Saw Safety Series -- 4

In less than 10 minutes, this video will demonstrate how to safely fell a tree. The steps are simple and thorough. Watch and listen carefully and you'll be ready in no time.

You can also check out this video on our Support Page.


New to this series? Be sure to check out the following to catch up: Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3.

Saw Safety Series -- 3

 New to our blog? Be sure to check out the first installments Saw Safety Series --1 and Saw Safety Series -- 2

So now you're all dress up and your saw is in working order...how do you get started? It's a simple 8 step process that will work every time!

Before you try cranking your saw, find a clear flat area on the ground to place your saw on. Clear leaves or debris away from the saw. Place you left hand on the top handle, the tip of your right boot through the rear handle and use your right hand to move freely to each step (except step 1).

Step 1: Rotate your left wrist toward the front guard and push it forward to engage the chain brake. You could also do this step with your right hand if you hold the saw as if operating it.

Step 2: Pull the choke lever out. This will automatically put the ignition switch in the ON or RUN position. .

Step 3: Press the air purge (primer bulb) 3-5 times. The bulb does NOT have to be completely filled with fuel.

 

Step 4:Press the decompression valve to release pressure.

Step 5: Pull cord slowly until in catches. Rapidly pull cord about 12"-14". Listen for a partial start or the sound of the engine firing, usually within 2 or 3 pulls.

 

 

Step 6: Push choke lever down.

 

Step 7: Press decompression valve again. 

Step 8: Pull cord until saw cranks. Once saw is running, quickly squeeze the throttle trigger and immediately release to set the engine to idle.

That's it! You're up and running. Now that your saw is running you are ready  attack that monster of a tree you've been battling with.

Saw Safety Series -- 2

If you're stopping by the first time, be sure to check out Part 1 to get caught up!


Now that you're all decked out in safety gear, it's timed to move on to the  next step. It is imperative that you select the correct saw for the job at hand. For instance, you wouldn't want to cut down a 200 year old pine tree with 14" climbing saw; neither would you need a 3 foot bar on your saw to cut down a few saplings in the backyard. To ensure the proper saw selection for each task, stop by and speak to a salesman about the chain saw that's right for you!

Husqvarna sales rep displaying the saw he'll be using on location for the saw class.

Once you've chosen a sufficient saw, it's crucial to maintain all moving parts of the saw in working order. The better your saw functions, the lower the risk of injury! Basic saw maintenance includes using fresh gas or a premix like Husqvarna's Premixed Fuel, which we sell for just $7.99 a quart. You'll also want to regularly check and adjust your bar and chain and be sure to keep bar oil in the saw. ALWAYS inspect your saw before cranking it. For a full walk thru of assessing your saw, visit our Support Page and watch some of our safety videos.



Husqvarna sales rep teaching saw class students about saw basics.

If your saw has a tank of fresh gas, a reservoir full of bar oil and a sharp chain properly adjusted, you should be ready to start. Remember to engage your chain brake before cranking and at any other time when you are not actively cutting, especially if you set the saw anywhere. This eliminates the possibility of walking by or accidentally running into the saw and losing a body part.


The last thing to evaluate before you actually start cutting is the environment. Be aware of your surroundings. Are there other people around? What is the terrain like? Are there any nearby trees that may snag the tree or branch you intend to cut? Examine every possibility, decide where to cut, and check your surroundings one last time before you begin cutting.

Teacher and students survey the tree and surrounding area before felling the tree.

Not sure where to make your cuts or how to fell a tree without ending up underneath the log? Installment #4 in this series will discuss some key points in tree felling including the use of wedges, axes, directionality of your cuts, and how to correct a faulty cut. You don't want to miss out on that post! But first, next week we'll go through correct and safe procedures for starting and running your saw.

Saw Safety Series -- 1

The most important thing we share with our customers is safety education. Using machinery of any type can be dangerous and power equipment is no exception. Being aware of proper safety practices can serve as a precaution as well as a boost of confidence to tackle a new project!

This series will be focused on chainsaw safety. At the close of the series, we'll also offer open enrollment for a hands on chainsaw class. So if you're still not confident in your abilities, stay tuned for more details on that class.

