Homelite F3055 User manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL
Trimmer / Brushcutter
F3055
UT70129
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,it will 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.

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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 - 10
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■Operation............................................................................................................................................................ 11 - 14
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■Maintenance ....................................................................................................................................................... 15 - 18
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■Troubleshooting................................................................................................................................................... 19 - 20
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■Warranty .................................................................................................................................................................... 21
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■Safety Directive......................................................................................................................................................... 21
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 all instructions
before using the trimmer/brushcutter. 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.
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■Never start or run the engine in a closed or poorly
ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill.
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■Clear the work area before each use. Remove all objects
such as stones, broken glass, nails, wire or string which
canbe thrown or becomeentangledin the string head
orblade.
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■Wearfulleyeandhearingprotectionwhileoperating
this unit.
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■Wear heavy long trousers, boots and gloves. Do not
wear loose fitting clothing, shorts, jewellery of any kind,
orgobarefoot.
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■Secure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent
entanglementin any moving parts.
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■Keep all bystanders, children and pets at least 15 m
(50 ft) away.
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■Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill or under
the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.
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■Donotoperateinpoorlighting.
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■Keepfirm footing andbalance. Do not overreach.
Overreaching may result in loss of balance or exposure
to hot surfaces.
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■Keep all parts of your body away from any moving part.
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■Do not touch area round the silencer or cylinder of the
trimmer/brushcutter;thesepartsgethotfromoperation.
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■Always stop the engine and remove the sparking plug
wirebefore making anyadjustments or repairsexcept
forcarburettoradjustments.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY

3
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■Inspect the unit before each use for loose fasteners, fuel
leaks etc. Replace any damaged parts before use.
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■Thestringheadorbladewillrotateduringcarburettor
adjustments.
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■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
contributetothe condition. There are measureswhich
can be taken by the operator to possibly reduce the
effects of vibration:
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) Keepthetoolwellmaintained,fastenerstightened
andwornpartsreplaced.
If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition,
immediately discontinue use and see your doctor about
these symptoms.
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■Mix and store fuel in a container approved for petrol.
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■Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames.
Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m (30 ft) away from
refuellingsitebeforestartingengine.
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■Stopthe engine and allow to cool before refuellingor
storing the unit.
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■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
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■Replacestring head ifcracked, chipped ordamaged in
any way. Be sure the string head or blade is properly
installed and securely fastened. Failure to do so may
cause serious injury.
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■Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors and handles are
properlyandsecurelyattached.
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■Use only the manufacturer’s replacement string in the
cutting head. Do not use any other cutting attachment.
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■Never operate unit without the grass deflector in place
andingoodcondition.
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■Maintaina firm grip on both handles while trimming.Keep
string head below waist level. Never cut with the string
head located over 76 cm (30 in) or more above
theground.
SPECIFICSAFETYRULESFORBRUSHCUTTERAND
BLADEUSE
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■After engine stops, keep rotating blade in heavy grass
or pulpy weeds until it stops.
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■Do not operate the brushcutter unless the blade guard is
firmly secured in place and in good condition.
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■Use heavy gloves while installing or removing blades.
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■Always stop the engine and remove the sparking plug
wirebeforeattempting to remove anyobstructioncaught
orjammed in the bladeorbefore removing and installing
theblade.
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■Do not attempt to touch or stop the blade when it
is rotating.
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■A coasting blade can cause injury while it continues to
spin after the engine is stopped or throttle trigger re-
leased.Maintainproper control until thebladehas
completelystoppedrotating.
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■Replace any damaged blade. Always make sure blade is
installed correctly and securely fastened before each
use. Failure to do so may cause serious injury.
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■Useonlythe manufacturer’s replacementTRI-ARC blade
intended for use on this brushcutter.Do not use any
otherblade.
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■TheTRI-ARC blade is suited for cutting pulpy weeds and
vines only.Do not use for any other purpose.Never use
theTRI-ARC blade to cut woody brush.
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■Exercise extreme caution when using the blade with this
unit. Blade thrust is the reaction which may occur when
the spinning blade contacts anything it cannot cut.This
contact may cause the blade to stop for an instant, and
suddenly “thrust” the unit away from the object that was
hit.This reaction can be violent enough to cause the
operator to lose control of the unit. Blade thrust may
occur without warning if the blade snags, stalls or binds.
This is more likely to occur in areas where it is difficult to
see the material being cut.For cutting ease and safety,
approach the weeds being cut from the right to the left. In
the event that an unexpected object or woody stock is
encountered, this could minimise the blade thrust
reaction.
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■Never cut any material over 13 mm (1/2 in) diameter.
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■Alwayswear the shoulderstrap when using the
brushcutter andadjust to acomfortableoperating
position.Maintain a firmgrip on bothhandles while
cutting with a blade. Keep the blade away from body and
belowwaist. Never usethebrushcutter with theblade
located 76 cm (30 in) or more above the ground level.
SAFETY

