RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
5
• This unit has a clutch. The cutting attachment
remains stationary when the engine is idling. If it
does not, have the unit adjusted by an authorized
service technician.
• Adjust the D handle to provide the best grip.
• Be sure the cutting attachment is not in contact with
anything before starting the unit.
• Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position
whenever pulling the starter rope. The operator and
unit must be in a stable position while starting. See
Starting/Stopping Instructions.
• Use the right tool. Only use this tool for the purpose
intended.
• Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and
balance.
• Always hold the unit with both hands when operat-
ing. Keep a firm grip on both the front and rear han-
dle or grips.
• Keep hands, face, and feet at a distance from all
moving parts. Do not touch or try to stop the cutting
attachment when it is rotating.
• Do not touch the engine or muffler. 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 cut, trim or edge. Do not run the engine at
high speed when not cutting.
• Always stop the engine when cutting is delayed or
when walking from one cutting location to another.
• If you strike or become entangled with a foreign
object, stop the engine immediately and check for
damage. Do not operate before repairing damage.
Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.
• Stop and switch the engine to off for maintenance,
repair, or for changing the cutting attachment or
other attachments.
• Use only genuine Ryobi replacement parts when
servicing this unit. These parts are available from
your authorized service dealer. Do not use parts,
accessories or attachments not authorized by Ryobi
for this unit. Doing so 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 cutting
attachment and shield.
• 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.
FLAIL HEAD SAFETY
• Be certain that the Flail Head is assembled correctly
and properly mounted on the machine. See
Assembly Instructions.
• Keep the D handle between the operator and Flail
Head at all times.
• NEVER cut with the Flail Head located over
30 inches (76.2 cm) or more above the ground level.
• Do not attempt to touch or stop the Flail Head when
it is rotating.
• Do not run the unit at high speed when not cutting.
• Do not use the Flail Head for decorative trimming or
cutting brush.
• If you strike or become entangled with a foreign
object, stop the engine immediately and check for
damage. Have any damage repaired before further
operation is attempted.
• Inspect the flail blades regularly for excessive wear
and damage. Do not operate the Flail Head with
worn, broken, or cracked blades. Flail blades should
always be replaced as a set, using only Ryobi
replacement blades. Use of any other blades could
damage the unit and result in and serious personal
injury.
• Stop the engine IMMEDIATELY if you feel excessive
vibration. Vibration is a sign of trouble. Inspect
thoroughly for loose nuts and bolts, broken flail
blades, or other damage before continuing. Repair or
replace affected parts as necessary.
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 locked up and dry, or high and dry
place to prevent unauthorized use or damage. Keep
out of the reach of children.
• Never douse or squirt the unit with water or any
other liquid. Keep handles dry, clean and free from
debris. Clean after each use, see 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 INSTRUCTION