Kubota KHT23D Owner's manual

Completely read and understand this manual before using this product.
KHT23D
Owner’s/ Operator’s Manual

- 1 -
FOREWORD
This Owner’s/ Operator’s Manual is designed to familiarize the operator with the various features and
component parts of the equipment and to assist you with the operation and maintenance of your new
Hedge Trimmer.
It is essential that any operator of this Hedge Trimmer product reads and understands the
contents of this manual before using the Hedge Trimmer.
Important safety instructions will be identified by the following safety symbol:
Failure to comply with the instructions in this manual may result in serious injury or death.
For additional assistance, contact any local authorized KUBOTA dealer.
SPECIFICATION
Model KHT23D
Dimensions L×W×H 1080 × 248 × 226 mm
Dry Weight 5,4 kg
Total Weight (With fuel and cover) 5,8 kg
Blade Length 600mm
Rear Handle Rotational
Engine Model KCER230
Engine Displacement 22.5cm3
Fuel Tank Capacity 0.4L
Carburetor Walbro Diaphragm Type
Ignition System Solid State
Spark Plug:
Make
Type
Electrode Gap
NGK
BPMR8Y
0,6~0,7mm
Fuel Mixture: Use only non-leaded regular petrol. two-stroke oil mix 50~25:1 ratio
must be approved for air-cooled engines.
Starter Reverse2 Start ※
Guaranteed Sound
Power Level
(9300rpm:racing)
107dB(A)
Vibration Level
Right(Front) Hanzdle
Left(Rear) Handle
(9300rpm: racing)
5m/s2
7m/s2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FOREWORD .......................................................... 1 BEFORE OPERATION........................................... 7
SPECIFICATION .................................................... 1 STARTING AND STOPPING PROCEDURE ....... 10
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION .................................... 2 CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT ............................ 11
MARKING............................................................... 3 OPERATING THE POWER HEDGE TRIMMER ... 11
SYMBOL EXPLANATION....................................... 3 REGULAR MAINTENANCE................................. 12
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS ..................................... 4 STORAGE ............................................................ 14
※Reverse2 Start
CAUTION! Please do not disassemble recoil starter by yourself. For service, please contact to
appointed dealer.

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PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
STOP SWITCH
REAR HANDLE
LOCK LEVER
THROTTLE TRIGGER
BLADE
ENGINE STOP SWITCH
REAR
HANDLE
FRONT HANDLE
STARTER GRIP
THROTTLE
TRIGGER
FUEL TANK

- 3 -
MARKING
SYMBOL EXPLANATION
Read and understand this Owner’s/ Operator’s Manual before using this product.
Fire Danger: Petrol is highly fl ammable. Never add fuel to the Hedge Trimmer with a
running or hot engine. Do not smoke or place any sources of heat in the vicinity of the
fuel.
Breathing exhaust fumes can cause death. Never start or run the engine inside a close
room or building.
Hot Surface Warning: Contact may cause burns. During use and for some time after
stopping the engine, the engine and the gearcase are very hot. Do not touch engine
components such a cylinder, muffl er and engine covers and gearcase until the engine
has cooled to ambient temperature.
Always use:
• A protective helmet.
• Ear protection.
• Protective glasses or visor.
①
⑤
③
④
②⑦
⑥
①MODEL NAME
②SERIAL No. (STAMPED)
③See SYMBOL EXPLANATION
④See SYMBOL EXPLANATION
⑤EMISSION CONTROL INFORMATION
⑥GUARANTEED SOUND POWER LEVEL
⑦Lubricate 15H
③
④
⑤

