Echo HC-150 - 11-09 1 User manual

Hedge Clipper
Operator's Manual
MODEL HC-150
WARNING
Read rules for safe operation and all instructions carefully. ECHO provides
this Operator's Manual and a Safety Manual. Both must be read and under-
stood for proper and safe operation.
X7532247103
X753003163
11/09

2
In t r o d u c t I o n
Welcome to the ECHO family. This ECHO product was designed and manufactured to provide long life and on-the-
job dependability. Read and understand this manual. You will nd it easy to use and full of helpful operating tips and
SAFETY messages.
t h e o p e r a t o r ’sm a n u a l
Read and understand this manual before operation. Keep it in a safe
place for future reference. It contains specications and information
for operation, starting, stopping, maintenance, storage, and assembly
specic to this product.
t h e s a f e t y m a n u a l
Read and understand this manual before operation. Keep it in a safe
place for future reference. It explains possible hazards involved with
the use of this product and what measures you should take to make
their use safer.
ta b l e o f co n t e n t s
Introduction..................................................................... 2
- The Operator's Manual............................................. 2
- The Safety manual ................................................... 2
Safety .............................................................................. 3
- Manual Safety Symbols and Important Information3
- International Symbols.............................................. 3
- Personal Condition and Safety Equipment.............. 3
- Equipment Check..................................................... 6
Emission Control ............................................................ 8
Description...................................................................... 7
Contents .......................................................................... 9
Assembly......................................................................... 9
- Install Blade Stiffener ............................................ 10
- Remove Blade Stiffener......................................... 11
Operation....................................................................... 12
- Fuel ........................................................................ 12
- Starting Cold Engine.............................................. 13
- Starting Warm Engine............................................ 14
- Stopping Engine..................................................... 14
- Hedge Trimming.................................................... 15
Maintenance.................................................................. 15
- Skill Levels ............................................................ 15
- Maintenance Intervals............................................ 16
- Air Filter ................................................................ 17
- Fuel Filter............................................................... 17
- Spark Plug.............................................................. 18
- Cooling System ..................................................... 18
- Exhaust System...................................................... 20
- Carburetor Adjustment........................................... 22
- High Altitude Operation ...................................... 22
- Lubrication............................................................. 23
- Sharpening Blades ................................................. 24
- Blade Adjustment................................................... 25
Troubleshooting ............................................................ 26
Storage .......................................................................... 27
Specications ................................................................ 28
Warranty Statements ..................................................... 29
Servicing Information ................................................... 32
- Parts/Serial Number............................................... 32
- Service ................................................................... 32
- ECHO Consumer Product Support........................ 32
- Warranty Card........................................................ 32
- Additional or Replacement Manuals ..................... 32
Copyright© 2010 By Echo, Incorporated
All Rights Reserved.
Specications, descriptions and illustrative material in this
literature are as accurate as known at the time of publica-
tion, but are subject to change without notice. Illustrations
may include optional equipment and accessories, and may
not include all standard equipment.

