Efco 8245 SE Assembly instructions

OPERATOR’S INSTRUCTION MANUAL
MANUEL D’UTILISATION ET D’ENTRETIEN
MANUAL DE INSTRUCCIONES
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8245 SE (1.55 cu.in)

To correctly use the stick edger and prevent accidents, do not start work without having
first carefully read this manual.You will find explanations concerning the operation of the
various parts plus instructions for necessary checks and relative maintenance.
Note: Illustrations and specifications in this manual may vary according to
Country requirements and are subject to change without notice by the
manufacturer.
THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL
Your operator’s manual is for your protection. READ IT. Keep it in a safe place for
reference. Know what you are doing before you begin assembly of the unit. Proper
preparation and upkeep go hand-in-hand with satisfactory performance of the stick
edger and safety.
Contact your dealer or the distributor for your area if you do not understand any of the
instructions in this manual.
In addition to the operating instructions, this manual contain paragraphs that require
your special attention.
Such paragraphs are marked with the symbols described below:
Warning: where there is a risk of an accident or personal injury or serious damage to
property.
Caution: where there is a risk of damaging the machine or its individual components.
WARNING - To ensure safe and correct operation of the
stick edger, this operator's manual should always be kept with or
near the machine. Do not lend or rent your stick edger without
the operator's instruction manual.
WARNING: Allow only persons who understand this manual to
operate your stick edger.
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INTRODUCTION

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PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
Stick Edger Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
SAFETY
Understanding Safety Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
State and Local Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
SAFETY RULES
Basic Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Fuel Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Operation and Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Precautions Against Kickback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Maintain Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Safety Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Recommended Cutting Attachments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Safety equipment checking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Precautions to Reduce Vibration Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Maintenance Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
ASSEMBLY
Fitting the loop handle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Cutting attachment guard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Cutting attachment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
OPERATION
Fueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Preparation for Cutting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Breaking-in the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Stopping the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Working Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Cutting Attachment Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Guard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Carburetor Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Fuel Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Starter Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Spark Plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Muffler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Bevel Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
TROUBLESHOOTING
Using Troubleshooting Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
STORAGE
Storing Stick Edger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
TECHNICAL DATA
8245 SE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

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Stick Edger Components
1 - On/Off Switch
2 - Throttle Trigger Lockout
3 - Muffler Cover
4 - Spark Plug
5 - Choke Lever
6 - Starter Handle
7 - Fuel Tank Cap
8 - Air Filter Cover
9 - Purge Bulb
10 - Throttle Trigger
11 - Loop handle
12 - Shaft
13 - Wheel
14 - Bevel Gear
15 - Blade
16 - Cutting Attachment Guard
17 - Combination Wrench
18 - Locking Pin
19 - Allen Key
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PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION

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- This symbol indicates Warning, and
Caution.
- Your manual contains special
messages to bring attention to
potential safety concerns, machine
damage as well as helpful operating
and servicing information. PLEASE
READ ALL THE INFORMATION
CAREFULLY TO AVOID INJURY
AND MACHINE DAMAGE.
- Wear eye, hearing and head
protection when operating this
equipment.
- Wear non-slip, heavy-duty protective
gloves when handling the stick
edger and blades.
State and Local Requirements
The engine is NOTequipped with a Spark Arrester System complying with the requirements of SAE
Recommended Practice J335 and California Codes 4442 and 4443. All national forest land and land
managed by the states of California, Maine,Washington, Idaho, Minnesota, New Jersey and Oregon
require internal combustion engines to be equipped with a spark arrester screen by law. Other states
and federal agencies are enacting similar regulations.
Operating this engine in a state or locale where such regulations apply, could result in a violation of the law.
Note: When using a brush cutter for logging purposes, refer to Code of Federal Regulations, Parts
1910 and 1928.
WARNING: The ignition system of your unit produces an electromagnetic field of a very low
intensity. This field may interfere with some pacemakers. To reduce the risk of serious or
fatal injury, persons with pacemaker should consult their physician and the pacemaker
manufacturer before operating this tool.
WARNING: Muffler surfaces are very hot during and after operation of the stick edger, keep
all body parts away from the muffler. Serious burns may occur if contact is made with the
muffler.
Understanding Safety Symbols
- Be aware that objects can be
thrown.
- Wear safety strong shoes or boots
having skid-proof sole and anti-piercing
insert.