 


As with any other job, the first step to a safe work environment is to have the proper gear and be sure that it is in working order. Today we will discuss some of the protection options for doing tree work.

First and foremost, you always want to protect your head. We offer several helmet styles, some of which include facial screens and ear protection. The important thing with a helmet is to be sure that it fits snugly and won't fall off when you look up at the tree tops.

As mentioned before, you'll also want ear and eye protection. Ear protection includes ear plugs, ear muffs, or noise cancelling head phones. Eye protection can range from a full facial screen to a simple pair of sun or safety glasses. We also offer goggles that seal to the face to prevent sawdust from getting in the eyes.

Next you'll want to be sure that all clothing is secure. No loose fitting clothing or saggy pants. Suspenders are available at Red Top Mower to provide extra security. You'll definitely want the suspenders if you decide to purchase our next safety item: chaps. Chaps are an additional protective layer that straps on around the waist and calves. Chaps are incredibly important because they protect your legs, which tend to be most often in the line of fire when it comes to chainsaw accidents.

You will be using your hands quite a bit and they'll be in close proximity to the bar and chain at all time, so it's crucial to have quality protective gloves designed with chain protection. This aspect of your gear won't prevent an injury but it will lessen the degree of the injury. Last but not least, you'll want to be sure to wear good sturdy footwear. Boots are best and should include steel toes, non-slip soles and if available, chain protection as well. It's always best to keep your feet away from falling limbs and rolling logs, but it's good to have the security of steel toed boots when a escaped log sneaks up on you!


Now you know, so get out and find some good quality protective gear. Stop by to see us and we'll outfit you with everything you need. We'll be back next week with the next installment: Know Your Saw.

It's August Already!

We're over half way through 2014. You know what that means, right? Christmas is coming! Don't wait til the last minute to find a perfect gift. And definitely don't try to brave those Black Friday crowds looking for a  great deal. We've got you covered for all your holiday needs!

We have so many things to offer, the hardest part will be deciding what you want to buy! From saws to 61" Zero Turn Radius mowers; from a go kart for your 3 year old to a mini bike for your 12 year old, we've got the best deals, superior service, friendly faces to get you the gifts you're looking for!

Having a hard time figuring out what to get your special someone (or kids) this holiday season? 

Surprise them with something they’d never expect from you … the latest in yard/garden equipment and accessories.  This is an especially good idea if you have recently moved into a new home with more lawn, trees or sidewalk/driveway space than you have owned before.

Even if you haven’t moved, it’s likely you have heard some grumbling about that old mower with a cranky engine, or the sore back from pulling all the weeds by hand.

 

Let's start with a lawn mower! The Husqvarna 7021P is a GREAT upgrade from pretty much anything else you might be using, and it will even fit (almost) under the tree! This efficient mower features a compact design, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and three cutting systems, collection, mulch and side discharge. The handle folds for easy storage and transportation and double ball-bearing wheels ensure smooth operation and durability.

 

Riding in Style

You have more property, and less time than ever to take care of it. All work and no play has made Jack a dull boy. So how about considering a lawn tractor? While their primary function is easily mowing expansive lawns, a versatile model can accommodate a variety of needs – including collection, mulching and side discharge. They can be used to pull wagons or a dethatcher, too. And let's face it: they just look like a whole lot of fun!

Our favorite model is the Husqvarna YT46LS, which is only $2299.95!

Learn more here.

 

Even if new equipment is not on your shopping list, why not pick up a few stocking stuffers that will make his outdoor work safer and more comfortable? Many accessories are available that will make his tasks simpler and safer – like heavy-duty work gloves, clear protective glasses, work boots and a mesh visor with hearing protectors.

 

Looking for some more ideas or a gift for the kids that blow last year's surprise OUT OF THE WATER!? Check back next week for our GO KART information including prices, models, layaway options, and more!

Trailmaster Torque Converter Service

Do you have a go kart, but get tired of paying someone to service it all the time? We're here to help. This series will walk you through some of the most common technical maintenance tasks associated with go karts. This week's lesson will walk you through the regular maintenance procedure for a torque converter (clutch). You may read through the text and photo version, scroll to the bottom to view the video, or view the video on YouTube here.

