Shindaiwa FH235 User manual

X7507821000
© 1/2019 ECHO Inc.
Operator’s
Manual
FH235
Shaft Hedge
Trimmer
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects,
or other reproductive harm.
Read and understand all provided literature before
use. Failure to do so could result in serious injury.
This product complies with CAN ICES-2/NMB-2.

TABLE OF CONTENTS FH235
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents........................................................................................ 2
Introduction ................................................................................................. 4
Servicing Information .................................................................................. 4
Parts/Serial Number............................................................................. 4
Service................................................................................................. 5
Consumer Product Support ................................................................. 5
Product Registration ............................................................................ 5
Additional Literature............................................................................. 5
Safety.......................................................................................................... 5
Manual Safety Symbols and Important Information............................. 5
International Symbols .......................................................................... 6
Personal Condition and Safety Equipment .......................................... 8
Equipment.......................................................................................... 13
Emission Control (Exhaust & Evaporative) .............................................. 14
CARB And EPA Emissions Control Information ................................ 14
Description ................................................................................................ 15
Contents.................................................................................................... 17
Assembly................................................................................................... 17
Gear Housing Assembly and Drive Shaft ......................................... 17
Operation .................................................................................................. 18
Fuel.................................................................................................... 19
Starting Cold Engine.......................................................................... 22
Starting Warm Engine........................................................................ 24
Stopping Engine ................................................................................ 25
Hedge Trimming ................................................................................ 25
Maintenance ............................................................................................. 26
Skill Levels ......................................................................................... 27
Maintenance Intervals........................................................................ 27
Air Filter ............................................................................................. 28
Fuel Filter........................................................................................... 29
Spark Plug ......................................................................................... 30
Cooling System.................................................................................. 30
Exhaust System................................................................................. 32
Carburetor Adjustment....................................................................... 33
Blades................................................................................................ 35
Troubleshooting ........................................................................................ 36
Storage ..................................................................................................... 38
Long Term Storage (Over 30 Days)................................................... 38
Specifications............................................................................................ 39
Product Registration.................................................................................. 40
Notes .........................................................................................................42

FH235 INTRODUCTION
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INTRODUCTION
Specifications, descriptions and illustrative material in this literature are as
accurate as known at the time of publication, but are subject to change
without notice. Illustrations may include optional equipment and
accessories, and may not include all standard equipment.
Read and understand all provided literature.
Literature contains specifications and
information for safety, operation,
maintenance, storage and assembly specific
to this product. Scan QR codes for more
information.
For additional literature, including safety manuals where applicable, or
questions regarding terms used in this manual, visit:
https://www.echo-usa.com/manuals
OR
https://www.shindaiwa-usa.com/manuals
SERVICING INFORMATION
Parts/Serial Number
Genuine SHINDAIWA Parts and
Assemblies for your SHINDAIWA
products are available only from an
Authorized SHINDAIWA Dealer.
When you do need to buy parts
always have the Model Number and
Serial Number of the unit with you.
You can find these numbers on the
engine housing. For future
reference, write them in the space
provided below.
Model No. _________________ Serial No. _________________

SAFETY FH235
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Service
Service of this product during the warranty period must be performed by an
Authorized SHINDAIWA Service Dealer. For the name and address of the
Authorized SHINDAIWA Service Dealer nearest you, ask your retailer or
call: 1-877-986-7783. Dealer information is also available on
WWW.SHINDAIWA-USA.COM. When presenting your unit for Warranty
service/repairs, proof of purchase is required.
Consumer Product Support
If you require assistance or have questions concerning the application,
operation or maintenance of this product you may call the SHINDAIWA
Consumer Product Support Department at 1-877-986-7783 from 8:00 am to
5:00 pm (Central Standard Time) Monday through Friday. Before calling,
please know the model and serial number of your unit.
Product Registration
To ensure trouble free warranty coverage it is important that you register
your SHINDAIWA equipment on-line at WWW.SHINDAIWA-USA.COM or by
filling out the product registration sheet included in this manual. Registering
your product confirms your warranty coverage and provides a direct link
between you and ECHO if we find it necessary to contact you.
Additional Literature
In addition to finding information online, information is available from your
Authorized Shindaiwa Service Dealer, or by contacting ECHO Inc., 400
Oakwood Road, Lake Zurich, IL 60047 (800-673-1558).
SAFETY
Manual Safety Symbols and Important Information
Throughout this manual and on the product itself, you will find safety alerts
and helpful, informational messages preceded by symbols or key words.
The following is an explanation of those symbols and key words and what
they mean to you.
The safety alert symbol accompanied by the word “DANGER”
calls attention to an act or condition which WILL lead to serious
personal injury or death if not avoided.

