Troy-Bilt 52051, 52052 owner manual Safety, Do not put, Remove the key on electric start models

Section

1 Safety

SPARK ARRESTER WARNING TO RESIDENTS OF CALIFORNIA AND SEVERAL OTHER STATES

Under California law, and under the laws of several other states, you are not permitted to operate an internal combustion engine using hydrocarbon fuels on any forest covered, brush covered, or grass covered land, or on land covered with grain, hay, or other flammable agricultural crop, without an en-

gine spark arrestor in continuous effective working order.

The engine on your power equipment, like most outdoor power equipment, is an internal combustion engine that burns gasoline, a hydrocarbon fuel. Therefore, your power equipment must be equipped with a spark arrestor muffler in continu- ous effective working order. The spark arrester must be attached to the engine exhaust system in such a manner that flames or heat from the system will not ignite flammable material. Failure of the owner/operator of the equipment to comply with this regulation is a misdemeanor under California law, and may also be a violation of other state and/or federal regulations, laws, ordinances, or codes. Contact your local fire marshal or forest service for specific information about what regulations apply in your area.

IMPORTANT

Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Mowers

This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.

I. General Operation

1.Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manuals. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment before starting.

2.Do not put

hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the ro- tating trimmer head and line at all times.

3.Only allow responsible adults, who are familiar with the instructions, to operate the trimmer/mower. Never let children or untrained adults oper- ate this equipment.

4.Inspect the area where the trim- mer/mower is to be used. The equip- ment can propel small objects at high speed, causing personal injury or property damage. Clear the area of ob- jects such as rocks, toys, wire, bones, sticks, etc., which could be picked up and thrown by the trimmer line.

5.Be sure the area is clear of other people (particularly small children and pets) before mowing. Stop trimmer/ mower if anyone enters the area. Keep bystanders at least 50 feet from the area of operation.

6.Do not operate the trimmer/ mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Always wear substantial footwear.

7.Wear appropriate clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt or jacket. Also wear long trousers or slacks. Do not wear shorts.

8.Do not wear loose clothing– it could catch in the equipment.

9.Do not mow in reverse unless ab- solutely necessary. Always look down and behind before and while moving backwards.

10.Do not operate the trimmer/mower without proper guards, plates, or other protective safety devices in place.

11.Refer to provided instructions for proper operation and installation of ac- cessories. Only use factory-approved accessories.

12.Stop trimmer head when crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Wait for trimmer lines to stop.

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13. Stop engine and discon- nect spark plug wire from spark plug whenever you leave the unit, clean

the equipment, or replace trimmer line.

Remove the key on electric start models.

14.Wait until the trimmer head comes to a complete stop, shut the engine off, and disconnect the spark plug wire be- fore installing or removing trimmer line. Be sure trimmer head is securely attached before operating equipment.

15.Mow only during daylight hours or when good artificial light is available.

16.Do not operate the trimmer/ mower while under the influence of al- cohol or drugs, or when tired or ill.

17.Never operate this equipment in wet grass. Be sure of your footing; keep a firm hold on the handlebar and walk; never run.

18.Release trimmer head control bail before starting engine.

19.If the unit starts to vibrate abnor- mally, stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire. Check immedi- ately for the cause. Vibration is gener- ally a warning of trouble.