Hover Mower HM16R-2 User manual

EASTMAN INDUSTRIES
Model HM16R-2
Operator’s Manual

Contents
Pages
Foreword 2
SafetyRules 3
Assembly 4
StartingOperation 5
Mowing 6
Cutting Height Adjustment 7
Carrying the Mower 8
Removing the Impeller 8
GeneralMaintenance 9
Troubleshooting 10
MowerSchematics 11
MowerParts 12
WarrantyInformation 13

FOREWORD
Thank you for choosing an Eastman Industries HoverMower Model HMI6R-2. Your HoverMower~
is equipped with a Robin Engine Model EC04ER. We have included the Owner's Manual for the
engine in this packet for your convenience. Please read this manual carefully. It contains important
information on safety, operations and maintenance.
All information in this Manual is based on the latest product information available at the time of
publication. Due to improvements or other changes, there may be discrepancies between this Manual
and your HoverMower". We reserve the right to make changes in the procedures and specifications at
any time without notice. When ordering spare parts, specify the model and serial number of your
mower.
Thank you again for purchasing an Eastman HoverMower. Please contact us if you have any
questions or comments regarding your new HoverMower~.
2.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
IF NOT USED PROPERLY, THIS MOWER CAN BE DANGEROUS. This mower can cause serious injury or
death to the operator and others. The warnings and safety instructions must be followed carefully.
The operator is responsible for following the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the mower. Read the
entire Owner's Manual before assembling and using this mower. Restrict the use of this mower to persons who have
read, or been instructed in the use of, understand and will follow all warnings and Instructions issued with this mower.
OPERATOR'S SAFETY
1. Always wear long trousers, gloves and heavy shoes.
2. Only use the mower in the manner and for the functions described in these instructions.
3. Never operate the mower when you are tired, ill or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medicine.
4. Only allow persons over the age of 16 who have read the Owner's Manual to operate this mower.
5. Start the engine carefully following the "Starting Instructions", never start or run the engine inside a closed room or
building.
6. Keep handles free from oil and fuel.
FUELSAFETY
1. Use a container approved for the storage of gasoline.
2. Mix and fill fuel tanks outdoors where there are no sparks or flames.
3. Do not remove gas cap or fill the Tank while the engine is running.
4. Do not smoke or allow smoking while you are filling the tank near stored fuel, the mower, or while using the
mower.
5. Avoid spilling fuel, wipe up any spillage immediately.
6. Move at least 10 feet away from the fueling site before starting the engine.
7. Empty the fuel tank before storing mower for the winter or an extended period of time.
8. Store mower and fuel in an area where fuel vapors cannot reach sparks or open flames from water heaters, electric
motors or switches, furnaces etc.
CUTTING SAFETY
1. Inspect the area to be cut before each use. Remove all objects such as stones, broken glass, nails, wire, branches
etc., which can be thrown or can damage the cutter system.
2. Keep others, including children, animals and bystanders a safe distance away from the mower. Stop the mower
immediately if you are approached.
3. Hold the mower firmly with both hands.
4. Only mow in daylight.
5. Keep a firm footing and balance, especially on wet or damp grass and on steeper slopes.
6. Keep the mower flat on the grass
when in use.
7. Do not overreach.
8. Do not walk backwards.
9. Exercise extreme caution on slopes, carefully following the instructions "USING THE MOWER ON SLOPES"
10. Stop the engine before taking the mower across any surface other than grass.
11. Never pick up or carry the mower while the engine is running.
12. Never leave the mower unattended while the engine is running.
13. Keep hands and feet away from the underside of the mower deck while the engine is running.
14. The cutter disc continues to rotate after the engine has been shut off.

MOWER SAFETY
1. Always be sure the mower is in a safe operating condition. Use only genuine HoverMower parts and accessories
specified for the product.
2. Use only a HoverMower'" cutter disc and never modify or exchange parts on the disc.
3. Inspect the cutter blades each time before use.
4. Do not use the mower if any parts appear to be damaged or are actually damaged or broken. Do not use the mower
if any bolts or fasteners are loose or broken.
5. Never use or attempt to fit a metal bar blade on your HoverMower ~
6. If the mower starts to vibrate abnormally, stop the engine immediately and investigate the cause. (If in doubt,
contact your authorized service dealer.)
7. Never allow grass to collect around the engine, especially the cooling air inlet and outlet. Overheating will damage
the engine.
8. Always inspect shoulder bolts holding cutter blades for looseness or excessive wear.
MAINTENANCE SAFETY
1. Always switch off and disconnect the spark plug lead before performing any maintenance or cleaning.
2. Have all servicing, other than cutter blade replacement, carried out by a qualified service center.
3. Use only genuine HoverMower'" parts. Failure to do so could create a hazard and may invalidate your warranty.
4. Clean the mower thoroughly after use. Remove the grass from the underside of the deck and the cutter system.
Never clean your engine with water, just use a dry cloth or soft brush, never use cleaning fluids or solvents.
5. Allow the engine to cool before storing the mower. Store the mower in a dry, damp-proof, secure area, out of reach
of children.

ASSEMBLY
1.Fit the lower handle to the mower deck using the clevis and cotter pins as shown in
figure 1.
2.Fit the upper handle to the lower handle using the handle knob hardware as shown in
figure 2 and figure 3.
3. Secure the throttle cable to the lower handle using black tie wraps provided in your kit.
Your mower is now ready for operation.
Figure 1.
Figure 3.
Figure 2.
4.

STARTING
FUEL & OIL
Use unleaded gasoline containing no alcohol with at least 85 pump octane. Use a high quality 2 cycle oil. For
further instructions, refer to the Robin Owner's Manual.
MIXING RATIO
25 parts gasoline to 1 part oil
STARTING THE ENGINE
1. Start the mower only on grass and avoid rocks, loose branches and other debris.
2. Check the fuel level to make sure the gas tank is full.
3. Thoroughly wipe off any fuel spillage on the deck.
4. Close the choke with choke lever if the engine is cold. See Figure 1.
5. Push the bubble beneath the choke lever several times until it fills with fuel.
6. Turn the ignition switch on. See Figure 2.
7. Push the throttle lever forward half way. See Figure 3.
8. Place your left foot on the mower deck, grip the lower handle with your left hand and push it forward
firmly. Firmly grip the starter rope with the right hand and pull slowly until you feel the starter engage.
When you feel it is engaged, pull the rope briskly to start the engine. See Figure 4.
9. Once the engine has started, open the choke fully, then push the throttle lever down slowly into full
throttle position. See Figure 5.
Figure 3.
Figure 1.
Figure 4.
Figure 2.
Figure 5.
5.

MOWING
Your HoverMower• is a unique and highly versatile equipment. It will allow you to mow difficult
terrain with ease and efficiency. Please follow these instructions for safe and effortless mowing.
GENERAL OPERATION OF MOWER
1. Make sure the mower is at full throttle for maximum hovering efficiency and ease of operation.
Your HoverMower• will not hover or operate well when not operated at full throttle. (See
starting instructions).
2. Operate the mower on grass only and avoid rocks, loose branches and other debris.
3. Mow by pushing the mower forward or from side to side around the garden edges, trees, or
shrubbery. Do not drag the mower behind you.
4. On deep grass or heavy wet grass, it may be easier to push the mower forward.
USING THE MOWER ON SLOPES
1. Exercise extreme caution while using this mower on slopes.
2. A slope is defined as uneven terrain on which the operator is unable to maintain a firm foot-
mg.
3. Do not use this mower on slopes which are wet or too steep to maintain firm footing.
4. Always use heavy shoes when mowing
5. Never push the mower up the slope. See figure 1.
6. Always keep the mower below you on the slope.
7. Always mow across slopes. When mowing across the slope, the mower will have the tendency to
move down hill. Stay above the slope and mow by moving the mower from side to side in a
pendulum action. See figure 2.
8. Exercise great care when changing directions on slopes.
3.
4.
Figure 1.
Don't
6.
Figure 2.
Do

ADJUSTING CUTTING HEIGHT
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENTS
All adjustments must be carried out with the engine stopped and the spark plug lead disconnected. If
the machine has been used prior to adjustment, wait for the rotating cutter to stop and the exhaust
manifold to cool. The cutting height of your mower has been preset at 2 inches. If you prefer to
adjust the height of cut, follow these directions:
1. Make sure the gas cap is securely tightened and any gas vents are closed.
2. Disconnect the spark plug lead.
3. Tilt the mower on its side keeping the fuel tank on the upside.
4. Remove the retaining bolt, flat washer and cutter disc. See figure 1.
S To obtain a higher cut remove one or both height adjustment spacers from the impeller hub.
Remount the cutter disc on the impeller hub. Reposition the flat washer and replace the retaining
bolt with the shorter impeller bolt from your kit. Tighten securely. See figure 2.
6. To obtain a lower cut add one or two height adjustment spacer(s) between the impeller hub and
the cutter disc. Remount the cutter disc. Replace the flat washer and insert the longer impeller
retaining bolt from your adjustment kit.Tighten securely. See figure 3.
7. Use the 31/2" long impeller bolt when using two adjustment spacers.
Use the 3" long impeller bolt when using one adjustment spacer.
Use the 2 1/2" long impeller bolt when using no adjustment spacers.
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
7
Figure 3.