FH235 SAFETY
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The safety alert symbol accompanied by the word “WARNING”
calls attention to an act or condition which CAN lead to serious
personal injury or death if not avoided.
The safety alert symbol accompanied by the word “CAUTION”
calls attention to an act or condition which may lead to minor or
moderate personal injury if not avoided.
The enclosed message provides information necessary for the
protection of the unit.
Note: This enclosed message provides tips for use, care and
maintenance of the unit.
CIRCLE AND SLASH SYMBOL
This symbol means the specific action shown is prohibited.
Ignoring these prohibitions can result in serious or fatal injury.
International Symbols
Symbol Description Symbol Description
Warning, See
Operator’s Manual
Carburetor Adjustment -
High Speed Mixture
Wear Eye, Ear and
Head Protection
Carburetor Adjustment -
Idle Speed
Wear Hand Protection Carburetor Adjustment -
Low Speed Mixture
Safety/Alert Emergency Stop
H
T
L

SAFETY FH235
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Hot Surface Fuel and Oil Mixture
Finger Severing
Do not operate closer
than 10 m (33 ft.) from
electrical hazard.
Avoid all power lines.
This unit is not insulated
against electrical
current.
Plan retreat path from
falling objects.
DO NOT Allow Flames
or Sparks Near Fuel Ignition ON / OFF
DO NOT Smoke Near
Fuel Primer Bulb
Choke Control “RUN”
Position (Choke Open)
Choke Control “COLD
START” Position (Choke
Closed)
Wear Foot Protection
Keep bystanders at least
15 m (50 ft.) away.
Do not operate closer
than 15 m (50 ft.) from
electrical hazard. Keep
bystanders at least
15 m (50 ft.) away.
Do not operate closer
than 10 m (33 ft.) from
electrical hazard.
Symbol Description Symbol Description

FH235 SAFETY
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Personal Condition and Safety Equipment
Cancer and Reproductive Harm
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
The muffler or catalytic muffler and surrounding cover
may become extremely hot. Always keep clear of
exhaust and muffler area, otherwise serious personal
injury may occur.
Users of this product risk injury to themselves and others if the
unit is used improperly and/or safety precautions are not
followed. Proper clothing and safety gear must be worn when
operating unit.
Physical Condition
Your judgment and physical dexterity may not be good:
• If you are tired or sick
• If you are taking medication
• If you have taken alcohol or drugs

SAFETY FH235
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Operate unit only if you are physically and mentally well.
Eye Protection
◆Eye protection that meets ANSI Z87.1 or CE requirements
must be worn whenever you operate the unit.
◆For additional safety, a full-face shield may be worn over
safety glasses or goggles to provide protection from sharp
branches or flying debris.
Hand Protection
Wear sturdy, no-slip, rubber work gloves to improve your grip on the
handles. Gloves also provide protection against cuts and scratches, cold
environments, and reduce the transmission of machine vibration to your
hands.
Hearing/Ear Protection
ECHO recommends wearing personal protection whenever unit is used.
Breathing Protection
Operators who are sensitive to dust or other common airborne allergens
may need to wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling these materials while
operating unit. Dust masks can provide protection against dust, plant debris,
and other plant matter such as pollen. Make sure the mask does not impair
your vision, and replace the mask as needed to prevent air restrictions.
Proper Clothing
Wear snug-fitting, durable clothing:
• Pants should have long legs, shirts should have long sleeves.
• DO NOT WEAR SHORTS.
• DO NOT WEAR TIES, SCARVES, JEWELRY, or clothing with loose or
hanging items that could become entangled in moving parts or
surrounding growth.
• Keep clothing buttoned or zipped, and keep shirt tails tucked in.
Wear sturdy work shoes with nonskid rubber soles:
• DO NOT WEAR OPEN TOED SHOES.
• DO NOT OPERATE UNIT BAREFOOTED.
Keep long hair away from engine and air intake. Retain hair with cap or net.

