3
both trimming lines extended, and the proper line installed. Do
not extend the trimming line beyond the length of the shield.
• 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 J-handle to your size in order 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. Refer to Starting/Stopping
Instructions.
• Use the right tool. Only use this tool for its intended purpose.
• Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance.
• Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a
firm grip on both handles 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 rotates.
• Do not touch the engine, gear housing or muffler. These parts get
extremely hot from operation, even after the unit is turned off.
• 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 the unit, switch the engine to off, and disconnect the
spark plug for maintenance or repair.
• Use only original equipment manufacturer replacement parts
and accessories for this unit. These are available from your
authorized service dealer. Use of any unauthorized 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 cutting attachment and shield.
• To reduce fire hazard, replace a faulty muffler and spark
arrestor. Keep the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves,
excessive grease or carbon build up.
WHILE OPERATING WITH CUTTING BLADE
• Read and understand all safety warnings before operating this unit.
• Always use the shoulder harness when using the brush blade
accessory.
• Keep the J-handle between the operator and cutting attachment
or blade at all times.
• NEVER cut when the cutting blade is 30 inches (76 cm) or
more above the ground level.
• Blade thrust may occur when the spinning blade contacts an
object that it does not immediately cut. Blade thrust can be
violent enough to propel the unit and/or operator in any
direction, possibly causing a loss of control. Blade thrust can
occur without warning if the blade snags, stalls or binds. This
is more likely to occur in areas where it is difficult to see the
material being cut.
• For operation with the brush blade, do not cut anything
thicker than 1/2 inch or a violent kickback could occur.
• Do not attempt to touch or stop the blade when it is rotating.
• A coasting blade can cause injury while it continues to spin
after the engine is stopped or the throttle trigger is released.
Maintain proper control until the blade has completely
stopped rotating.
• Do not run the unit at high speed when not cutting.
• If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop
the engine immediately and check for damage. Have any
damage repaired before attempting further operations. Do not
operate unit with a bent, cracked or dull blade. Discard blades
that are bent, warped, cracked or broken.
• Do not sharpen the cutting blade. Sharpening the blade can
cause the blade tip to break off while in use. This can result in
severe personal injury. Replace the blade.
• Do not use the cutting blade for edging or as an edger; severe
personal injury to yourself or others may incur. Use the cutting
blade only for the purpose described in this manual.
• Stop the engine IMMEDIATELY if you feel excessive vibration.
Vibration is a sign of trouble. Inspect thoroughly for loose
nuts, bolts or damage before continuing. Repair or replace
affected parts as necessary.
OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS
• Never store a fueled unit 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 area, locked up or up high to prevent
unauthorized use or damage, 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 INSTRUCTIONS
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION