Echo HCA-260 User manual

Shaft Hedge Clipper
Operator's Manual
MODEL: HCA-261
Serial Number 002001001 - 02999999
WARNING DANGER
Readrulesforsafeoperationandinstructionscarefully.ECHOprovidesanOperator's
ManualandaSafetyManual.Bothmustbereadandunderstoodforproperandsafeopera-
tion.Failuretodosocouldresultinserousinjury.
X750001220
06/00
X7502094700

1
SUP22203863
SUPPLEMENT TO OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Model HCA-260, HCA-261
Serial Number:All
SUPLEMENTO DEL MANUAL DEL OPERADOR
Modelo HCA-260, HCA-261
Número de serie: Todas
This Supplement contains important information. Please keep with your Operator’s Manual.
The following section has been added:
99922203863
08/05
ROTATE CUTTER ASSEMBLY
Always use the unit from the right-hand side of your body – NEVER from the left
side. Rotate cutter assembly 180 degrees on driveshaft in order to avoid cutting
directly above your head, and to avoid contact with hot muffler.
1. Loosen gearcase clamping screw (A), hand guard clamping screw (B), and
remove gearcase locating screw (C).
2. Rotate cutter assembly 180-degrees on driveshaft until locating hole in driveshaft
is visible through locating hole in gearcase.
3. Install gearcase locating screw (C), and securely tighten all hardware.
OPERATION
WARNING DANGER
Hedge Clipper blades are very sharp. Wear gloves to protect hands when rotating cutter assembly or serious personal injury may
result.
WARNING DANGER
During operation, the complete unit, especially the drive shaft housing and gearcase may become too hot to touch. Avoid contact
when rotating cutter assembly.
Este suplemento contiene la información importante.
Guarde por favor con el manual de su operador.
La sección siguiente se ha agregado:
PARA GIRAR EL CONJUNTO DE CORTADOR
Use siempre la unidad del lado derecho de su cuerpo - NO USE NUNCA la del lado
izquierdo. Gire 180 grados el conjunto de cortador en el eje de impulsión para no
cortar directamente por encima de la cabeza, y para no hacer contacto con el
silenciadorcaliente.
1. Afloje el tornillo de sujeción de la caja de engranajes(A), el tornillo de sujeción
del protector de la mano (B) y quite el tornillo guía de la caja de engranajes (C).
2. Gire 180 grados el conjunto de cortador en el eje de impulsión hasta que se pueda
ver el agujero de guía por el agujero de guía de la caja de engranajes.
3. Instale el tornillo guía de la caja de engranajes (C) y apriete bien toda la
tornillería.
OPERACIÓN
A
BC
A
BC

SUPPLÉMENT AU MANUEL DE L’OPÉRATEUR
Modèle: HCA-260, HCA-261
Numéro de série: Tous
2
Ce supplément contient l’information importante. Veuillez le garder avec le manuel de votre opérateur.
La section suivante a été ajouté:
ADVERTENCIA PELIGRO
Las hojas del cortasetos están muy afiladas. Lleve guantes para protegerse las manos al girar el conjunto de cortador, ya que de lo
contrario se pueden producir lesiones personales.
ADVERTENCIA PELIGRO
Durante la operación, la unidad completa, especialmente la caja del eje de impulsión y la caja de engranajes pueden calentarse
demasiado al tacto. Evite el contacto al girar el conjunto de cortador:
UTILISATION
ROTATION DE LA TÊTE DE COUPE
Toujours utiliser l’outil en le tenant à la droite du corps – JAMAIS à la gauche.
Tourner la tête de coupe de 180 degrés sur l’arbre moteur, pour éviter de couper
directement au0dessus de soi et d’éviter le contact avec l’échappement brûlant.
1. Desserrer la vis de fixation du carter d’engrenages (A), la vis de fixation de la
garde de main (B) et retirer la vis de guidage du carter d’engrenages (C).
2. Tourner la tête de coupe de 180 degrés sur l’arbre moteur, de façon à ce que le
trou de l’arbre soit visible au travers de celui du carter d’engrenages.
3. Installer la vis de guidage du carter d’engrenages(C) et serrer fermement toute la
boulonnerie.
AVERTISSEMENT DANGER
Porter des gants lors de la manipulation de l’accessoire de coupe pour éviter des
risques de blessures graves.
AVERTISSEMENT DANGER
Pendant le fonctionnement, l’ensemble de l’outil, en particulier le boîtier de
l’arbre moteur et le carter d’engrenages peuvent devenir trop chauds pour être
touchés. Éviter le contact avec ces pièces lors de la rotation du carter
d’engrenages.
A
BC