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SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
The warning system in This manual identifies potential hazards and has special safety messages
that help you and others avoid personal injury, even death.
DANGER WARNING
CAUTION
signal words to identify the level of hazard.
DANGER
: signals an extreme hazard that will cause serious injury or death if the
recommended precautions are not followed.
WARNING
: signals a hazard that may cause serious injury or death if the recommended
precautions are not followed.
CAUTION
: signals a hazard that may cause minor or moderate injury if the recommended
precautions are not followed. Two other words are also used to highlight
information. “Important” calls attention to special mechanical information and “Note”
emphasizes general information worthy of special attention.
OPERATOR SAFETY
1. Read and understand this Owner’s/ Operator’s Manual before using this product. Be
thoroughly familiar with the proper use of this product.
2. Always wear eye protection.
3. Wear hearing protection.
4. Always wear heavy long pants, boots and gloves. Do not wear
loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals or go barefoot.
Secure hair so it is above shoulder length.
5. Never operate this Hedge Trimmer when you are tired, ill, under the influence of alcohol,
drugs or medication.
6. Never start or run the engine inside a closed room or building.
Breathing exhaust fumes can cause death.
7. Keep handles clean of oil, fuel and dirt.

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POWER HEDGE TRIMMER SAFETY
01. Shut off the engine and wait unit the cutting blades have completely stopped moving
before checking, maintenance or working on the Hedge Trimmer.
02. Inspect the Hedge Trimmer before each use. Replace damaged parts. Check for fuel
leaks. Make sure all fasteners are in place and tightened securely. Follow the maintenance
instructions provided on page 12 to 14 of this manual.
03. Inspect the Hedge Trimmer cutting blades and guide. Replace any parts that are cracked,
chipped, or damaged before using the Power Hedge Trimmer.
04. Never use replacement parts that are not approved by KUBOTA.
05. Maintain the Hedge Trimmer in accordance with the recommended maintenance intervals
and procedures in the maintenance section, pages 12 to 14.
06. If running problems or excessive vibration occur, stop immediately and inspect the unit for
the cause. If the cause cannot be determined or is beyond your ability to correct, return the
Hedge Trimmer to your servicing dealer for repair.
07. Never use the Hedge Trimmer if handles are damaged or handle fasteners are loose.
Always make sure all fasteners (nuts and bolts) are installed and properly tightened.
08. Never use a machine that has been modified so that it no longer corresponds with the
original design.
09. Do not attempt to repair the Hedge Trimmer unless you are qualified to do so.
10. When transporting or storing the Hedge Trimmer always fit the blade shield.
11. Stop the Hedge Trimmer if the cutting mechanism hits a foreign material or if the hedge
trimmer produces an abnormal vibration sound. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the
spark plug and take the following steps;
● Inspect damages, check the loosing parts, and tighten the bolts.
● Any damaged parts must be replaced or repaired with genuine parts.
12. To reduce the risk of fire, keep the engine and muffler free of debris, leaves and excessive
lubricant.
FUEL SAFETY
01. Petrol is highly flammable and must be handled and stored carefully.
Use a container approved for storing petrol and/ or fuel/ oil mixture.
02. Mix and pour fuel outdoors and where there are no sparks or flames.
03. Do not smoke near fuel or the Hedge Trimmer or while using the
Hedge Trimmer.
04. Do not overfill the fuel tank. Stop filling 10 ~ 20 mm from the top of
the tank.
05. Wipe up any spilled fuel before starting the engine.
WIPE UP
ANY FUEL SPILLAGE

