GENERAL SAFETY RULES
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the unit and
in the manual(s). Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and
the proper use of the unit before starting.
• Use this equipment for its intended purpose only.
• Familiarize yourself with all of the safety and operating
decals on this equipment and on any of its attachments or
accessories.
• DO NOT put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
• Only allow responsible individuals who are familiar with the
instructions to operate the unit. DO NOT allow children to
operate this unit. DO NOT allow adults to operate the unit
without proper instruction.
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the unit is to be used and
remove all foreign objects. Your equipment can propel small
objects at high speed causing personal injury or property
damage. Stay away from breakable objects, such as house
windows, automobiles, greenhouses, etc.
• Wear appropriate clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt
or jacket. Also wear long trousers or slacks. DO NOT wear
shorts. NEVER wear sandals, open shoes or sneakers and
NEVER operate the unit with bare feet.
• DO NOT wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can get caught
in moving parts. Always keep hands, feet, hair and loose cloth-
ing away from any moving parts on engine and unit.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
when operating the unit to protect your eyes from foreign
objects which can be thrown from the unit.
• Always wear hearing protection. Engine produces loud noise
that can damage hearing.
• Prolonged exposure to noise and vibration from gasoline
engine-powered equipment should be avoided. Take intermit-
tent breaks and/or wear ear protection from engine noise as
well as heavy work gloves to reduce vibration in the hands.
• Always wear work gloves and sturdy footwear. Wear foot-
wear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces. Leather
work shoes or short boots work well for most people. These
will protect the operator’s ankles and shins from small sticks,
splinters, and other debris.
• It is advisable to wear protective headgear to prevent the
possibility of being struck by small flying particles, or being
struck by low hanging branches, twigs, or other objects
which may be unnoticed by the operator.
• DO NOT operate the unit without proper guards or other
safety protective devices in place.
• See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and
installation of accessories.
• Only use accessories approved by the manufacturer.
• Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.
• DO NOT operate product when fatigued or under the influ-
ence of alcohol, drugs or other medication which can cause
drowsiness or affect your ability to operate this unit safely.
• NEVER operate unit in wet grass. Always be sure of your
footing; keep a firm hold on the handle and walk. NEVER run
with the unit.
• Watch for traffic when operating near, or when crossing roads.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop the
engine (motor), disconnect the spark plug wire and prevent
it from touching the spark plug. Check immediately for cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. If the noise or
vibrations of the unit increase, stop immediately and per-
form an inspection.
• NEVER leave the unit unattended when the engine is running.
• Regularly inspect the unit. Make sure parts are not bent,
damaged or loose. Keep all screws, nuts and bolts tight.
• DO NOT transport the unit from one place to another with
the engine running.
• When moving the packaged unit, always do so with a partner.
• Check local regulations for age restrictions on use of this unit.
PRODUCT-SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
• This product is intended for use by two operators only. NEVER
attempt to use powerhead with only one operator as serious
injury may occur.
• The auger should not rotate when the engine is idling. If it
does rotate when engine is idling, contact Earthquake
Customer Service for instructions.
• After striking an object or if an object becomes lodged in
the auger, turn engine off, remove the wire from the spark
plug and secure, allow to cool before attempting to remove
the foreign object.
• The earth blade is very sharp. Use extreme caution when
drilling a hole or replacing the blade.
• DO NOT mechanically extract the auger from the hole.
ENGINE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
If your product comes with a separate engine manual, be
sure to read and follow all safety and warning precautions
outlined there, in addition to any in this manual.
PREVENTING CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING
• Always start and run engine outdoors. DO NOT start or run
engine in an enclosed area, even if doors or windows are open.
• NEVER try to ventilate engine exhaust indoors. Carbon
monoxide can reach dangerous levels very quickly.
• NEVER run engine outdoors, in a location, where exhaust
fumes may be pulled into a building.
• NEVER run engine outdoors in a poorly ventilated area
where the exhaust fumes may be trapped and not easily
4
Operator's Manual
Two-Man Earth Auger Powerhead 9800 Series
Check for parts online at
www.getearthquake.com
or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-4:30 CST