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I n t e r n a t I o n a l s y m b o l s
sa f e t y
m a n u a l s a f e t y s y m b o l s a n d I m p o r t a n t I n f o r m a t I o n
Throughout this manual and on the product itself, you will nd safety alerts and helpful, informational messages pre-
ceded by symbols or key words. The following is an explanation of those symbols and key words and what they mean
to you.
Symbol
description/application Symbol form/shape Symbol
description/application
Symbol form/shape
Hot
Surface
Carburetor adjustment
- Idle speed
Carburetor adjustment
- High speed mixture
Symbol
description/application Symbol form/shape Symbol
description/application
Symbol form/shape
Read and understand
owners manual.
Wear eyes, ears and
head protection
Emergency stop
Fuel and oil mixture
Finger Severing
Carburetor adjustment
- Low speed mixture
Safety/Alert
Avoid all power
lines. This unit is not
insulated against
electrical current.
Do not operate closer
than 15 M (50 ft.) from
electrical hazards.
Plan retreat
path from falling
objects.
Wear hand protection.
Use two handed.
DO NOT smoke
near fuel.
DO NOT allow
ames or sparks
near fuel.
Wear slip resistant
foot wear.
Ignition Ignition
ON/OFF
Do not operate with-
out guards in
place.
Keep bystanders at least
4.5 meters (15 feet) away.
Primer bulb
Choke Control
"Cold Start"
Position
(Choke Closed)
Choke Control
"Run"
Position
(Choke Open)
WARNING
The safety alert symbol accompanied by the word
“WARNING” calls attention to an act or condi-
tion which CAN lead to serious personal injury or
death if not avoided.
CIRCLE AND SLASH SYMBOL
This symbol means the specic action
shown is prohibited. Ignoring these prohi-
bitions can result in serious or fatal injury.
CAUTION
The safety alert symbol accompanied by the word
“CAUTION” calls attention to an act or condition
which may lead to minor or moderate personal
injury if not avoided.
NOTE
This enclosed message provides tips for use, care and
maintenance of the unit.
IMPORTANT
The enclosed message provides information neces-
sary for the protection of the unit.
DANGER
The safety alert symbol accompanied by the word
“DANGER” calls attention to an act or condition
which WILL lead to serious personal injury or
death if not avoided.

4
Users of this product risk injury to themselves and others if the unit is used improperly and/or safety precautions are
not followed. Proper clothing and safety gear must be worn when operating unit.
p e r s o n a l c o n d I t I o n a n d s a f e t y e q u I p m e n t
WARNING
Physical Condition
Your judgment and physical dexterity may not be good:
• if you are tired or sick,
• if you are taking medication,
• if you have taken alcohol or drugs.
Operate unit only if you are physically and mentally well.
Eye Protection
Wear eye protection that meets ANSI Z87.1 or CE re-
quirements whenever you operate the unit.
Hand Protection
Wear no-slip, heavy-duty work gloves to improve your
grip on the handle. Gloves also reduce the transmission
of machine vibration to your hands.
Hearing Protection
ECHO recommends wearing hearing protection whenever
unit is used.
Extended Operation/Extreme Conditions
It is believed that a condition called Raynaud’s Phenomenon, which affects the ngers of certain individuals, may be
brought about by exposure to vibration and cold. Exposure to vibration and cold may cause tingling and burning sensa-
tions, followed by loss of color and numbness in the ngers. The following precautions are strongly recommended,
because the minimum exposure, which might trigger the ailment, is unknown.
• Keep your body warm, especially the head, neck, feet, ankles,
hands, and wrists.
• Maintain good blood circulation by performing vigorous arm exer-
cises during frequent work breaks, and also by not smoking.
• Limit the hours of operation. Try to ll each day with jobs where
operating the unit or other hand-held power equipment is not
required.
• If you experience discomfort, redness, and swelling of the ngers
followed by whitening and loss of feeling, consult your physician
before further exposing yourself to cold and vibration.
Proper Clothing
Wear snug tting, durable clothing;
• Pants should have long legs, shirts with long sleeves.
• DO NOT WEAR SHORTS,
• DO NOT WEAR TIES, SCARFS, JEWELRY.
Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
Wear sturdy work shoes with nonskid soles;
• DO NOT WEAR OPEN TOED SHOES,
• DO NOT OPERATE UNIT BAREFOOTED.
Keep long hair away from engine and air intake. Retain
hair with cap or net.
Hot Humid Weather
Heavy protective clothing can increase operator fatigue
which may lead to heat stroke. Schedule heavy work for
early morning or late afternoon hours when temperatures
are cooler.