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06. Move the Hedge Trimmer at least 3m away from the
fueling location before starting the engine.
07. Do not remove the Hedge Trimmer fuel tank cap while the
engine is running or immediately after stopping the
engine.
08. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
09. Empty the fuel tank before storing the Hedge Trimmer.
Fuel should be emptied after each use. Fuel left in the
tank may leak during storage. If the fuel tank is drained,
this should be done outdoors.
10. Store fuel and Hedge Trimmer away from open flame,
sparks and excessive heat. Make sure fuel vapors cannot
reach sparks or open flames from water heaters, furnaces,
electric motors, etc. Always allow the Hedge Trimmer to
cool down before storing.
11. Always replace and securely tighten the fuel cap after refueling.
POWER HEDGE TRIMMER OPERATING SAFETY
01. THIS HEDGE TRIMMER CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES.
Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with all controls and the proper use of the
Hedge Trimmer.
02. Never allow children to operate the Hedge Trimmer. It is not a toy.
03. Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly small children and pets.
04. The Hedge Trimmer blades are extremely sharp. Do not put hands or feet near or under
any moving parts. Keep body clear at all times.
05. Use the Hedge Trimmer only in daylight or good artificial light.
06. Inspect your work area before you begin. Remove string, rope or similar materials which
can become entangled in the Hedge Trimmer blades.
07. Avoid hidden hazards. Watch for hidden objects within your working area, such as chain
link fencing, cables, wires, telephone and power lines.
08. Never operate the Hedge Trimmer without proper guards or other protective safety devices
in place.
09. Keep a firm footing and balance. Do not over-reach. Do not operate the Hedge Trimmer
while standing on a ladder or similar temporary support.
10. Use the right tool for the job. Do not use the Hedge Trimmer for any job that is not
recommended by the manufacturer.
11. While operating the Hedge Trimmer be always sure of a safe and secure operating
position. Do not over reach.
12. To reduce fire hazard keep engine and silencer free of debris, leaves, and dry materials.
Always wipe away spilled fuel and excessive lubricant before starting.
Min. 3m

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BEFORE OPERATION
13. Always use two hands to operate the Hedge Trimmer.
14. Always be aware of your surroundings and stay alert for possible hazards that you may
not hear due to the noise of the machine.
15. Know how to stop the machine quickly in an emergency. (See to stop the engine in
STARTING AND STOPPING PROCEDURE SECTION.)
16. Beware of overhead power lines.
FUELING
DANGER! The following precautions will lessen the risk of fire.
1. Do not smoke near fuel.
2. Mix and pour fuel outdoors and where there are no sparks or flames.
3. Always shut off the engine before refueling. Never remove the Hedge Trimmer fuel tank
cap while the engine is running or immediately after stopping the engine.
4. Always open the fuel tank cap slowly to release any possible pressure inside the tank.
5. Do not overfill the fuel tank. Stop filling 10 ~ 20 mm from the top of the tank.
6. Tighten the tank fuel cap carefully but firmly after refilling.
7. Wipe up any spilled fuel before starting the engine.
8. Move the Hedge Trimmer at least 3 m away from the fueling location and fuel storage
container before starting the engine.
Min. 3 m

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FUEL: MIXING PETROL AND OIL
IMPORTANT: The engine used on this Hedge Trimmer is of a two-stroke design. The internal
moving parts of the engine, i.e., crankshaft bearings, piston pin bearings and piston to cylinder
wall contact surfaces, require oil mixed with the petrol for lubrication. Failure to add oil to the petrol
or failure to mix oil with the petrol at the appropriate ratio will cause major engine damage which
will void your warranty. For your fuel premix, only use a quality oil designed for two-stroke air-
cooled engine.
FUEL MIXTURE CHART
Refer to the chart above.
MIXING INSTRUCTIONS:
Always mix fuel and oil in a clean container approved for petrol. Mark the container to identify it as
fuel mix for the Hedge Trimmer. Use regular unleaded petrol and fill the container with half the
required amount of petrol. Pour the correct amount of oil into the container then add the remaining
amount of petrol. Close the container tightly and shake it momentarily to evenly mix the oil and the
petrol before filling the fuel tank on the Hedge Trimmer.
When refilling the Hedge Trimmer fuel tank, clean around the fuel tank cap to prevent dirt and
debris for entering the tank during cap removal. Always shake the premix fuel container
momentarily before filling the fuel tank.
Always use a spout or funnel when fueling to reduce fuel spillage. Only fill the tank to within
10 ~ 20 mm from the top of the tank. Avoid filling to the top of the tank filler neck.
NOTE:
1. Never mix petrol and oil directly in the Hedge Trimmer fuel tank.
2. Do not use National Marine Manufacturer’s Association (NMMA) or BIA certified oils. This
type of two-stroke engine oil does not have the proper additives for air-cooled, two-stroke
engines and can cause engine damages.
3. Do not use automotive motor oil. This type of oil does not have the proper additives for air-
cooled, two-stroke engines and can cause engine damage.
PETROL PETROLOIL
FILL MARK
HALF PETROL ADD REMAINING
PETROL
SHAKE
(MIX OIL AND PETROL)
ADD OIL
Petrol
Two-stroke oil
50:1 25:1
ISO-L-EGC/ EGD, JASO class FC/ FD, or
equivalent two-stroke oil
ISO-L-EGB, JASO class FB, or equivalent
two-stroke oil
1 litre 20 mL 40 mL
2 litres 40 mL 80 mL
5 litres 100 mL 200 mL

- 9 -
ADJUSTING THE CUTTING BLADES
Before operating the Hedge Trimmer it is necessary to check the adjustment of the cutting blades.
Blades that are too loose may vibrate, and will not provide a clean, smooth cut.
Adjusting the cutting blades are not necessary for model KHT23D. Turn the screw until snug, and
fasten with the nut.
ROTATIONAL REAR HANDLE
Rear handle is adjustable to five different positions by pulling the lock lever and turn the rear
handle. Pull the lock lever directly in line with the handle (following the arrow in fig), then turn the
rear handle. It is extremely important that the handle is completely located and correctly locked in
the selected position.
Do not adjust the rear handle to any other position than specified five positions
(Throttle lever does not work when the rear handle is unlocked).
Stop the engine before change the rear handle position.
Make sure the rear handle is locked before start the engine.
During operation, hold the rear handle with upright regardless the blade direction.
Select the proper handle position to be always sure of a safe and secure operating
position.
WARNING
DO NOT TOUCH THE SHARPENED EDGES OF THE CUTTING BLADES. THE CUTTING BLADES ARE
EXTREMELY SHARP AND DANGEROUS AT ALL TIMES. ALWAYS WEAR GLOVES TO HELP PROTECT
YOUR HANDS AND FINGERS FROM INJURY.
UPPER BLADE GUIDE BAR
WASHER
NUTS
NUT
LOWER BLADE
LOCK LEVER
SCREW SCREWS

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STARTING AND STOPPING PROCEDURE
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE: Fill the fuel tank as instructed in the BEFORE OPERATION
section of this manual. Rest the Hedge Trimmer on the ground. Make sure that the cutting blades
are clear of branches, shrubs, debris, etc. Keep all bystanders, children and animals away from
the working area.
STARTING THE ENGINE (for the carburetor with primer bulb)
The carburetors on KUBOTA engines contain a choke system and are designed to start at IDLE
speed.
1. Push and release the fuel primer bulb located on the
bottom of the carburetor until air bubble free fuel is seen
flowing through the clear fuel return hose back to the
fuel tank.
2. Move the choke lever to the closed position “ ”. When
the engine is warm, move the choke lever to the open
position “ ”.
3. Set the engine stop switch to the “ON ( | )” position. The
throttle trigger positioned at IDLE.
4. Grasp the starter grip and slowly pull the starter cord out until you feel some resistance,
then pull the cord quickly and powerfully. Pull the starter grip until the engine starts. After
the engine is started, move the choke lever to the open position.
5. After starting, allow the engine to run a few minutes to warm it up before using.
NOTE:
1. Do not pull the starter cord out completely.
2. Do not release the starter cord from the fully extended position.
3. Do not start the engine without rear handle locked.
TO STOP THE ENGINE:
1. Release the throttle trigger.
2. Slide the stop switch to the “STOP ( O )” position.
STOP ( O ) ←→ ON ( | )
STOP SWITCH
PRIMER BULB
CHOKE LEVER
FUEL-RETURN LINE
PUMP

