RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

BEFORE OPERATING

•Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the unit.

•Do not operate this unit when tired, ill or under the influence of alcohol, drugs 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. Check for fuel leaks. 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 0.095 inch (2.41 mm) diameter Genuine Factory Parts™ replacement line. Never use metal- reinforced line, wire or rope. These can break off and become dangerous projectiles.

•Be aware of the risk of injury to the head, hands and feet.

•Squeeze the throttle control and check that it returns automatically to the idle position. Make all adjustments or repairs before using unit.

•Clear the area to be cut before each use. Remove all objects such as rocks, broken glass, nails, wire or string. They 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-foot (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.

SAFETY WARNINGS FOR GAS TRIMMERS

WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable, and its vapors can explode if ignited. Take the following precautions:

•Store fuel only in containers specifically designed and approved for the storage of such materials.

•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 without the fuel cap securely in place. Loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve any pressure in the tank.

•Add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area where there are no sparks or flames. Slowly remove the fuel cap only after stopping engine. Do not smoke while fueling. Wipe up any spilled fuel from the unit immediately.

•Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do not start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.

•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 away from the area while adding fuel or operating the unit.

WHILE OPERATING

•Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or building. Breathing exhaust fumes can kill. Operate this unit only in a well ventilated outdoor area.

•Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as meeting ANSI Z87.1-1989 standards. Also wear ear/hearing protection when operating this unit. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty.

•Wear heavy, long pants, boots and gloves. 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. 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 or muffler. These parts get extremely hot from operation. They remain hot for a short time after you turn off the unit.

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

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