Murray 866015 User manual

Operator’s Manual
80000099
Revision E
Trimmer / Brushcutter
Models# 866015 and #866019
©2011.
Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC.
All Rights Reserved.
Not
for
Reproduction

Thank You for purchasing this quality-built Murray Trimmer/Brushcutter. We’re pleased that you placed your confidence
in our brand. When operated and maintained according to the instructions in this manual, your Murray Trimmer/
Brushcutter will provide dependable service.
This manual contains safety information to make you aware of the hazards and risks associated with the machine and
how to avoid them. This machine is intended for trimming and brushcutting and is not intended for any other purpose.
It is important that you read and understand these instructions thoroughly before attempting to start or operate this
equipment. Save these original instructions for future reference.
The trimmer/brushcutter requires final assembly before use. Refer to the Assembly section of this manual for
instructions on final assembly procedures. Follow the instructions completely.
For quality support and service for your Murray Trimmer/Brushcutter. Contact your local distributor. To obtain an
Illustrated Parts List for your product, please visit our website, www.murray.com.com.
Where to Find Us
Trimmer / Brushcutter
Model Number
Revision
Serial Number
Date Purchased
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3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OPERATOR SAFETY 4
FEATURES AND CONTROLS 9
ASSEMBLY 11
Install Trimmer Head to the Cutting Head 11
Install Trimmer Head Guard 11
Install Trimmer Head Line 12
Install Brushcutter Blade to the Cutting Head 13
Install Handle 13
Install Carrying Harness 14
OPERATION 15
Fuel Recommendations 15
How to Add Fuel 15
Starting the Engine 17
Stopping the Engine 17
Operating Position 18
Using Nylon Trimmer Line 18
Using Brushcutter Blade 18
Blade Thrust 19
Trimming and Edging 19
Operating on Slopes 19
MAINTENANCE 20
Maintenance Schedule 20
Spark Plug Maintenance 21
Air Filter Maintenance 21
Cutting Attachment Maintenance 22
STORAGE 23
Protect Fuel System 23
Clean the Unit 23
Storage Safety 24
TROUBLESHOOTING 24
WARRANTY 26
SPECIFICATIONS 27
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WARNING Certain components in this product and
its related accessories contain chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
WARNING The engine exhaust from this product
contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS - This manual contains
important instructions that should be followed during the
initial set-up, the operation, and the maintenance of the
equipment.
The safety alert symbol is used to identify safety
information about hazards that can result in personal injury. A
signal word (DANGER, WARNING, or CAUTION) is used with
the alert symbol to indicate the likelihood and the potential
severity of injury. In addition, a hazard symbol may be used to
represent the type of hazard.
FIRE MOVING PARTS SHOCK
GOGGLES
& EAR
PROTECTION
TOXIC FUMES KICKBACK EXPLOSION
HOT SURFACE
READ MANUAL
STURDY
FOOTWEAR
CHOKE
Safety Symbols and Meanings
OPERATOR SAFETY
THROWN
OBJECTS
SAFE DISTANCE
SAFETY
GLOVES
REMOVE
SPARK PLUG
WARNING Gasoline and its vapors are extremely
flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
When Adding Fuel
• Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated area.
• Check fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for
cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.
When Starting Engine
• Ensure that spark plug, muffler, and air cleaner (if
equipped) are in place and secured.
• Do not crank engine with spark plug removed.
When Operating Equipment
• Never start or run the engine with the air cleaner
assembly or the air filter removed.
When Transporting Equipment
• Transport with the fuel tank empty.
When Storing Fuel or Equipment With Fuel in Tank
• Store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters or other
appliances that have pilot lights or other ignition sources
because they can ignite fuel vapors.
WARNING: This cutting machine is capable of
amputating hands and feet and throwing objects that can
cause injury and damage! Failure to comply with the following
SAFETY instructions could result in death or serious injury
to the operator or bystanders. The operator must understand
these instructions. The operator must be of sound mind and
body and must not be under the influence of any substance
that might impair vision, dexterity or judgment.