- 11 -
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
OPERATING THE POWER HEDGE TRIMMER
WARNING
Read the SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS on page (4) concerning the proper use of the Hedge
Trimmer.
The KUBOTA Hedge Trimmers is designed for cutting and trimming foliage and small branches up
to 7 mm in diameter. Although the KUBOTA Hedge Trimmer is capable of cutting larger diameter
branches, wear and tear of the machine would be proportionally increased.
CAUTION
Always wear gloves and protective clothing when operating the Hedge Trimmer.
If the cutting blades become jammed, stop the engine immediately. Make certain all moving parts
have stopped and disconnect the spark plug before inspecting the equipment for damage. Never
use a Power Hedge Trimmer that has chipped, cracked, or broken cutting blades.
This Hedge Trimmer is equipped with non-adjustable fuel mixture carburetor. The engine idle
speed is the only adjustment to the Operator.
The cutting blades may be moving during idle speed adjustment. Wear the recommended
personal protective equipment and observe all safety instructions. Keep hands and body away
from blade area.
Engine Idle Speed:
When the throttle trigger is released the engine should return to an idle speed which is 2700
~3300 rpm or just below clutch engagement speed. The cutting blades must not move and the
engine should not stall (stop running) at engine idle speed.
The engine idle speed is adjusted by rotating the idle speed screw on the carburetor. Turning the
idle speed screw in (clockwise) increases engine speed while turning the screw out decreases
engine speed.
If idle speed adjustment is necessary and after adjustment the cutting blades move or the engine
stalls, stop using the Hedge Trimmer immediately!
Contact your local authorized KUBOTA Dealer for assistance and servicing.
IDLE SPEED
ADJUSTMENT
SCREW
INCREASE

- 12 -
REGULAR MAINTENANCE
AIR FILTER
Maintenance Interval:
The air filter should be cleaned daily or more often when
working in extremely dusty conditions and replaced after
every 100 hours of operation.
Air Filter Cleaning
1. Remove the air filter cover and the foam filter.
2. Clean the foam filter with warm, soapy water. Let the
element dry completely.
3. Apply a light coat of SAE 30 motor oil to the foam filter
and squeeze out all excess oil.
4. Reassemble the foam filter and the air filter cover.
FUEL FILTER
Maintenance Interval:
The fuel filter should be replaced after every 100 hours of
operation.
Maintenance:
The fuel filter is attached to the end of the fuel pick-up hose
inside the fuel tank. To replace the fuel filter, first make sure
the fuel tank is empty. Remove the fuel cap. Using a wire
hook, gently pull the fuel filter out though the fuel filter
opening. Grasp the fuel hose next to the fuel filter fitting
and remove the filter but do not release the hose. While
still holding on to the fuel hose, attach the new fuel filter.
Drop the fuel filter back into the fuel tank. Make sure that the fuel filter is not stuck in a corner of
the tank and that the fuel hose is not doubled over (kinked) before refueling.
SPARK PLUG
Maintenance Interval:
The spark plug should be removed from the engine and
checked after each 25 hours of operation and replaced
after every 100 hours of operation.
Maintenance:
With the engine at ambient (room) temperature, loosen the
cylinder cover screw and lift off the cylinder cover. (Refer to
the illustration shown in the following CYLINDER COOLING
FINS section.) Twist the high tension lead boot on the
spark plug back and forth a couple of times to loosen boot then pull the boot off of the spark plug.
Remove the spark plug. The electrodes can be cleaned with a stiff brush. Adjust the electrode air
gap to 0,6-0,7 mm (0,024-0,028 in.). Replace the spark plug if it is oil-fouled, damaged or if the
electrodes are worn down. Do not overtighten the spark plug when installing. The tightening
torque is 10.7-16.6Nm (95-148 in. lbs.). Reinstall the cylinder cover.
WIRE FUEL TANK
FUEL FILTER
WARNING
When the hedge trimmer is stopped for servicing, inspection or storage, shut off the power source,
disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug and make sure all moving parts have come to
a stop. Allow the hedge trimmer to cool before making any inspections, adjustments, etc.
0,6 - 0,7 mm
(0.024-0.028 inches)
TIPS
PUSH
OPEN
FOAM FILTER
AIR FILTER
COVER

