Echo GT-230 User manual

Grass Trimmer
Operator's Manual
MODEL GT-230
WARNING
Users of this equipment risk injury to themselves and others if the unit is used im-
properly and/or safety precautions are not followed. ECHO provides an operator’s
manual and a safety manual. Both must be read and understood for proper and safe
operation. Failure to do so could result in serious injury.
X7702094203 X770001413
01/12

2
Copyright© 2012 By Echo, Incorporated
All Rights Reserved.
IntroductIon
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 and the SAFETY MANUAL. You will nd both easy to use and
full of helpful operations tips and SAFETY messages.
the operator'smanual
Keep it in a safe place for future reference. Contains specications and
information for safety, operation, maintenance, storage, and assembly
specic to this product.
the safety manual
Keep it in a safe place for future reference. Explains possible hazards
and the measures you should take to insure safe operation.
table of contents
Introduction................................................................2
- The Operator's Manual .......................................2
- The Safety Manual..............................................2
Safety .........................................................................3
- Manual Safety Symbols and Important
Information .........................................................3
- International Symbols.........................................3
- Personal Conditions and Safety Equipment .......4
- Equipment........................................................... 6
Emission Control .......................................................7
Description.................................................................7
Contents ....................................................................9
Assembly....................................................................9
- Plastic Shield Installation .................................10
- Nylon Head Installation....................................10
- To Advance Trimmer Line .........................................10
- Remove Nylon Line Head .........................................11
- Front (Loop) Handle ......................................... 11
Operation..................................................................12
- Fuel ...................................................................12
- Starting Cold Engine.........................................14
- Starting Warm Engine.......................................15
- Stopping Engine................................................15
Maintenance.............................................................16
- Skill Level.........................................................16
- Maintenance Intervals.......................................16
- Air Filter ...........................................................17
- Fuel Filter..........................................................17
- Spark plug.........................................................18
- Cooling System.................................................18
- Exhaust System.................................................19
- Carburetor Adjustment......................................20
- High Altitude Operation ..........................................20
- Lubrication ...........................................................21
- Nylon Line Replacement......................................22
Troubleshooting .......................................................23
Storage .....................................................................24
Specications ...........................................................25
Warranty Statements ................................................26
Servicing Information ..............................................32
- Parts/Serial Number.......................................... 32
- Service ..............................................................32
- ECHO Consumer Product Support...................32
- Warranty Card...................................................32
- Additional or Replacement Manuals ................32
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.

Grass Trimmer
OperaTOr'smanual
3
InternatIonal symbols
BEWARE
- THROWN,
RICOCHET
OBJECTS
WEAR HAND AND
FOOT PROTECTION
HOT
SURFACE
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
READ AND UNDER-
STAND OPERATOR'S
MANUAL.
WEAR EYES, EARS
AND HEAD PROTEC-
TION
FUEL AND OIL
MIXTURE
SAFETY/ALERT
DO NOT SMOKE
NEAR FUEL.
WEAR SLIP RE-
SISTANT FOOT
WEAR.
DO NOT EXCEED
10,000 RPM.
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
CARBURETOR AD-
JUSTMENT
- IDLE SPEED
CARBURETOR AD-
JUSTMENT
- HIGH SPEED
MIXTURE
EMERGENCY STOP
CARBURETORAD-
JUSTMENT
- LOW SPEED MIX-
TURE
DO NOT ALLOW
FLAMES OR
SPARKS NEAR
FUEL.
IGNITION
ON/OFF
PRIMER
BULB
KEEP BYSTANDERS AND HELPERS
AWAY 15 M (50 FT.).
CHOKE CONTROL
"COLD START"
POSITION
(CHOKE CLOSED)
CHOKE CONTROL
"RUN"
POSITION
(CHOKE OPEN)
DO NOT USE
BLADES. STRING
LINE ONLY
BEWARE
- THROWN,
RICOCHET
OBJECTS
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.
safety
manual safety symbols and Important InformatIon
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.
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.
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.
ROTATING
CUTTING ATTACH-
MENT

