Troy-Bilt 654J Tiller User Manual


 
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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 symbol—heed its warning.
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.