Homelite F2020 User manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL
Trimmer
F2020
UT70121
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
Your new trimmer has been engineered and manufactured to Homelite’s high standard for dependability, ease of operation and
operatorsafety.Properly cared for,itwill giveyouyearsofrugged,trouble-freeperformance.
Thank you for buying a Homelite trimmer.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the operator’s manual.

2
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■Safety.................................................................................................................................................................... 2 - 3
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■Symbols ................................................................................................................................................................ 4 - 5
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■Technical Data ............................................................................................................................................................ 5
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■Unpacking .................................................................................................................................................................. 6
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■Features ..................................................................................................................................................................... 6
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■Assembly .............................................................................................................................................................. 7 - 8
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■Operation............................................................................................................................................................. 9 - 11
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■Maintenance ...................................................................................................................................................... 12 - 14
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■Troubleshooting.................................................................................................................................................. 15 - 16
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■Warranty ................................................................................................................................................................... 17
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■Safety Directive........................................................................................................................................................ 17
WARNING:
Do not attempt to operate this trimmer until you have read thoroughly and understand completely all instructions,
safety rules etc contained in this manual. Failure to comply may result in accidents involving fire, electric shock or
serious personal injury. Save operator’s manual and review frequently for continuing safe operation, and instructing
others who may use this tool.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
■Forsafeoperation,readandunderstand allinstructions
before using the trimmer. Follow all safety instructions.
Failure to follow all safety instructions listed below may
result in serious personal injury.
■Donot allow childrenor untrained individualsto use
this unit.
■■
■■
■Never start or run the engine in a closed or poorly
ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY
■■
■■
■Clear the work area before each use. Remove all objects
such as stones, broken glass, nails, wire or string which
maybe thrown or become entangledin the stringhead.
■■
■■
■Wearfulleyeandhearingprotectionwhileoperating
this unit.
■■
■■
■Wear heavy long trousers, boots and gloves. Do not
wear loose-fitting clothing, shorts, jewellery of any kind,
orgobarefoot.

3
■■
■■
■Secure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent
entanglementin any moving parts.
■■
■■
■Keep all bystanders, children and pets at least 15 m
(50 ft) away.
■■
■■
■Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill or under
the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.
■■
■■
■Donotoperateinpoorlighting.
■■
■■
■Keepfirm footing andbalance. Do not overreach.
Overreaching may result in loss of balance or exposure
to hot surfaces.
■■
■■
■Keep all parts of your body away from any moving part.
■■
■■
■Do not touch area around the silencer or cylinder of the
trimmer: these parts get hot from operation.
■■
■■
■Always stop the engine and remove the sparking plug
wirebefore makingany adjustments or repairs, except
forcarburettoradjustments.
■■
■■
■Inspect the unit before each use for loose fasteners,
fuel leaks etc. Replace any damaged parts before use.
■■
■■
■Thestringhead willrotateduringcarburettoradjust-
ments.
■■
■■
■Ithas been reportedthat vibrations fromhand-held tools
may contribute to a condition called Raynaud’s Syn-
drome in certain individuals. Symptoms may include
tingling, numbness and blanching of the fingers, usually
apparentuponexposureto cold.Hereditaryfactors,
exposure to cold and dampness, diet, smoking and work
practices are all thought to contribute to the develop-
ment of these symptoms. It is not known at present
what, if any, vibrations or extent of exposure may
contribute to the condition. There are measures that can
be taken by the operator to possibly reduce the effects
ofvibration:
a) Keepyourbodywarmincoldweather.Whenoperat-
ing the unit wear gloves to keep the hands and wrists
warm. It is reported that cold weather is a major
factorcontributingtoRaynaud’sSyndrome.
b) After each period of operation, exercise to increase
bloodcirculation.
c) Take frequent work breaks. Limit the amount of
exposureperday.
d) Keepthe tool well maintained,fastenerstightened
andwornpartsreplaced.
If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition,
immediately discontinue use and see your doctor about
these symptoms.
■■
■■
■Mix and store fuel in a container approved for petrol.
■■
■■
■Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames.
Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m (30 ft) away from
refuellingsitebeforestartingengine.
■■
■■
■Stopthe engine and allow to cool before refuellingor
storing the unit.
■■
■■
■Allow the engine to cool; empty the fuel tank and secure
the unit from moving before transporting in a vehicle.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR TRIMMER USE
■■
■■
■Replacestring head ifcracked, chipped ordamaged in
any way. Be sure the string head is properly installed
and securely fastened. Failure to do so may cause
seriousinjury.
■■
■■
■Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors and handles are
properlyandsecurelyattached.
■■
■■
■Use only the manufacturer’s replacement string in the
cutting head. Do not use any other cutting attachment.
■■
■■
■Never operate unit without the grass deflector in place
andingoodcondition.
■■
■■
■Maintaina firm gripon both handles whiletrimming.
Keep string head below waist level.Never cut with the
string head located over 76 cm (30 in) or more above
theground.
SAFETY

