Shindaiwa P230 Owner's manual

P230 POLE PRUNER
Part Number 62889-94310 Rev. 12/04
WARNING! Minimize the risk of injury to yourself and others! Read this
manual and familiarize yourself with the contents. Always wear
eye and hearing protection when operating this unit.
Do not operate or service this machine unless you clearly
understand this manual.
SHINDAIWA OWNER’S/OPERATOR’S MANUAL

2
Introduction
The Shindaiwa P230 Pole Pruner is
designed and built to deliver superior
performance and reliability without
compromise to quality, comfort, safety or
durability.
Shindaiwa’s high-performance engines
represent the leading edge of 2-cycle
engine technology, delivering exceptionally
high power with remarkably low
displacement and weight. As an owner/
operator, you’ll soon discover for yourself
why Shindaiwa is simply in a class by itself!
The procedures described in this manual
are intended to help you get the most from
your machine as well as to protect you and
others from harm. These procedures are
guidelines for safe operation under most
conditions, and are not intended to replace
any safety rules and/or laws that may be in
force in your area.
If you have questions regarding your
power tool, or if you do not understand
something in this manual, your Shindaiwa
dealer will be glad to assist you.
IMPORTANT!
The information contained in these
instructions describes units available
at the time of publication. While every
attempt has been made to provide the
latest information about your Shindaiwa
product, there may be some differences
between your P230 and what is described
here. Shindaiwa Inc. reserves the right
to make changes to products without
prior notice and without obligation to
make alterations to units previously
manufactured.
The procedures described in this manual
are intended to help you get the most from
your unit as well as to protect you and
others from harm. These procedures are
guidelines for safe operation under most
conditions, and are not intended to replace
any safety rules and/or laws that may be in
force in your area.
If you have questions regarding your
power tool, or if you do not understand
something in this manual, your Shindaiwa
dealer will be glad to assist you.
You may also contact Shindaiwa, Inc.
at the address printed on the back of this
Manual.
Throughout this manual are special
“attention statements” surrounded
by boxes and preceded by the trian-
gular Attention Symbol.
Attention Statements
WARNING!
A statement preceded by the
triangular attention symbol and
the word “WARNING” contain s
information that should be acted
upon to prevent serious bodily injury.
CAUTION!
A statement preceded by the word “CAU-
TION” contains information that should
be acted upon to prevent mechanical
damage.
IMPORTANT!
A statement preceded by the word
“IMPORTANT” is one that possesses
special significance.
NOTE:
A statement preceded by the word
“NOTE” contains information that is
handy to know and may make your job
easier.
DANGER!
A statement preceded by
the triangular attention symbol and
the word “DANGER” contains infor-
mation that should be acted upon to
prevent serious injury
or death.
PAGE
Contents
Attention Statements ........................... 2
Warning Labels .................................... 3
Kickback Precautions .......................... 3
Operating Precautions ......................... 4
Product Description ............................. 6
Technical Specifications ...................... 7
Assembly ............................................... 7
Installing Guide the Bar
and Saw Chain ...................................... 9
Adjusting the Chain ........................... 10
Chain Oiler .......................................... 10
Mixing Fuel ........................................ 11
Starting the Engine ............................ 12
Stopping the Engine .......................... 13
Using the Pole Pruner ....................... 13
General Maintenance ........................ 14
Long Term Storage ............................ 16
Sharpening the Chain ........................ 17
Troubleshooting ................................. 18
Declaration of Conformity ................. 21

3
Safety Precautions
A pole pruner operates at very high speeds
and has the potential to do serious dam-
age if misused, abused or mishandled. To
reduce the risk of injury, you must main-
tain control at all times, and observe all
safety precautions during operation. Never
permit a person without training or
instruction to operate this pruner!
DANGER!
THE PRUNER IS NOT INSU-
LATED AGAINST ELECTRICAL
SHOCK! Approaching or contacting
electrical line with the pruner could
cause death or serious injury. Keep
the pruner at least10 meters away
from electrical lines or branches that
contact electrical lines.
Warning Labels
Warning labels affixed to the
machine are as follows:
Both kickback and pinching may
cause you to lose control of the pole
pruner which could result in serious
personal injury. Do not rely ex-
clusively on the safety device
built into the pruner! You must
take several steps to keep your jobs
free from accident or injury:
1. Understand kickback and pinching!
You can reduce or eliminate the el-
ement of surprise. Sudden surprise
contributes to accidents.
2. Keep a firm grip on the pole pruner
with both hands whenever the en-
gine is running. A firm grip will help
you reduce the effects of kickback
and pinching as well as maintaining
control of the unit.
3. Make sure the area in which you
are cutting is free from obstructions.
Do not let the nose of the guide bar
contact a log, branch, or any other
obstructions which could be hit
while you operate the pole pruner.
4. Cut at high engine speeds.
5. Follow the manufacturer’s instruc-
tions for sharpening and maintain-
ing the chain.
6. Use only the replacement bar and
chain or equivalent as specified by
the manufacturer.
WARNING!
Kickback and Pinching
Safety Precautions
Read and follow this manual,
make sure anyone using the
pruner does likewise. Failure
to do so could result in serious
personal injury or machine failure. Keep
this manual for future reference.
Always wear a hard hat
to reduce the risk of head
injuries during operation of
this machine. In addition,
always wear eye and hearing protection.
Shindaiwa recommends wearing a
face shield as additional face and eye
protection.
Wear nonslip heavy-duty work
gloves to improve your grip on
the pole pruner handle. Wear
sturdy footwear with nonslip
soles to provide good footing.
Steel-toe safety boots are
recommended. Wear snug-
fitting clothes that also permit freedom of
movement.
Never operate this tool or
any other power equipment if
you are tired, ill, or under the
influence of alcohol, drugs, or
any substance that could affect your ability
or judgement.
Keep bystanders at least
15 meters away from the
operating pruner to reduce the
risk of being struck by falling
objects or thrown debris.
Never cut off branches
over your head. The cut-off
branches may hit you and
cause serious injury.
Never operate the pruner at an
angle greater than 60º in order
to reduce the risk of being
struck by falling objects during
operation.
Never touch the saw chain
when starting the engine and
while operating this machine.
Chain oil fill/oil pump
Sound Power Level
(measured in accordance
with 2000/14/EC)
Beware of Kickback!
Kickback can occur whenever the tip of the
guide bar touches an object
while the saw is operating.
Kickback may force the bar
up and back toward the
operator with lightning-like
speed!
Beware of pinching.
Pinching the saw along the
tip of the guide bar may force
the bar back rapidly toward
the operator. Pinching can
occur whenever wood closes
in around the moving chain.