DANGER indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could
result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE indicates a situation that could result in damage to the
product.
360
15 meters (50 feet)
SAFE
DISTANCE
WARNING Read understand and follow all the
instructions on the trimmer and in this manual before
operating the unit. Failure to observe the safety instructions in
this manual will result in death or serious injury.
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WARNING
Unintentional sparking can result in fire or electric
shock.
Unintentional start-up can result in entanglement,
traumatic amputation, or laceration.
Fire hazard.
Before performing adjustments or repairs:
• Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug.
• Use only correct tools.
• Replacement parts must be of the same design and
installed in the same position as the original parts.
WARNING Exhaust heat/gases could ignite
combustibles or structures resulting in death, serious
injury or property damage. Contact with the muffler
area could cause burns resulting in serious injury.
• DO NOT touch hot parts.
• Allow equipment to cool before touching.
• It is a violation of California Public Resource Code,
Section 4442, to use or operate the engine on any forest-
covered, brush-covered, or grass-covered land unless
the exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester, as
defined in Section 4442, maintained in effective working
order. Other states or jurisdictions may have similar
laws. Contact the original equipment manufacturer,
retailer, or dealer to obtain a spark arrester designed for
the exhaust system installed on the engine.
WARNING Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback)
will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than
you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises, or
sprains could result.
• When starting engine, pull the starter cord slowly until
resistance is felt and then pull rapidly to avoid kickback.
• Blade or trimmer head must be securely attached.
WARNING Moving parts could crush and cut. Starter
and other rotating parts could entangle hands, hair,
clothing, or accessories resulting in serious injury.
• NEVER operate unit without protective guards in place.
• DO NOT wear loose clothing, jewelry or anything that
could be caught in the starter or other rotating parts.
• Tie up long hair.
• Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.
WARNING Running engine gives off carbon
monoxide, an odorless, colorless, poison gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide can cause headache,
fatigue, dizziness, vomiting, confusion, seizures,
nausea, fainting or death.
• Operate equipment ONLY outdoors.
• Keep exhaust gas from entering a confined area through
windows, doors, ventilation intakes, or other openings.
WARNING Objects thrown by the trimmer can cause
serious injury.
• Clear the area to be cut before each use. Remove all
objects such as broken glass, nails, wires, or string,
which could be thrown or become entangled in the
cutting attachment.
• Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets.
• Keep all children, bystanders outside of a 50 ft (15 m)
radius.
• Bystanders should be encouraged to wear eye protection.
360
15 meters (50 feet)
WARNING Thrown debris could cause eye injuries.
Noise levels could cause hearing damage. Nylon
trimming line and blades can cut through clothes and
skin.
• NEVER operate unit without protective guards in place.
• DO NOT wear loose clothing, jewelry or anything that
could be caught in the starter or other rotating parts.
• Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.
• Wear safety goggles that meet ANSI standards whenever
you use the trimmer.
• Wear hearing protectors.
• Wear protective clothing to reduce the risk and severity
of injury. Wear trimmer harness, gloves, a long-sleeved
shirt, long pants, and sturdy boots with nonslip soles.
WARNING Improperly maintaining the trimmer,
or failure to correct a problem before operation, can
cause a malfunction in which you can be seriously hurt
or killed. Always follow the inspection and maintenance
recommendations and schedules in this manual.
OPERATOR SAFETY
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Trimmer Safety
• Read, understand, and follow instructions and
warnings in this manual and on the machine, engine
and attachments.
• Know the controls and the proper use of the machine
before starting.
• The equipment should only be used in good weather
conditions and with clear visibility.
• To prevent injury to others, keep people at least 50
feet (15 meters) away from the working area during
operation.
• DO NOT touch the cutting head or blade in motion.
• Keep firm footing and balance. Do not over-reach.
Keep cutting attachment below waist level. Keep all
parts of your body away from the rotating cutting
attachment and hot surfaces.