4
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 handles. Gloves also reduce the transmission
of machine vibration to your hands.
Hearing Protection
ECHO recommends wearing hearing protection whenever
unit is used.
Vibration and Cold --
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 sen-
sations, 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 vigor-
ous arm exercises 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.
personal condItIon and safety equIpment
WARNING
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.
Proper Clothing
Wear snug tting, durable clothing;
• Pants should have long legs, shirts with long sleeves.
• DO NOT WEAR SHORTS,
• DO NOT WEAR TIES, SCARVES, JEWELRY,
or clothing with loose or hanging items that could
become entangled in moving parts or surrounding
growth.
Wear sturdy work shoes with nonskid soles;
• DO NOT WEAR OPEN TOED SHOES,
• DO NOT OPERATE UNIT BAREFOOTED.
Wear no-slip, heavy duty work gloves.
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.
WARNING
The ignition components of this machine generate an electromagnetic eld during operation which may interfere
with some pacemakers. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury, persons with pacemakers should consult with
their physician and the pacemaker manufacturer before operating this machine. In the absence of such informa-
tion, ECHO does not recommend the use of ECHO products by anyone who has a pacemaker.

Grass Trimmer
OperaTOr'smanual
5
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.
Instead 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 exercises 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 permanent
nerve and muscle damage can be prevented.
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 lad-
ders. Do not over reach.
Avoid Hot Surfaces
• Keep exhaust area clear of ammable debris. Avoid contact during
and immediately after operation.

6
An Emission Control Label is located on the engine.
(This is an EXAMPLE ONLY, information on label varies
by engine FAMILY).
emIssIon control (exhaust &evaporatIve)
EPA 2010 and Later and/or C.A.R.B. TIER III
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.
The emission control system for the engine is EM (engine
modication) and, if the second to last character of the
Engine Family on the Emission Control Information label
(sample below) is “C”, “K”, or “T”, the emission control sys-
tem is EM and TWC (3-way catalyst). The fuel tank/fuel line
emission control system is EVAP (evaporative emissions).
Evaporative emissions for California models may only be
applicable to fuel tanks.
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.
equIpment
• Check unit for loose/missing nuts, bolts and screws. Tighten and/or replace as needed.
• Inspect shield for damage and ensure that the cut-off knife is securely in place. Replace if either is damaged or miss-
ing.
• Check that the cutting attachment is rmly attached and in safe operating condition.
• Check that front (loop) handle and optional shoulder/waist harness are adjusted for safe, comfortable operation. See
Assembly for proper adjustment.
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.
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.

Grass Trimmer
OperaTOr'smanual
7
3
4
5
6
7
8
2
9
descrIptIon
Locate these 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.
Shaft Decal
Hot Decal (near mufer)
18
11
12
13
14
15
17
10
16
1