CARRYING YOUR MOWER
Before carrying the mower, disconnect the spark plug lead. Carry the mower at the point of balance.
See figure 1. To avoid spilling the gas, make sure the mower is picked up with the gas cap in the up
position away from your body. Thoroughly wipe off any gas that may spill on the deck or other parts
of the mower.
Caution: Never carry the mower when it is running.
Avoid dragging your mower by the handle bars.
Figure 1.
REMOVING THE IMPELLER
The impeller hub is tapped out for easy removal of the impeller.
1. Remove the impeller bolt, the cutter disc and the height adjustment spacers.
2. Slowly thread an impeller removal bolt ( 3/8"- 16 x 3 1/2" long bolt) into the impeller hub.
The impeller should pull out easily.
3. To reassemble, be sure to properly place the Woodruff Key on the crank shaft, clean the
impeller hub and shaft thoroughly and lightly lubricate with an anti seize lubricant.
8.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE
DAILY INSPECTION
Prior to starting daily operations, be sure to check your mower for proper functions and evidence
of damage. Check the following:
1. Enough fuel for intended run
2. Gas cap fastened securely
3. No damage to fuel tank or fuel hose
4. Fuel hose connected securely
5.Air cleaner is clean. Open and remove any grass clippings. (NOTE: When used in dusty
areas, the air cleaner should be serviced more frequently.)
6.Clean any build up of grass from the underside of the mower deck and the air vents around the
engine mount.
7. Aluminum cutter disc is not bent or otherwise damaged.
8. Shoulder bolts holding the blades to the cutter disc are not loose, worn or broken
AIR CLEANER
1. Remove the air cleaner cover and remove any grass clipping deposits.
2. Remove the air cleaner element.
3. Wash element in kerosene, then soak it in a mixture of 3 parts kerosene and 1 part engine oil.
4. Squeeze out excess, install element and replace cover.
5. For further instructions, see the Robin Owner's Manual in your packet.
STORAGE PROCEDURE
1. Drain all gasoline from the fuel tank and carburetor.
2. Remove the spark plug. Pour approximately 5 cc of engine oil into the cylinder. Slowly pull the
starter knob on the recoil starter 2 or 3 times, and tighten the spark plug.
3. Retighten bolts and nuts.
9.

TROUBLE SHOOTING
POOR STARTING
1. Loosen the gas cap by a quarter of a turn. Make sure the vent screw is open.
2. If the mower has been out of use, the gas may be stale. Drain and replace.
3. Check that the vent in the gas cap is clear.
4. Check the air filter for excessive oil and debris. If the engine is flooded, remove the excess gas
and dry the filter element.
5. In the event the engine will not start because of flooding, remove and dry the spark plug.
Before replacing, crank the engine to remove excess fuel.
6. Check the plug for spark by placing the end of the plug (with lead connected) against the
engine casing. Crank the engine and watch for a spark. If there is no spark, either the plug
should be cleaned or replaced, or lead wire or the electrical components are damaged or at
fault.
7. Make sure the cutter disc is correctly fitted and tightly held against the impeller hub.
8. Check that the correct ratio of 2 stroke oil is being used in the fuel mixture.
POOR HOVERING
1. Check that the engine is running at the correct speed.
2. Check that the underside of the deck is clean of built up grass and dirt.
3. Check that the impeller air vents are not blocked.
4. Check that the cutter disc is fitted firmly.
5. Check that the exhaust port or silencer is clear of carbon.
6. Be sure the correct fuel mixture is used.
7. The air filter may need cleaning.
8. Remove the impeller and clean thoroughly between vanes.
9. Check to make sure the throttle lever is properly functioning.
EXCESSIVE VIBRATION
1. Check that cutter disc and spacers are fitted correctly and tightly.
2. Make sure there are no loose screws or bolts or missing blades on the cutter disc.
3. If the cutter disc has hit a heavy object, the impeller, cutter disc, or crankshaft may be damaged.
ENGINE OVERHEATING
1. Make sure the engine cooling fins are dirt free.
2. Ensure that the gas/oil mixture is correct.
10.