S HAFT H EDGE C LIPPER
O PERATOR ' S M ANUAL
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MANUAL SAFETY SYMBOLS AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Throughout this manual and on the product itself, you will find safety
alerts and helpful, information messages preceded by symbols or key
words. The following is an explanation of those symbols and key
words and what they mean to you.
This symbol accompanied by the words WARNING
and DANGER calls attention to an act or condition that
can lead to serious personal injury to operator and
bystanders.
The circle with the slash symbol means whatever is
shown within the circle is prohibited.
IMPORTANT
The enclosed message provides
information necessary for the protection
of the unit.
NOTE
This enclosed message provides tips for
use, care and maintenance of the unit.
IMPORTANT
NOTE
SAFETY
DECALS
Locate these safety decals on your unit. The complete unit illustration, found in the "DESCRIPTION" section, will help
you locate them. Make sure the decals are legible and that you understand and follow the instructions on them. If a decal
cannot be read, a new one can be ordered from your ECHO dealer. See PARTS ORDERING instructions for specific
information.
WARNING DANGER
This unit is not designed to insulate against hazards associated with the contact of wires
carrying electrical current.
To avoid possible injury/death due to electrical shock or other hazards. DO NOT operate unit if
any wires (power, telephone, cable, etc.) are closer than 15 feet (4/5 meters minimum distance,
to any part of the unit or operator.
WARNING DANGER
This unit can be dangerous if used improperly. • Falling objects and/or blade
contact can cause serious injury to operator, helpers and bystanders. • Keep helpers
and bystanders at least 50 feet (15m) clear of operating area. • To reduce injury risk,
READ AND UNDERSTAND the operator's Manual, replacement copies are available
through your ECHO dealer. • Wear Protective clothing (head, hearing and eye
protection meeting ANSI standards) specified in the Operator's Manual. • STOP
engine before making repairs or blade adjustments. • ALWAYS use adjustment handle
when adjusting blade angle. • Keep hand away from blade.
P/N 89016012360

4
Shaft Decal
Spanish Decal
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
Operator's Manual.
Wear eyes, ears and
head protection Emergency stop
Fuel and oil mixture
Finger Severing Haz-
ard
Carburetor adjustment
- Low speed mixture
Safety/Alert
Do not operate closer
than 15 M (50 ft.) from
electrical haz-
ards.
Keep bystanders at
least 15 meters
(50 feet) away.
Wear hand
protection. Use
two handed.
DO NOT smoke
near fuel.
DO NOT allow
flames or sparks
near fuel.
Wear slip resistant
foot wear. Engine choke
control.
Ignition
ON/OFF
Primer bulb
Avoid all power lines.
This unit is not insulat-
ed against electrical
current.
WARNING DANGER
Thisunitcanbedangerousandcause
serious injury if improperly used. to
reduce injury risk to operator, helpers
and bystanders, read and understand
the Operator's and Safety Manuals,
whichareprovidedinSpanish.
ADVERTENCIA PELIGRO
Esta unidad puede ser peligrosa y producir lesiones
personales graves si no se usa en forma adecuada. Para
reducir el riesgo de lesionarse, los operadores, los
ayudantes y los espectadores deben leer y comprender el
Manual Del Operador y los Manuales De Seguridad que se
entregan escritos en español.
89022809560
English Translation
INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS
EQUIPMENT
Before operation a complete check of the unit must be performed;
• 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 blade assembly is firmly attached and in safe operating
condition. Dull, loose or damaged blades should not be used.