4
 Make sure the chain and sprocket
are correctly adjusted before operat-
ing the pruner (see page 10 for
adjustment procedures). Never at-
tempt chain adjustment with
the engine running!
 Always make sure the cutting at-
tachment is properly installed and
firmly tightened before operation.
 Never use a cracked or warped
guide bar: replace it with a service-
able guide bar and make sure it fits
properly.
 If a saw blade should bind fast in a
cut, shut off the engine immediately.
Push the branch or tree to ease the
bind and free the blade.
 Make sure there are no missing or
loose fasteners, and that the ignition
switch and throttle controls are work-
ing properly.
 Before starting the engine, make
sure the saw chain is not contacting
anything.
 Make sure there is always good ven-
tilation when operating the pruner.
Fumes from engine exhaust can
cause serious injury or death. Nev-
er run the engine indoors!
 Do not operate the unit with the muf-
fler removed.
 When cutting a limb that is under
tension, be alert for springback so
that you will not be struck by the
moving limb.
WARNING!
Operating Precautions
 Always stop the engine immediately
and check for damage if you strike a
foreign object or if the unit becomes
tangled. Do not operate with broken or
damaged equipment.
 Stop the unit immediately if it sud-
denly begins to vibrate or shake.
Inspect for broken, missing or
improperly installed parts or attach-
ments.
 Never transport the unit nor set it
down with the engine running. An
engine that’s running could be ac-
cidentally accelerated causing the
chain to rotate.
 Make sure the chain cover is in
place when transporting and storing
the pruner.
 When carrying by hand, the chain
should be pointing backward.
The Properly Equipped Operator
P231_2
Always operate with both
hands firmly gripping the
unit.
Wear nonslip heavy-duty
work gloves to improve
your grip on the pole
pruner handle. Wear
snug-fitting clothes that
also permit freedom of
movement. NEVER wear
shorts!
Always wear a hard hat
to reduce the risk of head
injuries during operation of
this unit.
Always wear eye and hear-
ing protection. Shindaiwa
recommends wearing a face
shield as additional face
and eye protection.
Wear sturdy footwear with
nonslip soles to provide good
footing. Steel-toed safety boots
are recommended. Never oper-
ate unit bare-footed!
Keep a proper footing and
do not overreach—maintain
your balance at all times
during operation.
Never operate the pruner at an
angle greater than 60° in or-
der to reduce the risk of being
struck by falling objects during
operation.
Keep bystanders at least 15 meters away from
the operating pruner to reduce the risk of be-
ing struck by falling objects or thrown debris.

5
Operating Precautions (continued)
CAUTION!
 Always maintain the P230 pole
pruner according to the this owner’s
manual and follow the recommend-
ed scheduled maintenance.
 Never modify or disable any of the
pole pruner’s safety devices.
 Always use genuine Shindaiwa
parts and accessories when repair-
ing or maintaining this unit.
 Do not make unauthorized modifica-
tions or substitutions to the guide
bar or chain.
 Never allow the engine to run at
high RPM without a load. Doing so
could damage the engine.
 When transporting the pruner in
a vehicle, tie it down securely to
prevent damage and fuel spillage.
 Always clear your work area of
trash or hidden debris to help en-
sure good footing.
 Keep the saw chain sharp and
properly adjusted.
 Keep the pruner as clean as pos-
sible. Keep it free of loose vegeta-
tion, mud, etc.
IMPORTANT!
Safety and Operation Information La-
bels: Make sure all information labels are
undamaged and readable. Immediately
replace damaged or missing information
labels. New labels are available from your
local authorized Shindaiwa dealer.
Safety Equipment and Labels
Ignition
Switch
Shoulder Strap
Chain Cover

