Ellison EVOLUTION E2201-18 User manual

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User Guide
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18 in. EVOLUTION
Easy-Push Reel Mower
with Adjustable Grass Management System
Model Number: E2201-18
Para ver la versión en español, vaya a la página 21

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Date of Purchase: _______________________
Retailer: _______________________________
FOUR YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
For four (4) years starting after the date of purchase, ELLISON warrants to the original purchaser that its Lawn Mower products are free from serious defects
in materials and workmanship appearing under normal use. This warranty does not cover damage to the Lawn Mower caused by abuse, acts of God, failure to
follow product instructions, mishandling or unauthorized repair by either the purchaser or an unauthorized third party. THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL
OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTIES; AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THIS WARRANTY. IN NO EVENT WILL
ELLISON BE LIABLE FOR ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts
and/or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation and/or the above exclusion may not apply to you. This
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. As its sole responsibility and your sole remedy for
any warranted defect, ELLISON will replace any defective part of the Lawn Mower, containing a warranted defect, free of charge, with proof of purchase and
notification within a reasonable period of time (but no longer than 6 months) following the discovery of such defect. Any non-residential use of this product
voids all warranty.
For warranty service, email [e-mail] or call 1-800-918-8290.
If you need assistance or have questions,
don’t return to the store.
Call our customer service at 1-800-918-8290
Visit us at www.ellison-tools.com
18 in. EVOLUTION
Easy-Push Reel Mower
with Adjustable Grass Management System
Model Number: E2201-18

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Warranty …………………………………………………............................
Getting Started…………………………………………………….…….……
Safety Information..…………………………….…………………….………
Product Features…….……………………...…………………….….………
Main Operating Parts….……………………………………………..………
Handle Assembly………….….…...………………………..….……..……..
Attaching the Handle……………….…….……………………….…………
Attaching the Grass Bag………………....……………………….…………
Grass Management System.…….………………………..……..…………
One-Touch Height Adjust…...…………………………….….….…………
Checking Cutting Blades………………….…………………….…............
Adjusting the Blade…………………………………………......................
Checking Cutting Performance………………..……………………………
Tips for Mowing Correctly…..……….….…...…………….………..….…..
Care and Maintenance…………………..….………………..…................
Troubleshooting……………...………………………………...….…….......
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Contents
Getting Started:
1. Read User Guide
Please carefully read the entire user guide and fully understand the safety
information before assembling or using the mower. Use this guide to
familiarize yourself with the mower, how to adjust it, and correct usage for
best results.
2. Tool-less assembly
Turn to page 7 and follow instructions for assembly of the Handle and
attachment of the Grass Bag.
3. Check cutting blade performance
Check cutting performance by mowing your lawn. If you have any issues,
turn to page 12 and follow instructions to confirm proper setting of the
cutting blades
Getting Started

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Do not use mower if you are in poor health.
Use the mower only for its intended purpose.
Do not use mower in areas other than grass.
Check mower before each use. Do not operate with missing, worn, or damaged
parts.
Inspect your lawn for any debris or foreign objects (such as stones, twigs, pieces
of wood, and wires) and remove them before mowing. Solid objects that contact
the cutting blades could be thrown out uncontrollably.
Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and closed-toe shoes when operating and
maintaining your mower.
Do not operate the mower while barefoot or wearing sandals or flip flops.
Never place hands, fingers, or feet in the rotating blades. When the blades are
spinning, they will cut.
Never mow when the grass is wet enough to be slippery and unsafe.
Use safe lifting practices when moving your mower.
Do not allow children under 12 years to use mower.
Do not operate around children, other people, or pets.
Walk slowly, never run while using your mower. Always be sure of your footing
when using the reel mower, especially on damp grass or on uneven surfaces.
Keep packaging material such as plastic bags out of the reach of children!
Protect the mower against weather conditions (humidity, frost).
Make sure your mower is in safe operating condition by following the tips outlined
in this user guide. Do not use this mower if it becomes damaged. Have it
repaired first.
Call 1-800-918-8290 or visit www.ellison-tools.com for troubleshooting, frequently
asked questions, and for finding a qualified repair service.
WARNING Safety Information
Safety Information
Please carefully read the entire user guide
and fully understand the safety information
before assembling or using the mower.
Use this guide to familiarize yourself with
the mower, how to adjust it, and correct
usage for best results.
If you need assistance or have questions,
Call our customer service at 1-800-918-8290
Visit us at www.ellison-tools.com
!