***Notice: This tutorial applies specifically to TrailMaster MID karts. Though the exact details may differ, the general procedure and techniques apply to any type of kart with a torque converter. Be sure to evaluate your kart before you begin***

1-- Remove the cover bolts with a 10mm socket. There are 3 bolts on the Mid kart. Take care to NOT DROP THE SPACER/RETAINING BOLT.

2-- Step 2 involves two options. The video demonstrates both techniques. This tutorial will describe both methods as well.

OPTION 1: Secure washer with vice grips. Remove the center bolt with 10mm socket/wrench.

OPTION 2: Insert a large flat head screw driver into the slot on the washer. Hold screw driver to maintain the position of the washer while removing the center bolt with a 10 mm socket/wrench.

3-- Remove pulley and center lug from shaft.

At this point, your clutch will look like this:

4-- Clean the center lug and pulley with carburetor cleaner, soap and water, degreaser, or another cleaning agent.

5-- Lubricate the outside surface of the lug with a small amount of wheel bearing grease. Wipe away any excess.

6--Reassemble the clutch:

• Shoulder on lug should face away from the engine
• Align the key on the lug with the keyway on the shaft
• Align flat edges of pulley hole with shoulder on center lug
• Insert washer with the key aligned to the keyway
• Insert bolt and tighten by using the same method used to remove bolt

Replace the cover and secure the three bolts with the 10mm socket or wrench.

For further clarification, watch our video below or view it on YouTube here.

Slowing Down, Storing Equipment

The name of the season is “fall”, not “fail.” 

Failure can loom nearby with your lawn and garden – and the tools you use to care for them – once the air turns brisk and leaves turn. With the winter season approaching, now is the time to perform equipment maintenance and give your lawn some special care before temperatures plummet and winter grabs hold.

 

Aeration

Here in Georgia, fall is the perfect time to aerate your warm-weather-grass lawn. This is especially true in yards that receive heavy foot traffic throughout the summer. The simple aeration process -- punching holes through the grass thatch layer -- is vital to maintaining a healthy lawn, because it allows water, air and nutrients to more easily reach the root system.

You can tell when a lawn does not get aerated regularly. It grows slower, has more shallow root systems and is much more susceptible to insects and disease. Aeration brings more oxygen into the lawn, which helps break down the thatch that forms over the summer – thus allowing the lawn to absorb more water. And once aeration is performed, the time is right to reseed patchy areas so they will be thick and green by spring.

Two types of equipment are typically used for aeration – either a spike aerator, which punches holes in the sod; or a plug aerator, which removes small plugs of soil from the lawn. Both can be effective; come see us for more information.

Aerators can be rented, but you may want to purchase one if your lawn needs more frequent aeration. Husqvarna offers several types of compact, easy-to-use and ergonomically-designed aerators that are engine-powered or towable. We also carry locally manufactured aerators to pull behind a tractor, mower, or ATV.

Maintenance

The change of seasons is the perfect time to make necessary adjustments to your mower, trimmer, chainsaw or other lawn/garden equipment. Preventative maintenance is key to saving time and money. During this down time of the slow season, go ahead and inspect all the moving pieces and parts on your machine such as belts, blades, screws and chains. You'll also want to be sure to change or clean filters, oil, and plugs. Or for an even easier maintenance experience, just bring your equipment to Red Top Mower for a service!

Fuel for Fall … and Winter

As you wind down from the busy season of weekly lawn and garden maintenance, you can begin preparing your machines for winter. Be sure to run a product like seafoam through each machine. These products eliminate garbage inside the fuel tank, carburetor and engine. Try to dump the fuel before storing the machine over the winter, or run it until it completes uses all of the fuel. If you leave any fuel in the machine it is absolutely necessary to include a stabilizer in your fuel tank to be sure your engine doesn't become clogged as it sets. All of these products, as well as more information, are available on our showroom counter.

These and other tips will make fall a successful time for your lawn and the equipment that cares for it.  Next spring when everything turns green again, you'll thank yourself for your preventative maintenance. A few minutes this fall may well save you countless hours and dollars come spring time!