Echo Shindaiwa DH232 User manual

X7712240202
© 07/22 ECHO Incorporated
Operator’s
Manual
DH232
Hedge Trimmer
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or
other reproductive harm.
Read and understand all provided literature before use.
Failure to do so could result in serious injury.
Note: This product complies with CAN ICES-2/NMB-2.

TABLE OF CONTENTS DH232
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ................................................................................................. 3
Servicing Information .................................................................................. 3
Parts and Serial Number...................................................................... 3
Service................................................................................................. 4
Consumer Product Support ................................................................. 4
Product Registration ............................................................................ 4
Additional Literature............................................................................. 4
Safety.......................................................................................................... 5
Manual Safety Symbols and Important Information............................. 5
International Symbols .......................................................................... 6
Personal Condition and Safety Equipment .......................................... 8
Equipment.......................................................................................... 12
Emission Control (Exhaust & Evaporative) .............................................. 14
CARB and EPA Emissions Control Information ................................. 14
Description ................................................................................................ 15
Contents.................................................................................................... 16
Assembly................................................................................................... 16
Operation .................................................................................................. 17
Fuel.................................................................................................... 17
Starting Cold Engine.......................................................................... 21
Starting Warm Engine........................................................................ 22
Stopping Engine ................................................................................ 23
Rotating Operation............................................................................. 24
Hedge Trimming................................................................................. 25
Maintenance ............................................................................................. 25
Skill Levels ......................................................................................... 26
Maintenance Intervals........................................................................ 27
Air Filter ............................................................................................. 28
Fuel Filter........................................................................................... 28
Spark Plug ......................................................................................... 29
Cooling System.................................................................................. 30
Exhaust System................................................................................. 31
Carburetor Adjustment....................................................................... 32
Lubrication ......................................................................................... 34
Blades................................................................................................ 35
Troubleshooting ........................................................................................ 37
Storage ..................................................................................................... 38
Long Term Storage (Over 30 Days)................................................... 39
Specifications............................................................................................ 40
Product Registration.................................................................................. 42

DH232 INTRODUCTION
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INTRODUCTION
Specifications, descriptions, and illustrative material in this literature are as
accurate as possible. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Illustrations might include optional equipment and accessories, and might
not include all standard equipment. Your equipment might appear slightly
different than pictured equipment.
Read and understand all provided literature.
Literature contains specifications and
information for safety, operation,
maintenance, storage, and assembly
specific to this product. Scan QR codes for
more information.
For additional literature, including safety manuals where applicable, or
questions regarding terms used in this manual, visit:
https://www.echo-usa.com/manuals
OR
https://www.shindaiwa-usa.com/manuals
SERVICING INFORMATION
Parts and Serial Number
Genuine Shindaiwa Parts and
Assemblies for your Shindaiwa
products are available only from an
Authorized Shindaiwa Dealer. When
you do need to buy parts always
have the Model Number and Serial
Number of the unit with you. For
future reference, write them in the
space provided below.
Model No. _____________________ Serial No. _____________________

SERVICING INFORMATION DH232
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Service
Service of this product during the warranty period must be performed by an
Authorized Shindaiwa Service Dealer. For the name and address of the
Authorized Shindaiwa Service Dealer nearest you, ask your retailer or call:
1-877-986-7783. Dealer information is also available on www.shindaiwa-
usa.com. When presenting your unit for Warranty service/repairs, proof of
purchase is required.
Consumer Product Support
If you require assistance or have questions concerning the application,
operation or maintenance of this product you may call the Shindaiwa
Consumer Product Support Department at 1-877-986-7783 from 8:00 am to
5:00 pm (Central Standard Time) Monday through Friday. Before calling,
please know the model and serial number of your unit.
Product Registration
To ensure trouble free warranty coverage it is important that you register
your Shindaiwa equipment on-line at www.shindaiwa-usa.com or by filling
out the product registration sheet included in this manual. Registering your
product confirms your warranty coverage and provides a direct link between
you and ECHO if we find it necessary to contact you.
Additional Literature
In addition to finding information online, information is available from your
Authorized Shindaiwa Service Dealer, or by contacting ECHO Incorporated,
400 Oakwood Road, Lake Zurich, IL 60047, 1-800-432-ECHO (3246).

DH232 SAFETY
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SAFETY
Manual Safety Symbols and Important Information
Throughout this manual and on the product itself, you will find safety alerts
and helpful, informational messages preceded by symbols or key words.
The following is an explanation of those symbols and key words and what
they mean to you.
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.
The safety alert symbol accompanied by the word “WARNING”
calls attention to an act or condition which CAN lead to serious
personal injury or death if not avoided.
The safety alert symbol accompanied by the word “CAUTION”
calls attention to an act or condition which might lead to minor
or moderate personal injury if not avoided.
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.
CIRCLE AND SLASH SYMBOL
This symbol means the specific action shown is prohibited.
Ignoring these prohibitions can result in serious or fatal injury.

SAFETY DH232
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International Symbols
Symbol Description Symbol Description
Read and
understand
Owners Manual.
Fuel and oil mixture
Wear eye, ear
and head
protection.
Finger Severing
Emergency Stop Hot Surface
Wear hand and
foot protection.
Use two handed
DO NOT smoke
near fuel.
Choke Control
“COLD START”
Position (Choke
Closed)
Ignition
ON / OFF
Choke Control
“RUN” Position
(Choke Open)
Do not operate
without guards in
place.
Do not operate
closer than 15 M
(50 ft.) from
electrical hazard.
Carburetor
Adjustment - High
speed mixture
Safety/Alert
Carburetor
Adjustment - Idle
speed
STOP
Ignition
OFF
ON
H
T

DH232 SAFETY
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Note: Not all symbols will appear on your unit.
Avoid all power
lines. This unit is
not insulated
against electrical
current.
Carburetor
Adjustment - Low
speed mixture
Plan retreat path
from falling
objects.
Purge Bulb
DO NOT allow
flames or sparks
near fuel.
Wear slip resistant
footwear.
Keep bystanders at least 4.5 meters
(15 ft.) away.
Symbol Description Symbol Description
L

SAFETY DH232
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Personal Condition and Safety Equipment
Cancer and Reproductive Harm
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
The muffler or catalytic muffler and surrounding cover
may become extremely hot. Always keep clear of
exhaust and muffler area, otherwise serious personal
injury might occur.
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.
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
◆Eye protection that meets ANSI Z87.1 or CE requirements
must be worn whenever you operate the unit.
◆For additional safety, a full-face shield can be worn over
safety glasses or goggles to provide protection from sharp
branches or flying debris.

DH232 SAFETY
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Hand Protection
Wear sturdy, no-slip, rubber work gloves to improve your grip on the
handles. Gloves also provide protection against cuts and scratches, cold
environments, and reduce the transmission of machine vibration to your
hands.
Hearing and Ear Protection
ECHO recommends wearing personal protective equipment whenever unit
is used.
Breathing Protection
Operators who are sensitive to dust or other common airborne allergens
may need to wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling these materials while
operating unit. Dust masks can provide protection against dust, plant debris,
and other plant matter such as pollen. Make sure the mask does not impair
your vision, and replace the mask as needed to prevent air restrictions.
Proper Clothing
Wear snug-fitting, durable clothing:
• Pants should have long legs, shirts should have 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.
• Keep clothing buttoned or zipped, and keep shirt tails tucked in.
• Wear sturdy work shoes with nonskid rubber soles.
• DO NOT WEAR OPEN TOED SHOES.
• DO NOT OPERATE UNIT WITH BARE FEET.
Keep long hair away from engine and air intake. Retain hair with cap or net.
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.

SAFETY DH232
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The components of this machine generate an electromagnetic
field during operation, which can 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 information, ECHO does not
recommend the use of this machine by anyone who has a
pacemaker.
Extended Operation and Extreme Conditions
Prolonged exposure to cold and/or vibration can result in injury.
Read and follow all safety and operation instructions to
minimize risk of injury. Failure to follow instructions can result
in painful wrist/hand/arm injuries.
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 unit 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.

DH232 SAFETY
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Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI)
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). 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
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.
All over head electrical conductors and communications wires
can have electricity flow with high voltages. This unit is not
insulated against electrical current. Never touch wires directly
or indirectly, otherwise serious injury or death can result.
Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately
ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains poisonous emissions
and can cause serious injury or death.

SAFETY DH232
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Read the Manuals
• Provide all users of this equipment with the Operator’s 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
• Always hold throttle handle and support handle 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.
Avoid Hot Surfaces
• Keep exhaust area clear of flammable debris.
Avoid contact during and immediately after
operation.
Never perform blade maintenance procedures while engine is
running.
Equipment
Use only approved attachments. Serious injury may result from
the use of a non-approved attachment combination. ECHO
Incorporated will not be responsible for the failure of cutting
devices, attachments or accessories which have not been
tested and approved by ECHO Incorporated. Read and comply
with all safety instructions listed in this manual and safety
manual.
◆Check unit for loose or missing nuts, bolts, and screws.
Tighten and/or replace as needed.

DH232 SAFETY
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◆Check that the cutting attachment is firmly attached and in
safe operating condition. Dull, loose or damaged blades
should not be used.
Moving parts can amputate fingers 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.
Periodically check fuel system (fuel lines, vent, grommet, fuel
tank, and fuel cap) for leaks 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 authorized servicing dealer before using.

EMISSION CONTROL DH232
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EMISSION CONTROL (EXHAUST &
EVAPORATIVE)
CARB and EPA Emissions Control Information
The emission control system for
the engine is EM (engine
modification) and, if the second to
last character of the Engine Family
on the Emission Control
Information label (sample below) is
“B”, “C”, “K”, or “T”, the emission
control system is EM and TWC
(3-way catalyst). The fuel tank/fuel
line emission control system is EVAP (evaporative emissions). Evaporative
emissions for California models are only applicable to fuel tanks and fuel
feed lines.
An Emission Control Label is
located on the engine. (This is an
EXAMPLE ONLY, information on
label varies by engine FAMILY).
Product Emission Durability (Emission Compliance Period)
The 50 or 300 hour emission compliance period is the time span selected by
the manufacturer certifying the engine emissions output meets applicable
emissions regulations, provided that approved maintenance procedures are
followed as listed in the Maintenance Section of this manual.

DH232 DESCRIPTION
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DESCRIPTION
Locate the safety decal(s) on your unit. Make sure the decal(s) is legible
and that you understand and follow the instructions on it. If a decal cannot
be read, a new one can be ordered from your Shindaiwa dealer. Safety label
is for example only. Your label my appear slightly different.
1
2
6
3
4
5
14
15
12
11
10
9
7
8
16
13
4.5m (15ft)

CONTENTS DH232
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CONTENTS
The Shindaiwa product you purchased has been factory pre-assembled for
your convenience. Due to packaging restrictions, some assembly may be
necessary.
After opening the carton, check for damage. Immediately notify your retailer
or Shindaiwa Dealer of damaged or missing parts. Use the contents list to
check for missing parts.
ASSEMBLY
This model is factory assembled.
1. Blades
2. Blade Guard
3. Spark Plug
4. Choke Lever
5. Purge Bulb
6. Air Filter
7. Throttle Trigger
8. Throttle Handle
9. Throttle Trigger Lockout
10. Stop Switch
11. Fuel Tank
12. Fuel Tank Cap
13. Spark Arrester Muffler or Spark Arrester Muffler with Catalyst
14. Recoil Starter Handle
15. Support Handle
16. Scabbard
1 Hedge Trimmer Assembly
1 Operator’s Manual
1 Warranty Statement
1 Scabbard