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Easy Push Cutting System
1) Much easier to use
2) Maintains higher blade speeds with less effort
3) Blades stay sharp - no seasonal sharpening required
One Touch Height Adjustment
Adjusts cutting height with one quick and easy motion
and keeps hands away from the blades
Greater Height Range
Best-in-class cutting height adjustment from 1-in to 4-in
for a better cut during the wet season when grass gets
long quickly
Faster Blade Speed
Through re-designed gearing for better cutting in all
conditions
Pivot-Turn Design
Lets users control the mower like a
power mower with a push-down-and-
pivot movement for easier turns
Grass Management System
The oversized Grass Bag plus the Grass Deflector
(Patents Pending) allow for the greatest control over
grass clippings of any reel mower during both collecting
and mulching modes.
Tool-less Assembly
Product Features
Product Features
Fixed Handle Height
Keeps the handle at a comfortable ergonomic
height, independent of cutting height adjustment

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Front wheels (2)
Rear wheels (2)
Grass Bag
Grass
Deflector
Top Cover
Middle Brace
Grass Bag Handle
Handle Cover
Handle Knobs (2)
Handle Grip
Handle Frame
Height Adjustment Knob
(1-in to 4-in cut height adjustment)
Stationary Blade
Cutting Reel
(with 5 helical cutting blades)
Left Side Cover
Right Side Cover
Grass Bag Mount
Right
Grass Bag Mount Left
Actual product may vary
Main Components
Main Components

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①There are no tools required for assembly of the handle.
②Note that the Upper Handle (A) is already factory pre-assembled with the
Center Handle (B), the Handle Cover (C), and the Handle Bolts (D).
③Lay out the parts as shown below. Note the Lower Handle parts (E) are
symmetric, and there is no right or left version.
④In order to install the Lower Handle parts (E) into the Center Handle (B),
you must first remove the Handle Cover (C) by flexing the plastic Snap
Arms (F) outward and pulling the Handle Cover (C) upward. (See inset
image)
⑤Next, remove the Lower Handle Bolt (D) by loosening the Handle Knob
(G). Be sure to keep the Handle Washer (H).
⑥Insert the free ends of the Lower Handles (E) into the Center Handle (B),
making sure that they are resting flat on the ground. Align the holes in the
position that is most comfortable for usage.
⑦Insert the Lower Handle Bolt (D) through the Center Handle (B) and
through the Lower Handles (E).
⑧Once the threaded portion of the Lower Handle Bolt (D) is sticking
through the tubing fully, assemble the Handle Washer (G) and then
screw on the Handle Knob (F).
⑨Using the knob, tighten the bolt until it is snug. Do not over tighten or
permanent damage to the handle may result.
⑩Snap the Handle Cover (C) over the Center Handle (B).
Upper Handle (A)
Handle Knob (G)
Center Handle (B)
Handle Washer (H)
Handle Cover (C)
Lower Handle Bolt (D)
Lower Handles (E)
Snap Arms (F)
Handle Assembly
Handle Assembly (first time use)
Note: There are multiple positions for handle height. If uncertain, start in
the lowest handle height position and adjust to a height that is the most
comfortable for you. Both bolts locations can adjust height of handle.

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①Once the handle components are fully assembled, the next step is to attach the handle to the mower. Do not install the Grass Bag yet.
②Note the attachment pegs on the inside facing surfaces of the main mower body. Shown in the inset as (I). These are easiest to see
and connect to when the mower’s cutting height is set to the 4 in. position.
③While gripping the handle by the Lower Handle tubes shown as position (J) and (K), squeeze these two areas inward and hook the
holes in the ends of the tubes onto the attachment pegs from the main mower body (I).
④Stop squeezing inward, and allow the handle assembly to relax.
⑤If the handle is rotated upward fully, it is in its storage position. When rotated downward, it will stop at its usage position.
⑥Test the height of the usage position. There are multiple height positions for the Handle. See page 7 for adjustment instructions.
⑦To remove the handle, squeeze areas (J) and (K) inward and unhook from the attachment pegs (I).
Attachment
Peg (I)
(J)
(K)
Attaching the Handle
Attaching the Handle