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DANGER
Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately ventilated
areas. Engine exhaust contains poisonous emissions and can cause
serious injury or death.
Read the Manuals
• Provide all users of this equipment with the Operator’s Manual and
Safety Manual for instructions on Safe Operation.
Clear the Work Area
• Spectators and fellow workers must be warned, and children and
animals prevented from coming nearer than 15 m (50 ft.) while the
unit is in use.
Keep a Firm Grip
• Hold the front and rear handles with both hands, with thumbs and
ngers encircling the handles.
Keep a Solid Stance
• Maintain footing and balance at all times. Do not stand on slippery,
uneven or unstable surfaces. Do not work in odd positions or on
ladders. Do not over reach.
Avoid Hot Surfaces
• Keep exhaust area clear of ammable debris. Avoid contact during
and immediately after operation.
WARNING
Never perform blade maintenance procedures while engine is run-
ning.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
It is believed that overusing the muscles and tendons of the ngers, hands, arms, and shoulders may cause soreness,
swelling, numbness, weakness, and extreme pain in those areas. Certain repetitive hand activities may put you at a high
risk for developing a Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI). An extreme RSI condition is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), which
could occur when your wrist swells and squeezes a vital nerve that runs through the area. Some believe that prolonged
exposure to vibration may contribute to CTS. CTS can cause severe pain for months or even years.
To reduce the risk of RSI/CTS, do the following:
• Avoid using your wrist in a bent, extended, or twisted position. In-
stead try to maintain a straight wrist position. Also, when grasping,
use your whole hand, not just the thumb and index nger.
• Take periodic breaks to minimize repetition and rest your hands.
• Reduce the speed and force with which you do the repetitive move-
ment.
• Do exercise to strengthen the hand and arm muscles.
• Immediately stop using all power equipment and consult a doctor
if you feel tingling, numbness, or pain in the ngers, hands, wrists,
or arms. The sooner RSI/CTS is diagnosed, the more likely perma-
nent nerve and muscle damage can be prevented.

6
e q u I p m e n t c h e c k
WARNING
Use only ECHO approved attachments. Serious injury may result from the use of a non-approved attachment com-
bination. ECHO, INC. will not be responsible for the failure of cutting devices, attachments or accessories which
have not been tested and approved by ECHO. Read and comply with all safety instructions listed in this manual and
safety manual.
Emission Control Label (located on Engine) (EXAMPLE ONLY, information on label varies by FAMILY).
PRODUCT EMISSION DURABILITY (EMISSION COMPLIANCE PERIOD)
The 300 hour emission compliance period is the time span selected by the manufacturer certifying the engine emis-
sions output meets applicable emissions regulations, provided that approved maintenance procedures are followed as
listed in the Maintenance Section of this manual.
• Check unit for loose/missing nuts, bolts, and screws. Tighten and/or replace as needed.
• Inspect fuel lines, tank, and area around carburetor for fuel leaks. DO NOT operate unit if leaks are found.
• Check that the cutting attachment is rmly attached and in safe operating condition.
WARNING
Moving parts can amputate ngers or cause severe injuries. Keep hands, clothing and loose objects away from all
openings.
• ALWAYS stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and make sure all moving parts have come to a complete stop
before removing obstructions, clearing debris, or servicing unit.
• DO NOT start or operate unit unless all guards and protective covers are properly assembled to unit.
• NEVER reach into any opening while the engine is running. Moving parts may not be visible through openings.
WARNING
Check fuel system for leaks due to fuel tank damage, especially if the unit is dropped. If damage or leaks are found,
do not use unit, otherwise serious personal injury or property damage may occur. Have unit repaired by an autho-
rized servicing dealer before using.
em I s s I o n co n t r o l (e x h a u s t &e v a p o r a t I v e )
EPA 2010 and Later
The emission control system for the engine is EM/TWC (Engine Modication and 3-way Catalyst) and for the fuel tank
the Control System is EVAP (Evaporative Emissions) or N (for nylon tank). Evaporative emission may be applicable to
California models only.