S HAFT H EDGE C LIPPER
O PERATOR ' S M ANUAL
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• Check that shoulder harness is adjusted for safe, comfortable
operation.
• Tighten the blade angle adjustment lever before operating.
Spark Arrestor - Catalytic Muffler / Muffler
• The muffler or catalytic muffler controls the exhaust noise and
emissions. The spark arrestor screen prevents hot, glowing particles
of carbon from leaving the muffler. Make sure the spark arrestor
screen is in good repair and properly seated in the muffler. Keep
exhaust area clear of flammable debris. Avoid contact during and
immediately after operation.
• Do not use shaft hedge clipper if any part is missing or damaged.
• Have repairs done only by an authorized ECHO Service Dealer.
• Do not use any attachment, accessory or replacement part unless it is
recommended in this Operator's Manual.
FUEL
WARNING DANGER
FuelisVERYflammable.Useextremecarewhenmixing,storingor
handling, otherwise serious personal injury may result.
• Use an approved fuel container.
• DO NOT smoke near fuel.
• DO NOT allow flames 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!
• NEVER refuel a unit with the engine running.
• DO NOT fill fuel tanks indoors. ALWAYS fill fuel tanks
outdoors over bare ground.
• Securely tighten fuel cap after refueling.
• Inspect for fuel leakage. If fuel leakage is found, do not start or
operate unit until leakage is repaired.
IMPORTANT
Spilled fuel is a leading cause of hydrocarbon emissions. Some
states may require the use of automatic fuel shut-off containers to
reducefuelspillage.Contact your ECHO dealer forordering
information.

6
After Refueling;
• Wipe any spilled fuel from the unit.
• Move at least 3 M (10 ft.) from refueling location before starting.
After Use;
• DO NOT store a unit with fuel in its tank. Leaks can occur. Return
unused fuel to an approved fuel storage container.
PERSONAL CONDITION AND SAFETY EQUIPMENT
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 requirements
whenever you operate the unit.
Face and Head Protection
When trimming overhead, wear head protection meeting ANSI Z89.1
with a full face shield.
Hand Protection
Wear no-slip, heavy duty work gloves to improve your grip on the
unit handles. Gloves also reduce the transmission of machine vibration
to your hands.
Hearing Protection
Wear hearing protection. ECHO recommends wearing hearing protec-
tion whenever unit is used.
WARNING DANGER
Hedge Clipper users risk injury to themselves and others if the shaft hedge clipper is used improperly and or safety
precautions are not followed. Proper clothing and safety gear must be worn when operating a shaft hedge clipper.
3 M (10 ft.)

S HAFT H EDGE C LIPPER
O PERATOR ' S M ANUAL
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Proper Clothing
Wear snug fitting, durable clothing;
• Pants should have long legs, shirts with long sleeves.
• DO NOT WEAR SHORTS,
• DO NOT WEAR TIES, SCARVES, JEWELRY.
Wear sturdy work shoes with non-skid soles;
• DONOTWEAROPENTOEDSHOES,
• DONOTOPERATEUNITBAREFOOTED.
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.
SAFE OPERATION
Determine Operation Area
• Provide all operators of this equipment with the Operator's Manuals
and instructions for safe operation.
• Review the area to be trimmed. Look for hazards that could contribute
to unsafe conditions. DO NOT operate unit if any wires (power,
telephone, cable, etc.) are closer than 4.5 M (15 ft.) to any part of the
operator or unit.
• Spectators and fellow workers must be warned, and children and
animals prevented from coming nearer than 15 M (50 ft.) while the
Hedge Clipper is in use.
Operation
WARNING DANGER
Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately ventilated
areas. Engine exhaust contains poisonous emissions and can cause
serious injury or death.
Use Proper Clothing & Equipment
• Before starting the unit, equip yourself and any other person
working within the 15 M (50 ft.) Safety Zone with the required
Protective Equipment and clothing.