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①Once the handle is attached to the mower, rotate it fully upward to its storage position.
②Position the Grass Bag as shown in the figure below.
③Note the attachment slots on the mower inside of the rear wheels on both ends (L).
④The attachment rods on the Grass Bag are also on both ends. The right side is shown
as (M).
⑤Insert the Grass Bag attachment rods into the attachment slots on the mower.
⑥Rotate the Handle downward to its usage position and it is ready to use.
(L)
Handle in Storage Position
Attaching the Grass Bag
Attaching the Grass Bag
(L)
(L)
(M)

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①The Grass Management System consists of the Grass Deflector (Patents
Pending), an oversized Grass Bag, and our One-Touch Height Adjustment
from 1 to 4 inches. These provide the greatest control over grass clippings of
any reel mower.
②There are 2 modes of usage: Grass Collecting and Mulching. During the dry
parts of the season, mulching is recommended to help maintain moisture in
your lawn. During the peak parts of your season when grass is growing the
fastest, multiple grass collecting passes are recommended.
③When collecting the grass clippings, attach the Grass Bag and position the
Grass Deflector upward so the grass clippings are directed toward the back of
the Grass Bag.
④Depending on the height setting for the mower (from 1 to 4 inches), the Grass
Deflector’s position will need to change slightly to always be directing the
grass clippings toward the back of the Grass Bag.
⑤The Grass Deflector also prevents the grass clippings from “spraying” upward
to the sides of the mower and back at the user.
⑥To redirect the Grass Deflector (only when the cutting reel is not rotating), pull
downward or upward holding onto the middle grip area to change its position.
⑦When mulching, remove the Grass Bag, and set the Grass Deflector to its
lowest position.
⑧With the Grass Deflector set at its lowest position, the grass clippings will be
directed back down to the lawn rather than “spraying” upward like most reel
mowers.
⑨When mulching, it is recommended to only cut about 1 inch or less of the
grass height in order to receive the maximum mulching benefit from the
smaller grass clippings which will help your lawn maintain moisture and help
support a healthy root system acting as fertilizer for the lawn.
Grass Mulching Mode
Position the Grass Deflector
fully down to direct grass back
down to the lawn
Grass Management System
Using the Grass Management System
Grass Collecting Mode
Position the Grass Deflector as
needed to direct grass toward the
back of the Grass Bag
Note: Leaving behind excess grass clippings that are too long can stress the lawn
leaving it susceptible to weeds, disease, and poor appearance.
See additional tips for mowing on page 15.

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①Your mower has a One-Touch Height Adjustment for varying your grass cut
height from 1 to 4 inches.
②To adjust the cutting height, face the mower from its right side and hold onto
the Lower Handle bar with your left hand. With your right hand, grip the
One-Touch Height Adjustment Knob. (See illustration on the right)
③Pull the Height Adjustment Knob toward you to take it out of its current
position and then slide it to your left or right to change its position.
④Note the markings of 1 and 4 (inches) and the 5 positions in between.
These 7 positions correspond to the height of grass after cutting (cut
height).
⑤Choose a cut height based on the current height of your grass and your
lawn preference. Cut off no more than 1/3 of the current height of the grass
with each mowing.
⑥The One-Touch Height Adjustment system has a spring-assist which makes
it easier to raise the mower to a taller cut height.
⑦If your grass is tall, always start at the 4 inch position first and then lower the
cut height to the desired setting.
⑧For best results, do not let grass get taller than 6 inches. The mower will not
cut well if the grass is over 6 inches tall.
Face right side of
mower to adjust height
Lower Handle bar
grip position
(left hand) Height
Adjustment Knob
(right hand)
Note the markings 1
and 4 (inches) and the
5 positions in between
4 inch cut height
One-Touch Height Adjustment
One-Touch Height Adjustment

