4
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
• Always stop the engine when cutting is delayed or
when walking from one cutting location to another.
• Stop and switch the engine to off for maintenance,
repair, or for changing the cutting attachment or other
attachments.
• 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.
• Use only original equipment manufacturer replace-
ment 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 attach-
ment 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.
• Do not operate unit in awkward positions, off balance,
outstretched arms, or one-handed. Always use two
hands when operating unit with thumbs and fingers
encircling the handles.
• Do not raise cutting attachment above ground level
while unit is operating. Injury to operator could result.
• Stop the engine IMMEDIATELY if you feel excessive
vibration. Vibration is a sign of trouble. Inspect thorough-
ly for loose nuts, bolts or damage before continuing.
Repair or replace affected parts as necessary.
OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS
• Never store the unit, with fuel in the tank, inside a build-
ing where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing or transport-
ing. 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 the Cleaning and Storage.
• 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
• Mix and add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area
where there are no sparks or flames. Slowly remove the
fuel cap only after stopping engine. Do not smoke while
fueling or mixing fuel. Wipe up any spilled fuel from the
unit immediately. Always wipe unit dry before using.
• Move the unit at least 30 feet (9.1 m) from the fueling
source and site before starting the engine. Do not
smoke or allow sparks and open flames near the area
while adding fuel or operating the unit.
WHILE OPERATING
• Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or
building. Breathing exhaust fumes can kill. Operate
this unit only in a well ventilated outdoor area.
• Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as
meeting ANSI Z87.1-1989 standards. Also wear
ear/hearing protection when operating this unit. Wear
a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty. Long
sleeve shirts are recommended.
• Wear heavy, long pants, boots and gloves. Do not
wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals or
go barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.
• The cutting attachment shield must always be in place
while operating the unit. Do not operate unit without
both trimming lines extended, and the proper line
installed. Do not extend the trimming line beyond the
length of the shield.
• Adjust the handle to your size 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 operating.
Keep a firm grip on both the front and rear grips.
• Keep hands, face, and feet at a distance from all mov-
ing 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. They remain hot for a
short time after you turn off the unit.
• Do not operate the engine faster than the speed
needed to cut, trim or edge. Do not run the engine at
high speed when you are not cutting.