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de s c r I p t I o n
Locate the safety decals on your unit. Make sure the decals are legible and that you understand and follow the instruc-
tions on them. If a decal cannot be read, a new one can be ordered from your ECHO dealer. See PARTS ORDERING
instructions for specic information.
P/N X505002310
Hot Decal (near mufer)
P/N X505002610
P/N X505000270
Right Front Handle Guard
15
1
2
4
7
8
9
4
5
16
5
6
10
11
12
13
14
3

8
1. FRONT HANDLE WITH GUARD - Comfortable, textured nish provides anti-slip grip. Guard protects hand
from the blades. Warning decals are located on guard.
2. BLADES - Double reciprocating blades mounted to a blade support bar. The blades are double sided, capable of cut-
ting on either side.
3. BLADE STIFFENER - Attaches to top of blades and guides material being cut into blades.
4. SPARK PLUG - Provides spark to ignite fuel mixture.
5. CHOKE - The choke control lever is located on the front of the air cleaner case. Move choke lever to "COLD
START" ( ) to close the choke for Cold Starting. Move choke lever to "RUN" ( ) position to open choke.
6. PURGE BULB - Pumping purge bulb before starting engine draws fresh fuel from the fuel tank, purging air from
the carburetor. Pump purge bulb until fuel is visible and ows freely in the clear fuel tank return line. Pump purge
bulb an additional 4 or 5 times.
7. AIR CLEANER - Contains replaceable lter element.
8. RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Pull handle slowly until recoil starter engages, then quickly and rmly. DO NOT
pull rope all the way out or allow the handle to snap back, damage to the starter will occur.
9. FUEL TANK - Contains fuel and fuel lter.
10. FUEL TANK CAP - Covers and seals fuel tank opening.
11. REAR HANDLE - Contains Stop Switch, Throttle Lockout and Throttle Trigger.
12. THROTTLE TRIGGER LOCKOUT - This lever must be depressed before Throttle Trigger can be activated.
13. THROTTLE TRIGGER - Spring loaded to return to idle when released. Trigger Lockout must be depressed fully
before Throttle Trigger will move. During acceleration, depress gradually for best operating technique.
14. STOP SWITCH - "TOGGLE SWITCH" located on the left side of the rear handle. Move switch UP to RUN,
DOWN to STOP.
15. SPARK ARRESTOR MUFFLER OR SPARK ARRESTOR MUFFLER WITH CATALYST -The mufer con-
trols exhaust noise and emission. The spark arrestor screen prevents hot, glowing particles of carbon from leaving
the mufer. Keep exhaust area clear of ammable debris.
16. BLADE COVER - Used to cover blades during transportation or storage. Remove blade cover before using unit.

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as s e m b l y
This model is factory assembled.
NOTE
For normal cutting, Echo strongly recommends the blade stiffener
be installed. In extreme conditions, such as commercial cutting,
or when cutting thick and/or dense branches, efciency may be
increased by trimming without the blade stiffener.
Tools required: (2) 10 mm Sockets & Extensions
Parts Required: Blade Stiffener, Blade Lock Nuts (P/N
43302206460), Washers
WARNING
Hedge Clipper blades are very sharp. Touching them may lead to
severe personal injury. Avoid touching blades whenever possible,
and always wear gloves to protect hands.
IMPORTANT
Follow blade bolt adjustment instructions exactly. Failure to do so
could result in damage to blades or gearbox.
1 - Hedge Clipper Assembly
1 - Operator’s Manual
1 - Safety Manual
1 - Warranty Registration Card
1 - Echo Power Blend X TM 2-stroke oil sample
1 - Blade Cover
co n t e n t s
After opening the carton, check for damage. Immediately notify your retailer or ECHO Dealer of damaged or missing
parts. Use the contents list to check for missing parts.