• NEVER use the unit without the blade guard securely
in place.
• Do not strike objects that may cause harm or damage
to the unit.
• Always wear eye protection and protective clothing.
Always wear the safety glasses provided with the unit.
Protect yourself when operating unit by wearing safety
glasses, a dust mask, long pants, ear protection, and
substantial footwear.
• Clear the working area. Objects thrown by the trimmer
can cause serious injury. Before operating the trimmer,
carefully inspect the area and remove any broken
glass, pieces of wire, and other loose objects.
• The cutting attachment may be spinning during
carburetor adjustments. Wear protective equipment
and observe all safety instructions. For units equipped
with a clutch, be sure the cutting attachment stops
turning when the engine idles. When the unit is turned
off, make sure the attachment has stopped before the
unit is set down.
• A coasting blade can cause injury while it continues to
spin after the engine is stopped or throttle trigger is
released. Maintain proper control until the blade has
completely stopped rotating.
Safe Handling of Gasoline
To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable
and the vapors are explosive.
• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other
sources of ignition.
• Use only an approved fuel container.
• DO NOT fill fuel containers inside a vehicle or on a
truck or trailer with a plastic liner. Always place the
containers on the ground away from the vehicle before
filling.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel
tank or container opening at all times until fueling is
complete. DO NOT use a nozzle lock-open device.
• DO NOT refuel the machine indoors.
• DO NOT remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine
running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
• Remove gas-powered equipment from the vehicle
or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel equipment using a portable
container, rather than a gasoline dispenser nozzle.
• Never overfill a fuel tank. Replace fuel cap and tighten
securely.
• DO NOT store the machine or fuel container inside
where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light such
as on a water heater or other appliance.
• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing
immediately.
Protection for Children, Bystander, and Pets
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children, bystanders, and pets. Children are
often attracted to the machine and the trimming activity.
Never assume that children will remain where you last saw
them.
• Keep children out of the trimming area and under the
watchful care of a responsible adult.
• Clear the area to be cut before each use. Remove all
objects such as broken glass, nails, wires, or string,
which could be thrown or become entangled in the
cutting attachment.
• Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets.
• Keep all children, bystanders outside of a 50 ft (15 m)
radius.
• Bystanders should be encouraged to wear eye
protection.
• Do not allow children or others to use the equipment
or attachments. They can be seriously injured.
• Allow only responsible persons who understand these
instructions to operate this equipment.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs,
trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.
OPERATOR SAFETY
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Maintenance Safety
• Keep engine free of grass, leaves or excess grease to
reduce fire hazard and engine overheating.
• When draining fuel tank, drain fuel into an approved
container outdoors and away from open flame.
• Always provide adequate ventilation when running
engine. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly poison.
• Service engine and make adjustments only when
engine is stopped. Remove spark plug wire from spark
plug and secure wire away from spark plug.
• DO NOT change engine governor speed settings or
overspeed engine.
• DO NOT test for spark with spark plug removed.
Transporting and Storage Safety
• DO NOT store equipment or fuel container inside
where fumes may reach an open flame, spark or
pilot light such as in a water heater, furnace, clothes
dryer or other gas appliance. Allow engine to cool
before storing equipment in an enclosure. Store
fuel container out of the reach of children in a well
ventilated, unoccupied building.
• Do not stand the unit unsecured or unattended in the
vertical position. Do not store in the vertical position.
• Hand carry the unit in the horizontal position with the
engine stopped and the muffler away from your body.
Ensure the blade is well clear of people and property.
• Allow the engine to cool before transporting or storing
the unit.
• Empty the fuel tank after each use and before storing
the unit.
OPERATOR SAFETY
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SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS
The labels shown here contain important safety information. Please read them carefully. These labels are considered
permanent parts of your trimmer/brush cutter. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact your authorized dealer
for a replacement.
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9
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
NOTICE: The figures and illustrations in this manual are provided for reference only and may differ from your specific
model.