4
Important:Someofthefollowingsymbolsmaybeusedonyourtool.Pleasestudythemandlearntheirmeaning.Proper
interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and more safely.
SYMBOL NAME EXPLANATION
Safety Alert Symbol Indicatesdanger,warningorcaution.Itmeans
attention!!! Your safety is involved.
Read Your Operator’s Manual Your manual contains special messages to bring
attention to potential safety concerns as well as
operating and servicing information. Please read all
the information carefully to ensure satisfaction and
safe use.
Weareyeandhearingprotection Weareyeandhearingprotectionwhenoperating
thisequipment.
Keepbystandersaway Keep all bystanders at least 15 m (50 ft)
away.
Ricochet DangerofRicochet.
RPMDecal Rotational directionand maximum speedof the
shaft for the cutting attachment.
NoSmoking Do not smoke when mixing fuel or filling fuel tank.
Petrol Useunleadedpetrolintendedformotorvehicleuse
with an octane rating of 87 ([R + M] / 2) or higher.
Oil Use 2-cycle oil for air-cooled engines.
Mix Petrol and Oil Mix the fuel mix thoroughly and also each time
beforefuelling.
Switch On/Off Switch
I = ON to Run
O = OFF to Stop
Noblade Do not install any type of blade on this unit.
SYMBOLS
min-1
9,000

5
Thepurpose of safety symbols isto attract your attention topossible dangers. The safety symbols,and the explanations
with them, deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do not by themselves eliminate any
danger. The instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.
SYMBOL MEANING
DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or
seriousinjury.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in
seriousinjury.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices which may cause property damage.
NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to the operation or maintenance of the equipment.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Weight Without fuel and stringhead ................................................................................................................4.63 Kg
Without fuel, w/string head ..................................................................................................................4.44 Kg
Fuel tank volume ................................................................................................................................................... 42.5cm3
Cuttingswath.......................................................................................................................................................... 432mm
Enginedisplacement ................................................................................................................................................ 25 cm3
Maximumengineperformance (inaccordancewithISO8893) ............................................................................... 0.75kW
Maximum rotational frequency of the spindle .................................................................................................... 9,000/min-1
EngineSpeed(rotationalfrequency)atrecommendedmax.spindlerotationalfrequency.................................12,500/min-1
Enginespeed(rotationalfrequency)atidle .............................................................................................3,100-4,300/min-1
Fuelconsumption (in accordancewith ISO 8893) at max. engine performance................................................... 0.48 kg/h
Specific fuel consumption (in accordance with ISO 8893) at max. engine performance ...................................... 0.46 kg/h
Vibrationlevelidling FrontHandle ......................................................................................................................... 4.8
RearHandle .......................................................................................................................... 4.8
Vibrationlevelracing FrontHandle ....................................................................................................................... 13.0
RearHandle .......................................................................................................................... 8.4
Soundpressurelevel(inaccordancewithENISO11806:1997,ISO7917:1987) .......................................................... 100
Soundpowerlevel(inaccordancewithISO10884) ....................................................................................................... 113
SYMBOLS
TECHNICAL DATA