10
A
B
I n s t a l l b l a d e s t I f f e n e r
1. Move stop switch to stop position.
2. Disconnect spark plug wire.
WARNING
Hedge clipper blades are very sharp. Touching them may lead to
severe personal injury. Use a socket and extension when adjust-
ing blade bolts or blade locknuts in order to keep hands at a safe
distance from sharp blades.
3. Lay unit on mufer side and hold securely in place.
4. Remove rst four blade locknuts (A) and washers in front of
front handle/guard. Do not remove blade bolts.
5. Tighten blade bolts (B) until snug. Install blade stiffener, then wash-
ers.
6. Loosen blade bolts ½ turn. Secure blade stiffener with new locknuts
(A). Hold blade bolts from turning using a 10mm wrench.
NOTE
Use new locknuts every time blade stiffener is installed.
IMPORTANT
If blade stiffener is damaged or show signs of wear, replace it.
NOTE
Washers (C) should be movable by hand after blade bolts are ad-
justed properly.
C
b l a d e s t I f f e n e r r e m o v a l
1. Move stop switch to stop position.
2. Disconnect spark plug wire.
WARNING
Hedge clipper blades are very sharp. Touching them may lead to
severe personal injury. Use a socket and extension when adjust-
ing blade bolts or blade locknuts in order to keep hands at a safe
distance from sharp blades.
3. Remove blade stiffener locknuts (A) and washers. Do not remove
blade bolts.
4. Remove blade stiffener.
5. Tighten blade bolts (B) until snug, then loosen ½ turn.
6. Secure blades with new locknuts (A). Hold blade bolts from turning
using a 10mm wrench.
A
B

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f u e l
NOTICE: Use of unmixed, improperly mixed, or fuel older than 90 days, (stale fuel), may cause hard starting, poor
performance, or severe engine damage and void the product warranty. Read and follow instructions in the Storage
section of this manual.
WARNING
Alternative fuels, such as E-15 (15% ethanol), E-85 (85% ethanol) or any fuels not meeting ECHO requirements are
NOT approved for use in ECHO 2-stroke gasoline engines. Use of alternative fuels may cause performance prob-
lems, loss of power, overheating, fuel vapor lock, and unintended machine operation, including, but not limited to,
improper clutch engagement. Alternative fuels may also cause premature deterioration of fuel lines, gaskets, carbu-
retors and other engine components.
Fuel Requirements
Gasoline - Use 89 Octane [R+M/2] (mid grade or higher) gasoline known to be good quality. Gasoline may contain up to
10% Ethanol (grain alcohol) or 15% MTBE (methyl tertiary-butyl ether). Gasoline containing methanol (wood alcohol)
is NOT approved.
Two Stroke Oil - A two-stroke engine oil meeting ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD 13738) and J.A.S.O. FC/FD Standards must
be used. Echo brand premium Power Blend X TM Universal 2-Stroke Oil meets these standards. Engine problems due to
inadequate lubrication caused by failure to use an ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD 13738) and J.A.S.O. FC/FD certied oil, such as
Echo premium Power Blend X TM, will void the two-stroke engine warranty.
op e r a t I o n
WARNING
Moving parts can amputate ngers or cause severe injuries. Keep hands, clothing and loose objects away from all
openings. Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and make sure all moving parts have come to a complete
stop before removing obstructions, clearing debris, or servicing unit.
IMPORTANT
Echo premium Power Blend X TM Universal 2-Stroke Oil may be mixed at 50:1 ratio for application in all Echo en-
gines sold in the past regardless of ratio specied in those manuals.
WARNING
Operation of this equipment may create sparks that can start res around dry vegetation. This unit is equipped with
a spark arrestor and a spark arrestor may be required. The operator should contact local re agencies for laws or
regulations relating to re prevention requirements.

