DR PRO Quick reference guide

DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™
Assembly & Operating Instructions
Models: “PRO”, QUANTUM, STANDARD
Please read these instructions and the separate engine manual before you assemble and
use your DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™.

And congratulations on your purchase of a new DR®
TRIMMER/MOWER™!
We have done our utmost to ensure that your DR®will be one
of the most trouble-free and satisfying pieces of equipment you
have ever owned.
Please let us know of any questions or problems you may have.
We want to answer or correct them as quickly as possible.
(When you do call or write, please have your serial number
and/or order number handy—it will speed things up!) We also
hope to hear from you on how much you like your new helper.
And please tell your friends about your new DR®TRIMMER/
MOWER™. Having DR®Owners spread the word about our
products and our way of doing business is the best advertising
we can have, and it's the best way to help us provide even
better service in the years to come.
Thanks once again!
for all of us at...
COUNTRY HOME PRODUCTS®

Table of Contents
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS...............................................................................................................................................5
Dress Appropriately.........................................................................................................................................................5
Preparation.......................................................................................................................................................................5
Operating the Machine Safely .........................................................................................................................................5
Safety with Gas-Powered Machines................................................................................................................................6
Warning to All California and Other Users .....................................................................................................................6
TRIMMER PARTS & COMPONENTS..........................................................................................................................7
ASSEMBLY COMPONENTS...........................................................................................................................................8
ASSEMBLY........................................................................................................................................................................9
STARTING & OPERATING..........................................................................................................................................15
Electric-Starting.............................................................................................................................................................15
Manual-Starting.............................................................................................................................................................15
Stopping the Engine.......................................................................................................................................................16
Engaging the Trimmer Head..........................................................................................................................................16
Stopping the Cords Spinning.........................................................................................................................................16
Using the Parallel Trimming Action (PTA™) Feature...................................................................................................17
Cutting Cords.................................................................................................................................................................18
TRIMMING AND MOWING METHODS....................................................................................................................19
Obstacles........................................................................................................................................................................19
Using the Parallel Trimming Action (PTA™) Feature...................................................................................................19
Mow-Ball™Support.......................................................................................................................................................20
Cutting Cords.................................................................................................................................................................20
Adjusting the Cutting Height.........................................................................................................................................21
Wagner Anti-Wrap Device............................................................................................................................................23
Heavy Growth................................................................................................................................................................23
Wet Conditions..............................................................................................................................................................24
Very Dry Conditions......................................................................................................................................................24
Slopes.............................................................................................................................................................................24
Windrows.......................................................................................................................................................................24
Firebreaks ......................................................................................................................................................................24
End-of-Season Garden Clean-Up ..................................................................................................................................24
MAINTENANCE..............................................................................................................................................................25
Regular Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................................25
Battery Care (Electric-Starting Models Only)...............................................................................................................26
To Remove the Mow-Ball™Support Assembly ............................................................................................................27
To Reassemble the Mow-Ball™Support Assembly.......................................................................................................28
To Partially Lower the Bearing Housing Assembly (to remove debris)........................................................................29
To Check the Bearing Housing Assembly for Damage.................................................................................................29
To Remove and Replace the Bearing Housing Assembly .............................................................................................30
To Replace the Belt .......................................................................................................................................................32
To Adjust the Belt Tension through the Trimmer Control Cable ..................................................................................33
To Adjust the PTA™Feature .........................................................................................................................................34
TROUBLESHOOTING...................................................................................................................................................35
PARTS LIST.....................................................................................................................................................................39
SCHEMATIC DRAWINGS............................................................................................................................................40

DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions 5
Safety Instructions
We want you to enjoy years of productive use from your DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™. We don't
want you to get injured, so please take a few moments to read the following guidelines for safely
operating your new machine.
Dress Appropriately
·Always wear protective goggles (provided with your DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™) while
mowing, to protect your eyes from possible thrown objects.
·Wear shoes with non-slip treads when using your DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™. If you have
safety shoes, we recommend wearing them. Do not use the machine while barefoot or wearing
open sandals.
·Wear long pants while trimming, and avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry which might get
caught on the mower's moving parts.
·Use ear muffs or ear plugs to protect your valuable hearing.
Preparation
·Read these Assembly & Operating Instructions and the engine manufacturer's owner's manual
before you use the DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™. Become familiar with the controls, engine and
service recommendations to ensure the best performance from your machine.
·Inspect the area you'll be working in for hidden objects such as large rocks, logs, rope, wire,
garden tools, etc., and remove these obstacles before mowing. Do not attempt to mow over
obstacles as this could damage the machine and cause injury.
Operating the Machine Safely
·Only use the DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™for trimming and mowing grass, weeds, and other
growth as specified in this manual.
·Use only manufacturer-recommended replacement parts and accessories.
·Never bend, cut, fit, weld, or alter the DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™in any way. Modifications to
your machine could cause personal injuries and property damage, and may void your warranty.
·ALWAYS shut off the engine and remove the spark plug wire prior to making any adjustments
to the machine. If you have to stop to remove grass or debris from the underside of the deck,
ALWAYS disconnect the spark plug wire first.
·The exhaust area on the engine becomes very hot. Allow the engine to cool before doing
maintenance or making adjustments.
·When operating over uneven terrain and slopes, use EXTREME CAUTION and ensure solid and
firm footing at all times.
·Use extra caution when mowing in wet, slippery conditions.
·Turn off the engine whenever you leave the operating position. Never leave the engine running
when refueling, changing cords or checking, cleaning or working on the machine.

6DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions
·As with any trimmer, the tips of the cutting cords on the DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™can throw
sticks, small stones, gravel, and bits of debris for long distances at great velocity. The faster the
cutting cords are spinning, the farther debris may be thrown. Do not move over loose materials
such as gravel or mulch with the trimmer head spinning. Doing so could cause personal injury or
property damage from thrown objects.
·Never allow children or animals near the work area. Keep at least 50 feet clear of bystanders,
and always turn the machine off when someone approaches to avoid causing injury from thrown
objects.
·Never allow children or people unfamiliar with these instructions to use the DR®TRIMMER/
MOWER™.
·Be cautious when using your DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™around fencing, wires, ropes, and
hoses. It is possible that these and other debris can become wound around the shaft of the
machine, potentially damaging the bearings or injuring the operator.
·Use the machine only in daylight or good artificial light.
·Never operate the machine with a damaged shield or without the shield in place.
·Do not operate the machine when under the influence of alcohol or medication.
·Watch for traffic when mowing near roadways.
Safety with Gas-Powered Machines
·Do not run the engine in an enclosed area or without proper ventilation.
·Store all fuel in containers specifically designed for this purpose. Plastic containers are more
likely to prevent sediment and condensation problems.
·Refuel outdoors only, and do not smoke while refueling or operating the machine.
·If gas is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine. Move the machine away from the area of the
spill and avoid creating any source of ignition until the gas vapors have dissipated. Wipe up any
spilled fuel to prevent a fire hazard, and properly dispose of the waste.
·Allow the engine to cool completely before storing in any enclosure. Never store the machine
with gas in the tank near an open flame or spark.
·Do not change the engine governor settings or modify the engine speed.
·Some state and local regulations require the use of a spark arrester on gas powered
engines. Contact your local fire marshal or forest service for specific information
pertaining to your area. If you are required to use a spark arrester, please contact one of
our Customer Service Representatives for assistance in obtaining and installing one.
Warning to All California and Other Users
Under California law, and the laws of some other states, you are not permitted to operate an internal
combustion engine using hydrocarbon fuels without an engine spark arrester. All DR®TRIMMER/
MOWERS™shipped to California and Washington state are provided with spark arresters. Failure
of the owner/operator to maintain this equipment in compliance with state regulations is a
misdemeanor under California law and may be in violation of other state and/or federal regulations.
Contact your local fire marshal or forest service for specific information in your area.

DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions 7
Trimmer Parts & Components
The following parts and assembly components should be in your DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™
package. Please check your shipping box(es) and parts package(s) for the items listed below. If
your shipment is incomplete or if you have any questions, please call us TOLL-FREE 1(800)DR-
OWNER (376-9637).
Assembly Components:
1—Upper Handlebar [#117771]
1—Lower Handlebar [#117741]
1—Axle [#114261]
1—Rubber Stone Guard [#116801]
1—PTA™Lever [#118221]
1—Acrylic Shield Assembly [#120521]
2—Wheels [#121321, or #121761]
Parts Bag Contents:
2—Wheel Retainer Rings [#119551]
2—Handlebar Knobs [#118181]
2—Stone Guard Clamps [#115641]
2—Handlebar Bolts 1/4"-20 x 1-1/2" [#114611]
1—Black Nylon Axle Washer [#121521]
4—5/16" Washers [#121691]
5—Lock Nuts 5/16"-18 [#110761]
2—Set Screws 1/4"-20 Square Head [#120161]
7—Slotted Hex Head Bolts 10-24 x 5/8" [#114781]
7—Lock Nuts 10-24 [#118731]
2—U-Bolts [#114851]
1—PTA™Lever Grip [#117491]
Please refer to Figure 1 on the next page when preparing to assemble your DR®
TRIMMER/MOWER™. We recommend laying the parts out in sets, as we have drawn them, before
assembly.

8DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions
Assembly Components
Figure 1

DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions 9
Assembly
WARNING: Do not attempt to start the engine until all assembly steps are complete, and you
have ADDED GAS AND OIL to the engine.
Tools & Supplies Needed:
• flat head screwdriver
• 1/2" and 3/8" wrenches, adjustable
wrench, or socket set
• pliers
• SAE30 HD (High Detergent) motor oil
• funnel (preferably with filter)
• unleaded gasoline
Step 1: Install the Axle
1. Turn the orange housing upside down to
access the underside. Leave the front
piece of Styrofoam in place (Figure 2).
2. Place the black nylon axle washer over
the axle stud at the center back of the
housing (Figure 3).
3. Insert the axle through the slot in the side
of the housing so the plate faces the axle
stud (Figure 4).
4. Center the axle and slide the hole in the
notched plate over the stud so that it rests
flush against the nylon washer (Figures 3
& 4). Be sure the axle is seated on the
axle stud solidly.
5. Screw a 5/16" lock nut onto the axle stud
using a 1/2" wrench or socket. Tighten until there is resistance, then back off 1/2 turn. [If the
bolt is too tight, it will be hard to operate the Parallel Trimming Action (PTA™)Feature.]
Figure 2
Figure 3 Figure 4
WARNING!
THIS MACHINE IS SHIPPED WITHOUT
OIL! TRACES OF OIL MAY BE IN
RESERVOIR FROM FACTORY TESTING,
BUT YOU MUST ADD THE
RECOMMENDED AMOUNT OF OIL
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE.

10 DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions
Step 2: Attach the Rubber Stone Guard
1. Take one of the two stone guard clamps and spread it open. Position it around the axle (Figure
5) and squeeze the ends together. Install the second clamp midway along the opposite side of the
axle in the same way. Turn the open ends of the clamps upward.
2. Holding the rubber stone guard vertically over the axle, slip one side of the stone guard in
between the clamp end so that the hole in the guard is aligned with the holes in the clamp. Insert
a 5/8" long bolt and attach a lock nut (Figure 6). Tighten with a 3/8" wrench or socket and
screw driver until the threads show. Don't over tighten. Repeat on the other side. The stone
guard should swing freely from the axle.
Step 3: Install the Wheels
1. Mount each wheel on the axle and push it
firmly against the axle stop (Figure 7).
2. Place the retaining ring on the axle, against
the wheel, and tighten the set screw with a
wrench or pliers (Figure 7).
Step 4: Set the Machine Upright
Note: Be careful not to kink, twist or stretch the
control cables.
1. Remove the front end of the Styrofoam
packing.
2. Stand at one side of the machine, hold on to
one wheel with one hand, and the nose of the machine with the other. Lift the front-end of the
machine up and over until the Mow-Ball™Support is resting on the ground and the machine is
upright (most of the weight is on the wheels during this maneuver).
Figure 5 Figure 6
Figure 7

DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions 11
3. Bring the upper handlebar section up and
over the front end of the machine. Let it
rest there (Figure 8).
Caution: DO NOT add gas or oil to the
engine at this time.
Step 5: Install the Handlebars
A) Lower Handlebar
Note: There are 2 U-bolts, 4 washers, and 4
lock nuts in your parts bag that will be
needed for the lower handlebar assembly.
1. With the control cables on the inside of
the handlebars, position the lower
handlebar over the bolt holes in the
trimmer frame (Figure 9).
2. Place the U-bolts through the bolt holes
in the trimmer frame from the inside out
(Figure 9). Make sure the black control
cable is not beneath the U-bolt.
3. Mount the washers and nuts and secure
them snugly on both sides—don't tighten
them yet. Position the lower handlebar in
the middle of the slotted notch on each
side. This is the average height needed
by most users. Tighten the nuts securely.
After you install the upper handlebar
you'll be able to judge whether you need
to adjust the height.
B) Upper Handlebar
1. Making sure the control cables are over
the lower handlebar, position the upper
handlebar outside the lower handlebar
(Figure 10). The ends of the upper
handlebar are cupped half-circles and fit
on the outside of the lower handlebar.
With the holes aligned, insert one of the
two round-headed 1-1/2" handlebar bolts
from the inside facing out.
2. Secure the bolt with one of the large black
handlebar knobs on the outside of the
handlebar. Repeat on the opposite side.
3. Be sure the throttle control cable on the
left handlebar is secured with the black plastic clamp (Figure 10). Do not kink the control
cables.
Figure 8
Figure 9
Figure 10