4
SYMBOLS
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 Indicates danger, warning or caution. It means
attention!!! Your safety is involved.
ReadYourOperator’sManual Your manual contains special messages to bring
attention to potential safety concerns as well as
operatingandservicinginformation. Pleasereadall
the information carefully to assure satisfaction and
safe use.
Weareyeandhearingprotection Weareyeandhearingprotectionwhenoperatingthis
equipment.
Keepbystandersaway Keep all bystanders at least 15 m (50 ft) away.
Ricochet DangerofRicochet.
Tri-Arcblade Tri-Arc blade is appropriate for this unit and is suited
for cutting pulpy weeds and vines.
Donotuse toothed blade This unit is not intended for use with a toothed saw
typeblade.
RPMDecal Rotational direction and maximum speed of the shaft
for the cutting attachment.
Boots Wearnon-slip safety footwearwhen using this
equipment.
Gloves Wearnon-slip,heavy-dutygloves.
NoSmoking Do not smoke when mixing fuel or filling fuel tank.
Petrol Useunleadedpetrol intended for motor vehicle use
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 before
refuelling.
10,000/min-1

5
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Weight Without fuel, cutting attachment...........................................................................................................5.82Kg
Withblade ............................................................................................................................................6.14Kg
Withstringhead ...................................................................................................................................6.01Kg
Fuel tank volume ................................................................................................................................................... 42.5cm3
Cuttingswath.......................................................................................................................................................... 457mm
Enginedisplacement ................................................................................................................................................ 30 cm3
Maximumengineperformance(inaccordancewithISO8893) ............................................................................... 0.78 kW
Maximum rotational frequency of the spindle ...................................................................................................10,000/min-1
EngineSpeed(rotationalfrequency)atrecommendedmax.spindlerotationalfrequency.................................12,500/min-1
Enginespeed(rotationalfrequency)atidle .............................................................................................2,000-2,500/min-1
Fuelconsumption (in accordancewith ISO 8893) at max. engine performance................................................... 0.52 kg/h
Specific fuel consumption (in accordance with ISO 8893) at max. engine performance ...................................... 0.47 kg/h
Vibrationlevelidling LeftHandle ........................................................................................................................... 9.3
RightHandle ....................................................................................................................... 12.4
Vibrationlevelracing LeftHandle ........................................................................................................................... 7.5
RightHandle ....................................................................................................................... 12.5
Soundpressurelevel(inaccordancewithENISO11806:1997,ISO7917:1987) ............................................................ 99
Soundpowerlevel(inaccordancewithISO10884) ....................................................................................................... 110
SYMBOLS
TECHNICAL DATA
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 that may cause property damage.
NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to the operation or maintenance of the equipment.
Switch On/Off Switch
I = ON to Run
O = OFF to Stop
HandleDecal Positioningdecal for fronthandle.
SYMBOL NAME EXPLANATION

6
Fig. 1
THROTTLE
TRIGGER
STARTER GRIP
ENGINE HOUSING
THROTTLE INTERLOCK
IGNITION SWITCH
TRI-ARC BLADE
BLADE GUARD
SHAFT HOUSING
STRAP HANGER
SHOULDER
STRAP
LEFT HANDLE
GEAR HEAD
TRIGGER HANDLE
UNPACKING
INSTRUCTIONS
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■Carefullyremove the product from the carton.
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■Inspect the product to make sure no breakage or
damageoccurredduringcarriage.
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■Do not discard the packing material until you have
inspectedandoperatedtheproduct.
PACKING LIST FOR OWNER’S KIT
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■Grassdeflector
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■Bladeguard
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■Tri-Arcblade
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■Shoulderstrap
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■Silencerguard,torquewrenchandscrews
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■Holdingpin
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■Spanners - 13 mm (1/2 in) and 16 mm (5/8 in)
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■Fixings
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■Operator’smanual
FEATURES
GRASS
DEFLECTOR
CUTTING
LINE
LINE CUT-OFF
BLADE

