Ryobi RLM4617ME Original Instructions Manual page 3

deterioration. Any damage may cause objects to be
thrown towards the operator.
■ Replace worn or damaged parts before operating the
product.
■ The product shall not be operated without either the
entire grass catcher or the self-closing discharge
opening guard in place.
■ Do not use the product when there is a risk of lightning.
■ Do not force the product. It will do the job better and
safer at the speed for which it was designed.
■ Do not overload the product. Mowing long, thick grass
may cause the motor speed to drop, or the power to
stop. When mowing in long, thick grass, a first cut with
the cutting height set higher will help reduce the load.
See Setting the blade height.
■ Stop the blade when crossing gravel surfaces.
■ Do not pull the product backward unless absolutely
necessary. If you must back the product away from a
wall or obstruction, first look down and behind to avoid
tripping or pulling the product over your feet.
■ Stop the engine and allow the blades to come to a
complete stop if the product has to be tilted for
transportation across surfaces other than grass and
when transporting the product to and from the area
to be mowed.
■ Never operate the product with defective guards or
shields, or without safety devices in place, for example
deflectors and/or grass collector.
■ Start the engine carefully according to instructions and
keep hands and feet away from the cutting area. Keep
clear of the discharge opening at all times.
■ Never pick up or carry the product while the engine
is running.
■ Avoid holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, property stakes, or
other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could cause a
slip and fall accident.
■ Follow manufacturer's instructions for proper operation
and installation of accessories. Use only accessories
approved by the manufacturer.
■ Do not operate the engine in a confined space where
dangerous carbon monoxide fumes can collect.
■ Do not change the engine governor settings or over-
speed the engine.
■ Do not tilt the product when starting the engine or
whilst the engine is running. This exposes the blade
and increases the probability of objects being thrown.
■ Stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire, and
wait until the blade comes to a complete stop. Allow
the product to cool:
● before leaving the product unattended
● before cleaning a blockage or unclogging the chute
● before checking, cleaning or working on the
product
● after striking a foreign object; inspect the product
for damage and make repairs as necessary before
restarting and operating the product.
● before clearing the grass catcher
■ If the product starts to vibrate abnormally:
– inspect for damage
– replace or repair any damaged parts
– check and tighten any loose parts
■ Allow engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.
■ To reduce the risk of fire, keep the engine, silencer,
and petrol storage area free of grass, leaves, and
excessive grease.
■ If the fuel tank has to be drained, this should be done
outdoors.
Save this manual for future reference. Refer to them
frequently and use them to instruct others who may use
the product. If you lend someone this unit, lend them these
instructions also.
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