4.5 Before operation
Make sure that only persons who are
familiar with the instruction manual are
permitted to use the machine.
Check the fuel system (particularly visible
parts such as e.g. tank, tank cap, hose
connections) before operating the
machine. In the event of any leaks or
damage, do not start the engine – fire
hazard!
Have the machine repaired by a specialist
dealer prior to operation.
Observe the local regulations regarding
permitted operating times for gardening
power tools with combustion engines or
electric motors.
Carefully inspect the complete area on
which the machine is to be used and
remove any stones, sticks, wires, bones
and other foreign objects which could be
thrown up by the machine. Obstacles (e.g.
tree stumps, roots) can be easily
overlooked in long grass.
For this reason, mark all foreign objects
(obstacles) which are hidden in the lawn
and cannot be removed before
commencing work with the machine.
All faulty, worn or damaged parts must be
replaced before using the machine.
Replace any illegible or damaged danger
signs and warnings on the machine. Your
STIHL specialist has a supply of
replacement stickers and all the other
spare parts.
The machine must only be used in good
operating condition. Before each use,
check whether:
– The machine is properly assembled.
0478 111 9939 A - EN
– The cutting tool and the entire cutting
unit (mowing blade, fastening elements,
mowing deck housing) are in good
condition. In particular check for secure
fastening, damage (notches or cracks)
and wear.(
11.4)
– The tank cap is properly attached.
– The tank and fuel-carrying parts as well
as the tank cap are in good condition.
– The safety devices (e.g. motorstop
lever, discharge flap, housing,
handlebar, protective grille) are in good
condition and working properly.
– The grass catcher box is undamaged
and correctly installed; a damaged
grass catcher box must not be used.
– The oil closure screw is properly
attached.
Carry out any necessary work or consult a
specialist dealer. STIHL recommends
STIHL specialist dealers.
4.6 Working with your machine
Never work when animals or
persons, particularly children,
are in the danger area.
The switch and safety devices installed in
the machine must not be removed or
bypassed. In particular, never secure the
motorstop lever to the handlebar (e.g. by
tying it).
Caution – risk of injury!
Never put hands or feet on or
underneath rotating parts.
Never touch the rotating blade.
Always keep away from the discharge
opening.
Always observe the safety distance
provided by the handlebar. The handlebar
must always be installed correctly and
must not be modified. Never operate the
machine with the handlebar folded down.
Never attach any objects to the handlebar
(e.g. work clothing).
Only work during the day or with good
artificial light.
Do not operate the machine in the rain or
during thunder storms, particularly when
there is a risk of lightning strike.
The risk of accidents is higher if the ground
is damp due to increased danger of
slipping.
Particular caution should be exercised
during working in order to prevent slipping.
If possible, avoid using the machine when
the ground is damp.
Exhaust gases:
Danger to life through poisoning!
In the case of nausea, headache,
impaired vision (e.g. decreasing
field of view) hearing disorder,
dizziness, decreasing power of
concentration, stop working
immediately. These symptoms may
be caused by excessively high
exhaust gas concentrations.
The machine generates
poisonous exhaust gases when
the engine is running. The
gases contain poisonous
carbon monoxide, a colourless and
odourless gas, as well as other pollutants.
The engine must never be operated in
closed or poorly ventilated spaces.
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