6
FEATURES
Fig. 1
THROTTLE TRIGGER
SILENCER
GUARD
STARTER GRIP
CHOKE LEVER
THROTTLE CONTROL
AND REAR HANDLE
FRONT HANDLE
DRIVE SHAFT
HOUSING
STRING HEAD
GRASS DEFLECTOR
IGNITION SWITCH
INSTRUCTIONS
■■
■■
■Carefullyremove the product from the carton.
■■
■■
■Inspect the product to make sure no breakage or
damageoccurredduringcarriage.
■■
■■
■Do not discard the packing material until you have
inspectedandoperatedtheproduct.
PACKING LIST FOR OWNER’S KIT
■■
■■
■Grassdeflector
■■
■■
■Fronthandle
■■
■■
■Silencerguard,torquewrenchandscrews
■■
■■
■Fixings
■■
■■
■Operator’smanual
UNPACKING

7
WING NUT
FRONT HANDLE
BOLT
Fig. 3
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS:
GRASS DEFLECTOR
See Figure 2.
1. Remove wing nut, flat washer, lock washer and bolt from
the Owner’s Kit.
2. Place grass deflector over shaft and bracket.
3. Install bolt through the slots in the tabs on grass deflec-
tor and bracket on drive shaft housing.
4. Install flat washer, lock washer and wing nut.
5. TightenSecurely.
FRONT HANDLE
See Figure 3.
1. Remove the front handle, bolt and wing nut from the
Owner’s Kit.
2. Install the front handle onto the top side of the drive
shaft housing and move it to a comfortable position.
3. Place the bolt through the front handle as shown. Then
install the wing nut.
4. Tighten the wing nut securely.
NOTE: Do not attempt to remove or modify the spacer.This
spacer limits the upper position of the handle grip.
See
Figure3.
GRASS DEFLECTOR
BRACKET
BOLT
FLAT WASHER
LOCK WASHER
WING NUT
Fig. 2
ASSEMBLY

8
SILENCER GUARD ASSEMBLY
See Figure 4.
1. Removesilencer guard andtwo screws fromthe
owner’s kit.
2. Attach the silencer guard to the rear housing.
NOTE: Make sure the bent end of the silencer guard fits
securely into the opening of the rear housing.
3. Install two screws.
4. Tighten screws securely.
ASSEMBLY
Fig. 4
BENT END OF
SILENCER GUARD
OPENING IN REAR
HOUSING
SCREWS
SILENCER
GUARD
REAR
HOUSING
TORQUE
WRENCH