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①When working with the cutting blades, it is important that you follow all of the
safety guidelines on page 4.
②If the handle or grass bag is attached, start by removing them.
③Lower the mower to its lowest cutting height setting of 1 inch.
④Place the mower up-side-down on a table, workbench, or other firm, level
surface.
⑤Face the front of the mower to see its helical cutting blades and stationary
blade. The large wheels should be closest to you.
⑥Check to see if the cutting blades make contact by slowly rotating each
helical cutting blade away from you (toward the stationary blade) checking
one at a time for a full rotation or two. Do not grip the blade ends, as they are
extremely sharp.
⑦If the blades are not scraping, proceed to checking cutting performance on
page 14.
⑧If at any point you hear scraping or feel resistance from the blades, stop and
proceed to Adjusting the Blades on page 13.
ATTENTION: If the spinning cutting blades are making
significant contact with the stationary blade, forcing them
to rotate may cause damage or dulling of the blades.
Height adjustment set
to 1 inch position
Cutting Reel
(with 5 helical cutting blades)
Stationary Blade
Face the front of mower to
check and adjust the
blades
Checking Cutting Blades
Checking Cutting Blades
Your EVOLUTION Reel Mower has been designed to cut grass without the
blades actually touching. This makes it easier to use, maintains higher blades
speeds with minimal effort, and the blades do not require seasonal sharpening.
There should always be a very small gap between the helical cutting blades and
the stationary blade. It is possible for slippage to occur during shipping, handling,
or usage. It is important to check the cutting performance whenever an issue is
found. Follow the steps below to check current cutting performance and, if
needed, to adjust the cutting blades for optimal performance.
WARNING: The mower blades are sharp! Wear gloves for this procedure,
and keep fingers away from the interface between the helical cutting blades
and stationary blade.
If you need assistance or have questions,
Call our customer service at 1-800-918-8290
Visit us at www.ellison-tools.com

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If the blades are scraping: (from test on page 12)
If the helical cutting blades are scraping the stationary blade, first check for any
damage or dents on both the helical cutting blades and the stationary blade. If any
dents are found, turn to page 16 for instructions on repairing dents. If there is no
visible damage, then begin with step 1 below to loosen the Adjustment Bolts to
separate the blades.
If the blades are not scraping: (from test on page 14)
If the helical cutting blades are not scraping the stationary blade anywhere, you can
tighten the Adjustment Bolts to adjust the gap between them for optimal cutting
performance. Begin with step 1 below.
Height adjustment set
to 1 inch position
Face the front of mower
to adjust the blades
Adjustment
Bolts
Adjustment
bolt
Stationary
Blade
Helical Cutting
Blade
Adjusting the Blades
Adjusting the Blades
WARNING: The mower blades are sharp! Wear gloves for this procedure,
and keep fingers away from the interface between the helical cutting blades
and stationary blade.
①Ensure mower is in up-side-down position as described on page 12.
②There are two adjustment bolts on the sides of the mower that control the
spacing between the helical cutting blades and the stationary blade. See figure
on the right. They can be tightened or loosened using the 5mm hex key (allen
wrench) included with your mower.
③Adjusting the Adjustment Bolts is a very sensitive procedure, 1/24th of a turn is
considered a major adjustment. Start adjusting very slightly on the appropriate
side. Tightening the bolt (clockwise) moves the blades closer together and
loosening (counter-clockwise) separates the blades further apart.
②If the blades are making contact, loosen the adjustment bolts while rotating the
helical cutting blades stopping as soon as the blades lose contact. Go to the
Checking Cutting Performance - Paper Test on page 14.
③When properly adjusted the helical cutting blades and the stationary blade
should be just short of making contact
1/24 of a turn is a major
adjustment, start with less
Adjust very slightly

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If the helical cutting blades are not scraping the stationary blade, you can now
check if the blades cut properly. You will need to check both the left side and the
right side of the mower.
Face the front of mower to
check cutting performance
Cutting Reel
(with 5 helical cutting blades)
Stationary Blade
Checking Cutting Performance
①You will need several 1 inch wide strips of standard printer paper about
8.5 inches long.
②Starting on your left side, feed a 1 inch wide strip of paper vertically between the
stationary blade and the helical cutting blades as shown in the figure on the right.
About a half of an inch of the paper should be below the stationary blade.
③Grip the helical blade at the position immediately behind the blade that you are
using for cutting (closer to you) and rotate the helical cutting blades away from
you (toward the stationary blade).
④If the blades are properly adjusted, the paper should be cut as the helical cutting
blades pass across the stationary blade. Test on several of the helical cutting
blades as you rotate the cutting reel. If the paper is cut on the left side, move to
the right side and repeat this test. If the paper is cut on the right side, the system
is properly adjusted. Blade adjustment is complete, and the mower is ready to cut
grass.
⑤If the paper is not cut on either the left side or the right side, then the gap
between the blades is too large. For reference, see Adjusting the Blades on page
13.
⑥Tightening the Adjustment Bolts is a very sensitive procedure, 1/24th of a turn is
considered a major adjustment. Start tightening very slightly and repeat the
paper test above.
⑦Keep tightening in very small increments until the paper begins to cut.
NOTE: Be sure to use a new portion of the paper for each test.
⑧If you tighten to the point at which the blades touch, you have tightened too
much. Loosen the Adjustment Bolts in the same very small increments and rotate
the blades until there is no contact.
⑨If the paper cuts on both the left and right sides of the blade, the system is
properly adjusted, and the mower is ready to cut grass.
WARNING: The mower blades are sharp! Wear gloves for this procedure,
and keep fingers away from the interface between the helical cutting blades
and stationary blade.
Checking Cutting Performance – Paper Test
ATTENTION: If you do not position the cutting blades
correctly, the result will be poor cutting performance and
uncut blades of grass will be left behind.
Adjustment
Bolts
Height adjustment set
to 1 inch position
If you need assistance or have questions,
Call our customer service at 1-800-918-8290
Visit us at www.ellison-tools.com