A. Engine
B. Fuel Cap
C. Air Filter
D. Clutch
E. Blade Guard
F. Line Limiter
G. Spool Head
H. Straight Shaft
J. Throttle Control Switch
K. Ignition Switch
L. Brushcutter Blade
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
J
L
K
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10
Choke Lever
The choke lever (Figure 1) opens and closes the choke
valve. The CLOSED position enriches the fuel mixture for
starting a cold engine. The OPEN position provides the
correct fuel mixture for operation after starting, and for
restarting a warm engine.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch (A, Figure 2) controls the ignition
system. The ignition switch must be in the ON position for
the engine to start and run. Moving the ignition switch to
the STOP position stops the engine.
Throttle Control Switch
The throttle control switch (A, Figure 3) controls engine
speed. Pulling the throttle trigger toward the control handle
grip increases engine speed. Releasing the throttle trigger
reduces engine speed.
Pressing the priming bulb (Figure 4) pumps fuel from the
fuel tank to the carburetor. This procedure is necessary for
starting the engine. Prime the clear fuel bulb at the bottom
of the carburetor until it becomes hard and full of fuel.
Priming Bulb
FEATURES AND CONTROLS
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 4
A
A
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ASSEMBLY
WARNING
Unintentional sparking can result in fire or electric
shock.
Unintentional start-up can result in entanglement,
traumatic amputation, or laceration.
Fire hazard.
Before performing adjustments or repairs:
• Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug.
• Use only correct tools.
• Replacement parts must be the same and installed in the
same position as the original parts.
• STOP engine.
• Avoid serious burns. Allow all parts to cool before
working on machine.
Install Trimmer Head to the Cutting Head
1. Align the hole on the cutting head (A, Figure 5) to the
notch (B) on the spline pad (C).
2. Use Allen Wrench (D) to hold spline pad in position.
3. While holding Allen wrench in place, install the
trimmer head (E) by turning in a counterclockwise
direction.
NOTE: Ensure that the spline pad is placed in the correct
position when installing. The shoulder side must
face the cutting head.
B
Figure 5
D
A
C
E
Install Trimmer Head Guard
1. Remove the two screws (A, Figure 6) from guard.
2. Position guard and saddle (B) at hole in straight shaft.
3. Install the two screws through the saddle and into the
guard.
4. Remove third screw (C) from the tool set bag, and
install into the drive shaft.
NOTE: The third screw (C) is shorter than the two screws (A)
installed in guard.
Figure 6
A
C
B
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12
Figure 10
Figure 9
Figure 11
3. Evenly wind both lines around the spool in the
direction of the arrow on the spool cover (Figure 9).
One line is wound on the top half of the spool and the
other is wound on the lower half of the spool.
4. Fit the ends of each line through the brass eyelets (D,
Figure 10) in the trimmer head base.
5. Place the spool in the base and press until the tabs
lock in place (Figure 11).
Install Trimmer Head Line
1. Press in the tabs (A, Figure 7) on the side of the
trimmer head base to remove the cover of the trimmer
head and the spool (B).
2. Cut a 3 meter length of 2.4 mm trimming line. Thread
half the cut line (1.5 meters) through the center of the
spool (C, Figure 8).
Figure 7
B
A
A
Figure 8
C
D
ASSEMBLY
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13
Install Brushcutter Blade to the Cutting Head Install Handle
1. Turn the red knob counterclockwise to loosen the
handle cap assembly.
2. Place the handle inside the cap assembly as shown
(Figure 13) and turn the red knob clockwise to tighten.
3. The handle should be placed into a position that is
comfortable and that allows for proper trimming
operation practices.
Figure 13
1. Align the hole on the cutting head (A, Figure 12) to the
notch (B) on the spline pad (C).
2. Use Allen Wrench (D) to hold spline pad in position.
3. While holding Allen wrench in place, install the blade
(E), clamp cup (F), protective cup (G), lock washer (H)
and locknut (J).