6
Product Description
IMPORTANT!
The terms “left”, “left-hand”, and
“LH”; “right”, “right-hand”, and “RH”;
“front” and “rear” refer to directions as
viewed by the operator during normal
operation.
Prior To Assembly
Using Figure above as a guide, familiarize
yourself with the Shindaiwa P230 pole pruner
and its various components. Understanding
your unit helps ensure top performance,
longer service life, and safer operation.
Before assembling, make sure you have
all the components required for a complete
unit:
 Powerhead assembly
 Lower tube assembly
 Upper tube/saw assembly, chain and
guide bar
 Chain Cover
Shoulder Strap
 Tool Kit Containing:
Spark plug wrench
4mm hex wrench
8 x 10mm spanner
Carefully inspect all components for damage.
WARNING!
Do not make unauthorized
modifications or alterations to
your pruner or its components.
Lower
Tube
Handle
Grip
Upper Tube
Bar and
Chain
Throttle Trigger
Fuel Tank
Air Filter As-
sembly
Recoil
Starter
Top Engine Cover
Screw
Powerhead Assembly
Spark
Plug
P231_5
Gearcase
Bar Oil Reservoir
Cutting Head
Assembly
Guide Bar and
Chain
Oil Filler
Cap
Barrier
Coupler
Ignition Switch
Shoulder
Strap
Chain Cover
Bar and Chain Options
8 inch Bar - 90SG-33E Chain
10 inch Bar - 90SG-39E Chain
12 inch Bar - 90SG-44E Chain

7
Powerhead Installation
Technical Specifications
Model Name ............................................................................................................................................................................P230/EC1
Engine Model ............................................................................................................................................................................ S230EC1
Engine Type ..................................................................................................................................2-cycle, vertical cylinder, forced air
Displacement .............................................................................................................................................................................. 22.5 cm3
Bore x Stroke ...................................................................................................................................................................32mm x 28mm
Maximum Power Output .............................................................................................................................................................0.8 kW
Engine Speed at Idling .......................................................................................................................................................... 2,750 min-1
Maximum Engine Speed ..................................................................................................................................................... 10,000 min-1
Engine Speed at Maximum Power Output .......................................................................................................................... 7,500 min-1
Dry Weight ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 5.4 kg
Length with 10” bar assembly ................................................................................................................................................2,800 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity ..................................................................................................................................................................... 550 cm3
Fuel/Oil Ratio .....................................................................................................................................................................................50:1
Carburetor .......................................................................................................................................................................... Walbro WYL
Ignition System .................................................................................................................... 1 Piece Electronic, transistor controlled
Spark Plug .......................................................................................................................................................................... NGK BMR6A
Air Cleaner ................................................................................................................................................. Nonreversible flocked filter
Starting Method ................................................................................................................................................................Recoil Starter
Stopping Method ................................................................................................................................................................. Slide Switch
Gearcase Ratio .................................................................................................................................................................................1.06:1
Transmission Type .......................................................................................................Automatic centrifugal clutch with bevel gear
Chain Guide Bar .......................................................................................................................... 3/8” pitch, .043” guage Micro-Lite™
Chain Type .................................................................................................................................. 3/8” pitch Micro-Lite™, .043” guage
Chain Speed ..................................................................................................................................................23.5m/sec. @ 10,000 min-1
Chain Lubrication .........................................................................................................................................Automatic adjustable oiler
Chain Lubricant .........................................................................................................................................Premium Bar and Chain Oil
Sprockets ........................................................................................................................................................................3/8”, fixed spur
Sound Pressure Level* ...............................................................................................................................................(Idling) 76dB (A)
Racing 97dB (A)
Sound Poweer Level** ..............................................................................................................................................(Idling) 87 dB (A)
Racing 109 dB (A)
Vibration Level*** ........................................................................................................................(Idling [Front/Rear]) 1.7/3.0 m/s2
(Racing [Front/Rear]) 5.8/4.8 m/s2
* Sound Pressure Level: in accordance with ISO 11680-1 (Annex B)
** Sound Power Level: in accordance with ISO 11680-1 (Annex B)
*** Vibration Level: in accordance with ISO 11680-1 (Annex C)
1. Place the powerhead on a clean, flat
surface, spark plug facing up.
CAUTION!
Do not remove the D-shaped shim
washer! The D-shaped shim washer
prevents damage from overtightening
the tube clamp screw.
4. Add some moly-type EP grease to
splines at the end of the main shaft.
CAUTION!
Do not force the shaft tube into the
powerhead! Excessive force can
damage the shaft tube and mainshaft.
AH231_09
Tube Clamp
Hex
Wrench
D-shaped shim washer
Ignition
Switch
Grip
Outer Tube
Main
Shaft
Spark
Plug
Clamp Screw
Tube
Clamp
Throttle Lever
2. Use the 4mm hex wrench to loosen
the tube clamp screw. Verify that the
D-shaped shim washer is positioned as
shown below.
5. Slide the outer tube into the tube clamp
until the tube bottoms. If installation
is difficult, rotate the outer tube or
main shaft slightly until you feel the
mainshaft splines engage with the
powerhead. Outer tube needs to be
inserted so that the end of the grip hits
joint cap.
3. Remove the protective cap from the end
of the outer tube.
6. Position the outer tube so that the
ignition switch is facing up and the
throttle lever is facing down.
7. Tighten the clamp screw firmly.