7
HANDLE
See Figure 2.
1. Place the handlebar in the bottom clamp located on the
shafthousing.
NOTE: The throttle trigger must be mounted to the
operator’srightside.
2. Insert the square tab of top clamp into the mounting hole
of the bottom clamp.
3. Adjust the handlebar for best operator control in a
comfortableuprightposition.
4. Install the knob and tighten securely.
BOTTOM
CLAMP
TOP CLAMP
THROTTLE
TRIGGER
Fig. 2
KNOB
BOTTOM
CLAMP
TOP CLAMP
THROTTLE
TRIGGER
BOTTOM
CLAMP
TOP CLAMP
THROTTLE
TRIGGER
ASSEMBLY
HANDLEBAR

8
ASSEMBLY
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.
Fig. 4
BENT END OF
SILENCER GUARD
OPENING IN REAR
HOUSING
SCREWS
SILENCER
GUARD
REAR HOUSING
TORQUE
WRENCH
GRASS DEFLECTOR AND BLADE GUARD
USE
NOTE: Whenconverting from brushcutter to trimmer,or
trimmer to brushcutter, make sure the correct guard/
deflector is being used.
See Figure 5.
ATTACHING THE SHOULDER STRAP
See Figure 3.
1. Connect the latch on the shoulder strap to the
straphanger.
2. Adjust the strap to a comfortable position.
NOTE: Toquicklyreleasethe product from theshoulder
strap, sharply pull the quick release tab.
SHOULDER
STRAP
LATCH
STRAP HANGER
QUICK
RELEASE
TAB
Fig. 3
GRASS DEFLECTOR FOR
TRIMMER USE
BLADE GUARD FOR
BRUSHCUTTER USE
Fig. 5

9
ASSEMBLY
BLADE GUARD
See Figure 6.
1. Attach the blade guard to the mounting bracket; install
the four screws (10-24 x 3/4 in) from the top of the
mountingbracketthroughthebladeguard and intothe
threadedmountingplates.
2. Usingthe torque wrenchsupplied, tighten all four screws
securely.
NOTE: When using the string head, the string shield must
beattachedto blade guard.
GRASS DEFLECTOR
See Figure 6.
1. Attach the grass deflector to the blade guard by placing
the three locking tabs into the three notches.
2. Snap the blade guard and grass deflector together to lock
into place.
Fig. 6
MOUNTING CLAMP
FOUR SCREWS
THREADED
MOUNTING PLATES
BLADE GUARD
GRASS DEFLECTOR
LOCKING TABS
NOTCHES
WARNING:
Always stop the engine and remove the sparking
plug wire before making any adjustments such as
changing cutting heads; this is to reduce the risk of
seriouspersonalinjury.
UPPER FLANGE
WASHER
HOLDING PIN
SPOOL RETAINER
GRASS
DEFLECTOR
Fig. 7
STRING HEAD
DRIVE CONNECTOR
CONVERTING FROM TRIMMER TO
BRUSHCUTTER
REMOVING THE STRING HEAD
See Figure 7.
1. Align the slot in the upper flange washer with the hole in
the gear head. Place the holding pin through the slot in
theupper flange washer andthehole in the gearhead.
Turn the spool retainer clockwise to remove.Remove the
spool and string head from the drive connector.
2. Place the holding pinthroughthe upper flange washer
andthe gear head.Usingthe 16 mm(5/8 in) spanner
supplied, turn the drive connector clockwise to remove.
3. Removetheupper flange washerfromthe gear shaftand
retainfor blade installation.
4. Remove the grass deflector by pushing in on the three
locking tabs while pulling on the grass deflector to
separatefromthebladeguard.
NOTE: Storethe string headpartstogether forlateruse.
SPANNER
(16 mm)