NOTE: Ensure that the spline pad is placed in the correct
position when installing. The shoulder side must
face the cutting head.
Figure 14
NOTICE: When rotating the handle for storage or assembly,
Do Not allow the cable (Figure 15) to wrap around the
handle cap assembly, or the cable may become damaged
or disconnected.
ASSEMBLY
Figure 12
D
C
H
F
J
E
A
B
G
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Install Carrying Harness
Figure 15
1. Hook the harness into the fastening eyelet (Figure 15).
NOTE: The harness should be placed in the eyelet hole
that allows the trimmer head or blade to cut
parallel to the ground.
2. Slip the harness strap over your shoulder.
3. Adjust the length of the strap to allow the trimmer
head or blade to cut parallel to the ground.
Engine Locking Screw
A locking screw (A, Figure 16) is located in the engine/shaft
adapter, and is used to keep the engine from moving when
the trimmer is in use. The screw may be loosened to allow
the repositioning of the engine.
Figure 16
A
ASSEMBLY
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15
OPERATION
Fuel Recommendations
Fuel must meet these requirements:
• Clean, fresh, unleaded gasoline
• A minimum of 87 octane/87 AKI (91 RON).
• Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) or up to
15% MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) is acceptable.
Mix Fuel and Oil
Use the provided bottle and mix gasoline and a high quality
2-cycle oil with a 25:1 gasoline-to-oil ratio.
CAUTION Do not use unapproved gasoline, such as
E85. Do not modify the engine to run on alternate fuels. This
will damage the engine components and void the engine
warranty.
To protect the fuel system from gum formation, mix a fuel
stabilizer into the gasoline. See Storage. All fuel is not the
same. If starting or performance problems occur, change
the fuel providers or change brands.
WARNING Gasoline and its vapors are extremely
flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
When Adding Fuel
• Turn engine off and let engine cool at least 2 minutes
before removing the fuel cap.
• Fill fuel tank outdoors or in well-ventilated area.
• Do not overfill fuel tank. To allow for expansion of
gasoline, do not fill above the bottom of the fuel tank
neck.
• Keep gasoline away from sparks, open flames, pilot
lights, heat, and other ignition sources.
• Check fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings frequently for
cracks or leaks. Replace if necessary.
• If fuel spills, wait until it evaporates before starting
engine.
How to Add Fuel
1. Clean area around fuel cap. Remove cap.
2. Slowly add fuel and oil mixture (A, Figure 17) to the
fuel tank (B). Do not fill above the bottom of the fuel
tank neck (C).
3. Install fuel cap and let any spilled fuel evaporate before
starting engine.
Figure 17
C
A
B
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16
Inspect Working Area
Objects thrown by the trimmer can cause serious injury.
Before operating the trimmer, carefully inspect the area and
remove all objects that could be thrown by, or entangled in,
the cutting attachment, such as rocks, broken glass, nails,
wire, or other loose objects.
Keep all children and other bystanders at least 50 feet (15
meters) away from where the trimmer is being operated.
If anyone approaches while operating the trimmer, release
the throttle and stop the engine.
Inspect Cutting Attachments
Look for signs of damage to the cutting attachment.
Replace any cutting attachment and parts that are worn
out, bent, cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way.
If using the trimmer blade, be sure it is sharp. A dull blade
is more likely to snag and thrust.
Ensure the cutting attachment is installed correctly.
Ensure that the blade guard is securely installed and in
good condition.
Balancing the Trimmer on the Shoulder Harness
Hang the trimmer on the harness hook to check how it
balances.
Adjust the shoulder harness and the harness hanger on the
frame so that the handlebars in a comfortable operating
position, and the trimmer hangs with its cutting attachment
a few inches above the ground (Figure 18).
WARNING Objects thrown by the trimmer can cause
serious injury.
• Clear the area to be cut before each use. Remove all
objects such as broken glass, nails, wires, or string,
which could be thrown or become entangled in the
cutting attachment.
• Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets.
• Keep all children, bystanders outside of a 50 ft (15 m)
radius.
• Bystanders should be encouraged to wear eye protection.
360
15 meters (50 feet)
OPERATION
Figure 18
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17
Stopping the Engine
1. Release throttle lever.
2. Set Stop Switch to the OFF position.
4. Place the choke lever in the closed (Up) position (B,
Figure 20).
NOTE: Do Not close the choke when starting a warm
engine.
5. Hold the machine firmly and pull the starter cord
slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull rapidly until the
engine starts.
6. After the engine has warmed up, move the choke lever
to the open (Down) position.
Figure 20
B
1. Place the machine on a hard, level surface.
2. Slide the stop/start switch (located on the hand grip)
to the Start position.
3. Prime the clear fuel bulb at the bottom of the
carburetor until it becomes hard and full of fuel (A,
Figure 19).
WARNING Exhaust heat/gases could ignite
combustibles or structures resulting in death, serious
injury or property damage. Contact with the muffler
area could cause burns resulting in serious injury.
• DO NOT touch hot parts.
• Allow equipment to cool before touching.
• Keep exhaust gas from entering a confined area through
windows, doors, ventilation intakes, or other openings.
• Replacement parts must be the same and installed in the
same position as the original parts.
WARNING Rapid retraction of starter cord (kickback)
will pull hand and arm toward engine faster than
you can let go. Broken bones, fractures, bruises, or
sprains could result.
• When starting engine, pull the starter cord slowly until
resistance is felt and then pull rapidly to avoid kickback.
• Direct-coupled equipment components, such as but not
limited to blades, impellers, pulleys, and sprockets, must
be securely attached.
Starting the Engine
WARNING Gasoline and its vapors are extremely
flammable and explosive.
Fire or explosion can cause severe burns or death.
When Starting Engine
• Ensure that spark plug, muffler, fuel cap and air cleaner
(if equipped) are in place and secured.
• Do not crank the engine with the spark plug removed.
WARNING Running engine gives off carbon
monoxide, an odorless, colorless, poison gas.
Breathing carbon monoxide can cause headache,
fatigue, dizziness, vomiting, confusion, seizures,
nausea, fainting or death.
• Operate equipment ONLY outdoors.
• Keep exhaust gas from entering a confined area through
windows, doors, ventilation intakes, or other openings.
OPERATION
Figure 19
A
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18
Trimmer Operation
Operating Position
Hold the trimmer firmly with both hands, with your fingers
and thumbs encircling the handles (Figure 21). This will
help keep the trimmer under control at all times.
• Keep firm footing and balance.
• Do not overreach.
• Keep the cutting attachment below waist level.
• Keep all parts of your body away from the rotating
cutting attachment and hot surfaces.
Using a Nylon Trimmer-Line Head
Refer to the chart on this page for appropriate line-cutting
applications.
Line must be released with the trimmer-line head spinning
rapidly.
1. Hold the rotating cutting head horizontal to the
ground.
2. With the engine running at full speed, tap the cutting-
line head on hard, bare ground. Do not tap the cutting-
line head on pavement or concrete.
3. Each tap releases about two inches of line.
4. The blade on the deflector trims surplus line to correct
length. Avoid tapping the head more than once.
NOTE: Line feed will only operate if both lines still have a
minimum length of 1” (2.5 cm).
Using Brushcutter Blade
Refer to the chart on this page for appropriate blade
applications.
The blade supplied with the trimmer has a protective cover
surrounding the edge of the blade. For your safety, and to
protect the blade, the cover should be installed whenever
the trimmer is not in use or when installing the blade.
Be sure to remove the blade cover before starting the
engine, or the blade cover may fly off at high speed.
Thrown Debris
Attachment You MAY Trim DO NOT Trim
Trimmer / Nylon
Head • Grass
• Lawn Edges
• Borders
• Pasture
• Shrubs
• Trees
Brushcutter Blade
• Grass
• Pasture
• Ferns, Weeds,
Light Growth
• Lawn Edges
• Shrubs
• Trees
The trimmer/brushcutter will throw debris in the direction
of blade movement at the point of contact.