8
Connecting The Throttle Cable
Remove The Cylinder Cover
AH231_11
AH231_13
1. Remove the spark plug cap, then loosen
the cylinder cover knob (about a dozen
turns needed).
2. Lift the corner of the cylinder cover just
below the muffler as shown, and lift off
the cylinder cover.
Connect The Throttle Cable
1. Loop the ribbed cable assembly to the
top left side of the engine. Notice that
the black ground wire (with a ring
fitting on the end) is located between
the two cable adjuster nuts as shown
below.
2. Connect the S-shaped end of the throttle
cable to the throttle lever on top of the
carburetor as shown below.
Ignition
Ground
Lead
Cable
Adjuster
Install the
black wire
between the
two cable
adjusters.
Throttle
Cable End
3. Turn the cable adjuster nuts sufficiently
for the throttle cable to fit in the notch
on the fan cover. Make sure the ignition
ground lead is located on the rearward
side of the notch. Then, connect the
male fitting of the black ignition wire
into the female fitting of the red wire
attached to the engine.
Black Wire
Spark Plug
Wire
Black Wire
Connector
Adjusting the Throttle Cable
1. Loosen the two 10 mm throttle cable
nuts at the fan cover as shown below.
Cable Adjuster Nuts
2. Adjust the throttle cable nuts until
you achieve a free play on the throttle
trigger of about 6 mm.
6 mm
Throttle Freeplay
IMPORTANT!
Make sure the stop switch wires do not
interfere with throttle functions. Reposition
wires if necessary.
3. When 6 mm free play is achieved,
tighten the two 10mm throttle cable
nuts. When the throttle cable is
correctly adjusted, and the throttle
trigger is fully depressed (full throttle),
the throttle will contact the stop on the
throttle body.
Idle Throttle
Position
Stop on
throttle
body
Full
Throttle
Position
NOTE:
Put some Never-Seez™ or equivalent on the
cylinder cover knob for easier removal.
4. Replace the cylinder cover.
5. Replace the spark plug cap.

9
Tube Sections
1. Place the powerhead/lower tube assem-
bly and the upper tube assembly on a
clean, flat surface so that both assem-
blies fit end to end. The powerhead/
lower tube assembly should be facing
up, and the lower tube assembly should
be positioned with the locking hole in
the tube end facing up.
Tube
Assembly
Tube
Assembly
Coupler
Latch
Coupler
Screw
Knob
Locking Hole
Latch Protector
(extended)
Assembly
2. Slip off the protective covers from the
ends of both tubes, and loosen the cou-
pler screw knob.
3. Insert the upper tube assembly into the
coupler, arrow on the upper tube decal
facing up, until the line of the decal is
flush with the end of the coupler. Rock
the upper tube back and forth until you
are sure the latch snaps in place by the
coupler lock.
CAUTION!
Keep the open ends of the tubes clean
and free of debris!
P231_15
Sprocket
Cover Nut
Sprocket
Cover
Installing The Chain
1. Using the small end of the plug wrench,
remove the sprocket cover nut (turn
counterclockwise to remove) and
remove the sprocket cover.
CAUTION!
Failure to align the guide bar and chain
tensioning pin can cause serious dam-
age to the sprocket cover, guide bar,
chain tensioning pin and cutting head
assembly.
WARNING!
Never attempt to install, replace, or
adjust the chain with the engine
running.
NOTE:
For longest chain life, let new or replace-
ment chain loops soak in oil overnight before
installation.
WARNING!
The saw chain is very sharp. Wear
gloves to protect your hands when
handling.
2. Place the guide bar over the guide bar
adjustment stud on the cutting head as-
sembly. Align the chain tensioning pin
with the hole in the guide bar.
Latch Protector
(lowered)
Coupler Screw
Knob
Coupler
Press
Latch
4. When the two tube halves are locked to-
gether, press down on the spring-loaded
latch protector and tighten the coupler
screw.
Disassembling The Pole Sections
1. With the pole pruner on a clean, flat
surface, loosen the coupler screw. The
spring-loaded coupler protector should
pop up.
2. Press down on the latch with your fin-
ger or thumb. This releases the coupler
lock.
3. Pull the upper tube assembly out of the
coupler.
P231_17
P231_16
BAR
TIP
Top of Bar
Bottom of Bar
P231_18
Guide Bar
Adjustment
Stud
Guide Bar
Chain Ten-
sioning Screw
Chain Tensioning
Pin
Guide Bar Adjust-
ment Stud
Chain Tensioner
Hole
WARNING!
Never operate the pole pruner with-
out the sprocket cover installed.
Installing and Adjusting the Bar and Chain
3. Install the chain loop over the drive
links within the guide bar groove, and
then align the chain over the drive
sprocket. Verify that the cutters are
properly oriented as shown. If chain
installation is difficult or if the chain
appears too tight, refer to the section
“Adjusting the Chain” on the next page.
4. Install the sprocket cover over the bar
stud. Using finger-pressure only, install
the sprocket cover nut.
5. Refer to the next page for chain adjust-
ing procedures.