8
AvoidHotSurfaces
• During operation, the muffler or catalytic muffler and surrounding
cover may become extremely hot. Avoid contact during and immedi-
ately after operation. Always keep exhaust area clear of flammable
debris. Allow the engine and muffler to completely cool before
performing any maintenance activity.
Keep A Firm Grip
• Hold the front and rear handles with both hands with thumbs and
fingers tightly 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.
• Never adjust blade angle of HCA while standing.
• Only adjust cutting angle with HCA resting flat on the ground, with
the switch in the "STOP" position.
• Adjust cutting angle by moving locking lever (A) up. Depress blade
indexing lever (B) and change blade angle with rear cutter assembly
handle. Release indexing lever into notch. Move locking lever down
to completely engage internal gears.
IMPORTANT
Lever (A) does not secure gearbox angle setting. Moving lever in
the down position reduces internal play in the gear box. Do not
over tighten nut (C) to insure gear box angle setting tightness
because damage to internal gears will occur. If the lever is loose or
very tight adjust nut (C) for snug 90° movement.
AB
C

S HAFT H EDGE C LIPPER
O PERATOR ' S M ANUAL
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EXTENDED OPERATION/EXTREME CONDITIONS
Vibration and Cold
It is believed that a condition called Raynaud’s Phenomenon, which
affects the fingers of certain individuals may be brought about by
exposure to vibration and cold. Exposure to vibration and cold may
cause tingling and burning sensations followed by loss of color and
numbness in the fingers. 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
exercises during frequent work breaks and also by not smoking.
• Limit the hours of operation. Try to fill each day with jobs where
operating the trimmer or other hand-held power equipment is not
required.
• If you experience discomfort, redness and swelling of the fingers
followed by whitening and loss of feeling, consult your physician
before further exposing yourself to cold and vibration.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
It is believed that overusing the muscles and tendons of the fingers,
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).AnextremeRSIconditionisCarpalTunnelSyndrome
(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 finger.
• Take periodic breaks to minimize repetition and rest your hands.
• Reduce the speed and force with which you do the repetitive
movement.
• 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 fingers, hands, wrists or
arms. The sooner RSI/CTS is diagnosed, the more likely permanent
nerve and muscle damage can be prevented.

10
DESCRIPTION
The ECHO product you have purchased has been factory pre-assembled for your convenience. Due to packaging
restrictions, some assembly of Model HCA-261 is required.
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.
CONTENTS
_____ 1-PowerHead
_____ 1-Drive Shaft Assembly
_____ 1-Gear Case Assembly
_____ 1-Operators Manual
_____ 1 - Hedge Clipper Safety Manual
_____ 1 - Warranty Statement
_____ 1 - Warranty Registration Card
_____ 1-Safety Glasses
_____ 1 - Shoulder Harness
_____ 1-BladeCover
_____ 1-2-StrokeOilSample,2.6oz.
_____ 1-Scrench
_____ 1-4mmHexWrench
_____ 1-8mm/10mmWrench
EMISSION CONTROL
California Tier 2
The emission control system for these engines are
EM(EngineModification).
AnEmissionControlLabelis locatedontheengine.
(ThisisanEXAMPLEONLY,informationonlabel
variesbyengineFAMILY).
PRODUCT EMISSION DURABILITY
The300houremissiondurabilityperiodisthetimespanselectedbythemanufacturercertifyingtheengine
emissionsoutputmeetsapplicableCaliforniaemissionsregulations,providedthatapprovedmaintenanceproce-
duresarefollowedaslistedintheMaintenanceSectionofthismanual.
AIRINDEXTAG
TheAirIndexTagindicates,forpurposesof
consumerawareness,how thisproduct'semissions
comparetothestandardsenactedbytheCalifornia
AirResourcesBoard.
IMPORTANT ENGINE INFORMATION
ENGINE FAMILY: YEHXS.0254CA
DISPLACEMENT: 25.4 CC
THIS ENGINE MEETS U.S. EPA PH1 AND 2000 AND
LATER CALIFORNIA EMISSION REGULATIONS FOR
S.O.R.E. REFER TO OWNER'S MANUAL FOR
MAINTENANCE SPECIFICATIONS AND ADJUSTMENTS.