- Do not use the stick edger with the
wood cutting blade.
- Stay clear of rotating blade at all times.
- Keep bystanders away 50 ft (15 m).
SAFETY

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SAFETY
WARNING: Exposure to vibrations through prolonged use of gasoline powered hand tools
could cause blood vessel or nerve damage in the fingers, hands, and wrists of people
prone to circulation disorders or abnormal swellings. Prolonged use in cold weather has
been linked to blood vessel damage in otherwise healthy people. If symptoms occur such
as numbness, pain, loss of strength, change in skin colour or texture, or loss of feeling in
the fingers, hands, or wrists, discontinue the use of this tool and seek medical attention.
WARNING: The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
Operate your stick edger outdoors only in a well ventilated area.
WARNING: Under no circumstances may the design of the machine be modified. Always use
genuine accessories. Non-authorized modifications and/or accessories can result in serious
personal injury or the death of the operator or others.Your warranty may not cover damage
or liability caused by the use of non-authorized accessories or replacement parts.
WARNING: A stick edger can be dangerous if used incorrectly or carelessly, and can cause
serious or fatal injury to the operator or others. It is extremely important that you read and
understand the contents of this operator’s manual.

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SAFETY RULES
Basic Safety Precautions
• Read this manual carefully until you completely understand and
can follow all safety rules, precautions, and operating
instructions before attempting to use the unit.
• Restrict the use of your stick edger to adult users who
understand and can follow safety rules, precautions, and
operating instructions found in this manual. Minors should
never be allowed to use a stick edger.
• Do not handle or operate a stick edger when you are fatigued,
ill, or upset, or if you have taken alcohol, drugs, or medication.
You must be in good physical condition and mentally alert. Stick
edger work is strenuous. If you have any condition that might be
aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before
operating a stick edger (Fig. 1). Be more cautious before rest
periods and towards the end of your shift.
• Keep children, bystanders, and animals a minimum of 50 feet
(15 meters) away from the work area. Do not allow other
people or animals to be near the stick edger when starting or
operating the stick edger (Fig. 2).
• Major cases of stick edger accidents happen when the blade or
thrown objects hits the operator. While working with the stick
edger, always use safety protective approved clothing. The use
of protective clothing does not eliminate injury risks, but
reduces the injury effects in case of accident. Consult your
trusted supplier to choose equipment in compliance with
legislation. The clothing must be proper and not an obstacle.
Wear adherent protective clothing. Protective jackets (Fig.3)
and dungarees (Fig.3) leggings are ideal. Do not wear
clothes, scarves, ties or bracelets that may get stuck into twigs.
Tie up and protect long hair (example with foulards, cap,
helmets, etc.). Safety boots having skid-proof sole and
anti-piercing insert (Fig.4). Wear protective goggles or face
screens (Fig. 5). Use protections against noises: for
example, noise reduction ear guards (Fig.4) or earplugs.
The use of protections for the ear requires much more
attention and caution, because the perception of audible
warning signals (screaming, alarms, etc.) is limited. Always
remove your hearing protection as soon as the engine stops.
Wear gloves (Fig.6, page 8) that permit the maximum
absorption of vibrations.
• Only allow others to use this stick edger who have read this
Operator’s Manual or received adeguate instructions for the
safe and proper use of this stick edger.
• Check the stick edger each day to ensure that each device,
whether for safety or otherwise, is functional.
• Never use a damaged, modified, or improperly repaired or
assembled stick edger. Do not remove, damage or deactivate
any of the safety devices. Only use original cutting tools. Always
replace cutting tools or safety devices immediately if it becomes
damaged, broken or is otherwise removed.
• Carefully plan your operation in advance. Do not start cutting
until you have a clear work area, secure footing, and a planned
retreat path.
• All stick edger service, other than the operations shown in the
present manual, have to be performed by competent
personnel.
• The stick edger must only be used for trimming grass vertically,
i.e. for edging grass surfaces. It is unadvisable to cut other
types of material or to grass in a horizontal plane or for cutting
hedges.
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• It is unadvisable to hitch tools or applications to the P.t.o. that
are not specified by the manufacturer.
Fuel Handling
WARNING: Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel.
Use extreme caution when handling gasoline or fuel
mix. Do not smoke or bring any fire or flame near the
fuel or the stick edger (Fig. 7).
WARNING: Fuel and fuel fumes can cause serious
injury when inhaled or allowed to come in contact
with the skin. For this reason observe caution when
handling fuel and make sure there is adequate
ventilation.
WARNING: Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning.
•To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury, handle fuel with
care. It is highly flammable.
• Mix, store and transport fuel in a container approved for
gasoline (Fig. 8).
• Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames.
• Select bare ground, stop engine, and allow to cool before
refuelling.
• Loosen fuel cap slowly to release pressure and to keep fuel
from escaping around the cap.
• Tighten fuel cap securely after refuelling. Unit vibration can
cause an improperly tightened fuel cap to loosen or come off
and spill quantities of fuel.
• Wipe spilled fuel from the unit and allow remaining fuel to
evaporate. Move 10 feet (3 m) away from refuelling site before
starting engine (Fig. 9).
• Never attempt to burn off spilled fuel under any circumstances.
• Do not smoke while handling fuel or while operating the stick
edger.
• Store fuel in a cool, dry, well ventilated place.
• Never place the stick edger in a combustible area such as dry
leaves, straw, paper, etc.
• Store the unit and fuel in an area where fuel vapors cannot
reach sparks or open flames from water heaters, electric
motors or switches, furnaces, etc.
• Never take the cap off the tank when the engine is running.
• Never use fuel for cleaning operations.
• Take care not to get fuel on your clothing. If you have spilt fuel
on yourself or your clothes, change your clothes.Wash any part
of your body that has come in contact with fuel. Use soap and
water.
• Don’t expose fuel tank to direct sunlight.
• Keep fuel out of reach of children.
Operation and Safety
WARNING: Always hold the stick edger with both
hands when the engine is running. Use a firm grip
with thumbs and fingers encircling the stick edger
handles (Fig. 10).
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SAFETY RULES
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• Keep all parts of your body away from the cutting attachment
when the engine is running.
• Always carry the stick edger with the engine stopped and the
muffler away from your body. Properly secure your stick edger
to prevent turnover, fuel spillage and damage.
•Do not operate a stick edger with one hand! Serious injury
to the operator, helpers, bystanders, or any combination of
these persons may result from one-handed operation. A stick
edger is intended for two-handed use.
• Before you start the engine, make sure the cutting attachment
is not contacting any object.
• Shut off the engine before setting down the stick edger. Do not
leave the engine running unattended.
• Only use the stick edger in well-ventilated places, do not
operate the stick edger in explosive or flammable atmospheres
or in closed environments (Fig. 12). Beware of carbon
monoxide poisoning.
• Do not operate stick edger from a ladder or in a tree. Always cut
from a firm-footed and safe position.
WARNING:Take great care when working on sloping
ground.
• Do not cut near electric cables.
• Keep the handles dry, clean, and free of oil or fuel mixture.
• Never cut with the stick edger above shoulder height (Fig. 13).
• Never use the stick edger without blade guard.
• Do not start the engine with the arm not mounted.
Precautions Against Kickback
WARNING: Avoid kickback which can result in
serious injury. Kickback is the sideward, or sudden
forward motion of the machine occurring when the
blade contacts any object such as a log or stone.
Contacting a foreign object can also result in loss of
stick edger control.
Reduce the Risk of Kickback
WARNING: Recognize that kickback can happen.
With a basic understanding of kickback, you can
reduce the element of surprise which contributes
to accidents.
• Never let the moving blade contact any object.
• Keep the working area free from obstructions such as other
trees, branches, rocks, fences, stumps, etc. Eliminate or avoid
any obstruction that your blade could hit while you are cutting.
• Keep your blade sharp. Follow manufacturer’s
maintenance instructions.
• Begin and continue cutting at full speed. If the blade is moving
at a slower speed, there is greater chance of kickback
occurring.
Maintain Control (Fig.14-15)
• Keep a good, firm grip on the stick edger with both hands when
the engine is running and don’t let go. A firm grip will help you
reduce kickback and maintain control of the stick edger.
Keep the fingers encircling the handle.
• Stand with your weight evenly balanced on both feet.
• Do not overreach. You could be drawn or thrown off balance
and lose control of the stick edger.
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SAFETY RULES
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Safety Features
WARNING: As a stick edger user, do not solely rely on the product’s safety features.You must
follow all safety precautions, instructions, and maintenance in this manual to help avoid
serious injury.
WARNING: Even with proper maintenance, the correct operation of the safety features under
field conditions can not be certified.
• Position of handlebars, designed with correct distance with each other. The spread and position of the
hands provided by this design work together to give balance and resistance in controlling the machine.
Recommended cutting attachments
WARNING: The use of cutting devices not authorized by the manufacturer can generate
safety risks.
Safety equipment checking
WARNING: Never use a machine with faulty safety equipment. The machine’s safety
equipment must be checked and maintained as described in this section. If your machine fails
any of these checks contact your service agent to get it repaired.
Throttle lock
The throttle lock is designed to prevent accidental operation of the throttle control. This arrangement means
that the throttle control is automatically locked at the idle setting.
Make sure the throttle control is locked at the idle setting when the throttle lock is released.
Press the throttle lock and make sure it returns to its original position when you release it.
Check that the throttle control and throttle lock move freely and that the return springs work properly.
Stop switch
Use the stop switch to switch off the engine.
Start the engine and make sure the engine stops when you move the stop switch to the stop setting.
Cutting attachment guard
This guard is intended to prevent loose objects from being thrown towards the operator. The guard also
protects the operator from accidental contact with the cutting attachment.
Check that the guard is undamaged and not cracked. Replace the guard if it has been exposed to impact or
is cracked.
Always use the recommended guard for the cutting attachment you are using. See chapter on Technical data.
WARNING: Never use a cutting attachment without an approved guard. See the section on
Technical Data. Use of an incorrect or faulty guard may lead to serious personal injury.
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SAFETY RULES
EUSP10084 Steel blade with 2 teeth, Ø 8”, thickness .10” EUSP10070
Cutting attachments
p. n.
Guards
Descriptions
Metal guard
p. n. Descriptions

Precautions to Reduce Vibration Risk
• The stick edger is provided with anti-vibration (AV) system; never alter or modify it.
• Wear gloves and keep your hands warm.
• Keep the blade sharp and the stick edger, including the AV system, well maintained. A dull blade will increase
the vibrations transmitted to your hands.
• Maintain a firm grip at all times, but do not squeeze the handles with constant, excessive pressures, take
frequent breaks. All the above mentioned precautions do not guarantee that you will not sustain
whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel syndrome. Therefore, continual and regular users should monitor
closely the condition of their hands and fingers. If any of the above symptoms appear, seek medical advice
immediately.
Maintenance Precaution
WARNING: Never operate a stick edger that is damaged, improperly adjusted, or is not
completely and securely assembled.
• Be sure that the cutting attachment stops moving when the throttle control trigger is released. If the
cutting attachment moves at idle speed, the carburetor may need adjusting, see Operation-Carburetor
Adjusting Section. If the cutting attachment still moves at idle speed after adjustment has been made,
contact a Servicing Dealer for adjustment and discontinue use until the repair is made.
WARNING: All stick edger service, other than items in the Operator's Manual maintenance
instructions, must be performed by competent stick edger service personnel. (If improper
tools are used to remove the flywheel or clutch, or if an improper tool is used to hold the
flywheel in order to remove the clutch, structural damage to the flywheel could occur which
could cause the flywheel to burst and serious injury could result.)
• Never modify your stick edger in any way.
• Keep the handles dry, clean, and free of oil or fuel mixture.
WARNING: Use only recommended accessories and replacement parts.
• Never touch the cutting attachment or attempt to service the stick edger while the engine is running.
• Never use fuel for cleaning operations.
• Keep the stick edger in a dry place, off the ground with the blade guard on and the tanks empty.
• If your stick edger is no longer usable, dispose of it properly without damaging the environment by
handing it in to your local Dealer who will arrange for its correct disposal.
• Replace immediately any safety device when damaged or broken.
WARNING: The muffler and other parts of the engine (e.g. fins of the cylinder, spark plug)
become hot during operation and remain hot for a while after stopping the engine.
To reduce risk of burns do not touch the muffler and other parts while they are hot.
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SAFETY RULES

Fitting the loop handle
Fit the handle onto the shaft arm and secure it using screws (A,
Fig.16), washers, and nuts. The handle position is calculated
depending on the requirements of the operator.
CAUTION - Don’t assemble the loop handle (B,
Fig.17) between label’s arrow (C, Fig.18) and back
handle (D, Fig.17).
Cutting attachment guard
WARNING: Never use a cutting attachment without
an approved guard. See the section on
Recommended cutting attachments (Page 10).An
incorrect or faulty guard may lead to serious
personal injury.
