4
• 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 with-
out 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.
• 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 from the area while adding
fuel or operating the unit.
WHILE OPERATING
• Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or build-
ing. Breathing exhaust fumes can be lethal. 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 opera-
tion is dusty.
• Wear heavy, long pants, boots, gloves and a long sleeve
shirt. Do not wear, short pants, sandals or go barefoot.
• To reduce the risk of injury associated with objects pulled
into rotating parts, do not wear loose clothing, jewelry,
scarves, etc. Secure hair above shoulder level.
• Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Keep outside surfaces free from oil and fuel.
• This unit has a clutch. The tines remain stationary when
the engine is idling. If they do not, have the unit adjusted
by an authorized service technician.
• Be sure the tines are not in contact with anything before
starting the unit.
• Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position when-
ever pulling the starter rope. The operator and unit must
be in a stable position while starting. Refer to the Starting/
Stopping Instructions.
• Use the right tool. Only use this tool for the purpose intended
.
• Do not force the unit. It will do the job more effectively,
with a smaller chance of injury, if you use the unit for the
task it was designed.
• Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the unit
towards you.
• Do not overreach. Take extra care when working on steep
slopes or inclines. Always keep proper footing and balance.
• Always hold the unit with both hands when operating.
Keep a firm grip on the handlebar grips.
• Keep hands, face and feet at a distance from all moving
parts. Do not touch or try to stop the tines when they are
rotating. Do not operate without guards in place.
• Do not touch the engine, muffler or gearbox. These parts
get extremely hot from operation. When turned off they
remain hot for a short time.
• Do not operate the engine faster than the speed needed
to do the job. Do not run the engine at high speed when
not in use.
• Always stop the engine during suspended or delayed
operation, or when you walk from one location to another.
• Stop the engine for maintenance, repair or to install or
remove the tines. To avoid injury, stop the unit and make
sure the tines no longer turn.
• The tines become very sharp from use. Always wear heavy
gloves when handling, removing, installing or cleaning the
tines.
• Use only Genuine Factory Parts™ replacement parts and
accessories for this unit. These are available from your
authorized service dealer. Use of any non original factory
parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user,
or damage to the unit, and void your warranty.
• Keep the unit clean of vegetation and other materials. They
may become lodged between the tines and gearbox or guard.
• To reduce the risk of fire, replace a faulty muffler and spark
arrestor. Keep the engine and muffler free from grass,
leaves, excessive grease or carbon build up.
OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS
• Never store the unit, with fuel in the tank, inside a building
where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing or transporting. Be
sure to secure the unit while transporting.
• Store the unit in a dry place, either locked up or up high to
prevent unauthorized use or damage. Keep out of the
reach of children.
• Clean the tines with a hose and water. Wipe the tines with
a light machine oil to prevent rust.
• Never douse or squirt the engine with water or any other liq-
uid. Keep handles dry, clean and free from debris. Clean after
each use, as described in the Cleaning and Storage section.
• Keep these instructions. Refer to them often and use them
to instruct other users. If you loan someone this unit, also
loan them these instructions.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
• IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION •
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION