RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
•Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection should be provided on the circuit(s) or outlet(s) to be used for this unit. Receptacles are available having
•EXTENSION CORDS: Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord, be sure to use a cord that is heavy enough to carry the current that your unit will draw. An undersized exten- sion cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. The table shows the correct size to use depending on the cord length and nameplate amperage rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier size line gauge. The smaller the gauge num- ber, the heavier the cord. To reduce the possibility of disconnection of the unit from the extension cord dur- ing operation, see Fig. 5, page 9.
•A nameplate on your unit indicates what voltage it uses. Never connect the unit to an AC voltage that dif- fers from this voltage.
MINIMUM WIRE SIZE FOR EXTENSION CORDS
FOR 120 VOLT APPLIANCES
| Cord length (ft) | 25 | 50 |
| 100 |
| 150 |
| Amperage Rating | Wire size (AWG) |
|
|
| ||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| 1 to 10 amps | 18 | 16 |
| 14 |
| 12 |
| 10 to 12 amps | 16 | 16 |
| 14 |
| 12 |
| 12 to 16 amps | 14 | 12 |
|
| NOT | |
RECOMMENDED
BEFORE OPERATING
•Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the unit.
•Always remain alert. Use common sense. To prevent injury to yourself and others, do not operate this unit if you are fatigued.
•Do not operate the unit while under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication.
•Children and teens under the age of 15 must not use the unit, except for teens guided by an adult.
•Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts. Make sure all fasteners are in place and secure. Replace cutting attachment parts that are cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. Make sure the cutting attachment is properly installed and securely fastened. Be sure the cutting attachment shield is properly attached, and positioned as recommended. Failure to do so can result in personal injury to the operator and bystanders, as well as damage to the unit.
•Use only 0.080 inch (2.03 mm) diameter genuine Ryobi replacement line. Never use
•Be aware of the risk of injury to the head, hands and feet.
•Clear the area to be cut before each use. Remove all objects such as rocks, broken glass, nails, wire, or string which can be thrown or become entangled in the cutting attachment. Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets. At a minimum, keep all children, bystanders and pets outside a 50 feet (15 m.) radius; there still may be a risk to bystanders from thrown objects. Bystanders should be encouraged to wear eye protection. If you are approached, stop the engine and cutting attachment immediately.
•This unit was not designed to be used as a brushcutter. Do not attach or operate this unit with any type of brushcutting blade or brushcutting attachment.
WHILE OPERATING
•Avoid unintentional starting. Do not carry
•Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards, and ear/hearing pro- tection when operating this unit. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty.
•Wear heavy, long pants, boots, gloves and a long sleeve shirt. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals or go barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.
•The cutting attachment shield must always be in place while operating the unit as a trimmer. 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.
•Adjust the assist 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.
•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 force unit. It will do the job better and with less likelihood of injury at a rate for which it was designed.
•Always stop the unit when operation is delayed or when walking from one work location to another.
•If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the unit immediately and check for damage. Do not operate before repairing damage. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.
4