WARNING: The deflector provided with your stick
edger may not protect the operator from all foreign
objects (gravel, glass, wire, etc) thrown by the
rotating cutting attachment.Thrown objects may also
ricochet and strike the operator.
WARNING: Immediately replace a broken or damaged
guard; never try to mount the guard in incorrect
position.
Cutting attachment
WARNING: When fitting the cutting attachment it is
extremely important that the drive flange engages
correctly in the centre hole of the cutting attachment.
If the cutting attachment is fitted incorrectly it can
result in serious and/or fatal personal injury.
WARNING: Always stop the engine before doing any
work on the cutting attachment. The attachment
continues to rotate even after the throttle has been
released. Ensure that the cutting attachment has
stopped completely and disconnect the HT lead from
the spark plug before you start to work on it.
WARNING: Using an incorrect cutting attachment or
an incorrectly sharpened blade increases the risk of
kickback.
WARNING: Always discard a blade that is bent,
twisted, cracked, broken or damaged in any other
way (Fig.19). Never attempt to straighten a twisted
blade so that it can be reused. Only use original
blades of the specified type.
WARNING! This machine is not suitable for use with
disc for wood (22-60-80 teeth) and relevant metal
guard.
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ASSEMBLY
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WARNING: Never touch or adjust the blade while the
engine is running. The blade is very sharp, always
wear protective gloves when performing maintenance.
WARNING: After use the bevel gear may be very hot,
always wear protective gloves when performing
maintenance.
Fueling (Do Not Smoke!) (Fig. 22)
This product is powered by a 2-cycle engine and requires
pre-mixing gasoline and 2-cycle oil. Pre-mix unleaded gasoline
and 2-cycle engine oil in a clean container approved for gasoline
(Fig. 20).
RECOMMENDED FUEL: THIS ENGINE IS CERTIFIED TO
OPERATE ON UNLEADED GASOLINE INTENDED FOR
AUTOMOTIVE USE WITH AN OCTANE RATING OF 89 ([R + M]
/ 2) OR HIGHER (Fig. 21).
Mix 2-Cycle Engine Oil with gasoline according to the instructions
on the package. We strongly recommend the use of 2% (1:50)
Efco Two Cycle Engine Oil, which is specifically formulated for all
Efco air-cooled two-stroke engines.
The correct oil / fuel proportions shown in the table below are sui-
table when using the Efco Two Cycle Engine Oil or an equivalent
high-quality engine oil (JASO specification FD or ISO specifi-
cation L-EGD).
When oil specifications are NOT equivalent or unknown use 4%
(1:25) oil / fuel mixing ratio.
CAUTION: DO NOT USE AUTOMOTIVE OIL OR
2-CYCLE OUTBOARD OIL.
CAUTION: Never use a fuel with an alcohol percentage
higher than 10%. Gasohol with up to 10% alcohol or
E10 fuel are acceptable.
When using an oxygenated gasoline a good practice of fuel
management is necessary.
Gasoline oxygenated with alcohol readily takes up water when it
is present; the water may be condensed out of humid air or be a
contaminant in the fuel system, including tank.
CAUTION:
- Match your fuel purchases to your consumption;
don’t buy more than you will use in one or two
months;
- Store gasoline in a tightly-closed container in a
cool, dry place.
The use of oxygenated gasoline may cause the occurrence of
vapor-lock easier.
NOTE: 2-Cycle Engine Oil contains a fuel stabilizer and will stay
fresh up to 30 days. DO NOT mix quantities larger than usable in
a 30 day period. A 2-cycle oil containing a fuel stabilizer is
recommended.
13
OPERATION
20
21
22
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Fuel Mixture
2-Cycle Engine Oil (25:1) 4%
Gasoline Oil
1 Gallon (US) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.2 oz.
1 Liter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 cc (40 ml)
2-Cycle Engine Oil (50:1) 2%
Gasoline Oil
1 Gallon (US) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.6 oz.
1 Liter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 cc (20 ml)
Filling the Tank
WARNING: Follow safety instruction for fuel
handling. Always shut off engine before fuelling.
Never add fuel to a machine with a running or hot
engine. Move at least 10 feet (3 m) from refuelling
site before starting engine (Fig. 23). DO NOT
SMOKE!
