SECTION 1: RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: When using the unit the safety rules must be followed. For your own safety and that of bystanders please read these instructions before operating the unit. Please keep the instructions safe for later use.

BEFORE OPERATING

•Read this operating instruction manual carefully. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment. Know how to stop the unit and disengage the controls quickly.

•Do not operate this unit when tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.

•Never allow children to operate the equipment. Never allow adults unfamiliar with the instructions to use the unit. Never allow adults to operate the equipment without proper instruction.

•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 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 manufacturer’s replacement line. Never use metal- reinforced line, wire, chain, or rope, etc. These can break off and become dangerous projectiles.

•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 wear eye protection. If you are approached, stop the engine and cutting attachment immediately.

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

•Be sure the cutting attachment is not in contact with anything before starting the unit.

•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.

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, while 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 area outdoors where there are no sparks or flames. Slowly remove the fuel cap only after stopping engine. Do not smoke while fueling or mixing fuel. 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 area outdoors.

•Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards, and ear/hearing protection 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. 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 any nonroad engine repair establishment, individual or authorized service dealer.

•Adjust the J-handle to your size to provide the best grip.

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