9
FILLING THE TANK
1. Cleansurfaceroundfuel cap to preventcontamination.
2. Loosen fuel cap slowly to release pressure and to keep
fuel from escaping around the cap.
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. Move 9 m (30 ft) away from refuelling
sitebeforestartingengine.
NOTE: It is normal for smoke to be emitted from a new
engine during and after first use.
1 Litre + 20 ml =
2 Litres + 40 ml =
3 Litres + 60 ml =
4 Litres + 80 ml =
5 Litres + 100 ml = }50:1
WARNING
Always shut off engine before refuelling. Never add
fuel to a machine with a running or hot engine. Move
at least 9 m (30 ft) from refuelling site before starting
engine. Do not smoke!
OPERATING THE TRIMMER
SeeFigure 5.
Holdthe trimmer withthe right handon the rearhandle and
the left hand on the front handle.Keep a firm grip with both
handswhile in operation.Trimmershould be heldata
comfortable position with therear handle about hipheight.
Always operate trimmer at full throttle. Cut tall grass from
the top down.This will prevent grass from wrapping round
the drive shaft housing and string head, which may cause
damagefromoverheating.If grass becomes wrapped round
the string head, stop the engine, disconnect the sparking
plug wire, and remove the grass.Prolonged cutting at partial
throttle will result in oil dripping from the silencer.
FUEL AND REFUELLING
HANDLING THE FUEL SAFELY
■■
■■
■Always handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable.
■■
■■
■Alwaysrefueloutdoorswheretherearenosparksand
flames. Do not inhale fuel vapour.
■■
■■
■Do not let petrol or oil come in contact with your skin.
■■
■■
■Keep petrol and oil away from the eyes. If petrol or oil
comes in contact with the eyes, wash them immediately
with clean water. If irritation is still present, see a doctor
immediately.
■■
■■
■Clean up spilled fuel immediately.
MIXING THE FUEL
■■
■■
■This product is powered by a 2-cycle engine and requires
pre-mixingpetroland2-cycle oil.Pre-mixunleadedpetrol
and2-cycle engine oilin a cleancontainer approved
forpetrol.
■■
■■
■Thisengine is certifiedto operate onunleaded petrol
intended for motor vehicle use with an octane rating of
87 ([R + M] / 2) or higher.
■■
■■
■Do not use any type of pre-mixed petrol/oil from fuel
service stations. This includes the pre-mixed petrol/oil
intended for use in mopeds, motorcycles etc.
■■
■■
■Use high a quality 2-cycle self-mixing oil for air-cooled
engines. Do not use motor vehicle oil or 2-cycle
outboardoil.
■■
■■
■Mix 2% oil into the petrol. This is a 50:1 ratio.
■■
■■
■Mix the fuel thoroughly and also each time before
fuelling.
■■
■■
■Mix in small quantities. Do not mix quantities larger than
are usable in a 30 day period. A 2-cycle oil containing a
fuelstabiliser is recommended.
Fig. 5
OPERATION
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

10
BEST CUTTING
AREA
DANGEROUS
CUTTING AREA Fig. 6
ADVANCING THE STRING
ADVANCING STRING USING THE EZ LINE™ TAP
ADVANCE SYSTEM
String advance is controlled by tapping string head on grass
whilerunning engine at fullthrottle.
1. Run engine at full throttle.
2. Tap string head on ground to advance string. String
advances each time the head is tapped.
3. Several taps may be required until string strikes the cut-
off blade.
4. Resumetrimming.
NOTE: If the string is worn too short you may not be able to
advance the string by tapping it on the ground.If so, STOP
THEENGINE, and manuallyadvance the string.
ADVANCING THE STRING MANUALLY
Pushthe spool retainer down whilepulling on string(s)to
manuallyadvance the string.
CUTTING TIPS
See Figure 6.
■Keep the trimmer tilted toward the area being cut; this is
the best cutting area.
■Do not cut in dangerous cutting area.
■Use the tip of string to do the cutting; do not force string
head into uncut grass.
■Wire and picket fences cause extra string wear, even
breakage. Stone and brick walls, kerbs and wood may
wearstringrapidly.
■Avoidtrees and shrubs. Tree bark,wood mouldings,
cladding and fence posts can easily be damaged by
the string.
GRASS DEFLECTOR LINE TRIMMING CUT-
OFF BLADE
See Figure 7.
This trimmer is equipped with a line trimming cut-off blade
on the grass deflector.For best cutting, advance string until
it is trimmed to length by the cut-off blade. Advance string
wheneveryouhearthe engine running faster thannormal.
This will maintain best performance and keep string long
enoughtoadvanceproperly.
Fig. 7
OPERATION

