RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
5
• Avoid accidental starting. Both the operator and unit
must be in a stable position in the starting position
whenever pulling the starter rope. Refer to the
Starting/Stopping Instructions.
• Use the right tool. Only use this tool for the purpose
intended.
• Do not force unit. It will do the job better and with less
likelihood of injury at a rate for which 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 when operation is delayed or
when walking from one location to another.
• Stop the engine for maintenance, repair, to install or
remove the tines. The unit must be stopped and the
tines no longer turning to avoid injury.
• The tines become very sharp from use. Always wear
heavy gloves when handling, removing, installing or
cleaning the tines.
• Use only genuine MTD replacement parts and
accessories for this unit. These are available from
your authorized service dealer. Use of any non MTD
parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the
user, or damage to the unit, and void your warranty.
• Keep unit clean of vegetation and other materials.
They may become lodged between the tines and
gearbox or guard.
•To reduce fire hazard, replace 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 liquid. Keep handles dry, clean and free from
debris. Clean after each use, referring to the Cleaning
and Storage instructions.
• 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
SAFETY AND INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS
This operator's manual describes safety and international symbols and pictographs that may appear on this product.
Read the operator's manual for complete safety, assembly, operating, maintenance and repair information.
SYMBOL MEANING
• SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL
Indicates danger, warning, or caution. May be used in conjunction with other
symbols or pictographs.
•WARNING - READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Read the Operator’s Manual(s) and follow all warnings and safety instructions.
Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders.
• WEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTION
WARNING:
Thrown objects and loud noise can cause severe eye injury and hearing
loss. Wear eye protection meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards and ear protection when
operating this unit.