6
7
2
2
1
9

PARTS LIST FOR MODEL # HM16R-2
SCM#
PART#
DESCRIPTION
HM 16R-2
1 HM 16R - 2EC04-ER
2 HM 1550
3 HM16R-1556
4 HM16R-21557
5 HMI6R-22558-1
5 HMI6R-22558-2
5 HMI6R-22558-3
6 HM16R-22560
7 HM16R-22561
8 HM16R-22565
9 HM 22569
10 HM 22573
11 HM 2257
12 HM 22583
13 HM16R-22584
14 HM16R-22585
15 HM 1582
16 HM 1601-12
17 HM 1602-3
18 HM 1603-3
19 HM16R-22603
20 HM 16R - 22606
21 HM1605-3
22 HM 16R-1607
23 HM16R-22573
16" ROBIN MOWER
ROBIN 2 HP 2 STROKE ENGINE
HANDLE BRACKET (SET OF 2)
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT SPACER
IMPELLER FLAT WASHER
IMPELLER RETAINING BOLT 2
112"
IMPELLER RETAINING BOLT 3"
IMPELLER RETAINING BOLT 3 1/2"
IMPELLER - 12"
DECK - 16" MOWER
ENGINE MOUNT
HANDLE MOUNTING PLATE (SET OF 2)
CLEVIS PIN (SET OF 2)
HAIR PIN COTTER KEY (SET OF 2) HANDLE
KNOB (KNOB WITH HARDWARE) LOWER
HANDLE
UPPER HANDLE
HANDLE GRIP
NYLON BLADE (PKG OF 12)
SHOULDER BOLT-NYLON BLADE (PKG OF 3)
SHOULDER BOLT STEEL BLADES (PKG OF 3)
CUTTER DISC
COMPLETE CUTTER DISC ASSEMBLY (
INCLUDES BLADES
& BOLTS)
REVERSIBLE STEEL SAFETY BLADES (PKG OF 3)
METAL BAR BLADE (INTERNATIONAL ONLY)
THROTTLE CONTROL
& CABLE
12.

EASTMAN INDUSTRIES LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT
EFFECTIVE 2/1/99
Eastman Industries warrants to the original retail purchaser that this Eastman product is free from defects in
material and workmanship. Under normal use and maintenance from date of retail purchase, Eastman
Industries agrees to repair or replace at Eastman Industries' discretion, any defective product free of charge at
any authorized Eastman servicing dealer within the time limit listed below.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS EXTENDED TO THE FIRST, ORIGINAL RETAIL PURCHASER
ONLY, AND IT IS NOT TRANSFERRABLE TO SUBSEQUENT OWNERS.
RESIDENTIAL OR NON-INCOME PRODUCING USE - 2 Year
Complete unit for residential, or non-income producing use, will be covered by this limited warranty for 2
years from the date of retail purchase.
COMMERCIAL, INSTITUTIONAL, INDUSTRIAL OR INCOME PRODUCING USE - 1 YEAR
Complete unit will be covered against defects in material and workmanship for a period of I year from the
date of purchase.
RENTAL USE - 60 DAYS
Complete unit will be covered against defects in material and workmanship for a period of 60 days from the
date of purchase.
CUTTING ATTACHMENTS SUPPLIED WITH EASTMAN PRODUCTS
All cutting attachments such as, but not limited to, blades, blade attachment bolts, and the aluminum cutter disc
are subject to normal wear, and are not warranted unless a failure due to defects in material or workmanship
occurs within 60 days from the original product purchase date. Any misuse from contact with rocks, branches,
or other objects is not covered by this warranty. When used in a commercial or rental application, the cutting
attachment warranty is for 30 days. Refer to your owner's manual for installation and maintenance instructions.
Any damage caused by improper installation or improper maintenance is not covered by this warranty.
REPAIRS PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
All parts and accessories purchased and repairs performed carry a 60 day consumer/3D day commercialrental
warranty.
This warranty does not cover damage other than that resulting from defects in material or workmanship.
EASTMAN INDUSTRIES DOES NOT OFFER AN OVER THE COUNTER EXCHANGE PROGRAM. Any
product re-built by other than Eastman Industries or its authorized dealers or sold through a non-servicing
Eastman Industries dealer is sold without standard Eastman Industries warranty coverage. The Eastman
Industries warranty coverage is extended to the original retail purchase only.
13.