11
1
IGNITION SWITCH
I = ON TO RUN
O = OFF TO STOP
Fig. 8
THROTTLE
TRIGGER
THROTTLE INTERLOCK
STARTING AND STOPPING
SeeFigures 8and 9.
OPERATION
TO START A COLD ENGINE:
1. Lay trimmer on a flat, bare surface. Move switch to “I”
(RUN)position.
NOTE: Unit is equipped with a positive on-off switch.
Make sure switch is in the “I” (RUN) position before
starting the unit.
2. Push primer bulb 8 to 10 times.
3. Set choke lever to choke position ( ).
4. Depressinterlock,squeezetriggerandpullstarter rope
until engine tries to run. (No more than 6 pulls.)
5. Set choke lever to half choke position ( ).
6. Holdtriggerandpullstarterropeuntilengineruns.
7. Run engine 30 to 45 seconds at full throttle (with trigger
depressed fully) on half choke position ( ) to warm up.
Move choke lever to run position ( ).
TO START A WARM ENGINE:
1. Move choke lever to run position ( ).
2. Holdtriggerandpullstarterropeuntilengineruns.
TO STOP THE ENGINE:
To stop the engine, depress the switch to “O” position.
NOTE: Be sure to return the stop switch to the “I” (RUN)
position before trying to start unit.
PRIMER BULB
CHOKE
POSITION
HALF
CHOKE
POSITION
RUN POSITION
Fig. 9
CHOKE LEVER
WARNING:
Never start or run the engine inside a closed or poorly
ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill.

12
WARNING:
Useonlyoriginalmanufacturer’sreplacementparts,
accessories and attachments. Failure to do so can
cause possible injury, poor performance, and may
voidyourwarranty.
Fig.10
Fig.11
SPOOL
RETAINER
SPRING
SLOTS
STRING HEAD
EYELETS
DRIVE SHAFT
MAINTENANCE
■Youmay make adjustmentsand repairs described here.
For other repairs, have the trimmer serviced by an
authorisedservicedealer.
■Consequencesofimpropermaintenancemayinclude
excess carbon deposits, resulting in loss of performance
and discharge of black oily residue dripping from
the silencer.
■Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors and handles are
properly and securely attached to avoid the risk of
personalinjury.
SPOOL REPLACEMENT
EZ LINE™ TAP ADVANCE SYSTEM
NEW PRE-WOUND SPOOL
SeeFigures10and11.
If replacing string only, refer to “String Replacement” later in
this manual.
Useonly 2.0 mm (.080 in)diameter monofilament string.
Usethe manufacturer’s replacement string forbestperfor-
mance.
1. Stop the engine and disconnect the sparking plug wire.
Holdthestringhead and unscrew the spoolretainer.
Turn clockwise.
2. Remove the empty spool from the string head. Keep the
spring attached to the spool.
3. To install the new spool, make sure the two strings are
captured in the slots opposite each other on the new
spool. Make sure the ends of each string are extended
approximately 152 mm (6 in) beyond each slot.
4. Thread the strings into the eyelets in the string head.
Carefully push the spool into the string head (gently pull
the strings to the outside if necessary). When the spool
is positioned in the string head, grasp the strings and
pull sharply to release them from the slots in the spool.
5. Push down and turn the spool anticlockwise until it no
longer turns. Hold the spool down and rotate clockwise a
small amount. Release the spool. The spool should be
locked down in the string head. If not, hold down and
rotate until locked.
6. Make sure the string head and the spool retainer are
installed on the drive shaft by turning the retainer
anticlockwise to tighten.
7. Pull the strings again to rotate the spool into cutting
position.Push the spool retainerdown while pulling on
string(s) to manually advance the string and to check for
proper assembly of the string head.

