RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
• IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION •
•Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the fuel tank. Never remove the cap of the fuel tank, or add fuel, when the engine is hot. Never operate the unit with- out the fuel cap securely in place. Loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve any pressure in the tank.
•Add fuel in a clean,
•Move the unit at least 30 feet (9.1 m) from the fueling source and site before starting the engine. Do not smoke. Keep sparks and open flames from the area while adding fuel or operating the unit.
WHILE OPERATING
•Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or build- ing. Breathing exhaust fumes can be lethal. Operate this unit only in a well ventilated area outdoors.
•Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards, and ear/hearing protection when operating this unit. Wear a face or dust mask if the opera- tion is dusty.
•Wear heavy, long pants, boots, gloves and a long sleeve shirt. Do not wear, short pants, sandals or go barefoot.
•To reduce the risk of injury associated with objects pulled into rotating parts, do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, scarves, etc. Secure hair above shoulder level.
•Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.
•Keep outside surfaces free from oil and fuel.
•This unit has a clutch. The tines remain stationary when the engine is idling. If they do not, have the unit adjusted by an authorized service technician.
•Be sure the tines are not in contact with anything before starting the unit.
•Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position when- ever pulling the starter rope. The operator and unit must be in a stable position while starting. Refer to the Starting/ Stopping Instructions.
•Use the right tool. Only use this tool for the purpose intended.
•Do not force the unit. It will do the job more effectively, with a smaller chance of injury, if you use the unit for the task it was designed.
•Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the unit towards you.
•Do not overreach. Take extra care when working on steep slopes or inclines. Always keep proper footing and balance.
•Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a firm grip on the handlebar grips.
•Keep hands, face and feet at a distance from all moving parts. Do not touch or try to stop the tines when they are rotating. Do not operate without guards in place.
•Do not touch the engine, muffler or gearbox. 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 do the job. Do not run the engine at high speed when not in use.
•Always stop the engine during suspended or delayed operation, or when you walk from one location to another.
•Stop the engine for maintenance, repair or to install or remove the tines. To avoid injury, stop the unit and make sure the tines no longer turn.
•The tines become very sharp from use. Always wear heavy gloves when handling, removing, installing or cleaning the tines.
•Use only Genuine Factory Parts™ replacement parts and accessories for this unit. These are available from your authorized service dealer. Use of any non original factory parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user, or damage to the unit, and void your warranty.
•Keep the unit clean of vegetation and other materials. They may become lodged between the tines and gearbox or guard.
•To reduce the risk of fire, replace a faulty muffler and spark arrestor. Keep the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves, excessive grease or carbon build up.
OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS
•Never store the unit, with fuel in the tank, inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
•Allow the engine to cool before storing or transporting. Be sure to secure the unit while transporting.
•Store the unit in a dry place, either locked up or up high to prevent unauthorized use or damage. Keep out of the reach of children.
•Clean the tines with a hose and water. Wipe the tines with a light machine oil to prevent rust.
•Never douse or squirt the engine with water or any other liq- uid. Keep handles dry, clean and free from debris. Clean after each use, as described in the Cleaning and Storage section.
•Keep these instructions. Refer to them often and use them to instruct other users. If you loan someone this unit, also loan them these instructions.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
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