DISCLAIMER OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
This limited warranty is in lieu of all other expressed or implied warranties, including any warranty of FITNESS FOR A PAR-
TICULAR PURPOSE and any implied warranty of MERCHANTABILITY otherwise applicable to this product. Eastman Industries
shall not be liable for any special incidental or consequential damage.
THE WARRANTY DOES NOT INCLUDE OR COVER DAMAGE TO THE UNIT OR ENGINE, CAUSED BY:
1. Lack of lubrication or engine failure, due to the use of two-stroke oils that do not meet proposed ISO-L-EGD Standard
(ISO/CD 13738). Engine problems due to inadequate lubrication caused by failure to use an ISO-EGD approved oil, will void
the two-stroke engine warranty. Emission related parts only are covered for two years regardless of two-stroke oil used, per
the statement listed in the EPA Phase l/California Emission Defect Warranty Explanation.
2. Damage caused by use of gasohol, containing methanol (wood alcohol), or gasoline containing less than 89 octane.
Only use gasoline which contain 89 octane or higher. Gasohol which contains a maximum 10% ethanol (grain alcohol) or
15% MTBE (methyl/tertiary/butyl/ether) is also approved. The prescribed mixing ratios of gasoline to oil is listed on the
engine oil label and covered in your owner's manual.
3. Engine damage caused by use of ether or any starting fluids. Damage caused by pressure or steam cleaning the unit.
4. Damage caused by tampering with engine speed governor, emission components or running engines above specified and
recommended engine speeds as listed in your owner's manual.
5. Operation of the unit with improperly maintained, removed/damaged air filter, damage caused by dirt, salt water, corrosion,
rust, varnish, abrasives, and moisture.
6. Defects, malfunctions or failures resulting from abuse, misuse, neglect, modifications, alterations, normal wear, improper
servicing, use of unauthorized attachments, stale fuel, or any adverse reaction due to incorrect storage procedures, including
failure to provide or perform required maintenance services as prescribed in the owner's manual. Preventative maintenance
as outlined in the owner's manual is the customer's responsibility.
7. Failures due to improper set-up, pre delivery service and repair service by anyone other than authorized Eastman
Industries servicing dealer during the warranty period.
8. Parts not warranted, including those replaced in normal maintenance, such as, but not limited to:brakes,aluminum cutter
discs, blade attachment bolts, spark plugs, filters, lubricants, starter cords, belts, sprockets, engine tuneups.
Spark arrester screen; overheating or carbon scoring failures due to restricted, clogged exhaust port or combustion
chamber.
9. Set-up, pre-delivery service or adjustments during the break-in period and beyond, such as carburetor adjustment, linkages
and governors.
10. Should operational problem or failure occur, the product should not be used, but delivered as is to an authorized Eastman
Industries servicing dealer. Additional damage to parts or components due to continued use after operational problem or
failure occurred will not be covered by this warranty.
For more information concerning engine warranty refer to the enclosed owner's manual and warranty statement.
OWNER'S RESPONSIBILITY
The owner shall demonstrate reasonable care and follow preventative maintenance, storage, fuel and oil usage as prescribed in the
owner's manual. Should a product difficulty occur, you must, at your expense, arrange to deliver or ship your Eastman Industries unit
for warranty repairs and arrange for pick-up or return of your unit after the repairs have been made. If you do not know the location of
your nearest authorized Eastman Industries servicing dealer, or call Eastman Industries at 1-800-7601680 during normal working
hours. Repair parts and accessories replaced under this warranty are warranted only for the balance of the warranty period. All parts
replaced under warranty become the property of Eastman Industries.
IT IS A DEALERS AND/OR CUSTOMERS RESPONSIBILITY TO COMPLETE AND RETURN WITHIN 10 DAYS OF THE
DATE OF PURCHASE, THE WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARD, SUPPLIED WITH YOUR EASTMAN INDUSTRIES
PRODUCT. YOUR RECEIPT OF PURCHASE INCLUDING DATE, MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBER MUST BE MAINTAINED
AND PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED EASTMAN INDUSTRIES SERVICING DEALER FOR WARRANTY SERVICE.
PROOF OF PURCHASE REST SOLELY WITH THE CUSTOMER. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW
LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOUR. SOME STATES DO
NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATIONS 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. THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN BY EASTMAN
INDUSTRIES, 87 BELL STREET, PORTLAND, ME. 04103.
14.