1. Clean surface around fuel cap to prevent contamination.
2. Loosen fuel cap slowly.
3. Carefully pour fuel mixture into the tank. Avoid spillage.
4. Prior to replacing the fuel cap, clean and inspect the gasket.
5. Immediately replace fuel cap and hand tighten. Wipe up any
fuel spillage.
WARNING: Check for fuel leaks, if any are found,
correct before use. Contact a Servicing Dealer if
necessary.
Preparation for Cutting
The stick edger is designed for edging lawn in gardens, parks,
roadsides and so on.
Before starting the engine, take the operating position and adjust
the wheel height as necessary.
Adjusting Wheel Height
1. Loosen the wing nut and change the wheel height to obtain
desired cutting depth (Fig. 24).
(1) Deep cut
(2) Shallow cut
(3) Wing nut
2. After adjusting the height, tighten the wing nut securely.
Tightening Torque: 4.5-6 ftlb (6-8 Nm).
WARNING - Never adjust wheel height with the
engine running.
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24
14
OPERATION
23

15
OPERATION
WARNING: Avoid cutting close to fences, sides of
buildings, tree trunks, stones or other such objects
that could cause the stick edger to kick back or could
cause damage to the blade. In addition, be alert to an
increased possibility of ricochets in such situations.
WARNING: The stick edger is normally to be
used at ground level with the cutting attachment
perpendicular to the ground. Use of a stick edger
above ground level or with the cutting attachment
parallel to the ground may increase the risk of injury,
since the cutting attachment is more fully exposed
and the stick edger may be more difficult to control.
Never use your stick edger as a hedge trimmer.
WARNING: If the blade loosens after being properly
tightened, stop work immediately. The retaining nut
may be worn or damaged and should be replaced.
Never use unauthorized parts to secure the blade. If
the blade continues to loosen, see your dealer. Never
use a stick edger with a loose blade.
Look around or otherwise check for the presence and locations of
other people working so as to maintain a distance between each
person sufficient to ensure safety.
Basic Cutting Procedure
1. Wear non-slip gloves for maximum grip and protection.
WARNING: Hold the stick edger firmly with both
hands (Fig. 25). Always keep your body to the left of
tube. Never use a cross-handed grip. Left-handers
should follow these instructions too.
Keep a proper cutting stance (Fig. 26).
2. Maintain a proper grip (Fig. 25) on the stick edger whenever the
engine is running. The fingers should encircle the handlebar
and the thumb is wrapped under the handlebar.
Work Area Precautions
WARNING: Cut only grass or weed. Do not cut
metal, plastics, masonry, or non-wood building
materials. Do not cut wood.
• Never allow children to operate your stick edger. Only allow
others to use this stick edger who have read this Operator's
Manual or received adequate instructions for the safe and
proper use of this stick edger.
• Keep everyone - helpers, bystanders, children, and animals at
a safe distance from the cutting area (Fig. 27). During
operations, keep a minimum distance of 50 feet (15 m)
between workers.
27
25
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26

• Always cut with both feet on solid ground to prevent being
pulled off balance.
• Make sure you can move and stand safely. Check the area
around you for possible obstacles (roots, rocks, branches,
ditches, etc.) in case you have to move suddenly.
• Do not cut above chest height, as a stick edger held higher is
difficult to control against kickback forces.
• Do not work near electrical wires. Leave this operation for
professionals.
• Cut only when visibility and light are adequate for you to see
clearly.
•Do not cut from a ladder, this is extremely dangerous.
• Stop the stick edger if the blade strikes a foreign object. Inspect
the stick edger and repair parts as necessary.
• Even a small amount of dirt will quickly dull a blade and
increase the possibility of kickback.
• Stop the engine before setting the stick edger down.
• Be particularly cautious and alert while wearing hearing
protection because such equipment may restrict your ability to
hear sounds indicating danger (calls, signals, warnings, etc).
• Be extremely cautious when working on slopes or uneven
ground.
WARNING: Never use rigid blades when cutting in
stony areas.Thrown objects or damaged blades may
result in serious or fatal injury to the operator or
bystanders. Watch out for thrown objects. Always
wear approved eye protection. Never lean over the
cutting attachment guard. Stones, rubbish, etc. can
be thrown up into the eyes causing blindness or
serious injury. Keep unauthorised persons at a
distance. Children, animals, onlookers and helpers
should be kept outside the safety zone of 50 ft (15 m).