10
ASSEMBLY
BLADE
CUPPED
WASHER
BLADE NUT
HOLDING PIN
Fig. 8
SPANNER
(13 mm)
UPPER FLANGE
WASHER
INSTALLINGTHEBLADE
See Figure 8.
1. Place the upper flange washer over the gear shaft with
thehollowside toward thebladeguard.
2. Centretheblade on theupper flange, making surethe
blade sits flat. Install the cupped washer with the raised
centre away from the blade. Install the blade nut. The
bladeturns anticlockwisefromthe operator’s position.
3. Place the holding pin through the slot in the upper flange
washer and the hole in the gear head. Using the 13 mm
(1/2in) spanner supplied, turnthe blade nut
anticlockwise.
4. Tighten nut securely.
CONVERTING FROM BRUSHCUTTER TO
TRIMMER
REMOVING THE BLADE
See Figure 8.
1. Place the holding pin through the slot in the upper flange
washerandthegear head.Turn thebladenutclockwise
toremove.
2. Removethecupped washer and theblade.
3. Remove the upperflangewasher from thegearshaft and
retain for the string head installation.
4. Attach the grass deflector to the blade guard by placing
the three locking tabs into the three notches.
5. Snapthebladeguardandgrass deflector together to
lock into place.
NOTE: Store the brushcutter parts together for later use.
INSTALLINGTHESTRINGHEAD
See Figure 7.
1. Install the upper flange washer onto the gear shaft with
thehollow side toward thegearhead.
2. Place the holding pin through the slot in the upper flange
washer and the hole in the gear head. Using the 16 mm
(5/8in) spanner supplied, turnthe drive connector
anticlockwise to install.Tighten securely.
3. Place the string head on the drive connector.
4. Place the holding pin through the slot in the upper flange
washer and the hole in the gear head. Install the spool
retainer and turn anticlockwise to tighten securely.
GEAR HEAD
BLADE
GUARD

11
FUEL AND REFUELLING
HANDLING THE FUEL SAFELY
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■Always handle fuel with care. It is highly flammable.
■■
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■Alwaysrefueloutdoorswheretherearenosparksand
flames. Do not inhale fuel vapour.
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■Do not let petrol or oil come in contact with your skin.
■■
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■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.
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■Clean up spilled fuel immediately.
MIXING THE FUEL
■■
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■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.
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■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 a high quality 2-cycle self-mixing oil for air-cooled
engines. Do not use motor vehicle oil or 2-cycle
outboardoil.
■■
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■Mix 2% oil into the petrol. This is a 50:1 ratio.
■■
■■
■Mix the fuel thoroughly and also each time before
refuelling.
■■
■■
■Mix in small quantities. Do not mix quantities larger than
usable in a 30 day period. A 2-cycle oil containing a fuel
stabiliserisrecommended.
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.
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
Holdthe trimmer/brushcutter withthe right hand onthe
trigger handle and the left hand on the left handle.Keep a
firmgrip withboth hands while inoperation.Trimmer should
be held at a comfortable position with the trigger handle
abouthip height. See
Figure 9.
Always operate trimmer at full throttle. Cut tall grass from
the top down.This will prevent grass from wrapping round
the shaft housing and string head which may cause damage
fromoverheating.If grass becomes wrappedroundthe
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.
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.
OPERATION
1 Litre + 20 ml =
2 Litres + 40 ml =
3 Litres + 60 ml =
4 Litres + 80 ml =
5 Litres + 100 ml = }50:1

12
ADVANCING THE STRING
ADVANCING STRING USING THE EZ LINE™ TAP AD-
VANCE 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.
ADVANCINGTHESTRINGMANUALLY
Pushthe spool retainer down whilepulling on string(s)to
manuallyadvance the string.
GRASS DEFLECTOR LINE TRIMMING CUT-
OFF BLADE
SeeFigure11.
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.
CUTTING TIPS
SeeFigure10.
■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.
Fig. 9
OPERATION
Fig.11
DANGEROUS
CUTTING AREA
Fig.10
BEST CUTTING
AREA
DIRECTION OF
ROTATION