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Tips for Mowing Correctly
Tips for Mowing Correctly
①Clear lawn of debris and foreign objects prior to each use. This prevents
the primary causes of damage to the cutting blades.
②If you hit something while mowing, always stop to inspect the blades for a
jam or damage. If a blade appears damaged, do not continue mowing
since forcing the cutting blade to rotate can cause more damage.
Instead, move the mower to an appropriate work area and follow the
instructions in the Care and Maintenance section on page 16.
③In order to maintain a healthy lawn, be sure to mow weekly. If the grass
gets too high, be sure to set the mower to its 4 inch position and cut off a
smaller amount of grass first before adjusting the height to the lower
height setting.
④Attempting to cut off too much grass in one pass may cause the mower to
be difficult to push resulting in user fatigue. In these cases, raise the
cutting height of the mower and perform multiple cutting passes.
⑤When mowing high grass, be sure to use the Grass Management System
consisting of the oversized Grass Bag and Grass Deflector (Patents
Pending) to contain the grass clippings. Leaving behind excess grass
clippings that are too long can stress the lawn leaving it susceptible to
weeds, disease, and poor appearance.
⑥When mulching is desired, remove the Grass Bag and adjust the position
of the Grass Deflector to its bottom position to direct the grass clippings
back down to the lawn. Be sure to cut 1 inch or less off the grass height
in order to receive the maximum mulching benefit. The smaller grass
clippings will help your lawn maintain moisture and help support a healthy
root system, acting as fertilizer for the lawn.
Use the following tips to ensure the proper function of your EVOLUTION
Reel Mower for many years.
If you need assistance or have questions,
Call our customer service at 1-800-918-8290
Visit us at www.ellison-tools.com
⑥It is best to mow when the grass is dry. Cutting wet grass creates
clumps, which can accumulate on the lawn and damage it. If it is
necessary to mow when the grass is wet, be sure to use the Grass
Bag and pay extra care to safe mowing practices.
⑥When the grass clippings are wet or humid they may gather at the
front of the Grass Bag. Be sure to push the clippings to the rear of
the bag only when the helical blades are not spinning. Failure to
move the clippings away from the blades may result in a jam.
⑦When operating the mower on a flat, dry lawn, it is best to walk
briskly to maximize the cutting performance since the cutting blades
will spin faster. When turning, it is best to take a step backwards first
before moving forward to ensure that the blades are already spinning
quickly before cutting new grass.
Note: DO NOT RUN AND MOW. This is a safety hazard.