8
1. POWER HEAD - Factory Assembled to the Driveshaft assembly. Includes the Engine, Clutch, Fuel System, Igni-
tion System and Recoil Starter.
2. GRIP - Rear (right hand) handle.
3. STOP SWITCH - "SLIDE SWITCH" mounted on top of the Throttle Trigger Housing. Move switch FORWARD
to RUN, BACK to STOP.
4. FRONT HANDLE - The Front (loop) handle is factory assembled to the Drive Shaft assembly but must be re-posi-
tioned for proper cutting attitude and operator comfort.
5. DRIVESHAFT ASSEMBLY - Factory Assembled to the Power Head. Includes the Rear (right hand) Handle As-
sembly, Bearing Housing Assembly, Throttle Trigger, Front (loop, left hand) Handle Assembly, Flexible Drive Cable
and Safety Decals.
6. NYLON CUTTER HEAD - Contains replaceable nylon trimming line that advances when the trimmer head is
tapped against the ground while the head is turning at normal operating speed.
7. PLASTIC DEBRIS SHIELD ASSEMBLY - Included in plastic bag (co-pack). MUST be installed on unit before
use, see Assembly Instructions. Shield assembly includes the Cut-Off Knife. Mounts on the Gear Housing Assem-
bly just above the cutting attachment. Helps protect the operator by deecting debris produced during the trimming
operation.
8. CUT-OFF KNIFE - Trims line to the correct length.
9. THROTTLE TRIGGER - Spring loaded to return to idle when released. During acceleration, press trigger gradu-
ally for best operating technique.
10. TOP GUARD - Provides arm rest during operation and protects arm from hot engine.
11. SPARK ARRESTOR MUFFLER OR SPARK ARRESTOR MUFFLER WITH CATALYST -The mufer or
catalytic mufer controls 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.
12. FUEL TANK - Contains fuel and fuel lter.
13. Recoil Starter/Handle - Pull handle slowly until starter engages, then quickly and rmly. When engine starts,
return handle slowly. DO NOT let handle snap back or damage to unit will occur.
14. FUEL TANK CAP - Cover and seals fuel tank opening.
15. 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.
16. CHOKE - Located at the rear of the air cleaner housing. Move choke lever to "Cold Start" ( ) to close choke for
cold starting. Move choke lever to "Run" ( ) position to open choke.
17. AIR CLEANER - Contains replaceable lter element.
18. SPARK PLUG - Provides spark to ignite fuel mixture.

Grass Trimmer
OperaTOr'smanual
9
assembly
Parts Required: Nylon Trimmer Head, Plastic Shield Assembly
WARNING
Cut-off knife on debris shield has sharp edges. Avoid contact when
installing or removing line head.
_____ - Trimmer Assembly:
_____ - Power Head
____ - Drive Shaft Assembly
____ - Nylon Trimmer Head
_____ - Plastic Bag (Co-Pack)
_____ - Operator's Manual
_____ - Safety Manual
_____ - Warranty Card
_____ - Assembly Tool (s)
_____ - Safety Glasses
_____ - Echo Power Blend X TM 2-stroke oil sample
_____ - Shield Assembly
contents
The ECHO product you purchased has been partially assembled for your convenience. Due to packaging restrictions,
installation of the plastic debris shield, nylon line head, and positioning of the front handle may be necessary.
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.
*Some Echo units may be factory pre-assembled. The nylon line head, plastic debris shield, and mounting hardware
shown in the contents list are pre-assembled to the unit. Assembly tools are not supplied with these units. The front
handle may need to be re-positioned for comfortable operation.

10
plastIc shIeld InstallatIon
CAUTION
Wear Gloves or personal injury may result:
• Cutoff knife is sharp.
• Gearcase and surrounding area may be hot.
1. Remove wing nut (A), washer (B), and bolt (C).
2. Snap the shield over the bearing housing.
3. Install bolt (C), washer (B), and wing nut (A).
nylon lIne head InstallatIon
1. Remove plastic threaded shaft sleeve from threaded PTO shaft.
2. Align locating hole in upper plate with hole in bearing housing and
insert locking tool (D).
3. Thread cutting attachment onto shaft clockwise until head is tight.
IMPORTANT
Remember to remove the locking tool.
IMPORTANT
Semi-automatic nylon line heads must be used only with plastic
debris shield with cut-off knife.
C
B
A
D
to advance trImmer lIne
See Maintenance Section for nylon line replacement.
NOTE
To advance trimmer line, tap trimmer head against the ground
while the head is turning at normal operating speed.