13
STRING REPLACEMENT
See Figures 12, 13, 14 and 15.
1Stop the engine and disconnect the sparking plug
wire.Hold the string head andunscrew the spool
retainer.Turnanticlockwise.
2Remove the spool from the string head. NOTE:
Keep the spring attached to the spool. Remove any
old string remaining on the spool.
3Cut two pieces of string, each being approximately
2.7 m (9 ft) long.
4Insert the first string into the anchor hole in the
upper part of the spool. Wind the first string round
the upper part of the spool anticlockwise, as shown
by the arrows on the spool. Place string in the slot
on upper spool flange, leaving about 152 mm (6 in)
extended beyond the slot. Do not overfill. After
winding the string, there should be at least 6 mm
(1/4in)betweenthe wound string and theoutside
edge of the spool.
5Repeat above step with second string, using the
bottom part of spool. Do not overfill.
6Replacethe spool and the spoolretainer. Refer to
“SpoolReplacement“earlierinthismanual.
CLEANING THE EXHAUST PORT AND
SILENCER
Depending on the type of fuel used, the type and
amountof oil used,and/or your operating conditions,
the exhaust port and silencer may become blocked
with carbon deposits. If you notice a power loss with
yourpetrol-poweredtool, a qualified servicetechnician
will need to remove these deposits to restore perfor-
mance.
SPARK ARRESTER
Thespark arrester must be cleaned or replaced every
25hours or yearly toensure proper performance ofyour
product. Spark arresters may be in different locations
dependingonthe model purchased. Pleasecontact
your nearest service dealer for the location of the spark
arresterforyourmodel.
CleaningInstructions:
■■
■■
■Remove the spark arrester from the silencer.
■■
■■
■If your spark arrester is made of fibreglass, discard
andreplace.
■■
■■
■If your spark arrester is made of metal, follow these
cleaninginstructions:
1. Spray the spark arrester with a quality
carboncleaner.
2. Gently clean using a wire brush.
3. Install the new or cleaned spark arrester and
reassemblecompletelybeforeuse.
FIRST STRING Fig.12
SPOOL
ANCHOR
HOLE
SECOND
STRING
ARROWS ON
SPOOL
Fig.14
Fig.15
SPRING
Fig.13
FIRST STRING
SLOT
SLOT ARROWS ON
SPOOL
MAINTENANCE

14
The fuel cap contains a non-serviceable filter and a check
valve. A clogged fuel filter will cause poor engine perfor-
mance. If performance improves when the fuel cap is
loosened, the check valve may be faulty or the filter
clogged. Replacefuel cap ifrequired.
SPARKING PLUG
This engine uses a Champion RCJ-6Y with 0.63mm
(0.025 in) electrode gap. Use an exact replacement and
replace annually.
STORAGE (1 MONTH OR LONGER)
1. Drain all fuel from tank into a container approved for
petrol. Run engine until it stops.
2. Clean all foreign material from the trimmer. Store it in a
well-ventilated place that is inaccessible to children.
Keep away from corrosive agents such as garden
chemicals and de-icing salts.
3. Abide by all Federal and local regulations for the safe
storage and handling of petrol. Excess fuel should be
usedupinother2-cycleenginepoweredequipment.
REPLACING AND CLEANING AIR FILTER
SeeFigures16and17.
Forproper performance andlong life, keep airfilter clean.
1. Remove the air filter cover by pushing down on the latch
with your thumb while gently pulling on the cover.
2. Remove the filter and clean it in warm soapy water.
Rinse and let dry completely. For best performance,
replaceannually.
3. Install the filter, align tabs, push in, and make sure the
latches are locked into place.
WARNING:
A leaking fuel cap is a fire hazard and must be
replacedimmediately.
FUEL CAP
MAINTENANCE
STOP
1
2
3
Fig.16
Fig.17
LATCH
PULL COVER
TO OPEN
AIR FILTER
COVER
FILTER

