Gehl RT175 Operator's Manual page 28

Safety
• Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap after
the engine has reached operating temperature or
if it is overheated. At operating temperatures,
engine coolant is extremely hot and under pres-
sure. Always wait for the engine to cool before
attempting to relieve pressure and remove the
radiator cap. Failure to heed this warning could
result in severe burns.
• Refer to the parts manual for information about
assembly of components. Always use the correct
parts and the proper torques — incorrect fastener
connections can dangerously weaken assemblies.
• Exhaust fumes can kill. Do not operate the
machine in an enclosed area unless there is ade-
quate ventilation.
• Operators should also be aware of any open win-
dows, doors or duct work into which exhaust
gases may be carried, exposing others to danger.
• Do not run the engine if repairs are being per-
formed alone. There should always be at least 2
people present if the engine must be run during
service. Both persons must maintain visual con-
tact with each other. Keep a safe distance away
from all rotating and moving parts.
• Always use the proper tools while working on the
machine. Inappropriate tools could break or slip,
causing injury, or they may not adequately per-
form intended functions.
• Unless necessary for servicing the machine, do
not open the engine cover while the engine is
running.
• Do not use the machine when maintenance is
scheduled to be performed. Postponing mainte-
nance can result in a serious reduction of the ser-
vice life of the machine, more serious and costly
equipment failures, and contribute to unsafe
operating conditions.
• Do not work on hot engines, cooling systems or
hydraulic systems. Wait for the engine to cool.
When engine lube oil, gearbox lubricant or other
fluids require changing, wait for fluid tempera-
tures to decrease to a moderate level before
removing drain plugs.
918468/EP0313
NOTE:
Temperatures below 49°C (120°F) will
reduce the chances of scalding exposed skin
while allowing the fluid to drain quickly and
completely. Do not let the fluid fully cool,
because drain time will be substantially
increased.
• Dispose of all oils and fluids properly. Used oils/
fluids are environmental contaminants and may
only be disposed of at approved collection facili-
ties. Never drain any oils/fluids onto the ground,
dispose of in municipal waste collection contain-
ers, or in metropolitan sewer systems or landfills.
Check state and local regulations for other
requirements.
• All safety equipment must be maintained so it is
always in good condition.
• Safety-critical parts must be periodically
replaced. Replace the following potentially fire-
related components as soon as they begin to show
signs of deterioration:
– Fuel system flexible hoses, fuel tank over-
flow drain hose and the fuel filler cap.
– Hydraulic system hoses, especially the pump
outlet lines. Replace hydraulic hoses every 6
years from the date of manufacture, even if
they do not appear damaged. The date of
manufacture (month or quarter and year) is
indicated on the hydraulic hoses.
• Keep mounting brackets and hose and cable rout-
ing straps tight. Hose routing should have grad-
ual bends.
• After cleaning the machine, examine all fuel,
lubricant and hydraulic oil lines for leaks, chafe
marks and damage. Tighten any loose connec-
tions and repair or replace parts as necessary.
• Hydraulic line and hoses must be routed and fit-
ted properly. Make sure no connections are inter-
changed.
• When handling oil, grease and other chemical
substances, follow the product-related safety
requirements Material Safety Data Sheet
(MSDS) carefully to prevent burning or scalding.
22 Printed in U.S.A.