10
P231_19
Sprocket Cover Nut
Adjusting the Chain
1. Place the pole pruner on a clean, flat
surface. (For readjustment during
operation, shut down the engine, then
allow the guide bar and chain to cool
before proceeding with the adjustment
procedure).
2. Loosen the sprocket cover nut with a
plug wrench.
P231_21
3. Lift the nose of the guide bar while turn-
ing the chain tensioning screw.
4. Pull the chain by hand along the top of
the guide bar several times from the
engine to the bar’s tip. The chain should
feel snug but still pull freely.
5. Tighten the sprocket cover nut securely
while lifting the tip of the guide bar.
6. Inspect the chain for correct adjustment
(more frequently with a new chain).
The chain should feel snug but still pull
freely.
CAUTION!
A loose chain can jump off the guide
bar causing damage to the chain and
associated equipment. Always make
sure the chain is properly adjusted;
check more often when you are break-
ing in a new chain.
IMPORTANT!
Proper chain adjustment is essential for
maximum performance, long chain life,
and operator safety. Always inspect chain
tension before operating the pole pruner.
WARNING!
The saw chain is very sharp. Wear
gloves to protect your hands when
handling.
WARNING!
Never attempt to install, replace, or ad-
just the chain with the engine running.
P231_23
P231_22
Chain Oiler
Oil Filler
Cap
Oil
Reservoir
Oil Flow
Adjusting Screw
Filling The Oil Reservoir
Adjusting Oil Flow Rate CAUTION!
The oil flow adjusting screw must be
pressed in slightly in order to turn. Fail-
ure to do so could damage the pump
and screw.
CAUTION!
An increase in bar oil flow rate will
speed oil consumption, requiring more
frequent checks on the oil reservoir. To
ensure sufficient lubrication, it may be
necessary to check the oil level more
frequently than at fuel tank refills.
NOTE:
The oil reservoir has a capacity sufficient
to provide about 40 minutes of cutting time
(when set to deliver the minimum flow rate,
or about as long as you’ll get from a tank of
fuel).
WARNING!
Never fill the oil reservoir nor adjust the
oiler with the engine running.
IMPORTANT!
The service life of the chain and guide bar
is affected by the quality of the lubricant.
Using superior lubricant such as Shindaiwa
Bar and Chain Oil will help ensure a long
service life, For cold weather operation,
mix bar and chain oil with an equal part of
kerosene.
1. Place the pole pruner on a clean, flat
surface with the oil filler cap facing up.
Wipe off any debris from the oil cap and
from around the oil filler neck.
2. Remove the oil filler cap and fill the
reservoir with bar and chain oil, then
replace the cap.
3. Wipe up spilled oil from the unit before
restarting the pole pruner.
The guide bar and chain are lubricated
automatically by a pump that operates
whenever the chain rotates. The pump is
set at the factory to deliver a minimum
flow rate, but it can be adjusted in the field.
A temporary increase in oil flow is often
desirable when cutting materials such as
hardwood or wood with a lot of pitch.
Adjust the pump as follows:
1. Stop the engine and make sure the stop
switch is in the OFF position.
2. Place the unit on its side with the oil
reservoir up.
• clockwise to tighten the chain
• counter clockwise to loosen the chain.
3. With a screwdriver, push in on the oil
flow rate adjusting screw and turn in
the desired direction (there are three
incremental settings):
• clockwise–decrease lubrication.
• counter clockwise–increase
lubrication.
P231_20
Chain Tensioning
Screw

11
Mixing Fuel
WARNING!
Minimize the risk of fire,
burns, and personal injury!
 STOP engine before refueling.
 ALWAYS allow the engine to cool
before refueling
 ALWAYS open the fuel cap slowly
to allow any pressure build-up
in the tank to release fuel vapor
slowly.
 ALWAYS transport and store fuels
in an approved container.
 Avoid overfilling and wipe-up all
spilled fuel. Move the engine at
least 3 meters from the fueling
point, storage area, and other
readily flammable materials before
restarting.
 ALWAYS inspect the unit for fuel
leaks before each use. During
each refill, make sure there are no
fuel leaks around the fuel cap and/
or tank. If a fuel leak is evident,
stop using the unit immediately.
Fuel leaks must be repaired
before using the unit.
CAUTION!
Some gasolines contain alcohol as
an oxygenate! Oxygenated fuels may
cause increased operating tem-
peratures. Under certain conditions,
alcohol-based fuels may also reduce
the lubricating qualities of some mixing
oils. Never use any fuel containing
more than 10% alcohol by volume!
Generic oils and some outboard motor
oils may not be intended for use in
high-performance air cooled 2-cycle
engines, and should never be used in
your Shindaiwa engine!
CAUTION!
This engine is designed to operate on
a 50:1 mixture consisting of unleaded
gasoline and a premium 2-cycle mixing
oil only. Use of Non-approved mixing
oils can lead to excessive maintenance
costs and/or engine damage.
Filling The Fuel Tank
IMPORTANT!
Mix only enough fuel for your immediate
needs! If fuel must be stored longer than
30-days, it should first be treated with a
stabilizer such as StaBil™ or equivalent
product!
CAUTION!
Never attempt to mix fuel in the unit’s
fuel tank. Always mix all fuels in a
clean approved container.
1. Use only fresh, clean unleaded gasoline
with a pump octane rating of 87 or
higher.
2. Mixing fuel with a Premium 2-cycle
mixing oil designed for use with high-
performance 2-cycle air-cooled engines.
3. Refer to the following examples of 50:1
fuel to oil mix quantaties:
Gasoline 2-cycle mixing oil
liters milliliters
2.5 l ............................. 50 ml
5 l ................................100 ml
10 l ..............................200 ml
20 l ..............................400 ml
 Never smoke or light any fires near
the engine or fuel source.
 NEVER place any flammable
material near the engine or muffler.
 NEVER operate the engine without
the muffler in good working
condition.
1. Place the pruner on a flat, level surface,
and wipe any debris from around the
fuel cap.
2. Remove the fuel cap.
3. Fill the tank with clean, fresh fuel.
4. Replace the cap, and wipe away any
spilled fuel before starting the blower
engine.
IMPORTANT!
Mix only enough fuel for your immediate
needs! If fuel must be stored longer than
30-days, it should first be treated with a
stabilizer such as StaBil™ or equivalent
product!
CAUTION!
Never attempt to mix fuel in the unit’s
fuel tank. Always mix all fuels in a
clean approved container.

