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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.