S HAFT H EDGE C LIPPER
O PERATOR ' S M ANUAL
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12
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4
5
6
7
8
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15
16
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1. OPERATORS MANUAL -Read and understand this manual beforeoperation. Keepmanualina safe location for
future reference, i.e., operation, maintenance, storage and specifications.
2. SAFETY MANUAL - Read and understand this manual before operation. Keep manual in a safe location as a
reference for safe operating techniques.
3. HEDGECLIPPERSAFETYVIDEO-P/N99922202800(NotincludedwithunitandEnglishversiononly)isavailable
foryourreviewandpurchaseata cost of $5.00 from ECHO, INC.oranyauthorizedECHOdealer. The video over-
views safety precautions and proper operating techniques provided in detail in the Safety Manual, and is supplemen-
tal to the Safety Manual. Read and understand the Safety Manual for complete information on safe operation.
4. POWERHEAD- Factory Assembled. IncludestheEngine, Clutch,FuelSystem,Ignition SystemandStarter.
5. GRIP,RIGHTHAND,REAR-CushionedgripforRightHand.
6. IDLESTARTINTERLOCK- Thislevermustbeheldduringstartingand idleoperation whenthrottletriggeris
disengaged, otherwise engine will stop. The engine does not stop when trigger interlock lever is released and
throttle trigger is engaged during throttle operation. Operation of the throttle trigger is prevented unless interlock
lever is engaged.
7. "STOP SWITCH" mounted on top of the Throttle Trigger Housing. Move switch FORWARD to RUN, BACK to
STOP.
8. FRONTLEFTHANDLOOPHANDLE -Adjustable,rubbergriploophandleforpropercuttingattitudeandoperator
comfort.
9. DRIVESHAFTASSEMBLY-ContainstheFlexibleDriveCable.
10. BLADEANGLEINDEXINGLEVER -Springloadedleverthatengageswithanotchevery15degrees,fromthe
straight (in line with drive shaft) position to right angle with the drive shaft.
11. BLADEANGLELOCKINGLEVER-Theleverdoesnotsecuregearboxanglesetting. Thislever MUSTbeplaced
in the engaged (tight) position to remove internal gear play before operating the hedge clipper.
12. GEARHOUSINGASSEMBLY -Gearhousingassemblycuttingangleisadjustablethrougha90°arc.
13. BLADES - Double reciprocating blades mounted to a blade support bar. Double sided blades, are capable of cutting
on either side of the blade.
14. BLADE COVER - Used to cover blade during transport and storage. Remove blade cover before using unit.
15. THROTTLETRIGGER-Springloadedtoreturntoidlewhenreleased.Duringacceleration,depressgraduallyfor
best operating technique.
16. SHOULDER HARNESS - An adjustable strap that suspends the unit from the operator.
17. ARM REST - Provides arm rest during operation and protects arm from the hot engine.
18. SPARKARRESTOR-CATALYTICMUFFLER/MUFFLER-Themufflerorcatalyticmufflercontrolsexhaustnoise
and emission. The spark arrestor screen prevents hot, glowing particles of carbon from leaving the muffler. Keep
exhaustareaclearofflammabledebris.
19. FUELTANK-Containsfuelandfuelfilter.
20. RECOILSTARTERHANDLE-Pullhandleslowlyuntilstarterengages,thenquicklyandfirmly. DONOTpullrope
all the way out or allow the handle to snap back, damage to the starter will occur.
21. FUELTANKCAP-Coversandsealsfueltankopening.
22. PRIMERBULB -Pumpingprimerbulbbeforestartingenginedrawsfreshfuelfromthefueltankprimingthecarbure-
tor for starting. Pump primer bulb until fuel is visible and flows freely in the clear fuel tank return line. Pump bulb an
additional4or5times.
23. AIRCLEANER-Containsreplaceablefilterelement.
24. CHOKECONTROL- The choke control lever is located on the top of air cleaner housing. Move the lever to "COLD
START" to close choke for cold starting. Move lever to "RUN" to open choke.
25. SPARKPLUG- Providessparktoignitefuelmixture.