Grass Trimmer
OperaTOr'smanual
11
front (loop) handle
NOTE
Label shows minimum spacing for front handle location.
NOTE
Front handle is pre-installed. Re-positioning and tightening is all
that is required.
1. Position front handle (E) in comfortable operating position and
tighten wing nut (F). The cutting attachment should be 5-7.5 cm
(2-3 in.) above the ground and as level as possible.
E
F
remove nylon lIne head
NOTE
Do not disassemble nylon line head.
1. Align locating hole in upper plate with hole in bearing housing and
insert locking tool (D).
2. Remove line head by turning it counter clockwise until head is com-
pletely off of shaft.
3. Remove locking tool (D).
D

12
fuel
NOTICE: Use of unmixed, improperly mixed, or fuel older than 90 days, (stale fuel), may cause hard starting, poor perfor-
mance, or severe engine damage and void the product warranty. Read and follow instructions in the Storage section of this
manual.
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.
operatIon
WARNING
Operation of this equipment may create sparks that can start res. This unit is equipped with a spark arrestor to
prevent discharge of hot particles from the engine. Metal blade use also can create sparks if the blade strikes rocks,
metal, or other hard objects. Contact local re authorities for laws or regulations regarding re prevention require-
ments.
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.
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
problems, 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,
carburetors and other engine components.
Two Stroke Oil - A two-stroke engine oil meeting ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD 13738) and J.A.S.O. FD Standards must be
used. Echo brand premium Power Blend X TM Universal 2-Stroke Oil meets these standards. Engine problems due to in-
adequate lubrication caused by failure to use an ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD 13738) and J.A.S.O. FD certied oil, such as Echo
premium Power Blend X TM, will void the two-stroke engine warranty.
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.

Grass Trimmer
OperaTOr'smanual
13
IMPORTANT
Echo premium Power Blend X TM Universal 2-Stroke Oil may be mixed at 50:1 ratio for application in all Echo
engines sold in the past regardless of ratio specied in those manuals.
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.
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.

14
startIng cold engIne
WARNING
The attachment will operate immediately when the engine starts,
and could result in possible serious injury. Keep movable parts of
the attachment away from objects that could become entangled or
thrown, and surfaces that could cause loss of control.
1. Stop Switch
Move stop switch (A) away from the STOP position.
2. Choke
Move choke (B) to “Cold Start” ( ) 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 area and keep movable attachment parts clear
of all obstacles. Firmly grasp right hand grip with left hand and
fully depress throttle trigger to wide open position. Rapidly pull
recoil starter handle/rope (D) until engine res (or maximum ve
[5] pulls).
5. Choke
After engine res or ve (5) pulls, move choke lever back to “Run”
( ) position. Hold throttle trigger fully depressed and pull starter
handle/rope until engine starts and runs. Release throttle trigger
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.
6. After engine warm up, gradually depress throttle trigger to increase
engine RPM to operating speed.
D
A
B
C

Grass Trimmer
OperaTOr'smanual
15
startIng warm engIne
The starting procedure is the same as Cold Start except DO NOT close
the choke, and do not depress throttle trigger to wide open position.
WARNING
The attachment should not move at idle, otherwise serious personal
injury may result.
NOTE
If attachment moves, readjust carburetor according to “Carburetor
Adjustment” 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 will be visible and ows freely in
the clear fuel tank return line. Pump bulb an additional 4 or 5
times.
3. Recoil Starter
Lay the unit on a at area and keep movable attachment parts clear
of all obstacles. Rapidly pull recoil starter handle/rope (D) until
engine res.
NOTE
If engine does not start after 5 pulls, use Cold Start Procedure.
stoppIng engIne
1. Throttle
Release throttle and allow engine to return to idle before shutting
off engine.
2. Stop Switch
Move stop switch button (A) backward 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 trimmer again.
A
D
A
C

16
maIntenance Intervals
maIntenance
Your ECHO trimmer is designed to provide many hours of trouble free service. Regular scheduled maintenance will help
your trimmer 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 the task is not listed see your Echo dealer for
repairs.
skIll level
Level 1= Easy to do. Common tools may be required.
Level 2 = Moderate difculty. Some specialized tools may be required.
ECHO offers REPOWERTM Maintenance Kits and Parts to make your maintenance job easier.
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.
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
Drive Shaft Inspect/Grease 2I (1)
Gear Housing None
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) Apply POWER BLENDX
TM
every 50 hours of 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
every 25 hours of use.