13
WARNING:
Extreme care must be taken when using blades to
insure safe operation. Read the safety information for
safe operation using the blade, refer to “Specific
Safety Rules for Brushcutter and Blade Use” earlier in
thismanual.
■Alwaysholdbrushcutter with both handswhenoperating.
Use a firm grip on both handles.
■Maintain your grip and balance on both feet.Position
yourself so that you will not be drawn off balance by the
kick-back reaction of the cutting blade.
■Inspect and clear the area of any hidden objects such as
glass, stones, concrete, fencing, wire, wood, metal etc.
■Never use blades near footpaths, fencing, posts,
buildingsor other immovable objects.
■Never use a blade after hitting a hard object without first
inspecting it for damage. Do not use if any damage is
detected.
■Scythe, the broad sweeping of the unit back and forth
from side to side, withTRI-ARC blade only.
Exercise extreme caution when using the blade with this
unit. Blade thrust is the reaction which may occur when the
spinning blade contacts anything it cannot cut.This contact
may cause the blade to stop for an instant, and suddenly
“thrust” the unit away from the object that was hit.This
reaction can be violent enough to cause the operator to
lose control of the unit. Blade thrust may occur without
warning if the blade snags, stalls or binds.This is more
likely to occur in areas where it is difficult to see the
material being cut. For cutting ease and safety, approach
the weeds being cut from the right to the left. In the event
an unexpected object or woody stock is encountered, this
could minimise the blade thrust reaction.
See Figure 13.
OPERATING THE BRUSHCUTTER
Holdthe brushcutter with the righthand on the trigger
handle and the left hand on the left handle.Keep a firm grip
withboth hands while inoperation.Brushcutter should be
held at a comfortable position with the trigger handle about
hipheight. Maintain your gripand balance on bothfeet.
Position yourself so that you will not be drawn off balance
by the kick-back reaction of the cutting blade.
Adjust the shoulder strap to position the brushcutter at a
comfortable operating position and to assure that the
shoulder strap will reduce the risk of operator contact with
theblade.
SeeFigure 12.
Fig.12
OPERATION
TRI-ARC BLADE
TheTRI-ARC blade is suited only for pulpy weeds and
vines. When the blade becomes dull, it can be turned over
to extend the life of the blade. Do not sharpen the
TRI-ARCblade.
UseonlyTRI-ARCblade, part number 984227001, available
at your local retailer.
CUTTING TECHNIQUE - BLADE
Fig.13
APPROACH THE WEEDS
BEING CUT FROM THE RIGHT.
THE WEEDS WILL BE CUT
AGAINST THE LEFT SIDE OF
THE BLADE GUARD.

14
WARNING:
Never start or run the engine inside a closed or poorly
ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill.
STARTING AND STOPPING
SeeFigures14and15.
NOTE:Theunitisequippedwithanautomaticchokefeature.
Thestartinginstructionsforthisfeaturearedifferentfromunits
with a manual choke. Be sure to read and follow the starting
instructionsbelow.
OPERATION
PRIMER BULB
LEVER Fig.15
TO START A COLD ENGINE:
1. Lay trimmer on a flat, bare surface.
2. Push primer bulb 8 to 10 times.
NOTE: Donotsqueezethethrottletrigger beforeengine
starts.Squeezing the throttle trigger at this time will prevent
the unit from starting.
3. Move the lever to the “COLD START” position. See
Figure15.
4. Pull the starter rope until engine runs.
5. Allow the engine to warm up for 4-10 seconds.
6. Depresstheinterlock then squeezeand release the
throttle trigger. This allows the choke to automatically
set to the “WARM START” position. Your unit is now
ready for use.
NOTE: The lever will automatically set to the “WARM
START” position after the throttle trigger is squeezed for
the first time.
TO START A WARM ENGINE:
1. Lay trimmer on a flat, bare surface.
2. Chokelevershouldalreadybe inthe“WARM START”
position. If not, squeeze and release throttle trigger.
Pull the starter rope until unit runs.
TO STOP THE ENGINE:
To stop the engine, depress the switch to the “O” position.
WARM START
POSITION
COLD START
POSITION
IGNITION SWITCH
I = ON TO RUN
O = OFF TO STOP
Fig.14
THROTTLE
TRIGGER
INTERLOCK