12
Mixing Instructions
1. Fill an approved fuel container with half of the required amount of
gasoline.
2. Add the proper amount of 2-stroke oil to gasoline.
3. Close container and shake to mix oil with gasoline.
4. Add remaining gasoline, close fuel container, and remix.
IMPORTANT
Spilled fuel is a leading cause of hydrocarbon emissions. Some
states may require the use of automatic fuel shut-off containers to
reduce fuel spillage.
After use
• DO NOT store a unit with fuel in its tank. Leaks can occur. Return
unused fuel to an approved fuel storage container.
Storage - Fuel storage laws vary by locality. Contact your local gov-
ernment for the laws affecting your area. As a precaution, store fuel in
an approved, airtight container. Store in a well-ventilated, unoccupied
building, away from sparks and ames.
IMPORTANT
Stored fuel ages. Do not mix more fuel than you expect to use in
thirty (30) days, ninety (90) days when a fuel stabilizer is added.
IMPORTANT
Stored two-stroke fuel may separate. ALWAYS shake fuel con-
tainer thoroughly before each use.
Handling Fuel
DANGER
Fuel is VERY ammable. Use extreme care when mixing, storing or handling or serious personal injury may result.
• Use an approved fuel container.
• DO NOT smoke near fuel.
• DO NOT allow ames or sparks near fuel.
• Fuel tanks/cans may be under pressure. Always loosen fuel caps slowly allowing pressure to equalize.
• NEVER refuel a unit when the engine is HOT or RUNNING!
• DO NOT ll fuel tanks indoors. ALWAYS ll fuel tanks outdoors over bare ground.
• DO NOT overll fuel tank. Wipe up spills immediately.
• Securely tighten fuel tank cap and close fuel container after refueling.
• Inspect for fuel leakage. If fuel leakage is found, do not start or operate unit until leakage is repaired.
• Move at least 3m (10 ft.) from refueling location before starting the engine.

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13
s t a r t I n g c o l d e n g I n e
WARNING
Hedge Clipper blades are very sharp. Touching them may lead to
severe personal injury. Avoid touching blades whenever possible,
and always wear gloves to protect hands.
NOTE
The blade cover is used for transportation and storage. Remove
blade cover before using the unit.
1. Stop Switch
Move stop switch (A) away from the STOP position.
2. Choke
Move choke (B) to the Cold Start ( ) (CLOSED) position.
3. Purge Bulb
Pump purge bulb (C) until fuel is visible and ows freely in the
clear fuel tank return line. Pump bulb an additional 4 or 5 times.
4. Recoil Starter
Lay the unit on a at, clear area. Grip the front handle securely with
one hand, and pull the recoil starter handle (D) until engine res (or
5 pulls maximum).
5. Choke
After engine res or 5 pulls, move choke (B) to the RUN
( ) (OPEN) position. Restart engine if necessary and allow unit
to warm up at idle for several minutes.
NOTE
If engine does not start with choke in “Run” position after 5 pulls,
repeat instructions 2 - 5.
WARNING
The blades must not move at idle, otherwise serious personal
injury may result. Periodic carburetor adjustment may be necessary
to assure blades do not move at idle.
If blades move, readjust carburetor according to “Carburetor Ad-
justment” instructions in this manual or see your ECHO Dealer.
6. Throttle Trigger
After engine warm-up, grip the rear handle and front handle.
Depress the throttle trigger lockout, and gradually depress throttle
trigger to increase engine RPM to operating speed.
A
D
B
4
5
B
C

14
s t a r t I n g w a r m e n g I n e
The starting procedure is the same as Cold Start except DO NOT close
the choke.
WARNING
The blades must not move at idle, otherwise serious personal
injury may result. Periodic carburetor adjustment may be necessary
to assure blades do not move at idle.
If blades move, readjust carburetor according to “Carburetor Ad-
justment” instructions in this manual or see your ECHO Dealer.
1. Stop Switch
Move stop switch (A) away from the STOP position.
2. Purge Bulb
Pump purge bulb (C) until fuel is visible and ows freely in the
clear fuel tank return line. Pump bulb an additional 4 or 5 times.
3. Recoil Starter
Place the unit on a at, clear area. Grip the front handle securely
with one hand, and pull the recoil starter handle (D) until engine
starts.
NOTE
If engine does not start after 5 pulls, use Cold Start Procedure.
s t o p p I n g e n g I n e
1. Throttle
Release throttle trigger and allow engine to return to idle before
shutting off engine.
2. Stop Switch
Move stop switch (A) to STOP position.
WARNING
If engine does not stop when stop switch is moved to STOP posi-
tion, close choke - COLD START position - to stall engine. Have
your ECHO dealer repair stop switch before using hedge clipper
again.
A
C
D
A