Stop the machine immediately if anyone approaches.
Never swing the machine around without first
checking behind you to make sure no-one is within
the safety zone.
WARNING: Never cut when visibility is poor or in
very high or low temperatures or in freezing weather.
Starting The Engine
WARNING:When the engine is started with the choke
in either the choke or start throttle positions the
cutting attachment will start to rotate immediately.
• Place the stick edger on level ground and ensure that no
objects or obstructions are in immediate vicinity which could
come in contact with the cutting attachment. Hold the body of
the machine on the ground using your left hand (CAUTION!
Not with your foot!), see Fig. 28.
• Slowly push the purge bulb 6 to 8 times (A, Fig. 29).
• Move the on/off switch (B, Fig. 30) to the start position “I”.
• Pull the choke lever (D, Fig. 31-32) in the CLOSE position. The
half-throttle is automatically set when choke lever is set at
CLOSE.
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29
30
31
32
16
OPERATION
28

17
OPERATION
• Pull the starter rope (Fig. 28) until the first firing of the engine
is heard (no more than five (5) pulls). A new unit may require
additional pulls.
• Never wrap the starter cord around your hand.
• When the engine starts, wait for about 5-10 seconds and
then pull the throttle lever (C, Fig. 30), the choke lever (D, Fig.
31-33) will return automatically to the original “OPEN” position.
• When pulling the starter rope, do not use the full extent of the
rope as this can cause the rope to break. Do not let starter rope
snap back. Hold the handle and let the rope rewind slowly.
WARNING: Do not cut material with the choke/fast
idle lever at the CLOSE position. Do not operate your
stick edger with the starting throttle lock engaged.
Cutting with the starting throttle lock engaged does
not permit the operator proper control of the stick
edger.
NOTE - STARTING WARM ENGINE:
Follow above starting instructions, but do not use the CLOSE
position for start up again.
WARNING: Weather conditions and altitude may
affect carburetion. Do not allow bystanders close to
the stick edger while adjusting the carburetor.
Keep the engine at full throttle the entire time you are cutting.
NOTE: It is normal for smoke to be emitted from a new
engine during and after first use.
Breaking-in the Engine
The engine reaches the maximum power after 5-8 hours of activity.
During this period of breaking-in do not make the machine
function idly at full throttle, to avoid excessive functioning stress.
CAUTION! – During the breaking-in period do not
vary the carburetion to obtain a presumed power
increment; the engine can be damaged.
Difficult Starting (or starting a flooded engine)
The engine may be flooded with too much fuel if it has not started
after 10 pulls. Flooded engines can be cleared of excess fuel by
following the warm engine starting procedure listed above. Ensure
the ON/STOP switch is in the ON position. Starting could require
pulling the starter rope handle many times depending on how
badly the unit is flooded. If engine fails to start refer to the
TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE (page 28).
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Engine is Flooded
• Set the on/off switch to STOP.
• Engage a suitable tool in the spark plug boot (Fig. 34).
• Pry off the spark plug boot.
• Unscrew and dry off the spark plug.
• Open the throttle wide.
• Pull the starter rope several times to clear the combustion
chamber.
• Refit the spark plug and connect the spark plug boot, press it
down firmly – reassemble the other parts.
• Set the on/off switch to I, the starting position.
• Set the choke lever to OPEN position – even if engine is cold.
• Now start the engine.
Stopping The Engine
Release the throttle trigger (B, Fig. 35) and let the engine return
to idle.
To stop the engine, move the on/off switch (A) to the “STOP”
position. Do not put the stick edger on the ground when the
cutting attachment is still moving.
In the event that the “STOP” position of the switch will not
function, pull the choke lever in the CLOSE position (Fig. 33, page
19) to stop the engine.
Pre-operation checking
WARNING: THE CUTTING ATTACHMENT SHOULD
NEVER TURN AT IDLE.Turn the idle speed screw “T”
counter-clockwise to reduce the idle RPM, or contact
a Servicing Dealer for adjustment and discontinue
use until the repair is made.
Serious personal injury may result from the cutting
attachment turning at idle.
A damaged clutch may cause a cutting attachment to rotate at idle
speed and increase the risk of personal injury from loss of control
and from contact with the cutting tool.
Working Techniques
General working instructions
WARNING: If you encounter a situation where you
are uncertain how to proceed you should ask an
expert. Contact your dealer or your service workshop.
