Stihl RZ 142 Instruction Manual - Page 11

WARNING Always disengage all drives, shut off the engine, and remove the key before doing any cleaning, refueling, or servicing. Fuel and its vapors are extremely flammable. Do not smoke while operating or fueling. Do not add fuel while engine is hot or running. Allow engine to cool for at least three (3) minutes prior to adding fuel. Do not add fuel indoors, in an enclosed trailer, garage, or any other enclosed area that is not well ventilated. Fuel spills should be cleaned up promptly and before operation begins. Fuel should be stored only in sealed containers approved for fuel. Proper maintenance is critical to the safety and performance of your unit. Keep the unit free of grass, leaves, and excess oil. Be sure to perform the maintenance procedures listed in this manual, especially periodically testing the safety system. WARNING To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling fuel. Fuel is extremely flammable and the vapors are explosive. • Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other sources of ignition. • Use only approved fuel containers. • Never remove the fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running or while hot. Allow the engine to cool for three (3) minutes before adding fuel. • Never add fuel to, or drain fuel from, the unit indoors. • Never store the unit or fuel container where there is an open flame, spark, or pilot light such as near a water heater or other appliance. • Never fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a truck bed with a plastic bed liner. Always place containers on the ground away from your vehicle before filling. • Remove fuel-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 fuel dispenser nozzle. • Keep 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. • If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing immediately. • Never over-fill the fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten securely. • Use care in handling fuels. They are flammable and vapors are explosive. • If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but move the unit away from the area of spillage and avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated. • Replace all fuel tank caps and fuel container caps securely. WARNING • Keep all hardware, especially blade attachment bolts, tight and keep all parts in good working condition. Replace all worn or damaged parts. • Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly. • Disengage the PTO, set the parking brake, stop the engine and remove the ignition key and/or disconnect spark plug wire. Wait for all movement to stop before adjusting, cleaning, or repairing. • Clean grass and debris from mower deck, drives, mufflers, and engine to prevent fires. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. • Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object. Repair, if necessary, before restarting. • Park the unit on level ground. Never allow untrained personnel to service the unit. • Use jack stands to support components when required. • Carefully release pressure from components with stored energy. • Disconnect the battery cables or remove the spark plug wire(s) before making any repairs. Disconnect the negative terminal first and the positive last. Reconnect positive first and negative last. • Use care when checking blades. Wrap the blade(s) with a shop towel or wear gloves, and use caution when servicing them. Only replace blades. Never straighten or weld them. • Keep hands and feet away from moving parts. If possible, do not make adjustments with the engine running. • Charge batteries in an open, well ventilated area, away from spark and flames. Unplug the charger before connecting or disconnecting from the battery. Wear protective clothes and use insulated tools. • Grass catcher components are subject to wear, damage, and deterioration, which could expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. Frequently check components and replace with manufacturer's recommended parts, when necessary. • Check brake operation frequently. Adjust and service as required. • Use only STIHL recommended replacement parts when making repairs. • Always comply with factory specifications on all settings and adjustments. • Only authorized STIHL servicing dealers should be utilized for major service and repair requirements. • Never attempt to make major repairs on this unit unless you have been properly trained. Improper service procedures can result in hazardous operation, equipment damage and voiding of manufacturer's warranty. 11