SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES
WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury. When you see this
DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this man- ual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This 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.
California Proposition 65 Warning:
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Training
1.Carefully read this Operator’s Manual, the separate Engine Owner/Operator’s Manual, and any other literature you may receive. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the tiller and its engine. Know how to stop the unit and disengage the controls quickly.
2.Never allow children to operate the tiller. Never allow adults to operate the tiller without proper instruction.
3.Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly children and pets.
4.Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people, their property, and themselves.
Preparation
1.Thoroughly inspect the area where the tiller is to be used and remove all foreign objects.
2.Be sure all control levers are released before starting the engine.
3.Do not operate the tiller without wearing adequate outer garments. Avoid loose garments or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts.
4.Do not operate the tiller when barefoot or wearing sandals, sneakers, or light footwear. Wear protective footwear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces.
5.Do not till near underground electric cables, telephone lines, pipes or hoses. If in doubt, contact your telephone or utility company.
6.Never make adjustments when engine is running (unless recommended by the Engine manufacturer).
WARNING: Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable and its vapors are explosive. Take the following precautions:
a.Store fuel in containers specifically designed for this purpose.
b.The gas cap shall never be removed or fuel added while the engine is running. Allow the engine to cool for several minutes before adding fuel.
c.Keep matches, cigarettes, cigars, pipes, open flames, and sparks away from the fuel tank and fuel container.
d.Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill fuel tank indoors. Use a funnel or spout to prevent spillage.
e.Replace all fuel tank and container caps securely.
f.If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine, but move the machine away from the area of spillage and avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated.
Operation
1.Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
2.Exercise extreme caution when on or crossing gravel drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do not carry passengers.
3.After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, thoroughly inspect the machine for any damage, and repair the damage before restarting and operating the machine.
4.Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
5.If the unit should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine and check immediately for the cause. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
6.Stop the engine before unclogging the tines, or when making any repairs, adjustments or inspections.
7.Take all possible precautions when leaving the machine unattended. Stop the engine and move the Wheel Shift Lever to FORWARD.
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