Avoid all usage which you consider to be beyond
your capability.
Basic safety rules
1. Look around you:
• To ensure that people, animals or other things cannot affect
your control of the machine.
• To ensure that people, animals, etc., do not come into contact
with the cutting attachment or loose objects that are thrown
out by the cutting attachment.
WARNING: Do not use the machine unless you are
able to call for help in the event of an accident.
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OPERATION
34
35

38
36
19
OPERATION
2. Do not use the machine in bad weather, such as dense fog,
heavy rain, strong wind, intense cold, etc. Working in bad
weather is tiring and often brings added risks, such as icy
ground, etc.
3. Make sure you can move and stand safely. Check the area
around you for possible obstacles (roots, rocks, branches,
ditches, etc.) in case you have to move suddenly. Take great
care when working on sloping ground.
4. Switch off the engine before moving to another area.
5. Never put the machine down with the engine running.
• Always use the correct equipment.
• Make sure the equipment is well adjusted.
• Follow the safety precautions.
• Organise your work carefully.
• Always use full throttle when starting to cut with the blade.
• Always use sharp blades.
• Avoid stones.
6. Stop working if someone approaches.
WARNING: Neither the operator of the machine nor
anyone else may attempt to remove the cut material
while the engine is running or the cutting equipment
is rotating, as this can result in serious injury. Stop
the engine and cutting equipment before you remove
material that has wound around the blade shaft as
otherwise there is a risk of injury. The bevel gear can
get hot during use and may remain so for a while
afterwards.You could get burnt if you touch it.
WARNING: Watch out for thrown objects. Always
wear approved eye protection. Never lean over the
cutting attachment guard. Stones, rubbish, etc. can
be thrown up into the eyes causing blindness or
serious injury. Keep unauthorised persons at a
distance. Children, animals, onlookers and helpers
should be kept outside the safety zone of 50 ft (15 m).
Stop the machine immediately if anyone approaches.
Never swing the machine around without first
checking behind you to make sure no-one is within
the safety zone.
WARNING: Sometimes branches or grass get caught
between the guard and cutting attachment. Always
stop the engine before cleaning.
Check before starting
• Check the blade to ensure that no cracks have formed at the
bottom of the teeth or by the centre hole. Discard a blade if
cracks are found (Fig. 36).
• Check that the support flange is not cracked due to fatigue or
due to being tightened too much. Discard the support flange if
it is cracked (Fig. 37).
• Ensure the locking nut has not lost its captive force. The
tightening torque of the locking screw should be 11-15 ftlb (15-
20 Nm) (Fig. 37).
• Check that the blade guard is not damaged or cracked. Replace
the blade guard if it is cracked (Fig. 38).
WARNING: Never use the machine without a guard or
with a defective guard.
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39
40
41
WARNING:The complete clutch cover and shaft must
be fitted before the machine is started, otherwise the
clutch can come loose and cause personal injury.
Ensure the cutting attachment cannot come into
contact with any object. Make sure no unauthorised
persons are in the working area, otherwise there is a
risk of serious personal injury.The safety distance is
50 ft (15 metres).
Working methods (Fig. 39)
WARNING:
•Always wear eye protection such as safety gog-
gles.
•Never lean over the rotating cutting head. Rocks or
other debris could be thrown into eyes and face
and cause serious personal injury.
•Keep the blade guard (A, Fig.40) and the mad guard
(B) attached in place at all times when the unit is
operated.
•Before starting a job, check the area and remove all
obstacles and objects that could be thrown by the
blade.
•Do not adjust the wheel height or try to remove
anything entangled to the blade with the engine
running.
• Before starting the engine, adjust the wheel height for desired
cutting depth (Fig.41).
• Before starting a job, plan your direction of travel so that you
can always hold the edger on you right side and can walk on a
hard surface as much as possible.
• When starting to edge, maintain the engine speed at the level
required to perform edging work, and slowly have the blade cut
into the edge groove.
• Before edging, make sure the area is soft enough so the blade
does not bog down.
• Do not move the edger into the work so fast that the engine or
blade bogs down.
• Do not operate using starting throttle lock. It may cause unit
uncontrolled, and clutch failure.
• Use care in directing discharge to avoid bystanders, vehicles,
glass, and the like.
• When the blade guard is clogged or blade stuck, stop the engi-
ne and clean it.
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OPERATION