter rope. The operator and unit must be in a stable position while starting. See Starting/Stopping Instructions.

•Use the right tool. Only use this tool for the purpose intended.

•Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance.

•Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a firm grip on both the front and rear handle or grips.

•Keep hands, face, and feet at a distance from all moving parts. Do not touch or try to stop the cutting attachment when it is rotating.

•Do not touch the engine, gear housing or muffler. These parts get extremely hot from operation. When turned off they remain hot for a short time.

•Do not operate the engine faster than the speed needed to cut, trim or edge. Do not run the engine at high speed when not cutting.

•Always stop the engine when cutting is delayed or when walking from one cutting location to another.

•If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the engine immediately and check for damage. Do not operate before repairing damage. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.

•Stop and switch the engine to off for maintenance, repair, or for changing the cutting attachment or other attachments.

•Use only genuine Ryobi replacement parts and accessories for this unit. These are available from your authorized service dealer. Use of any non Ryobi parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user, or damage to the unit, and void your warranty.

•Keep unit clean of vegetation and other materials. They may become lodged between the cutting attachment and shield.

•To reduce fire hazard, replace faulty muffler and spark arrestor, keep the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves, excessive grease or carbon build up.

WHILE OPERATING WITH CUTTING BLADE

•Read and understand all safety warnings before operating this unit.

•Always use the shoulder harness when using the brush blade accessory.

•Keep the J-handle between the operator and cutting attachment or blade at all times.

•NEVER cut with the cutting blade located over 30 inches (76 cm) or more above the ground level.

•Blade thrust may occur when the spinning blade contacts an object that it does not immediately cut. Blade thrust can be violent enough to cause the unit and/or operator to be propelled in any direction , and possibly lose control of the unit. Blade thrust can occur without warning if the blade snags, stalls or binds. This is more likely to occur in areas where it is difficult to see the material being cut.

•For operation with the brush blade, do not cut anything thicker than 1/2 inch or a violent kickback could occur.

•Do not attempt to touch or stop the blade when it is rotating.

•A coasting blade can cause injury while it continues to spin after the engine is stopped or the throttle trigger is released. Maintain proper control until the blade has completely stopped rotating.

•Do not run the unit at high speed when not cutting.

•If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the engine immediately and check for damage. Have any damage repaired before attempting further operations. Do not operate unit with a bent, cracked or dull blade. Discard blades that are bent, warped, cracked or broken.

•Do not sharpen the cutting blade. Sharpening the blade can cause the blade tip to break off while in use. This can result in severe personal injury. Replace the blade.

•Do not use the cutting blade for edging or as an edger, severe personal injury to yourself or others can occur. Use the cutting blade only for the purpose as described in this manual.

•Stop the engine IMMEDIATELY if you feel excessive vibration. Vibration is a sign of trouble. Inspect thoroughly for loose nuts, bolts or damage before continuing. Repair or replace affected parts as necessary.

AFTER USE

•Clean cutting blades with a household cleaner to remove any gum buildup. Oil the blade with machine oil to prevent rust.

•Lock up and store the cutting blade in an appropriate area to protect the blade from unauthorized use or damage.