FH235 SAFETY
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Heavy protective clothing can increase operator fatigue, which may lead to
heat stroke. Schedule heavy work for early morning or late afternoon hours
when temperatures are cooler.
The components of this machine generate an electromagnetic
field during operation, which may interfere with some
pacemakers. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury,
persons with pacemakers should consult with their physician
and the pacemaker manufacturer before operating this
machine. In the absence of such information, ECHO does not
recommend the use of this machine by anyone who has a
pacemaker.
Extended Operation / Extreme Conditions
Prolonged exposure to cold and/or vibration may result in
injury. Read and follow all safety and operation instructions to
minimize risk of injury. Failure to follow instructions may result
in painful wrist/hand/arm injuries.
It is believed that a condition called Raynaud’s Phenomenon, which affects
the fingers of certain individuals, may be brought about by exposure to
vibration and cold. Exposure to vibration and cold may cause tingling and
burning sensations, followed by loss of color and numbness in the fingers.
The following precautions are strongly recommended, because the
minimum exposure, which might trigger the ailment, is unknown.
• Keep your body warm, especially the head, neck, feet, ankles, hands, and
wrists.
• Maintain good blood circulation by performing vigorous arm exercises
during frequent work breaks, and also by not smoking.
• Limit the hours of operation. Try to fill each day with jobs where operating
the unit or other hand-held power equipment is not required.
• If you experience discomfort, redness, and swelling of the fingers followed
by whitening and loss of feeling, consult your physician before further
exposing yourself to cold and vibration.

SAFETY FH235
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Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI)
It is believed that overusing the
muscles and tendons of the fingers,
hands, arms, and shoulders may
cause soreness, swelling,
numbness, weakness, and extreme
pain in those areas. Certain
repetitive hand activities may put
you at a high risk for developing a
Repetitive Stress Injury (RSI). An
extreme RSI condition is Carpal
Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), which
could occur when your wrist swells
and squeezes a vital nerve that runs
through the area. Some believe that
prolonged exposure to vibration may
contribute to CTS. CTS can cause
severe pain for months or even
years.
To reduce the risk of RSI/CTS, do
the following:
• Avoid using your wrist in a bent, extended, or twisted position. Instead try
to maintain a straight wrist position. Also, when grasping, use your whole
hand, not just the thumb and index finger.
• Take periodic breaks to minimize repetition and rest your hands.
• Reduce the speed and force with which you do the repetitive movement.
• Do exercises to strengthen the hand and arm muscles.
• Immediately stop using all power equipment and consult a doctor if you
feel tingling, numbness, or pain in the fingers, hands, wrists, or arms. The
sooner RSI/CTS is diagnosed, the more likely permanent nerve and
muscle damage can be prevented.
All over head electrical conductors and communications wires
can have electricity flow with high voltages. This unit is not
insulated against electrical current. Never touch wires directly
or indirectly, otherwise serious injury or death may result.

FH235 SAFETY
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Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately
ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains poisonous emissions
and can cause serious injury or death.
Read the Manuals
• Provide all users of this equipment with the literature for instructions on
Safe Operation.
Clear the Work Area
• Spectators and fellow workers must be warned, and children and animals
prevented from coming nearer than 15 m (50 ft.) while the unit is in use.
Keep a Firm Grip
• Hold the support handle and throttle handle with thumbs and fingers
encircling the grips.
Keep a Solid Stance
• Maintain footing and balance at all times. Do not stand on slippery,
uneven or unstable surfaces. Do not work in odd positions or on ladders.
Do not over reach.
Avoid Hot Surfaces
• During operation, the drive shaft housing and
attachment bearing housing may become very
hot, too hot to touch. Avoid contact during and
immediately after operation.
Never perform blade maintenance procedures while engine is
running.

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Equipment
Use only Shindaiwa attachments. Serious injury may result from
the use of a non-approved attachment combination. ECHO, INC.
will not be responsible for the failure of cutting devices,
attachments or accessories which have not been tested and
approved by ECHO, INC. Read and comply with all safety
instructions listed in this manual and safety manual.
◆Check unit for loose or missing nuts, bolts, and screws.
Tighten and/or replace as needed.
◆Check that the cutting attachment is firmly attached and in
safe operating condition. Dull, loose or damaged blades
should not be used.
Moving parts can amputate fingers or cause severe injuries.
Keep hands, clothing and loose objects away from all openings.
◆ALWAYS stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and make
sure all moving parts have come to a complete stop before
removing obstructions, clearing debris, or servicing unit.
◆DO NOT start or operate unit unless all guards and
protective covers are properly assembled to unit.
◆NEVER reach into any opening while the engine is running.
Moving parts may not be visible through openings.
Periodically check fuel system (fuel lines, vent, grommet, fuel
tank, and fuel cap) for leaks especially if the unit is dropped. If
damage or leaks are found, do not use unit, otherwise serious
personal injury or property damage may occur. Have unit
repaired by an authorized servicing dealer before using.

