RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

•To reduce the risk of electrical shock, keep the pruner from power lines or electrical wires.

•Use the right tool. Use this unit only as described in this manual. Do not use for any job except that for which is 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.

•A coasting blade can cause injury while it continues to moves after the unit is stopped. Maintain proper control of the unit until the blade has completely stopped moving.

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

•Do not operate the unit faster than the speed needed to prune. Do not run the unit at high speed when not pruning.

•Always stop the unit when work 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. 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.

•Stop the unit 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.

•Stop and switch the unit to off for maintenance, repair, or for changing add-ons attachments.

SAFETY AND INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS

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

OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS

•Allow the unit to cool before storing or transporting. Be sure to secure the unit while transporting.

•Store the unit inside in a dry place, either locked up or up high to prevent unauthorized use or damage. Keep out of the reach of children.

•Never douse or squirt the unit with water or any other liquid. Keep handles dry, clean and free from debris. Clean after each use, see Cleaning and Storage instructions.

•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.

•Only qualified personnel should perform any repairs or maintenance procedures that are not described in this manual.

•Check shear bolts, engine mounting bolts and other bolts at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

•Always refer to the Operator’s Manual instructions for important details if the unit is to be stored for an extended period.

•Do not attempt to repair the machine unless you have the proper tools, and instructions for disassembly and repair of the machine.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

This operator's manual describes safety and international symbols and pictographs that may appear on this product. Read the operator's manual for complete safety, assembly, operating and maintenance and repair information.

SYMBOL MEANING•SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL

Indicates danger, warning, or caution. May be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.

•WARNING - READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

Read the Operator’s Manual(s) and follow all warnings and safety instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders.

•WEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTION

WARNING: The operation of any power tool can be the source of thrown objects and loud noise which can cause severe eye injury and hearing loss. Always wear safety glasses or goggles eye protection meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards and ear protection when operating this unit. Use a full face shield when needed.

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