15
PROBLEMPROBLEM
PROBLEMPROBLEM
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE
POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE
POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTIONSOLUTION
SOLUTIONSOLUTION
SOLUTION
IFTHESESOLUTIONSDONOTSOLVE THE PROBLEM, CONTACTYOURAUTHORISEDSERVICEDEALER.
1. Checkspark.Removesparking plug. Reattach
the sparking plug cap and lay sparking plug on
metal cylinder. Pull the starter rope and watch
for spark at sparking plug tip. If there is no
spark, repeat test with a new sparking plug.
2. Push primer bulb until bulb is full of fuel. If
bulb does not fill, primary fuel delivery system
is blocked. Contact a servicing dealer. If
primer bulb fills, engine may be flooded (see
next item).
3. Removesparkingplug, turn trimmer so
sparking plug hole is aimed at the ground.
Move choke lever to “RUN” and pull starter
cord 10 to 15 times. This will clear excess fuel
fromengine.Cleanandreinstall sparkingplug.
Pull starter three times with choke lever at
“RUN”. If engine does not start, move choke
leverto“CHOKE”andrepeatnormalstarting
procedure. If engine still fails to start, repeat
procedurewithanewsparkingplug.
4. Contactaservicing dealer.
Contacta servicing dealer.
Turn mixture needle anticlockwise 1/16 turn. See
Figure18.
1. Use fresh fuel and the correct 2-cycle oil mix.
2. Clean air filter. Refer to “Replacing and
CleaningAir Filter” earlier inthis manual.
3. Turn mixture needle clockwise 1/16 turn. See
Figure18.
Turn idle speed screw clockwise to increase idle
speed.
SeeFigure18.
1. Lubricate with silicone spray.
2. Install more string. Refer to “String Replace-
ment”earlier inthis manual.
3. Pull strings while alternately pressing down on
andreleasingspoolretainer.
4. Removestringfrom spool and rewind.Referto
“StringReplacement”earlierinthismanual.
5. Advance string at full throttle.
Engine will not start:
Engine starts but will not
accelerate:
Engine starts but will only
run at high speed at half
choke:
Engine does not reach full
speed and emits excessive
smoke:
Engine starts, runs, and
accelerates but will not
idle:
String will not advance:
1. Nospark.
2. Nofuel.
3. Floodedengine.
4. Starterropepullshardernowthan
whennew.
Carburettorrequiresadjustment.
Carburettorrequiresadjustment.
1. Check oil fuel mixture.
2. Air filter dirty.
3. Carburettorrequiresadjustment.
Carburettorrequiresadjustment.
1. String welded to itself.
2. Notenoughstringonspool.
3. Stringworntoo short.
4. Stringtangledonspool.
5. Enginespeed too slow.
TROUBLESHOOTING

16
1
NOTE: Thecarburettor adjustment needle(s) are equipped
with plastic cap(s) which prevent anticlockwise rotation
from the original factory adjustment. If your unit exhibits
specificperformance problem(s)wheretheTroubleShoot-
ingSection recommends a anticlockwise needleadjust-
mentand no adjustments have beenmade since original
purchase, the unit should be taken to a factory-authorised
service dealer for repair.In most cases, the needed
adjustment is a simple task for the factory-trained service
representative.
PROBLEMPROBLEM
PROBLEMPROBLEM
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE
POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE
POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTIONSOLUTION
SOLUTIONSOLUTION
SOLUTION
IFTHESESOLUTIONSDONOTSOLVE THE PROBLEM, CONTACTYOURAUTHORISEDSERVICEDEALER.
1. Cut tall grass from the top down.
2. Operate trimmer at full throttle.
Cleanthreads and lubricate withgrease - if noimprove-
ment,replacespoolretainer.
1. Operate trimmer at full throttle.
2. Use fresh fuel and the correct 2-cycle oil mix.
3. Cleanairfilter.Referto“ReplacingandCleaningAir
Filter” earlier in this manual.
4. Turn mixture needle clockwise 1/16 turn.
SeeFigure18.
1. Cutting tall grass at
groundlevel.
2. Operatingtrimmerat
partthrottle.
Screwthreadsdirtyordamaged.
1. Operatingtrimmerat
partthrottle.
2. Check oil/fuel mixture.
3. Air filter dirty.
4. Carburettorrequires
adjustment.
Grasswrapsrounddrive
shaft housing and string
head:
Spoolretainerhardto
turn:
Oil drips from silencer:
TROUBLESHOOTING
MIXTURE
NEEDLE
IDLE SPEED
SCREW
Fig.18