S HAFT H EDGE C LIPPER
O PERATOR ' S M ANUAL
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SPECIFICATIONS
MODEL
Length 20
Width 2
5
Height 2
5
Weight (dry) *
6
Engine Type Air cooled, two-stro
k
Bore 3
4
Stroke 2
8
Displacement 25.
4
Exhaust System Spark Ar
r
Carburetor Walbro Diaphra
Ignition System Flywheel Magneto,
C
Spark Plug
Fuel Mixed (Ga
s
Fuel/Oil Ratio 50:1 ECHO High Perfor
m
Gasoline 89 Octane unleaded. DO
more than 10
%

14
ASSEMBLY
GEAR HOUSING ASSEMBLY / DRIVE SHAFT
ToolsRequired: 8mmx10mmOpenEndWrench
Parts Required: Power Head/Drive Shaft Assembly and Gear Housing
Assembly.
NOTE
Hedge Clipper Blades are very sharp. Wear gloves to protect
hands.
1. Slide the Gear Housing Assembly on the Drive Shaft. Be certain
theFlexDriveShaftengages the hole in DriverGear.
2. Align the locating screw (A) with the locating hole (B) in the Drive
Shaft Housing, tighten screw (A) and clamping screws (C).
DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY /POWER HEAD
Tools Required: 4mmHexWrench
Parts Required: PowerHead,DriveShaftAssembly
1. Loosen, the bolt (A) at engine drive shaft clamp.
2. Carefully fit drive shaft assembly to engine making sure that
inner drive shaft engages into clutch mount.
NOTE
Lower gear housing cutter head assembly must be in line with the
engine.
3. Turn drive shaft housing so that center line of housing is midway
between the two arrows on shaft.
4. Tighten bolt (A).
A
A

S HAFT H EDGE C LIPPER
O PERATOR ' S M ANUAL
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THROTTLE LINKAGE AND IGNITION LEADS
1. Close choke andremoveairfiltercover.
2. Loosen nut (A) and place threaded end of throttle linkage in
bracket slot. Finger tighten nut (A).
3. Place inner cable in slot of carburetor swivel (B) and tighten nut
(A).
4. Check throttle for freedom of movement and that wide open throttle
/ low idle extremes are adjusted properly. If adjustment cannot be
achieved with adjusting nuts, consult with your Echo Dealer for
correct adjustment procedure.
5. Connect ignition stop leads (C) and (D).
6. Bundle and secure ignition leads against engine housing with clip
(E).
7. Install airfilterand cover.
PRE-OPERATION
FUEL
Fuel Requirements
Gasoline - Use 89 Octane [ ] (mid grade or higher) gasoline or
gasohol known to be good quality. Gasohol may contain up to 10%
Ethyl (grain) alcohol or 15% MTBE (methyl tertiary-butyl ether).
Gasohol containing methyl (wood) alcohol is NOT approved.
TwoStrokeOil-Atwo-strokeengineoilmeetingISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD
13738)andJASO FC standards,mustbe used.EchobrandPremium 50:1
oil meets these standards. Engine problems due to inadequate lubrica-
tioncausedby failuretousean ISO-L-EGDandJASO FCcertifiedoil,
suchasEchoPremium50:1Two-strokeOil,willvoidthetwo-stroke
engine warranty. (Emission related parts only are covered for two
years, regardless of two-stroke oil used, per the statement listed in the
CaliforniaEmissionDefectWarrantyExplanation.)
Mixing- Follow directions on the oil container.
R + M
2
C
AB
D
E