12
Starting the Engine
251021
Primer Bulb Return
Tube
4. While holding the outer tube firmly
with left hand. Use your other hand
to slowly pull the recoil starter handle
until resistance is felt, then pull quickly
to start the engine.
2. Press the primer bulb until fuel can be
seen flowing in the transparent return
tube.
Make sure the cut-
ting attachment
is clear of obstruc-
tions!
IMPORTANT!
Engine ignition is controled by a two
position switch mounted on the throttle
housing labeled, "I" for ON or START and
"O" for OFF or STOP.
IMPORTANT!
The primer system only pushes fuel
through the carburetor. Repeatedly
pressing the primer bulb will not flood the
engine with fuel.
CAUTION!
Do not pull the recoil starter to the end
of the rope travel. Pulling the recoil
starter to the end of the rope travel can
damage the starter.
ON
1. Slide the ignition switch to the “ON”
position.
3. Set the choke lever to the CLOSED
position if engine is cold.
Throttle
Lever
Ignition Switch
Open
Closed
When the Engine Starts...
 After the engine starts, allow the engine
to warm up at idle 2 or 3 minutes before
operating the unit.
After the engine is warm, pick up the
unit and clip on the shoulder strap if so
equipped.
 Advancing the throttle makes the cut-
ting attachment turn faster; releasing
the throttle permits the attachment to
stop turning. If the cutting attachment
continues to rotate when the engine
returns to idle, carburetor idle speed
should be adjusted (see "Adjusting The
Engine Idle" on the next page).
WARNING!
The cutting blades may move when
the engine is started. Keep away from
the cutter assembly while starting the
engine.
IMPORTANT!
If the engine fails to start after several
attempts with the choke in the closed
position, the engine may be flooded
with fuel. If flooding is suspected,
move the choke lever to the open position
and repeatedly pull the recoil starter to
remove excess fuel and start the engine.
If the engine still fails to start, refer to the
troubleshooting section of this manual.
5. When the engine starts, slowly move the
choke lever to the “OPEN” position. (If
the engine stops after the initial start,
close the choke and restart.)
Open
WARNING!
Never start the engine from the operat-
ing position.

13
Stopping the Engine Using The Pole Pruner
This machine is designed especially for
cutting branches.
Never use this machine for any other
purposes. Never try to cut stones, metals,
plastics, or any other hard objects.
Using for other purposes than cutting
branches may damage the machine or
cause serious injury.
Preparations
 Wear suitable protective clothing
and equipment - see section “Safety
precautions”.
Choose the best work position foe safety
against falling objects such as branches.
Start the engine.
Put on the strap.
Never stand directly underneath the
branch you are cutting - be aware of falling
branches. Note that a branch may spring
back at you after it hits the ground.
Cutting Sequence
To allow branches to fall freely, always cut
the bottom branches first. Prune heavy
branches (large in diameter) in several
controllable pieces.
Working Position
Hold the control handle with your right
hand and the shaft with your left hand.
Your left arm should be extended to the
most comfortable position.
The shaft should always be held at an
angle of 60o or less.
Adjusting The Engine Idle
WARNING!
The cutter attachment must
never rotate at engine idle speed. If
the idle speed cannot be adjusted by
the procedures described here, return
the pruner to your Shindaiwa dealer for
inspection.
251022
WARNING!
The cutter attachment can continue
moving after the engine is stopped!
1. Cool the engine by allowing it
to idle for two or three minutes.
2. Slide the ignition switch to the “O” or
STOP position.
The engine must return to idle speed
whenever the throttle trigger is released.
Idle speed is adjustable and must be set
low enough to permit the engine clutch
to disengage the cutter attachment when
throttle trigger is released.
IMPORTANT!
Use a tachometer, if one is available, to
set engine idle. Standard idle speed is:
2,750 (±250) min-1.
Idle Adjusting
Screw
3. If the engine is stalling and won’t idle,
increase idle speed by turning the idle
adjustment screw clockwise.
NOTE:
The mixture of the carburetor on this unit
cannot be adjusted.
Check and Adjust Idle Speed
1. Start the engine and allow it to idle two
or three minutes, or until it warms up.
2. If the cutter attachment rotates at engine
idle, reduce idle speed by turning the
idle adjusting screw counter-clockwise
as necessary.
Attaching The
Shoulder Strap
To Wear the Shoulder Strap
1. Hook the strap hook to the hanger on
the outer tube.
2. Wear the shoulder strap so that the hook
stays at your right hand side.
3. Adjust the length of the shoulder strap
so that you can hold and operate the
machine comfortably.
Shoulder Strap
Emergency Release
In case of emergency, strongly pull the
white tab at the hook. The machine will be
released from the strap.
Standard Cut:
The most convenient working position is a
tool angle of 60o, but any other angle may
be used to suit the situation.