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15
WARNING
Hedge Clipper blades are very sharp. Touching them may lead to
severe personal injury. Avoid touching blades whenever possible,
and always wear gloves to protect hands.
1. Always grip front and rear handles.
2. Hold trimmer rmly and squeeze throttle trigger to accelerate engine.
3. Tilt trimmer so cutting teeth are angled slightly toward the hedge or
shrub and proceed to cut.
WARNING
Never remove hands from unit when blades are moving.
WARNING
The engine continues running even when the blades have stopped
due to an obstruction. If this occurs, stop the engine, disconnect
ignition cable and remove the obstruction.
h e d g e t r I m m I n g
ma I n t e n a n c e
Your ECHO unit is designed to provide many hours of trouble free service. Regular scheduled maintenance will help
your unit achieve that goal. If you are unsure or are not equipped with the necessary tools, you may want to take your
unit to an ECHO Service Dealer for maintenance. To help you decide whether you want to DO-IT-YOURSELF or have
the ECHO Dealer do it, each maintenance task has been graded. If task is not listed, see your ECHO Dealer for repairs.
WARNING
Moving parts can amputate ngers or cause severe injuries. Keep hands, clothing and loose objects away from all
openings. Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and make sure all moving parts have come to a complete
stop before removing obstructions, clearing debris, or servicing unit. Allow unit to cool before performing service.
Wear gloves to protect hands from sharp edges and hot surfaces.
WARNING
Engine exhaust IS HOT, and contains Carbon Monoxide (CO), a poison gas. Breathing CO can cause unconscious-
ness, serious injury, or death. Exhaust can cause serious burns. ALWAYS position unit so that exhaust is directed
away from your face and body.

16
m a I n t e n a n c e I n t e r v a l s
COMPONENT/SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
PROCEDURE
SKILL
LEVEL
REQ'D
DAILY OR
BEFORE
USE
EVERY
REFUEL
3 MONTHS
OR 90
HOURS
YEARLY 600
HOURS
Air Filter Inspect/Clean 1I / C * R *
Choke Shutter Inspect/Clean 1I / C
Fuel Filter Inspect/Replace 1I * I / R *
Fuel Cap Gasket Inspect/Replace 1I * R *
Fuel System Inspect/Replace 1I (3) * I (3) *
Spark Plug Inspect/Clean/Replace 1I / C / R *
Cooling System Inspect/Clean 2I / C
Muffler Spark Arrestor Inspect/Clean/Replace 2I / C / R *
Cylinder Exhaust Port Inspect/Clean/Decarbon 2I / C
Gear Housing Grease 2I (1)
Blades Inspect/Clean 1I / C (2)
Recoil Starter Rope Inspect/Clean 1I / C *
Screws/Nuts/Bolts Inspect/Tighten/Replace 1I *
* All recommendations to replace are based on the finding of damage or wear during inspection.
(2) Inspect blade and clean and sharpen as needed. Lubricate blades periodically during use.
(3) Low evaporative fuel tanks DO NOT require regular maintenance to maintain emission integrity.
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE LETTER CODES: I = INSPECT, R = REPLACE, C = CLEAN
IMPORTANT NOTE - Time intervals shown are maximum. Actual use and your experience will determine the
frequency of required maintenance.
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURE NOTES:
(1) Apply POWER BLENDX
TM
Grease every 25 hours of use.
s k I l l l e v e l s
Level 1 = Easy to do. Most required tools come with unit.
Level 2 = Moderate difculty. Some specialized tools may be required.
ECHO offers REPOWERTM Maintenance Kits and Parts to make your maintenance job easier.

