18
Figure 23
OPERATION
Blade Thrust (Kickback)
WARNING
Blade thrust (kickback) is the
sudden, forceful, and uncontrolled movement of a
blade-equipped trimmer that may occur if the blade
binds in the cut of if the blade strikes a solid object.
Blade thrust (kickback) throws the trimmer in the direc-
tion opposite blade rotation at the point of contact, and
the jolt received by the operator can result in further
loss of control (Figure 23).
• Replace or resharpen dull blades. Dull blades are more
likely to bind in the cut and cause blade thrust.
• Watch for hidden obstacles, such as rocks, stumps,
roots, etc., that could cause the blade to kickback if
struck. Blade thrust is more likely to occur in areas
where it is diffi cult to see what is being cut.
• Accelerate the engine to maximum speed before
starting the cut, and saw through with uniform pres-
sure.
Trimming and Edging
• Use a nylon line for cutting against a hard surface.
• Work from an angle where debris that strikes the hard
surface will fl y away from you.
• Avoid contact with wires, wire fences, metal rods, etc.
Overlapping a wire will cause the nylon line to wrap
around the wire and break off.
Operating on Slopes
• Start on the low side of a slope, and work upward.
• Avoid steep slopes that would require holding the
cutting head above waist level.
• Avoid slippery slopes that might cause you to lose
your balance.
Summary of Contents for BP33-W
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