Husqvarna ST131 Owners Manual - Page 2

CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a new snow thrower. It has been designed, engineered and manufactured to give best possible dependability and performance. Should you experience any problem you cannot easily remedy, please contact your nearest authorized service center. We have competent, well-trained technicians and the proper tools to service or repair this unit. Please read and retain this manual. The instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your snow thrower properly. Always observe the "SAFETY RULES". Safe Operation Practices for Walk-Behind Snow Throwers IMPORTANT: This snow thrower is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury. Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. It means CAUTION!!! BECOME ALERT!!! YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED. WARNING: Always disconnect spark plug wire and place it where it cannot contact plug in order to prevent accidental starting when setting up, transporting, adjusting or making repairs. WARNING: This snow thrower is for use on sidewalks, driveways and other ground level surfaces. Caution should be exercised while using on sloping surfaces. Do not use snow thrower on surfaces above ground level such as roofs of residences, garages, porches or other such structures or buildings. Training 1. Read, understand and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before operating this unit. Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment. Know how to stop the unit and disengage the controls quickly. 2. Never allow children to operate the equipment. Never allow adults to operate the equipment without proper instruction. 3. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children. 4. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling, especially when operating the snow thrower in reverse. Preparation 1. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to be used and remove all doormats, sleds, boards, wires, and other foreign objects. 2. Ensure the control bar is released before starting the engine. 3. Do not operate the equipment without wearing adequate winter garments. Avoid loose fitting clothing that can get caught in moving parts. Wear footwear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces. 4. Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable (a) Use an approved fuel container. (b) Never add fuel to a running engine or hot engine. WARNING: Snow throwers have exposed rotating parts, which can cause severe injury from contact, or from material thrown from the discharge chute. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, small children and pets at all times including startup. CAUTION: Muffler and other engine parts become extremely hot during operation and remain hot after engine has stopped. To avoid severe burns on contact, stay away from these areas. WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. (c) Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill fuel tank indoors. (d) Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on the ground, away from your vehicle, before filling. (e) 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. (f) Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or container opening at all times, until refueling is complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device. (g) Replace gasoline cap securely and wipe up spilled fuel. (h) If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately. 5. Use extension cords and receptacles as specified by the manufacturer for all units with electric drive motors or electric starting motors. 6. Never attempt to make any adjustments while the engine (motor) is running (except when specifically recommended by manufacturer). 7. Always wear safety glasses or eye shields during operation or while performing an adjustment or repair to protect eyes from foreign objects that may be thrown from the machine. 8. Use ear protectors to avoid damage to hearing. 2