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Minimal care is needed to maintain your EVOLUTION mower. However,
take these steps to ensure optimal mower performance.
Avoid damage to the mower or cutting blades. Keep your mowing area
free from any debris or foreign objects such as stones, twigs, pieces of
wood, and wires. Solid objects can both damage the cutting blades and be
a safety hazard to the user, as they could be thrown uncontrollably.
Be careful to never hit stationary objects with your mower since it can
damage the components. Sudden impacts during use or storage can
cause irreparable performance issues.
Keep your mower dry. Your mower will perform better and longer if it is
kept dry. The precision ground helical blades of the cutting reel and the
stationary blade are the most vulnerable to rust, as well as the bearings
that hold the cutting reel. If your mower does get wet, dry with a cloth first
and spray the cutting reel and stationary blade with a rust preventer. Then,
spray the bearings on the sides of the cutting reel with a lubricant to
ensure that they spin freely.
Keep your mower clean. Always keep your mower clean and remove
grass deposits so it will last longer and perform better. Residual grass
clippings and dirt can be easily removed immediately after mowing using a
brush and a cloth. Pay particular attention to cleaning the area on the
sides of the cutting reel to prevent the dirt and moisture from the grass
clippings to clog the cutting reel’s shaft bearings. If grass clippings and dirt
stick to the cutting blades, it can reduce cutting performance.
The cutting blades should remain sharp for years due to the non-contact
Cutting Reel technology, provided the mower and its components are
maintained properly and not misused.
Protect your mower against weather conditions. Do not store your mower
outside since the humidity and frost can cause performance issues.
At least once a season, perform a thorough cleaning followed by an
application of a lubrication and rust preventer. The shaft bearings that hold
the cutting reel periodically require lubrication to ensure that they spin freely.
See image below. Rust preventer is needed on the ground edges of the
cutting reel and the stationary blade to ensure that they do not rust over time
due to humidity and wet grass clippings.
It is recommended that this seasonal maintenance be done at least once a
season and prior to winter storage to maintain peak performance.
Cutting Reel Shaft
Bearing (left side)
Care and Mainenance
Care and Mainenance
ATTENTION: Do not use solvents such as mineral spirits or kerosene
to clean your mower since they will damage the plastic and rubber
parts!
ATTENTION: Do not use a garden hose to wash your mower. Storing
the mower wet will allow rust to form and performance will be greatly
reduced.

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Inspect your blades at least once a season and anytime your mower
hits a solid or stationary object. The cutting blades can become
damaged or the stationary blade can become out of alignment if the mower
strikes something hard. The following are common scenarios, as a result of
hitting a stationary object: 1. The cutting reel will begin to touch the
stationary blade making it difficult or impossible to push, or, 2. the gap
between the two blades will become too large resulting in reduced cutting
performance.
If the cutting blades start to touch the stationary blade, it will produce a
scraping sound or it will not rotate freely at all. In this case, stop
immediately and prepare to check for damage to the blades. Before
checking for blade damage, place the mower on a firm, level surface.
Begin examining each of the helical cutting blades on the cutting reel.
Slowly try to turn the cutting reel and check if a point of interference is
found. If there is interference, look to see if there is a dent on either the
helical cutting blades or on the stationary blade. Only small dents can be
repaired.
If there is no apparent damage to any of the five helical cutting blades,
then the stationary blade may have shifted too close or too far from the
stationary blade. Follow the step by step instructions on page 13 for
adjusting the blades.
Repairing a small dent is possible. If minor damage such as a dent is
found on one of the five helical cutting blades, it is possible to file down
using a steel file. To remove the dent, only file away enough of the raised
material to allow the cutting reel to spin without making contact with the
stationary blade. Be sure to file with long strokes, perpendicular to the
cutting edge itself. Try to avoid filing material off the sharp edge of the
blade. Take your time with this procedure since your safety is most
important.
Once the dent has been removed, examine again to see if there is any
contact between the helical cutting blades and the stationary blade. If there
is contact, repeat the above filing process, or call the Help Line at 1-800-
918-8290 to find an authorized repair center near you.
Sharpening the blades. The blades should not need sharpening for many
years of normal usage. If you think the blades need to be sharpened, seek
an authorized professional. Sharpening with an abrasive compound will not
work and could cause damage. Always seek an authorized professional to
sharpen the blades. Special sharpening equipment is needed to
successfully sharpen the helical cutting blades.
Care and Maintenance
WARNING: The mower blades are sharp! Wear gloves for this
procedure, and keep fingers away from the interface between the
helical cutting blades and stationary blade.
WARNING: The mower blades are sharp! Wear gloves for this
procedure, and keep fingers away from the interface between the
helical cutting blades and stationary blade.
ATTENTION: Do not attempt to sharpen either the helical cutting
blades or the stationary blade by yourself! Always seek an
authorized professional that has the proper equipment and training
for sharpening this type of blade. Call the Help Line at 1-800-918-
8290 to find an authorized repair center near you.
ATTENTION: Do not use a power tool to repair the helical cutting
blades or the stationary blade. It is very dangerous and can cause too
much material to be removed which will result in lower performance.
ATTENTION: If the cutting reel is difficult to turn, do not force it to
turn as it may have begun contacting the stationary blade. This can
cause even more damage.

