Craftsman 138. 79771 Operator's Manual page 10

CUTTING TIPS
WARNING!
Always keep both hands on the
hedge trimmer handles. Never hold shrubs with
one hand and operate hedge trimmer with the
other. Failure to heed this warning can result in
serious injury.
WARNING!
Clear the area to be cut before
each use. Remove all objects such as cords,
lights, wire, or loose string which can become
entangled in the cutting blade and create a risk
of serious personal injury.
• When operating the hedge trimmer, keep the
extension cord behind the trimmer. Never drape it over
the hedge being trimmed.
• Do not force the hedge trimmer through heavy
shrubbery. This can cause the blades to bind and slow
down. If the blades slow down, reduce the pace.
• Do not attempt to cut stems or twigs that are larger
than 3/4 in., or those obviously too large to feed into the
cutting blade. Use a non-powered hand saw or pruning
saw to trim large stems.
• If blades do become jammed, stop the motor, allow the
blades to stop, and disconnect the plug from the power
source before attempting to remove the obstruction.
• If desired, you can use a string to help cut your hedge
level. Decide how high you want the hedge. Stretch a
piece of string along the hedge at the desired height.
Trim the hedge just above the guide line of string. Trim
the side of a hedge so that it will be slightly narrower
at the top. More of the hedge will be exposed when
shaped this way, and it will be more uniform.
• Wear gloves when trimming thorny or prickly growth.
When trimming new growth, use a wide sweeping
action, so that the stems are fed directly into the cutting
blade. Older growth will have thicker stems and will be
trimmed easiest by using a sawing movement.
OPERATION
WARNING!
safe operation using the blade. Extreme care
must be taken when using blades to ensure safe
operation. Refer to Important Safety Instructions
and Specific Safety Rules (See pages 3 - 5)
The unit is used for cutting in either direction in a slow,
sweeping action from side to side.
• Stand so that you are stable and balanced on both
feet. Do not overreach.
• Inspect and clear the area of any hidden objects.
• Never use the hedge trimmer near power lines,
fencing, posts, buildings, or other immovable objects.
• Never use a blade after hitting a hard object without
first inspecting it for damage. Do not use if any
damage is detected.
• Never touch blades or service unit with the power
supply connected.
10 — English
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