FH235 EMISSION CONTROL
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EMISSION CONTROL (EXHAUST &
EVAPORATIVE)
CARB And EPA Emissions Control Information
The emission control system for
the engine is EM (engine
modification) and, if the second to
last character of the Engine Family
on the Emission Control
Information label (sample below) is
“B”, “C”, “K”, or “T”, the emission
control system is EM and TWC (3-
way catalyst). The fuel tank/fuel
line emission control system is EVAP (evaporative emissions). Evaporative
emissions for California models are only applicable to fuel tanks.
An Emission Control Label is
located on the engine. (This is an
EXAMPLE ONLY, information on
label varies by engine FAMILY).
Product Emission Durability
(Emission Compliance
Period)
The 50 or 300 hour emission compliance period is the time span selected by
the manufacturer certifying the engine emissions output meets applicable
emissions regulations, provided that approved maintenance procedures are
followed as listed in the Maintenance Section of this manual.

DESCRIPTION FH235
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DESCRIPTION
Locate the safety decal(s) on your unit. Make sure the decal(s) is legible and
that you understand and follow the instructions on it. If a decal cannot be
read, a new one can be ordered from your SHINDAIWA dealer. Shaft label
is for example only. Your label my appear slightly different.
3
4
1
256
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
19
18

FH235 DESCRIPTION
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1. Power Head
2. Throttle Handle - For Right Hand
3. Throttle Trigger Lockout
4. Stop Switch
5. Support Handle - For Left Hand
6. Drive Shaft Assembly
7. Blades
8. Gear Housing Assembly
9. Throttle Trigger
10. Blade Cover
11. Spark Plug
12. Top Guard
13. Spark Arrestor Muffler or Spark Arrestor Muffler With Catalyst
14. Fuel Tank
15. Recoil Starter Handle
16. Fuel Tank Cap
17. Purge Bulb
18. Air Cleaner
19. Choke Control

CONTENTS FH235
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CONTENTS
The SHINDAIWA product you purchased has been factory pre-assembled
for your convenience. Due to packaging restrictions, some assembly may be
necessary.
After opening the carton, check for damage. Immediately notify your retailer
or SHINDAIWA Dealer of damaged or missing parts. Use the contents list to
check for missing parts.
ASSEMBLY
Gear Housing Assembly and Drive Shaft
Note: Hedge Trimmer Blades are sharp, wear gloves to protect
hands.
1. Remove locating bolt (A) and
loosen clamping bolt (B).
2. Remove vinyl cap from drive
shaft if necessary.
1 Power Head and Drive Shaft Assembly
1 Gear Case Assembly
1 Operator’s Manual
1 Warranty Statement
1 Blade Cover
A
B

FH235 OPERATION
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3. Align locating hole in gear
housing with locating hole in
drive shaft.
4. Slide gear housing assembly
onto drive shaft. Be certain the
flex drive shaft engages the
hole in the driver gear.
5. Install locating bolt (A). Tighten
clamping bolt (B).
OPERATION
Moving parts can amputate fingers or cause severe injuries.
Keep hands, clothing and loose objects away from all openings.
Always stop engine, disconnect spark plug, and make sure all
moving parts have come to a complete stop before removing
obstructions, clearing debris, or servicing unit.
Engine exhaust IS HOT, and contains Carbon Monoxide (CO), a
poison gas. Breathing CO can cause unconsciousness, serious
injury, or death. Exhaust can cause serious burns. ALWAYS
position unit so that exhaust is directed away from your face
and body.
A
B

