Troy-Bilt Colt FT Operation Manual - Page 4

c. When practical, remove gas-powered equipment from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle. d. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device. e. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources of ignition. f. Never fuel machine indoors. g. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before refueling. h. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch below bottom of filler neck to allow space for fuel expansion. i. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely. j. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes before starting the engine. k. To reduce fire hazards, keep machine free of grass, leaves, or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and remove any fuel soaked debris. l. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes dryer or other gas appliances. Operation 1. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts. Contact with the rotating parts can amputate hands and feet. 2. Do not operate machine while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 3. Never operate this machine without good visibility or light. Always be sure of your footing and keep a firm hold on the handles. 4. Keep bystanders away from the machine while it is in operation. Stop the machine if anyone enters the area. 5. Be careful when tilling in hard ground. The tines may catch in the ground and propel the tiller forward. If this occurs, let go of the handle bars and do not restrain the machine. 6. Exercise extreme caution when operating on or crossing gravel surfaces. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic. Do not carry passengers. 7. Never operate the machine at high transport speeds on hard or slippery surfaces. 8. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling. 9. Look down and behind and use care when in reverse or pulling machine towards you. 10. Start the engine according to the instructions found in this manual and keep feet well away from the tines at all times. 11. 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. 12. 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 adjustments, or inspections. 13. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas. 14. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do not touch. 15. Use caution when tilling near fences, buildings and underground utilities. Rotating tines can cause property damage or personal injury. 16. Do not overload machine capacity by attempting to till soil too deep at too fast of a rate. 17. 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. 18. Keep all shields, guards, and safety devices in place and operating properly. 19. Never pick up or carry machine while the engine is running. 20. Use only attachments and accessories approved by the manufacturer. Failure to do so can result in personal injury. 21. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual, use care and good judgement. Contact Customer Support for assistance and the name of you nearest servicing dealer.. Maintenance & Storage 1. Keep machine, attachments and accessories in safe working order. 2. Allow a machine to cool at least five minutes before storing. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. 3. 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. 4. 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. 5. Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of engine. 6. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as necessary. 7. Follow this manual for safe loading, unloading, transporting, and storage of this machine. 8. Always refer to the operator's manual for important details if the machine is to be stored for an extended period. 4 Section 2 - Important Safe Operation Practices