MTD 450 - Manual (Page 5)

5
Safe
Operation
Practices
WARNING
This symbol points out
important safety in-
structions which, if not
followed, could endanger
the personal safety and/or
property of yourself and
others. Read and follow all
instructions in this manual
before attempting to oper-
ate this machine. Failure
to comply with these
instructions may result in
personal injury. When you
see this symbol, HEED ITS
WARNING!
Maintenance & Storage
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their
proper operation regularly.
Check bolts and screws for proper tightness at
frequent intervals to keep the machine in safe
working condition. Also, visually inspect machine
for any damage.
Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, stop the
engine and make certain the tines and all moving
parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug
wire and ground it against the engine to prevent
unintended starting.
Do not change the engine governor settings or
over-speed the engine. The governor controls the
maximum safe operating speed of the engine.
Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels,
as necessary.
Follow this manual for safe loading, unloading,
transporting, and storage of this machine.
Never store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light
such as a water heater, furnace, clothes dryer, etc.
Always refer to the operator’s manual for proper
instructions on off-season storage.
If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this outdoors.
Observe proper disposal laws and regulations for
gas, oil, etc. to protect the environment.
Your Responsibility
Restrict the use of this power machine to persons
who read, understand, and follow the warnings and
instructions in this manual and on the machine.
The safety labels on the tiller are shown in the
“Safety Labels” section. To ensure safe operation
of the tiller, follow the instructions on all labels
closely.
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After striking a foreign object, stop the engine,
disconnect the spark plug wire and ground against
the engine Thoroughly inspect the machine for any
damage. Repair the damage before starting and
operating.
Disengage all clutch levers (if fitted) and stop engine
before you leave the operating position (behind the
handles). Wait until the tines come to a complete
stop before unclogging the tines, making any adjust-
ments, or inspections.
Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.
Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
Use caution when tilling near fences, buildings and
underground utilities. Rotating tines can cause
property damage or personal injury.
Do not overload machine capacity by attempting to
till soil too deep at too fast of a rate.
If the machine should start making an unusual noise
or vibration, stop the engine, disconnect the spark
plug wire and ground it against the engine. Inspect
thoroughly for damage. Repair any damage before
starting and operating.
Keep all shields, guards, and safety devices in place
and operating properly.
Never pick up or carry machine while the engine is
running.
Use only attachments and accessories approved
by the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in
personal injury.
If situations occur which are not covered in this
manual, use care and good judgment. Contact your
dealer or call the customer service number found on
page two. •
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