OPERATION FH235
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Operation of this equipment may create sparks that can start
fires around dry vegetation. This unit is equipped with a spark
arrestor to prevent discharge of hot particles from the engine.
Metal cutters can also create sparks if the cutter strikes rocks,
metal, or other hard objects. Contact local fire authorities for
laws or regulations regarding fire prevention requirements.
Fuel
Diesel fuels and alternative fuels, such as E15 (15% ethanol),
E85 (85% ethanol) or any fuels not meeting Shindaiwa
requirements are NOT approved for use in Shindaiwa 2-stroke
or Hybrid 4-stroke gasoline engines. Use of diesel or alternative
fuels may cause performance problems, loss of power,
overheating, fuel vapor lock, and unintended machine
operation, including, but not limited to, improper clutch
engagement. Diesel or alternative fuels may also cause
premature deterioration of fuel lines, gaskets, carburetors and
other engine components.
Fuel Requirements
Gasoline - Use 89 Octane [R+M/2] (mid grade or higher) gasoline known to
be good quality. Gasoline may contain up to 10% Ethanol (grain alcohol) or
15% MTBE (methyl tertiary-butyl ether). Gasoline containing methanol
(wood alcohol) is NOT approved. Use of ECHO branded fuel is
recommended to extend engine life in all air-cooled 2-stroke and 2/4-stroke
hybrid engines.
Two Stroke Oil - A 2-stroke engine oil, such as Shindaiwa branded 2-stroke
oils, meeting ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD 13738) and J.A.S.O. FD Standards must
be used. Shindaiwa branded 2-stroke oils meet these standards. Engine
problems due to inadequate lubrication caused by failure to use an ISO-L-
EGD (ISO/CD 13738) and J.A.S.O. M345-FD certified oil will void the 2-
stroke engine warranty.

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2-Stroke engine oil contains petroleum distillates and other
additives that may be harmful if swallowed. Heated oil can
release vapors that can cause flash fire, or ignite with explosive
force. Read and follow the oil manufacturer’s instructions, and
observe all safety warnings and precautions for handling
flammable liquids. For more detailed safety and first aid
information, visit www.echo-usa.com for a copy of the Material
Safety Data Sheet.
◆KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
◆If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. CALL PHYSICIAN OR
A POISON CONTROL CENTER IMMEDIATELY.
◆WEAR SAFETY GLASSES when mixing or handling.
◆AVOID repeated or prolonged skin contact.
◆AVOID inhaling oil mists or vapors.
Shindaiwa branded 2-stroke oils may be mixed at 50:1 ratio for
application in all Shindaiwa engines sold in the past, regardless of
ratio specified in those manuals.
Handling Fuel
Fuel is VERY flammable. Use extreme care when mixing, storing
or handling, or serious personal injury may result.
◆Use an approved fuel container.
◆DO NOT smoke near fuel.
◆DO NOT allow flames or sparks near fuel.
◆Fuel tanks/cans may be under pressure. Always loosen
fuel caps slowly allowing pressure to equalize.
◆NEVER refuel a unit when the engine is HOT or RUNNING!
◆DO NOT fill fuel tanks indoors. ALWAYS fill fuel tanks
outdoors over bare ground.
◆DO NOT overfill fuel tank. Wipe up spills immediately.
◆Securely tighten fuel tank cap and close fuel container
after refueling.
◆Inspect for fuel leakage. If fuel leakage is found, do not
start or operate unit until leakage is repaired.

OPERATION FH235
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◆Move at least 3 m (10 ft.) from refueling location before
starting the engine.
Gasoline vapor is heavier than air, and can travel along the
ground to nearby sources of ignition such as electrical motors,
pilot lights, and hot or running engines. Vapors ignited by an
ignition source can flash back to the fuel container, resulting in
an explosion, fire, serious or fatal injuries, and extensive
property damage.
Mixing Instructions
1. Fill an approved fuel container
with half of the required
amount of gasoline.
2. Add the proper amount of
engine oil to gasoline.
3. Close container and shake to
mix oil with gasoline.
4. Add remaining gasoline, close
fuel container, and remix.
Spilled fuel is a leading cause of hydrocarbon emissions. Some
states may require the use of automatic fuel shut-off containers to
reduce fuel spillage.
After use
• Empty the fuel tank prior to storing the unit. Return unused fuel to an
approved fuel storage container.
Storage - Fuel storage laws vary by locality. Contact your local government
for the laws affecting your area. As a precaution, store fuel in an approved,
airtight container. Store in a well-ventilated, unoccupied building, away from
sparks and flames.
Stored fuel ages. Do not mix more fuel than you expect to use in thirty
(30) days, ninety (90) days when a fuel stabilizer is added.
Fuel to Oil Mix – 50:1 Ratio
US Metric
Gas Oil Gas Oil
gal. fl. oz. L cc
12.65100
25.210200
51325500