OM2032 03/13 Safety - Section 20 Page 20-9 TOWING Improper towing methods may lead to serious personal injury and/or damage. If acid is accidentally ingested, drink a large quantity of water, milk, beaten eggs or vegetable oil. Call a doctor or poison prevention center immediately. Use a towing device with ample strength for the weight of this machine. Never tow a machine on a slope. When working with batteries always wear safety glasses or goggles. Inspect all towing apparatus for damage. DO NOT use tow rope that has kinks or is twisted. Batteries generate hydrogen gas. Hydrogen gas is very explosive and is easily ignited with a small spark of flame.
DO NOT stand near the towing cable during towing. Before working with batteries, stop the engine and turn the key switch to the OFF position. When connecting a machine that is to be towed, DO NOT allow anyone to go between the tow machine and the machine that is being towed. Avoid short-circuiting the battery terminals through accidental contact with metallic objects, such as tools across the terminals. Set the coupling of the machine being towed in a straight line with the towing portion of the tow machine, and secure it in position. When removing or installing, check which is the positive (+) terminal and negative (-) terminal.
For towing methods, refer to Section 30, Operating Instructions - Towing. Tighten battery caps securely. Tighten the battery terminals securely. Loose terminals can generate sparks and lead to an explosion. WORKING NEAR BATTERIES Battery Hazard Prevention Battery electrolyte contains sulfuric acid and can quickly burn the skin and eat holes in clothing. If acid comes in contact with any part of the body, immediately flush the area with water. Starting With Booster Cables Always wear safety glasses or goggles when starting the machine with booster cables. Battery acid can cause blindness if splashed into the eyes.
If acid gets into the eyes, flush them immediately with large quantities of water and see a doctor at once. When using booster cables, DO NOT allow the two machines to touch. Connect the positive (+) cable first when installing booster cables. Disconnect the ground or negative (-) cable first during removal. If any tool touches between the positive (+) terminal and the chassis, it will cause sparks. Always use caution when using tools near the battery. Connect the batteries in parallel: positive to positive and negative to negative. When connecting the ground cable to the frame of the machine to be started, connect it away from the battery to minimize the risk of explosion.