14
General Maintenance
WARNING!
Before performing any maintenance,
repair, or cleaning work on the unit,
make sure the engine and cutting
attachment are completely stopped.
Disconnect the spark plug wire before
performing service or maintenance
work.
WARNING!
Non-standard accessories, cutting
attachment, or replacement parts may
not operate properly with your unit
and may cause damage and lead to
personal injury.
Relieving Cut:
To avoid tearing the bark, kickback or
pinching the bar when pruning thick
branches, always start by performing a
relieving cut (1) on the underside of the
branch.
To do this, apply the cutting attachment
and pull it across the bottom of the branch
as far as the bar nose. Perform the cross-
cut (2).
Flush-cutting Thick Branches:
If branch diameter is more than 10 cm,
first perform undercut (3) and cross-cut
at a distance (A) of about 25 cm from the
final cut. Then carry-out the flush-cut (4),
starting with a relieving cut and finishing
with a cross-cut.
Cutting Above Obstacles:
Thanks to the unit’s long reach it is
possible to prune branches that are
overhanging obstacles such as rivers or
lakes. The tool angle in this case depends
on the position of the branch.
Cutting On A Work Platform:
The unit’s long reach enables cutting to be
performed next to the trunk without the
risk of the work platform damaging other
branches. Tool angle in this case depends
on the position of the branch.
Using The Pole Pruner
(Continued)

15
10-Hour Maintenance
Every 10 hours of operation (more
frequently in dusty or dirty conditions):
Remove the air cleaner element from the
air cleaner housing and clean it thoroughly
with soap and water. Let it dry before rein-
stalling the element.
CAUTION!
Do not operate the unit if the air
cleaner or element is damaged, or if
the element is wet .
Loosen Knob
Remove and clean the
element
P231_33 �
Prior to each work day, perform the follow-
ing:
 Remove all dirt and debris from the
engine, check the cooling fins and air
cleaner for clogging, and clean as nec-
essary.
Daily Maintenance
 Carefully remove any accumulations of
dirt or debris from the muffler and fuel
tank. Check cooling air intake area at
base of crankcase. Remove all debris.
Dirt build-up in these areas can lead to
engine overheating, fire, or premature
wear.
WARNING!
Operating the engine without
a muffler or with a muffler that is
damaged or improperly installed can
increase engine noise sufficiently to
cause hearing loss.
Keep cooling
fins clean
Keep air
passages
clean
Muffler
This unit must never be operated with a
faulty or missing muffler. Make sure the
muffler is well secured and in good condi-
tion. A worn or damaged muffler is a fire
hazard and may also cause hearing loss.
Spark Plug
Keep the spark plug and wire connections
tight and clean.
WARNING!
Always wear gloves when
working around the cutter assembly.
 Clean any debris or dirt from the cutting
attachment. Check the bar and chain for
damage or incorrect adjustment.
 Check for loose or missing screws or
components. Make sure the cutter at-
tachment is securely fastened.
 Check the entire unit for leaking fuel or
grease.
 Make sure nuts, bolts, and screws
(except carburetor idle speed adjusting
screws) are tight.
Every 10 to 15 hours of operation:
Remove and clean the spark plug. Adjust
the spark plug electrode gap to 0.6 mm.
If the plug must be replaced, use only a
NGK BMR6A.
CAUTION!
Before removing the spark plug, clean
the area around the plug to prevent
dirt and debris from getting into the
engine’s internal parts
10/15-Hour Maintenance
Clean the spark plug and
check the gap at the electrode.
23136
0.6 mm
CAUTION!
Incorrect spark plug installation can
result in serious engine damage.