17
SOUND POWER/PRESSURE AND HANDLE VIBRATION CHART FOR
STRIMMERS / BRUSHCUTTERS
Information on Noise Emission per European Machine Safety Directive 98/37/EC.
The individual equipment listed was operated in a manner consistent with normal working conditions.
The A-weighted sound pressure level (LpA) at the operator’s ear and the A-weighted sound power level (LWA) were both measured
in accordance with Directive 79/113/EEC. Hearing protection is recommended where levels exceed 85 dBA.
Handle vibration was measured in accordance to ISO 7916. Read the safety precautions section of the manual.
SOUND PRESSURE SOUND POWER VIBRATION
MODEL MODELNO. LpA (dBA) LwA(dBpA) m/s2
F2020 UT70121 100 113 8.4
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
According to machinery directive 98/37/EC and EMC directive 89/336/EEC - We,
Homelite Consumer Products Inc., 1428 Pearman Dairy Road, Anderson, SC 29625, USA
declare in sole responsibility that the product: F2020 (UT70121) - to which this certificate applies conforms to the basic health and
safety requirements of the Machinery Directive 98/37/EC and other relevant directives, such as EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and
Outdoor Directive 2000/14/EC.
To effect correct application of the health and safety requirements stated in the EEC directives, the following European and/or
national standards and/or technical specifications were consulted: EN ISO 14982:1998, ISO 7916 & 7917, EN ISO 11806:1997,
ISO 7918-1995, ISO 8380-1993, ISO 8893-1989, ISO 10884-1995. EN 292-1.1991, EN 292-2-1991, EN 292-2:1991/A1;1995, EN
563-1994, EN 27917-1991, ISO 7112-1982, ISO 7113-1991
Homelite Consumer Products, Inc.
1428 Pearman Dairy Road
Anderson, SC 29625, USA
Wayne Hill
Director, Environmental Compliance
December 18, 2002
WARRANTY
SAFETY DIRECTIVE
GUARANTEE – STATEMENT
(RTSA / RTUK / RTG)
AllHomelite products areguaranteed from defects inmaterial and workmanshipfor a period oftwenty-four (24) months,
effective and evidenced from date of original invoice or delivery note.
Defects caused bynormalwear and tear,unauthorised/improper maintenance/handlingoroverload are excludedfrom this
guarantee, as are accessories such as battery packs, bulbs, blades and bits etc.
In the event of malfunction within the guarantee period, please return the assembled product with proof of purchase to your
dealerornearest Homelite Service Centre.
Your statutory rights in respect of defective products remain unaffected by the warranty.
Ryobi Technologies GmbH, Itterpark 7, D-40724 Hilden,Germany
Ryobi Technologies, Customer Services, Anvil House, Tuns Lane, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 1SA, UK
Homelite / R.T.S.A, BP 50012 - 95945 Roissy CDG Cedex – FRANCE
Ryobi Technologies Australia PTY Limited, 359-361 Horsley Road, Milperra, NSW 2214 Australia

OPERATOR’S MANUAL
Trimmer
F2020
UT70121
Ryobi Technologies GmbH
Itterpark 7
D-40724 Hilden
Germany
Tel.: [phone] / 29 58 0
Fax : [phone] / 29 58 29
[email protected]
RyobiTechnologies
Customer Services
Anvil House
Tuns Lane
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 1SA
UK
Homelite / R.T.S.A
BP 50012 - 95945 Roissy CDG Cedex – FRANCE
Ryobi Technologies Australia PTYLimited
359-361 Horsley Road, Milperra, NSW 2214 Australia
983000-204
2-03