DH232 OPERATION
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OPERATION
Moving parts can amputate fingers 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.
Engine exhaust IS HOT, and contains Carbon Monoxide (CO), a
poison gas. Breathing CO can cause unconsciousness, serious
injury, or death. Exhaust can cause serious burns. ALWAYS
position unit so that exhaust is directed away from your face
and body.
Operation of this equipment may create sparks that can start
fires around dry vegetation. This unit is equipped with a spark
arrester to prevent discharge of hot particles from the engine.
Metal cutters can also create sparks if the cutter strikes rocks,
metal, or other hard objects. Contact local fire authorities for
laws or regulations regarding fire prevention requirements.
Fuel
Diesel fuels and alternative fuels, such as E15 (15% ethanol),
E85 (85% ethanol) or any fuels not meeting Shindaiwa
requirements are NOT approved for use in Shindaiwa 2-stroke
or Hybrid 4-stroke gasoline engines. Use of diesel or 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. Diesel or alternative fuels may also cause
premature deterioration of fuel lines, gaskets, carburetors and
other engine components.

OPERATION DH232
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Fuel Requirements
Gasoline - Use fresh (purchased within the last 30 days from the pump) 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. Use of ECHO branded fuel is recommended to extend
engine life in all air-cooled 2-stroke and 2/4-stroke hybrid engines.
Two Stroke Oil - A 2-stroke engine oil, such as Shindaiwa branded 2-stroke
oils, meeting ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD 13738) and J.A.S.O. FD Standards must
be used. Shindaiwa branded 2-stroke oils meet 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. M345-FD certified oil will void the 2-
stroke engine warranty.
2-Stroke engine oil contains petroleum distillates and other
additives that may be harmful if swallowed. Heated oil can
release vapors that can cause flash fire, or ignite with explosive
force. Read and follow the oil manufacturer’s instructions, and
observe all safety warnings and precautions for handling
flammable liquids. For more detailed safety and first aid
information, visit www.echo-usa.com for a copy of the Material
Safety Data Sheet.
◆KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
◆If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. CALL PHYSICIAN OR
A POISON CONTROL CENTER IMMEDIATELY.
◆WEAR SAFETY GLASSES when mixing or handling.
◆AVOID repeated or prolonged skin contact.
◆AVOID inhaling oil mists or vapors.
Shindaiwa branded 2-stroke oils may be mixed at 50:1 ratio for
application in all Shindaiwa engines sold in the past, regardless of
ratio specified in those manuals.

DH232 OPERATION
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Handling Fuel
Fuel is VERY flammable. 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 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 or RUNNING!
◆DO NOT fill fuel tanks indoors. ALWAYS fill fuel tanks
outdoors over bare ground.
◆DO NOT overfill 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 3 m (10 ft.) from refueling location before
starting the engine.
Gasoline vapor is heavier than air, and can travel along the
ground to nearby sources of ignition such as electrical motors,
pilot lights, and hot or running engines. Vapors ignited by an
ignition source can flash back to the fuel container, resulting in
an explosion, fire, serious or fatal injuries, and extensive
property damage.
Mixing Instructions
1. Fill an approved fuel container
with half of the required
amount of gasoline.
2. Add the proper amount of
engine oil to gasoline.
3. Close container and shake to
mix oil with gasoline.
4. Add remaining gasoline, close
fuel container, and remix.
Fuel to Oil Mix – 50:1 Ratio
US Metric
Gas Oil Gas Oil
gal. fl. oz. L cc
12.65100
25.210200
51325500

OPERATION DH232
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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
• Empty the fuel tank prior to storing the unit. 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,
airtight container. Store in a well-ventilated, unoccupied building, away from
sparks and flames.
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.
Stored 2-stroke fuel may separate. ALWAYS shake fuel container
thoroughly before each use.
Used oil and gasoline, and soiled towels are hazardous waste
materials. Disposal laws vary by locality.