16
P231_39
P231_37
50-hour Maintenance
Every 50 hours of operation
(more frequently in dusty or
dirty conditions):
 Remove and clean the cylinder cover
and clean dirt and debris from the cylin-
der cooling fins.
 Remove the sprocket cover and inspect
the sprocket for excessive dirt, debris,
or wear. Remove the guide bar and
clean out the guide bar groove. If the
sprocket is excessively worn, replace it
with a new one.
Inspect the
sprocket
 Lubricate the gearcase. To perform
this operation, first remove the gearcase
from the upper outer tube as follows.
CAUTION!
Do not remove the D-washer from the
gearcase clamp! The D-washer pre-
vents damage from overtightening the
tube clamp screw.
• loosen the gearcase clamp bolt.
• remove the index bolt from the
gearcase.
• slide the gearcase out of the tube.
Using a lever-type grease gun, pump
lithium-base grease (about 10 grams)
into the grease fitting until you see old
grease being purged from the gearcase,
this can be seen in the outer tube cavity
at the input end of the gearcase. Clean
up excess grease, then reassemble the
gearcase onto the outer tube.
P231_38
Filter Element
Hooked
Wire
Gearcase Clamp
Index
Bolt
Grease Fitting
CAUTION!
Make sure you do not pierce the fuel
line with the end of the hooked wire.
The line is delicate and can be dam-
aged easily.
 Use a hooked wire to extract the fuel
filter from inside the fuel tank. Inspect
the fuel filter element for signs of con-
tamination. Replace it with a new one if
required. Before reinstalling the filter,
inspect the fuel line. If you find damage
or deterioration, remove the unit from
service until it can be inspected by a
Shindaiwa-trained service technician.
IMPORTANT!
All stored fuels should be stabilized with a
fuel stabilizer such as STA-BIL™.
Long Term Storage
Whenever the unit will not be used for 30
days or longer, use the following proce-
dures to prepare it for storage:
 Clean external parts thoroughly and
apply a light coating of oil to all metal
surfaces.
 Drain all the fuel from the fuel tank.
To remove the remaining fuel from the
fuel lines and carburetor and with the fuel
drained from the fuel tank:
1. Prime the primer bulb until no more
fuel is passing through.
2. Start and run the engine until stops run-
ning.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 until the engine
will no longer start.
 Remove the spark plug and pour about
7 grams of 2-cycle mixing oil into the
cylinder through the spark plug hole.
Slowly pull the recoil starter 2 or 3
times so oil will evenly coat the interior
of the engine. Reinstall the spark plug.
 Before storing the unit, repair or re-
place any worn or damaged parts.
 Remove the air cleaner element from the
carburetor and clean it thoroughly with
soap and water. Let dry and reassemble
the element.
 Store the unit in a clean, dust-free area.
CAUTION!
Gasoline stored in the carbure-
tor for extended periods can cause
hard starting, and could also lead to
increased service and maintenance
costs.

17
Sharpening the Chain
Sharpening Instructions
When the cutting edges of the blade be-
come dull, they can be re-sharpened with a
few strokes of a file.
In order to keep the blade in balance, all
cutting edges must be sharpened equally.
In addition, inspect the chain for correct
adjustment (more frequently with a new
chain). The chain should feel snug but still
pull freely. Refer to page 10 for adjustment
procedures.
57707
IMPORTANT!
File all cutters to the same angle and
depth! Unequal filing may cause the saw
to vibrate or cut erratically!
NOTE:
For consistent filing angles, use a filing guide
such as Oregon™ p/n 31692 or equivalent.
1. Using a 4.5 mm round file, sharpen all
cutters to a 30° angle. Make sure that
one fifth (20%) of the file’s diameter is
always held above the cutter’s top plate.
CHN-08
Cause
File held at less than
recommended angle.
Result
Slow cutting. Re-
quires extra effort
to cut.
Remedy
File cutters to recom-
mended angle.
Cause
File held at more
than recommended
angle.
Result
Cutting angle is very
sharp but will dull
fast. Cutting action
rough and erratic.
Remedy
File cutters to rec-
ommended angle.
Top plate angle
less than rec-
ommended
Top plate angle
more than rec-
ommended
20°�
CHN-06
Correct angle on
top plate
Slightly protruding hook or point (curve
on non-chisel chain)
Top of depth gauge
at correct height
below top plate
Front of depth
gauge rounded Keep all cutter lengths equal
Cause
File held too low
or the file was too
small.
Result
Rough cutting. Chain
grabs. Cutters dull
quickly or won’t hold
a cutting edge.
Remedy
File cutters at rec-
ommended angle.
Check file size.
Cause
File held too high or
the file was too large.
Result
Cutters won’t feed
into wood. Slow
cutting. Must force
chain to cut. Causes
excessive bottom
wear.
Remedy
File cutters at rec-
ommended angle.
Check file size.
Hook in side
plate cutting
edge
Backslope on
side plate cut-
ting edge
CHN-02
CHN-03
50°�
CHN-07
A
B
A=B 0.6 mm
Correct Filing Technique
Filing Problems
Using a depth
gauge joiner
Using a flat file
to round the
front corner on
a depth gauge
CHN-19
CHN-18
Using a filing
gauge
2. After all cutters are sharpened, use a
depth gauge joiner (Oregon™
p/n 106738 or equivalent) to measure
the height of each depth gauge.
3. As required, lower the depth gauges
to a height of 0.6 mm. Use a flat file;
(Oregon™ p/n 12211 or equivalent).
4. After all depth gauges have been
adjusted, use a flat file to round each
depth gauge leading edge to its original
curvature and angle.
Cause
Wrong gauge setting
or no gauge used
Result
Rough cutting. Chain
grabs. Saw won’t pull
chain through wood.
Excessive wear on
the cutter heel.
Remedy
If depth gauges are
too low, the chain is
no longer service-
able.
Low depth
gauge
Cause
Depth gauge never
filed.
Result
Slow cutting. Must
force chain to cut.
Will cause excessive
wear on the cutter
heel.
Remedy
Lower gauges to rec-
ommended setting
High depth
gauge
CHN-04
CHN-05

18
 






NO
 


NO
YES








NO
YES


 
NO






NO
YES
YES
 











YES
What To Check Possible Cause Remedy
Troubleshooting Guide
Engine Does Not Start

19
 


































 








What To Check Possible Cause Remedy
Low Power Output
Troubleshooting Guide (Continued)

20
Additional Problems
Troubleshooting Guide (Continued)
 







Symptom Possible Cause Remedy
 















 























 











