Modern AG Tiller - Manual (Page 5)

Rotary tiller - 5
- When machine is operated in populated areas
where thrown objects could injure persons or
property, operation must be stopped when anyone
comes within several hundred feet.
- the majority of the accidents involve entanglement
on the driveline, injury of by-standers by the ob-
jects thrown by the rotating tines, and operators
being knocked off the tractor by low hanging limbs
and then being run over by the tiller. accidents are
most likely to occur with machines that are loaned
or rented to someone who has not read the own-
er’s manual and is not familiar with a rotary tiller.
- the rotary tiller is designed for use only on trac-
tors with the power take- off (PtO) turning at 540-
RPM.
- Install and secure all guards and shields before
starting or operating. the tiller tines, driveline
guards and tractor, shields should be used and
maintained in good working condition. they should
be inspected carefully, at least daily, for missing or
broken chain links, shields, or guards. (Worn items
must be replaced at once to reduce possibility of
injury.)
- Disengage power takeoff (PtO) and place transmis-
sion in neutral before at-tempting to start engine.
- many varied objects, such as wire, cable, rope, or
chains, can become entangled in the operating
parts of the tiller. these items could then swing
outside the housing at greater velocities than the
tines. Such a situation is extremely hazardous. In-
spect the cutting area for such objects before till-
ing. Remove any like objects from the site.
- never allow the tilling tines to contact such items.
never assume an area is clear. always Check!
- always stop the tractor, disengage PtO, set brake,
shut off the tractor engine, remove the ignition
key, lower implement to the ground and allow ro-
tating pieces to come to a complete stop before
dismounting tractor. never leave equipment unat-
tended with the tractor running.
- never place hands or feet under tiller with tractor
engine running or before you are sure all motion
has stopped. Stay clear of all moving parts.
- Do not reach or place any part of your body under
equipment until it is blocked securely.
- Do not allow riders on the rotary tiller or tractor at
anytime. there is no safe place for any riders.
- Do not operate unless all personnel, livestock, and
pets are several hundred feet away to prevent in-
jury by thrown objects.
- never operate tractor and rotary tiller under trees
with low hanging limbs. Operators can be knocked
off the tractor and then run over by the rotating
tines.
- the rotating parts of this machine have been de-
signed and tested for rugged use. However, they
could fail upon impact with heavy, solid objects
such as steel guardrails and concrete abutment.
Such impact could cause the broken objects to be
thrown outward at very high velocities. to reduce
the possibility of property damage, serious injury,
or even death, never allow the tilling tines to con-
tact such obstacles.
- Stop rotary tiller and tractor immediately upon
striking an obstruction. turn engine off, remove
key, inspect and repair any damage before resum-
ing operation.
- Stay alert for uneven terrain, holes, rocks, and roots
and other hidden hazards. Keep away from drop-
offs and hazards that could cause roll over. use ex-
treme care and maintain minimum ground speed
when transporting or operating on hillsides, over
rough ground and when operating close to ditches
or fences. Be careful and slow down when turning
sharp corners and changing direction on slopes.
Do not start or stop suddenly on slopes. avoid op-
eration on steep slopes. In extremely uneven ter-
rain, rear wheels weights, front tractor weight, and/
or tire ballast should be used to improve stability.
- Pass rotary tiller diagonally through sharp dips and
avoid sharp drops to prevent “hanging up” tractor
and rotary tiller. Practice will improve your skills in
maneuvering on rough terrain. always cut down
slopes, never across the face. always check tractor
manual for proper use on slopes.
SafeTy SeCTiON continued