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Your EVOLUTION Reel Mower with Grass Management System is
designed to operate right out of the box with only the quick tool-less
assembly of the Handle needed. If you experience any issues using the
mower, please read the information below to help you diagnose your
problem and find a solution.
Problem: The mower is hard to push.
Are you trying to cut too much grass?
• Check the height setting for the mower. Be sure that you are not trying
to cut more than 1/3 off the height of the grass. The mower may become
difficult to push if the height setting is too low.
• Try to adjust the height setting higher and closer to the 4 inch setting.
Is the height of the handle comfortable for pushing?
• The handle has multiple height positions that do not change as the
grass cutting height is adjusted. If you need to adjust the handle height,
see page 7.
Are the cutting reel or blades clogged with grass, dirt, or debris?
• Check to see if anything is causing a jam for the cutting reel, in
particular look on the cutting blades and on the sides of the cutting reel.
If debris is found, clean with a brush. Do not stick your hand inside the
cutting blades!
Are the cutting blades making contact with the stationary blade?
If so, this could be caused by two reasons:
• The stationary blade has shifted during shipping, handling,
or operation. If the cutting gap has become too small or non-existent,
the blades will touch, but they should not. To check if the cutting gap is
properly set, see Adjusting the Blades on page 13.
• The blades could be making contact due to a dent or other damage
to the blades. See page 17 for inspecting and repairing a dent in the
blades.
Problem: The mower is leaving behind uncut grass
Is your grass long or are tall weeds present?
• Check the height setting for the mower. Be sure that you are not trying to cut
more than 1/3 off the height of the grass. The mower will not be able to cut
grass over 6 inches long or if tall weeds are present.
• Try to adjust the height setting higher and closer to the 4 inch setting.
• Pull any tall weeds that are present, and also try to mow from a different
direction to see if that helps.
Is the blade gap adjusted properly?
• The gap between the cutting blades and the stationary blade can shift during
shipping, handling, or operation and become larger than it should be. If the gap
is too large, the cutting performance will be reduced.
• To check if the cutting gap is set properly, see Adjusting the Blades on page
13.
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
If you need assistance or have questions,
don’t return to the store.
Call our customer service at 1-800-918-8290
Visit us at www.ellison-tools.com

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Problem: The mower is making a scraping noise
Are the cutting reel or blades clogged with grass, dirt, or debris?
• Check to see if anything is causing a jam for the cutting reel, in particular
look on the cutting blades and on the sides of the cutting reel. If something is
found, clean with a brush. Do not stick your hand inside the cutting blades!
Are the cutting blades making slight contact with the stationary blade?
If so, this could be caused by two reasons:
• The stationary blade has shifted during shipping, handling, or operation. If
the cutting gap has become too small or non-existent, the blades may just
touch in some areas, but they should not. To check if the cutting gap is
properly set, see Adjusting the Blades on page 13.
• The blades could be making contact is due to a dent or other damage to the
blades. See page 16 for inspecting and repairing a dent in the blades.
Troubleshooting
Do not use mower if you are in poor health.
Use the mower only for its intended purpose.
Do not use mower in areas other than grass.
Check mower before each use. Do not operate with missing, worn, or
damaged parts.
Inspect your lawn for any debris or foreign objects (such as stones, twigs,
pieces of wood, and wires) and remove them before mowing. Solid objects
that contact the cutting blades could be thrown out uncontrollably.
Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and closed-toe shoes when operating
and maintaining your mower.
Do not operate the mower while barefoot or wearing sandals or flip flops.
Never place hands, fingers, or feet in the rotating blades. When the blades
are spinning, they will cut.
Never mow when the grass is wet enough to be slippery and unsafe.
Use safe lifting practices when moving your mower.
Do not allow children under 12 years to use mower.
Do not operate around children, other people, or pets.
Walk slowly, never run while using your mower. Always be sure of your
footing when using the reel mower, especially on damp grass or on uneven
surfaces.
Keep packaging material such as plastic bags out of the reach of children!
Protect the mower against weather conditions (humidity, frost).
Make sure your mower is in safe operating condition by following the tips
outlined in this user guide. Do not use this mower if it becomes damaged.
Have it repaired first.
Call 1-800-918-8290 or visit www.ellison-tools.com for troubleshooting,
frequently asked questions, and for finding a qualified repair service.
WARNING Safety Information
!

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159 N. Racine Ave. 3E
Chicago, IL 60607
[phone]
www.ellison-tools.com