The cutting line head or blade rotate counterclockwise, as
viewed from the operator’s position.
• Tilting the cutting head to the right will throw debris
away from you.
• Tilting the cutting head to the left will throw debris
towards you.
• If the cutting head is held parallel to the ground,
debris will scatter in all directions, and there will be
greater friction which will wear out the cutting line or
blade sooner.
OPERATION
WARNING A worn, damaged, or cracked blade
can break, and pieces of the damaged blade can become
dangerous projectiles. A dull blade is more likely to snag and
thrust (kickback). Inspect the blade regularly, and do not
operate the trimmer with a dull, damaged, or worn blade.
Figure 21
Not
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19
Blade Thrust (Kickback)
Blade thrust (kickback) throws the trimmer in the direction
opposite blade rotation at the point of contact, and the jolt
received by the operator can result in further loss of control
(Figure 22).
• Replace or resharpen dull blades. Dull blades are more
likely to bind in the cut and cause blade thrust.
• Watch for hidden obstacles, such as rocks, stumps,
roots, etc., that could cause the blade to kickback if
struck. Blade thrust is more likely to occur in areas
where it is difficult to see what is being cut.
• Accelerate the engine to maximum speed before
starting the cut, and saw through with uniform
pressure.
Trimming and Edging
• Use a nylon line for cutting against a hard surface.
• Work from an angle where debris that strikes the hard
surface will fly away from you.
• Avoid contact with wires, wire fences, metal rods, etc.
Overlapping a wire will cause the nylon line to wrap
around the wire and break off.
Operating on Slopes
• Start on the low side of a slope, and work upward.
• Avoid steep slopes that would require holding the
cutting head above waist level.
• Avoid slippery slopes that might cause you to lose
your balance.
OPERATION
WARNING Blade thrust (kickback) is the sudden,
forceful, and uncontrolled movement of a blade-
equipped trimmer that may occur if the blade binds in
the cut of if the blade strikes a solid object.
Figure 22
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20
MAINTENANCE
First 5 Hours
•Inspectequipmentfordamage
Every 8 Hours or Daily
•Cleandebrisfromcuttingheadandengine
•Cleanandinspectairfilter*
Every 50 Hours or Annually *
•Inspectcuttingheadassemblyfordamageormissingparts
•Replaceengineairfilter*
•Replacesparkplug
•Inspectmufflerandsparkarresterfordebrisanddamage
•Cleancoolingsystem*
•Cleanandinspectbrushcutterbladeortrimmerline
* Service more often under dirty or dusty conditions
Maintenance Schedule
WARNING
Unintentional sparking can result in fire or electric
shock.
Unintentional start-up can result in entanglement,
traumatic amputation, or laceration.
Fire hazard.
Before performing adjustments or repairs:
• Disconnect the spark plug wire and keep it away from the
spark plug.
• Use only correct tools.
• Replacement parts must be the same and installed in the
same position as the original parts.
• STOP engine.
• Avoid serious burns. Allow all parts to cool before
working on machine.
Follow the hourly or calendar intervals, whichever occurs
first. More frequent service is required when operating in
adverse conditions noted below.
WARNING Improperly maintaining the trimmer,
or failure to correct a problem before operation, can
cause a malfunction in which you can be seriously hurt
or killed. Always follow the inspection and maintenance
recommendations and schedules in this manual.
WARNING Failure to properly follow maintenance
instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously
hurt or killed and will void the warranty. Always follow the
procedures and precautions in the manual.
To help you properly care for your trimmer, the following
pages include a maintenance schedule, routine inspection
procedures, and simple maintenance procedures using
basic hand tools.
Other service tasks that are more difficult or that require
special tools are best handled by your authorized service
technician.
Not
for
Reproduction