He d g e Cl i p p e r
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p e r a t O r 'sMa n u a l
17
a I r f I l t e r
Level 1.
Tools required: 25 or 50 mm (1 or 2 in.) cleaning brush
Parts required: REPOWERTM AIR & FUEL FILTER KIT
1. Close choke (Cold Start Position [ ]). This prevents dirt from
entering the carburetor throat when the air lter is removed. Brush
accumulated dirt from air cleaner area.
2. Remove air lter cover. Brush dirt from inside cover.
3. Remove air lter and lightly brush debris from lter. Replace lter
if it is damaged, fuel soaked, very dirty, or the rubber sealing edges
are deformed.
4. If lter can be reused, be certain it:
• Fits tightly in the air lter cavity.
• Is installed with the original side out.
5. Install air lter cover.
NOTE
Carburetor adjustment may be needed after air lter cleaning/re-
placement.
f u e l f I l t e r
Level 1.
Tools required: 200-250 mm (8-10 in.) length of wire with one end
bent into a hook, clean rag, funnel, and an approved
fuel container
Parts required: REPOWERTM AIR & FUEL FILTER KIT
DANGER
Fuel is VERY ammable. Use extreme care when mixing, storing
or handling.
1. Use a clean rag to remove loose dirt from around fuel cap and
empty fuel tank.
2. Use the “fuel line hook” to pull the fuel line and lter from the tank.
3. Remove the lter from the line and install the new lter.

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s p a r k p l u g
Level 2.
Tools required: T-wrench, Feeler gauge, Soft metal brush
Parts required: REPOWERTM Tune-Up Kit
IMPORTANT
Use only NGK BPM-8Y spark plug (BPMR-8Y in Canada) other-
wise severe engine damage may occur.
1. Remove spark plug and check for fouling, worn and rounded center
electrode.
2. Clean the plug or replace with a new one. DO NOT sand blast to
clean. Remaining sand will damage engine.
3. Adjust spark plug gap by bending outer electrode.
4. Tighten spark plug to 150-170 kgf • cm (130-150 in • lbf).
c o o l I n g s y s t e m
Level 2.
Tools required: 3 mm Hex wrench, 25 or 50 mm (1 or 2 in.) clean-
ing brush
Parts required: None if you are careful.
IMPORTANT
To maintain proper engine operating temperatures, cooling air must
pass freely through the cylinder n area. This ow of air carries
combustion heat away from the engine.
Overheating and engine seizure can occur when:
• Air intakes in the crankcase are blocked, preventing cooling air from
reaching the cylinder.
• Dust and grass build up on the outside of the cylinder. This build up
insulates the engine and prevents the heat from leaving.
Removal of crankcase cooling passage blockages or cleaning of cooling
ns is considered “Normal Maintenance.” Any failure attributed to lack
of maintenance is not warranted.
0.65 mm
(0.026 in.)

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1. Remove spark plug lead and spark plug.
2. Remove (4) starter cover hex socket bolts and starter.
3. Remove bottom right (A) and bottom left (B) hex socket bolts from
cylinder cover.
4. Remove heat shield bolt (C) from the mufer cover.
5. Carefully pull cylinder cover forward disengaging mufer gasket
tabs and ignition lead and lay aside.
6. Loosely install spark plug to keep debris out of the cylinder. Use
brush to remove dirt from cylinder ns.
IMPORTANT
DO NOT use a metal scraper to remove dirt from the cylinder ns.
7. Assemble components in reverse order.
NOTE
When installing the cylinder cover, be certain the mufer gasket
tabs (D) are locked into the mufer grill slots and the stop switch
lead is seated in the rubber grommet.
A
B
CD

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e x h a u s t s y s t e m
Spark Arrestor Screen
Level 2.
Tools required: 3 mm Hex wrench, Cross Head Screwdriver, Soft
metal brush
Parts required: Screen, Gasket
1. Remove engine cover. See “Cleaning Cooling System” for step by
step instructions.
2. Place piston at Top Dead Center (TDC) to prevent carbon/dirt from
entering cylinder.
3. Remove exhaust guide (A), gasket (B), and screen (C) from mufer
body.
4. Clean carbon deposits from mufer components.
NOTE
When cleaning carbon deposits, be careful not to damage the cata-
lytic element inside mufer.
5. Replace screen if it is cracked, plugged or has holes burned through.
6. Assemble components in reverse order.
NOTE
When installing the cylinder cover, be certain the mufer gasket
tabs (D) are locked into the mufer grill slots and the stop switch
lead is seated in the rubber grommet.
D
AB
C