15
■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
NEWPRE-WOUNDSPOOL
SeeFigures16and17.
If replacing string only, refer to “String Replacement” later in
this manual.
Useonly 2.4 mm(0.095 in) diameter monofilamentstring.
Usethe manufacturer’s replacement string forbestperfor-
mance.
1. Stop the engine, disconnect the sparking plug wire. Hold
thestringheadand unscrew the spool retainer. 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 is 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.
WARNING:
Useonlyoriginalmanufacturer’sreplacementparts,
accessories and attachments. Failure to do so can
cause possible injury, poor performance and may
voidyourwarranty.
EYELETS
SPRING
SLOTS
STRING HEAD
SHAFT
Fig.16
Fig.17
EYELETS
SPOOL
RETAINER
SPOOL
MAINTENANCE
6. Make sure the string head and the spool retainer are
installed on the 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.

16
STRINGREPLACEMENT
See Figures 18, 19, 20 and 21.
1. Stop the engine and disconnect the sparking plug wire.
Holdthestringheadand unscrew the spool retainer. Turn
clockwise.
2. Remove the spool from the string head. NOTE: Keep
the spring attached to the spool. Remove any old string
remainingonthespool.
3. Cut two pieces of string, each being approximately 2.7 m
(9 ft) long.
4. Insert 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 152mm (6 in)extended beyond the
slot. Do not overfill. After winding the string, there should
be at least 6 mm (1/4 in) between the wound string and
the outside edge of the spool.
5. Repeat above step with second string, using the bottom
part of spool. Do not overfill.
6. Replacethespool and thespool retainer. Refer to“Spool
Replacement”earlierinthismanual.
FIRST STRING Fig.18
SPOOL
ANCHOR
HOLE
SECOND
STRING
ARROWS ON
SPOOL
Fig.19
Fig.20
Fig.21
FIRST STRING
SLOT
SLOT ARROWS ON
SPOOL
SPRING
MAINTENANCE
BLADE PROTECTOR
SeeFigures22.
Always place the blade protector on the blade when the unit
is not in use.The blade protector has clips round the edges
to snap over the blade and keep it in place.Wear gloves and
becautiouswhenhandling the blade.
NOTE: Always remove the blade protector before using the
unit. If not removed, the blade protector could become a
thrown object as the blade begins to turn.
Fig.22
BLADE
CLIPS
BLADE
PROTECTOR

17
MAINTENANCE
CLEANING THE EXHAUST PORT AND
SILENCER
Depending on the type of fuel used, the type and amount of
oil used and/or your operating conditions, the exhaust port
and silencer may become blocked with carbon deposits. If
younotice a power loss withyour petrol-powered tool, a
qualified service technician will need to remove these
depositstorestore performance.
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. Pleasecontactyour
nearest service dealer for the location of the spark arrester
foryourmodel.
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 carbon
cleaner.
2. Gently clean using a wire brush.
3. Installthe new orcleaned spark arresterand reas-
semblecompletely before use.
REPLACING AND CLEANING AIR FILTER
SeeFigures23and24.
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 filterand clean it in warm soapy water.
Rinse and let dry completely. For best performance,
replaceannually.
3. Reinstall the filter.
4. Replace the air filter cover by inserting the tabs on the
bottom of the cover into the slots on the air filter base;
push the cover up until it latches securely in place.
Fig.23
Fig.24
LATCH
PULL COVER
TO OPEN
TABS ON AIR
FILTER COVER
SLOTS ON AIR
FILTER BASE
FILTER

18
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 0.63 mm
(0.025 in) electrode gap. Use an exact replacement and
replace annually.
WARNING:
A leaking fuel cap is a fire hazard and must be
replacedimmediately.
FUEL CAP
MAINTENANCE
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 ISO and local regulations for the safe
storage and handling of petrol. Excess fuel should be
usedupinother2-cycleengine-poweredequipment.