12 DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions
The height of the handlebar depends on many
factors for each individual. However, it is
crucial to find a height that allows the Mow-
Ball™Support to glide along the ground and
remain balanced without the operator having to
push down or pull up on the handlebars. At the
proper height, your hands should rest at a
comfortable level and the front end should roll
easily on the Mow-Ball™Support.
To adjust the height of the handlebars, loosen the
lock nuts on the U-bolts. Push the handlebars
forward for more height, backward for less.
Then tighten the nuts securely.
Step 6: Install the Parallel Trimming Action (PTA™) Lever
1. Insert the straight end of the L-shaped PTA™
lever through the hole in the center of the
lower handlebar (Figure 11).
2. Align the flat end of the PTA™lever with the
corresponding hole in the PTA™latch installed
at the center rear of the frame (Figure 12).
3. Mount a 5/8" long bolt through the two holes.
Tighten with a lock nut until there is slight
resistance, then back off two full turns.
Note: If the lock nut is too tight, the PTA™
lever will be hard to engage.
4. Install the black, vinyl PTA™lever handle grip
over the operator's end of the lever (Figure
11).
Step 7: Attach the Acrylic Engine Shield
Use the four remaining sets of 5/8" long bolts and
lock nuts to attach the acrylic engine shield.
We have found it's easiest to tip the machine back
on its handlebars in order to reach the underside.
1. Position the shield on the frame in front of the
engine with the bend at the top facing the
handlebars (Figure 13).
2. Insert the bolts from the outside facing in,
screw on the nuts and tighten (Figure 13).
Figure 11
Figure 12
Figure 13

DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions 13
Step 8: Add Oil and Gas
WARNING!: You must add oil before starting engine. There may be 1 to 2 ounces of oil
left in your machine from factory testing. Check dipstick while adding oil to avoid over
filling.
Please refer to your Engine Manual and put
the recommended amount of engine oil in the
oil fill. Use SAE30 High Detergent oil. Fill
the oil to the amount indicated on the dipstick.
Do not overfill (Figure 14).
Reminder: To avoid confusion, we
recommend leaving the caps on the fuel and
oil fills until you are ready to pour either
gasoline or oil into the correct fill.
Fill the gas tank to within 1/4 inch of the top
with fresh, unleaded gas. (See your engine
manual for more detailed fuel
recommendations.)
Caution: Once you have added the oil and
gas, avoid tipping the trimmer back on its handlebars. Doing so will cause the cylinder to fill with oil.
If you need to reach the underside of the trimmer, drain the oil and gas first, or set the machine up
on a workbench.
Step 9: Connect the Battery Wires (Electric-Starting models only)
To prevent the battery from discharging
during shipment, all electric-starting
trimmers are shipped with the black, negative
battery wire disconnected. Connect the two
black wires by pushing the plastic ends
together (Figure 15). See the red wires for
comparison. The wires are located on the left
front side when standing in the operator's
position.
Figure 14
Figure 15

14 DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions
Controls & Features
Note: Standard Model with Briggs & Stratton engine shown. Your trimmer may look slightly
different.
Figure 16

DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions 15
Starting & Operating
Please Note: The Briggs & Stratton models are pictured below. On other models the primer bulb
may be on the left side of the engine. Please refer to your Engine Manufacturer's Owner's Manual
for details.
Electric-Starting
1. Push the throttle lever on the left side of
the handlebar (Figure 16) all the way
forward to the START position.
2. Prime the engine. Make sure you
completely cover the air hole. Push the
black primer bulb for three seconds and
completely release it for three seconds
(making sure you uncover the air hole),
and repeat three to four more times
(Figure 17).
Note: Priming is usually unnecessary
when restarting a warm engine. In cool
weather priming may need to be
repeated.
3. Turn the key to the START position until the Trimmer starts, then release. The key will snap
back to the RUN position (Figure 17).
Manual-Starting
Can be used with both Manual- and Electric-
Starting models.
1. Push the throttle lever on the left side of
the handlebar (Figure 16) all the way
forward to the START position.
2. Prime the engine. Make sure you
completely cover the air hole. Push the
black primer bulb for three seconds and
completely release it for three seconds
(making sure you uncover the air hole),
and repeat three to four more times
(Figure 18).
Figure 17
Figure 18
WARNING!
THIS MACHINE IS SHIPPED WITHOUT OIL! TRACES OF OIL MAY BE IN
RESERVOIR FROM FACTORY TESTING, BUT YOU MUST ADD THE
RECOMMENDED AMOUNT OF OIL BEFORE STARTING ENGINE.

