Section 4: Operation
Loading and Unloading the Tiller
WARNING
Loading and unloading a tiller in or from a vehicle is potentially hazardous and we don’t recommend that you do so unless absolutely necessary, as this could result in personal injury or property damage. However, if you must load or unload the tiller, follow the direc- tions below.
•Shut off the tiller engine before loading or unloading. Let the engine cool. Discon- nect the spark plug wire and prevent the wire from touching the spark plug.
•The tiller is too heavy (over 120 lbs.) and bulky to be safely lifted by one person. If you do lift the tiller, two or more people should share the load. With one person on one side of the equipment and another person on the other side, each should grip the machine at the front shield (use the slot in the shield) and at the tine hood.
•However, the preferred method that we recommend is that you use sturdy ramps and manually roll the tiller (in
•Ramps should be strong enough to easily support the tiller and those moving it. The ramps should also have good traction, side rails to direct the tiller, and a locking device to secure them to the vehicle bed.
•The operator and assistants should wear sturdy footwear with good traction.
•Position the vehicle so the ramp angle is as flat as possible. Turn off the vehicle engine and apply its parking brake.
•When going up the ramps, stand behind the handlebar and push the equipment ahead of you.
•When going down ramps, walk back- ward down the ramps with the equipment following you.
•Have wood blocks handy to chock the wheels if necessary. Use the chocks, for example, if repositioning the equipment on the ramps is required. Also chock the wheels when transporting the equipment in the vehicle.
•Once in the vehicle, securely tie the equipment for stability during travel.
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