16
Handling Fuel
WARNING DANGER
FuelisVERYflammable.Useextremecarewhenmixing,storingor
handling, or serious personal injury may result.
• Use an approved fuel container.
• DO NOT smoke near fuel.
• DO NOT allow flames 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!
• NEVER refuel a unit with the engine running.
• DONOTfillfueltanks indoors. ALWAYS fill fueltanksoutdoors
over bare ground.
• Securely tighten fuel cap after refueling.
• Inspect for fuel leakage. If fuel leakage is found, do not start or
operate unit until leakage is repaired.
IMPORTANT
Spilled fuel is a leading cause of hydrocarbon emissions. Some
states may require the use of automatic fuel shut-off containers to
reducefuelspillage.Contact your ECHO dealer forordering
information.
After refueling;
• Wipe any spilled fuel from the unit.
• Move at least 3 M (10 ft.) from refueling location before starting the
engine.
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 government for
the laws affecting your area. As a precaution, store fuel in an approved,
air tight container. Store in a well ventilated, unoccupied building, away
from sparks and flames. Do not store fuel longer than 30 days.
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
container thoroughly before each use.
SM TWTF S
1234567
8 9 10 1112 13 14
15 16 17 1819 20 21
22 23 24 2526 27 28
29 30 31
3 M (10 ft.)

S HAFT H EDGE C LIPPER
O PERATOR ' S M ANUAL
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EQUIPMENT CHECK
Before operation a complete check of the unit must be performed;
• 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 blade assembly is firmly attached and in safe operating
condition. Dull, loose or damaged blades should not be used.
• Tighten the Blade angle adjustment lever before operating.
• Check that shoulder harness is adjusted for safe, comfortable
operation.
DETERMINE OPERATION AREA
• Review the area to be trimmed. Look for hazards that could contrib-
ute to unsafe conditions. DO NOT operate unit if any wires (power,
telephone, cable, etc.) are closer than 4.5 M (15 ft.) to any part of the
operator or unit.
• Spectators and fellow workers must be warned, and children and
animalsprevented fromcomingnearerthan15M(50ft.)whilethe
trimmerisinuse.

18
OPERATION
WARNING DANGER
Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately ventilated
areas. Engine exhaust contains poisonous emissions which can
cause serious injury or death.
• Provide all operators of this equipment with the Operator's Manual
and instructions for safe operation.
• Before starting the unit, equip yourself and any other person working
within the 15 M (50 ft.) Safety Zone with the required Protective
Equipment and clothing.
• Check that shoulder harness is adjusted for safe, comfortable opera-
tion.
• During operation, the muffler or catalytic muffler and surrounding
cover may become extremely hot. Avoid contact during and immedi-
ately after operation. Always keep exhaust area clear of flammable
debris. Allow the engine and muffler to completely cool before
performing any maintenance activity.
• Never adjust blade angle while standing.
• Only adjust cutting angle with HCA resting flat on the ground, with
the switch in the "STOP" position.
• Adjust cutting angle by moving locking lever (A) up. Depress blade
indexing lever (B) and change blade angle with rear cutter assembly
handle. Release indexing lever into notch. Move locking lever down
to completely engage internal gears.
IMPORTANT
Locking lever (A) does not secure gear housing angle setting.
Moving lever in the down position reduces internal play in the gear
housing. Do not over tighten nut (C) to insure gear housing angle
setting tightness because damage to internal gears will occur. If
the lever is loose or very tight, adjust nut (C) for snug 90° move-
ment.
AB
C