16 DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions
Note: Priming is usually unnecessary when restarting a warm engine. In cool weather priming
may need to be repeated.
3. Grasp the recoil starter handle (Figure 16), and slowly pull until resistance is felt. Next, pull the
cord rapidly to overcome compression, prevent a kickback and start the engine. One or two pulls
usually starts the DR®TRIMMER/ MOWER™, but it may be necessary to repeat the priming.
Stopping the Engine
Move the throttle lever back to the STOP position (Figure 16). Note that on Electric-Starting
Models the key does not stop the engine. The key has a pressure lock that prevents it from vibrating
loose during operation. If you wish to remove the key, push it in and then quickly and firmly pull it
out. If the key is difficult to remove, spray FLUID FILM®or a comparable lubricant into the key
hole.
Engaging the Trimmer Head
1. Bring the brake bar (Figure 16) toward you and grip it together with the handlebar. Keep
holding the brake bar to the handlebar.
2. With your right hand, push the trimmer head control lever (marked "Blade Control") on the right
side of the handlebar all the way forward—until it engages. You may have to push hard until
you feel it engage. Once the trimmer head control engages, release the lever. The cutting cords
will now be rotating and will continue to rotate until you release the brake bar.
Stopping the Cords Spinning
Release the brake bar from the handlebar. The trimmer head will stop spinning while the engine
continues to run.
If the cutting cords keep spinning after the brake bar is released, you may need to adjust the trimmer
control cable. (See page 32.)

DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions 17
Using the Parallel Trimming Action (PTA™) Feature
By tilting the cutting head beyond the wheels, Parallel Trimming Action allows you to trim under
fences and along shrub borders and buildings—those hard-to reach places that usually require
pushing and pulling the machine. The wheels remain parallel to whatever is being trimmed, so you
can also easily edge along curbs and sidewalks.
To Engage Parallel Trimming Action
1. Pull up on the PTA™lever (Figure 16)
until you see the two dog ears at the
bottom of the lever (Figure 19). You may
need to turn the lever to see them. This
unlocks the axle.
2. Turn the lever one quarter turn so the dog
ears rest on the PTA™latch bracket at the
base of the frame after the lever is
released (Figure 19).
3. Push down on the handlebar to tip the
nose of the machine off the ground about
six inches. By balancing the weight of the
machine on the wheels, it is easier to pivot
the front of the trimmer to the left or right.
4. Grip the handlebar, pulling up with one hand and pushing down with the other, swinging the
front of the trimmer to the left or right. If this action is difficult please see page 33.
5. Now, to lock in the left or right position, pull the PTA lever back and turn it a quarter of a turn
and release. It will spring into place and lock into the axle plate.
To Return to Flat and Forward Mode
1. Pull the PTA™lever and turn a quarter of a turn so the lever is resting on the dog ears.
2. Release the lever, push down on the handlebars, and pivot the trimmer head straight ahead.
3. Pull and turn the PTA™lever a quarter turn, and it will automatically lock the machine into the
forward position.
See the PTA™Feature usage tips on page 19 for more information.
Figure 19

18 DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™Assembly & Operating Instructions
Cutting Cords
WARNING: Turn the engine off when
installing or changing cutting cords.
Two thicknesses of cutting cord ship with
your DR®TRIMMER/MOWER™: Heavy-
duty (130 mil) Orange and Extra Heavy-duty
(155 mil) Green. Figure 20 shows how the
cords are installed at the factory. Notice how
the cords are installed before you replace
them.
Note: Before trimming, always spin new
cords for a few seconds so they pull tight and
set.
Because conditions and vegetation vary so
much, experiment with various combinations
of cord weight and installation methods in
order to discover what works best for your
particular mowing and trimming situations.
Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
·If you buy cutting cord in rolls, cut it in 21" lengths.
·Soaking your cutting cord in a bucket of room temperature water for a few days before use will
make the cord more pliable. This will also prolong the life of the cutting cord.
·You can also store the cord in a plastic bag with a damp sponge or cloth to keep them pliable.
Please see page 20 for additional cutting cord installation methods and tips for getting the best
performance from your cutting cord.
Figure 20