19
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEMPROBLEM
PROBLEMPROBLEM
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE
POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE
POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTIONSOLUTION
SOLUTIONSOLUTION
SOLUTION
IFTHESESOLUTIONS DONOTSOLVETHEPROBLEM,CONTACTYOURAUTHORISEDSERVICEDEALER.
1. Checkspark.Remove sparking 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 service dealer.If primer
bulb fills, engine may be flooded (see
next item).
3. Removesparkingplug and turntrimmer so
sparkingplug hole isaimed at theground.
Make sure lever is in the “WARM START”
position and pull starter cord 10 to 14 times.
This will clear excess fuel from engine. Clean
andreinstall sparking plug.With thethrottle
trigger fullydepressed, pull starter cordthree
times with lever at “WARM START” position.If
engine does not start, move choke lever to
“COLDSTART”andfollownormal starting
instructions in “STARTINGANDSTOPPING”
section. If engine still fails to start, repeat
procedurewitha new sparking plug.
4. Contacta servicedealer.
Releasethrottle trigger.Referto“Starting and
Stopping”earlierin this manual.
*Turn “L” needle anticlockwise 1/16 turn. If “L”
low needle cannot be turned anticlockwise, do not
force plastic limiter caps. Contact a service
dealer.
SeeFigure25.
1. Use fresh fuel and the correct 2-cycle oil mix.
2. Cleanairfilter. Referto“ReplacingandCleaning
Air Filter” earlier in this manual.
3. Turn “H” needle clockwise 1/16 - 1/8 turn.
See
Figure25.
Turn idle speed screw clockwise to increase
idle speed. See
Figure 25.
Turn idle speed screw anticlockwise to reduce
idle speed.
See Figure 25. If after adjustment,
bladecontinues to rotate, returnto an authorised
servicedealerforrepair.
Engine will not start:
Lever will not go into the
“COLD START” position:
Engine starts but will not
accelerate:
Engine does not reach full
speed and emits excessive
smoke:
Engine starts, runs, and
accelerates but will not
idle:
Blade continues to rotate at
idlespeed:
1. Nospark.
2. Nofuel.
3. Floodedengine.
4. Starter rope pullshardernowthan
whennew.
Throttletrigger is depressed.
Carburettorrequiresadjustment.
1. Check oil fuel mixture.
2. Air filter dirty.
3.Carburettorrequiresadjustment.
Carburettorrequiresadjustment.
Carburettorrequiresadjustment.

20
TROUBLESHOOTING
1. Lubricate with silicone spray.
2. Installmorestring.Refer to “String Replacement”
earlierin this manual.
3. Pull strings while alternately pressing down on and
releasingspoolretainer.
4. Removestringfrom spool and rewind.Referto “String
Replacement”earlierinthismanual.
5. Advance string at full throttle.
1. Cut tall grass from the top down.
2. Operate trimmer at full throttle.
Clean threads and lubricate with grease - if no improve-
ment,replacespool retainer.
1. Operate trimmer at full throttle.
2. Use fresh fuel and the correct 2-cycle oil mix.
3. Cleanperinstruction in MaintenanceSection.
4. Turn“H”needleclockwise1/16-1/8turn.
SeeFigure25.
1. String welded to itself.
2. Notenoughstringonspool.
3. Stringworntoo short.
4. Stringtangledonspool.
5. Enginespeed too slow.
1. Cutting tall grass at ground
level.
2. Operatingtrimmeratpart
throttle.
Screwthreadsdirtyordamaged.
1. Operatingtrimmeratpart
throttle.
2. Check oil/fuel mixture.
3. Air filter dirty.
4. Carburettorrequiresadjust-
ment.
String will not advance:
Grasswrapsroundshaft
housingandstringhead:
Spoolretainerhardto
turn:
Oil drips from silencer:
PROBLEMPROBLEM
PROBLEMPROBLEM
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE
POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE
POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTIONSOLUTION
SOLUTIONSOLUTION
SOLUTION
IFTHESESOLUTIONS DONOTSOLVETHEPROBLEM,CONTACTYOURAUTHORISEDSERVICEDEALER.
NOTE:Thecarburettoradjustmentneedle(s)areequippedwith
plastic cap(s) which prevent anticlockwise rotation from the
original factory adjustment. If your unit exhibits specific
performanceproblem(s)wheretheTroubleshootingSection
recommendsan anticlockwise needle adjustmentandno
adjustments have been made 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
forthe factory-trained service representative.
“L” LO
NEEDLE
“H” HIGH
NEEDLE
IDLE SPEED
SCREW
Fig.25