- 13 -
CYLINDER COOLING FINS
Maintenance Interval:
The cylinder cooling fins should be cleaned after every 25 hours of operation or once a week
which ever comes first. Air must flow freely around and through the cylinder cooling fins to prevent
engine overheating. Leaves, grass, dirt, and debris buildup on the fins will increase the operating
temperature of the engine which can reduce engine performance and shorten engine life.
Maintenance:
With the engine at ambient (room) temperature, remove the two socket head screws, keep remove
the cover (FIG.1). Remove the two socket head screws and remove the tail pipe (FIG.2). Loosen
the cylinder cover screw (knob) and lift off the cylinder cover (FIG.3). Clean all dirt and debris from
the cooling fins and from around the cylinder base. Reinstall the cylinder cover, tail pipe, and the
cover.
3 mm ALLEN WRENCH
SUPPLIED IN TOOL KIT
KNOB
CYLINDER COVER
FIG.1 FIG.2
FIG.3
SPARK ARRESTER
TAIL
SOCKET
HEAD SCREW
SPARK ARRESTER
Maintenance Interval:
The spark arrester should be inspected and
cleaned after every 25 hours of use. Replace the
screen if it cannot be thoroughly cleaned or if it is
damage.
Maintenance:
With the engine at ambient (room) temperature.
Remove the two socket head screws holding the
tail and spark arrester to the muffl er. Remove and
clean the tail, gasket, and spark arrester with a
safety solvent and a stiff brush. If any part cannot
be thoroughly cleaned it must be replaced.
Reinstall the spark arrester and tail onto the
muffl er, then reinstall and tighten the two socket
head screws.

- 14 -
STORAGE
GENERAL CLEANING AND TIGHTENING
The Hedge Trimmer will provide maximum performance for many, many hours if it is maintained
properly. Good maintenance includes regular checking of all fasteners for correct tightness, and
cleaning of the entire machine. Pitch and gum deposits should be removed from the cutting blades
daily. Adjustment of the cutting blade tension should be checked regularly. Refer to page (9) for
instructions to adjust cutting blades.
For long-term storage of the Hedge Trimmer, empty the
fuel tank into a suitable fuel storage container. Pump the
primer bulb on the carburetor until all fuel is discharged
through the clear fuel return hose. Run the engine to
remove any fuel that may remain in the caburetor.
Perform all regular maintenance procedures and any
needed repairs. Remove the spark plug and squirt a very
small amount of oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter cord
once.
CAUTION
Oil may squirt out of the spark plug opening while pulling the starter cord. Protect your eyes and
keep your face away from the spark plug opening. Slowly pull the starter cord to bring the piston to
the top of the cylinder (TDC). Reinstall the spark plug. Liberally lubricated the blades with a light
(#10 wt.) oil. Store the Hedge Trimmer in a dry place away from excessive heat, sparks or open
flame.
OIL
LUBRICATION: GEARCASE AND BLADES
The gearcase has a felt wick located at the blade opening. As the Hedge Trimmer is used, the
grease within gearcase becomes very soft. The reciprocating blades constantly draw small
amounts of grease between the blade contact surfaces for additional lubrication. If the gearcase is
not lubricated at the recommended intervals, a gearcase failure will occur due to a lack of
lubrication.
Gearcase failures due to improper
maintenance are not covered by
KUBOTA warranty.
The gearcase and blades should be
lubricated after each 15 hours of
use. The amount of grease to be
applied is about 15g. But then, stop
applying when grease comes out
from the blade opening.
NOTE: If the Hedge Trimmer is used under severe conditions such as high ambient temperatures
(above 25°C) or for extended continuous periods of operation, the gearcase and blades must be
lubricated every 2 hours.
Lubricate the gearcase at the grease fitting with a good quality #2 lithium-base grease. Lubricate
the blades using a light (#10 wt.) oil.
GREASE FITTING FOR GEAR CASE

Original Instruction
P/N 246249-00 1903 IN
Regulatory authority:
Emission standard:
Certificate Number:
United States Environmental Protection Agency
40 CFR 1054
KM4XS.023414-002
REGARDING EXHAUST GAS REGULATION
This engine is certified US EPA.
Kubota Australia Pty Ltd
25 – 29 Permas Way Truganina Vic. 3029 Australia