Grass Trimmer
OperaTOr'smanual
17
aIr fIlter
Level 1.
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.
fuel fIlter
Level 1.
Parts required: REPOWERTM AIR & FUEL FILTER KIT.
DANGER
Fuel is VERY ammable. Use extreme care when mixing, storing
or handling, or serious personal injury may result.
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.
NOTE
Federal EPA regulations require all model year 2012 and later gasoline powered engines produced for sale in the
United States to be equipped with a special low permeation fuel supply hose between the carburetor and fuel tank.
When servicing model year 2012 and later equipment, only fuel supply hoses certied by EPA can be used to replace
the original equipment supply hose. Fines up to $37,500 may be enforced for using an un-certied replacement part.

18
spark plug
Level 2.
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 cen-
ter 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).
coolIng system
Level 2.
Parts Required: None.
IMPORTANT
To maintain proper engine operating temperatures, cooling air
must pass freely through the cylinder n area. This ow of air car-
ries combustion heat away from the engine.
Overheating and engine seizure can occur when:
• Air intakes 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 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.)

Grass Trimmer
OperaTOr'smanual
19
1. Remove spark plug lead.
2. Remove mufer cover (A).
3. Remove screw and top guard (B).
4. Remove engine cover (C).
IMPORTANT
DO NOT use a metal scraper to remove dirt from the cylinder ns.
5. Use brush to remove dirt from the cylinder ns.
6. Remove grass and leaves from the grid between the recoil starter
and fuel tank.
7. Assemble components in reverse order.
exhaust system
Spark Arrestor Screen
Level 2.
Parts Required: Spark Arrestor Screen, Gasket
1. Remove spark plug lead.
2. Remove mufer cover (A).
3. Place piston at Top Dead Center (TDC) to prevent carbon/dirt from
entering cylinder.
4. Remove spark arrestor screen cover (B), gasket (C) and screen (D)
from mufer body.
5. Clean carbon deposits from mufer components.
NOTE
When cleaning carbon deposit, be careful not to damage the cata-
lylic element inside mufer.
6. Replace screen if it is cracked, plugged or has holes burned
through.
7. Assemble components in reverse order.
A
B
C
BC
D
A

20
carburetor adjustment
Engine Break-In
New engines must be operated a minimum duration of two tanks of fuel
break-in before carburetor adjustments can be made. During the break-
in period your engine performance will increase and exhaust emissions
will stabilize. Idle speed can be adjusted as required.
High Altitude Operation
This engine has been factory adjusted to maintain satisfactory starting,
emission, and durability performance up to 1,100 feet above sea level
(ASL) (96.0 kPa). To maintain proper engine operation and emission
compliance above 1,100 feet ASL the carburetor may need to be ad-
justed by an authorized ECHO service dealer.
IMPORTANT
If the engine is adjusted for operation above 1,100 feet ASL, the
carburetor must be re-adjusted when operating the engine below
1,100 feet ASL, otherwise severe engine damage may result.
Exhaust Port Cleaning
Level 2.
Parts Required: As needed: Heat Shield
1. Remove spark plug lead from spark plug, and remove engine
cover.
2. Place piston at top dead center. Remove mufer (A) and heat
shield (B).
3. Use a wood or plastic scraping tool to clean deposits from cylinder
exhaust port.
IMPORTANT
Never use a metal tool to scrape carbon from the exhaust port.
Do not scratch the cylinder or piston when cleaning the exhaust
port. Do not allow carbon particles to enter the cylinder.
4. Inspect heat shield, and replace if damaged.
5. Install heat shield and mufer.
6. Tighten mufer mounting bolts (or nuts) to 80-95 in•lbf
(90-110 kgf•cm).
7. Install engine cover and attach spark plug lead.
8. Start engine, and warm to operating temperature.
9. Stop engine, and re-tighten mounting bolts (or nuts) to specica-
tions.
A
B