Shindaiwa HT230 Owner's manual

HT230/DH230 HEDGE TRIMMER
Part Number 62821-94310 Rev. 8/04
WARNING! Read this manual and familiarize yourself with its contents.
This machine is designed for trimming hedges.
Do not use this machine for other purposes.
Minimize the risk of injury to yourself and others.
Do not operate or service this machine unless you clearly
understand this manual.
Keep this manual accessible so that you can reread it when-
ever you have a question about its use.
SHINDAIWA OWNER’S/
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
HT230
DH230

2
PAGE
Introduction ............................................... 2
Attention Statements ................................ 2
Safety Precautions ..................................... 3
General Safety Instructions .................... 4
Operational Precautions .......................... 5
Operating the Hedge Trimmer ................ 5
Specifications ............................................ 6
Product Description ................................. 6
Assembly .................................................... 7
Throttle Cable Adjustment ....................... 9
Mixing Fuel ............................................... 9
Filling the Fuel Tank .............................. 10
Starting Procedure ................................. 10
Starting a Flooded Engine ..................... 11
Stopping the Engine ............................... 12
Engine Idle Adjustment ......................... 12
General Maintenance ............................. 12
Long Term Storage ................................. 14
Muffler Maintenance .............................. 15
Cutter Blade Adjustment ........................ 15
Troubleshooting Guide .......................... 16
Declaration of Conformity ..................... 19
Contents
Throughout this manual are special “at-
tention statements” surrounded by boxes
and preceded by the triangular Attention
Symbol.
Attention Statements
WARNING!
A statement preceded by the
triangular attention symbol
and the word “WARNING” contains
information that should be acted
upon to prevent serious bodily injury.
CAUTION!
A statement preceded by the word
“CAUTION” contains information that
should be acted upon to prevent me-
chanical damage.
IMPORTANT!
A statement preceded by the word “IM-
PORTANT” 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.
Introduction
The Shindaiwa HT230/DH230 series of
hand power tools has been designed and
built to deliver superior performance
and reliability without compromise to
quality, comfort, or durability. Shindaiwa
high performance engines represent the
leading edge of 2-cycle engine technology,
delivering exceptionally high power at
remarkable low displacement and weight.
As an owner/operator, you’ll soon discover
for yourself why Shindaiwa is simply in a
class by itself!
IMPORTANT!
The information contained in this manual
describes machines available at the time
of publication.
While every attempt has been made to give
you the very latest information about your
Shindaiwa product, there may be some dif-
ferences between your machine and what
is described here. Shindaiwa reserves the
right to make changes to products without
prior notification, and without obligation to
make alterations to machines previously
manufactured.
Read and follow this
manual and make
sure anyone using
the hedge trimmer
does likewise. Failure
to do so could result
in serious injury or
machine failure. Keep
this manual for future
reference.
Always wear eye and
hearing protection dur-
ing the operation of this
hedge trimmer. A hard
hat will provide addi-
tional security against
falling debris.
Sound Power Level
(measure in accordance
with 2000/14/EC)
IMPORTANT!
The operational procedures described
in this manual are intended to help you
get the most from your machine, and
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 machine, or if you do not understand
something in this manual, your Shindaiwa
dealer will be glad to assist you.

3
WARNING!
The blades are SHARP!
Handle with care.
Keep hands clear of the cutter
blades when starting the engine. Do
not operate this machine if you are
tired, ill, or under the influence of
alcohol, drugs, or medicine.
WARNING!
■ Do not operate the hedge trimmer if
you are tired, ill, or under the influ-
ence of alcohol, drugs, or medica-
tion.
■ Keep bystanders at least 5 meters
(15 feet) away from the working
area during operation to reduce
their risk of being cut by the cutters
or struck by thrown debris. Stop
working immediately if a person,
especially a small child or animal
comes within the 5 meters zone.
■ The blades are sharp-handle them
with care! Wearing heavyduty
gloves will go a long way toward
protecting your hands.
■ Keep your hands clear of the cutter
blades when starting the engine,
and anytime the engine is running.
■ THIS MACHINE CAN CAUSE
SERIOUS INJURIES. Read the
instructions carefully for the correct
handling, preparation, maintenance,
starting and stopping of the ma-
chine. Be familiar with all controls
and the proper use of the machine.
Safety Precautions
WARNING!
The engine exhaust from
this product contains
substances which are harmful to
your health.
WARNING!
THE HEDGE TRIMMER
IS NOT INSULATED
AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK!
Approaching or contacting an
electric fence, power line or other
electrified object could cause death
or serious injury.
Keep the hedge trimmer at least
10 meters (33 feet) away from
electrified objects or branches that
contact them.

4
General Safety Instructions
DH2317
Note the locations of fence posts and
other fixed objects and avoid cutting
them.
Always wear hearing protection such as
earmuffs or earplugs.
Secure long hair so it is above shoulder
level.
Do not wear jewelry or loose
clothing that could get caught
in machinery or brush.
Make sure handgrips
are free of forign
substances such as
lubricant and pitch.
Wear appropriate clothing. It
should fit snugly to minimize snagging
yet permit free movement.
Never wear shorts when operating the
hedge trimmer.
Inspect the cutting site thoroughly
prior to operation. Remove objects
that could get entangled by
the cutter blade.
Always wear eye protection such as
goggles or safety glasses.
Non-skid gloves provide a firm grip,
added protection to your hands,
and are strongly recommended.
Avoid cutting large or
extremely woody branches.
Doing so can shorten cutter
life and damage the gearcase.
Before moving to another
job site, stop the engine and
install the blade cover.
Always operate with both hands
firmly gripping the handgrips of the
machine.
Do not allow the cutters to
contact buildings or other hard
objects during operation.
Never operate this ma-
chine if any safety guards
are missing or damaged.
Avoid long-term operation
in very hot or very cold
weather.
If a cutter should bind
fast in a cut, stop the
engine immediately.
Remove the cause of the
bind before proceeding.
Never cut metal objects
or wire with the blade.
Always keep a proper footing and do not overreach.
Maintain your balance at all times during operation especially when
using steps or a ladder.
Wear appropriate footwear such as non-skid boots or shoes.
Never work barefooted or wear open-toed shoes or sandals.
Always be aware of your surroundings
and stay alert for possible hazards that
you may not hear due to the noise of the
machine.
Never allow children to use the
machine. Avoid operating near
bystanders.

5
NEVER allow any person to operate
this hedge trimmer who has not
been properly trained or instructed.
NEVER smoke or light fires near the
hedge trimmer. Keep the hedge
trimmer away from excessive heat.
Engine fuel is very flammable!
Before starting the engine move 3
meters (10 feet) away from the fuel
storage area or other readily
flammable materials. Do not put
flammable materials close to the
muffler.
NEVER run the engine indoors,
Make sure there is always good
ventilation when running the
engine. Engine exhaust contains
deadly poisonous carbon monoxide
gas.
ALWAYS stop the engine before
refueling, and let the engine cool
before refueling.
WARNING!
Do not overfill the fuel tank. Wipe
off any spilled fuel immediately.
After refueling, inspect the tank
to make sure its cap is threaded on
properly. Make sure there are no
fuel leaks.
Stop the engine immediately if the
hedge trimmer suddenly begins to
vibrate or shake. Inspect for broken,
missing, or improperly installed parts
or components. Correct the problem
before returning the hedge trimmer to
service.
ALWAYS disconnect the spark plug
wire before performing any
maintenance work.
ALWAYS maintain the hedge trimmer
according to this owner’s manual
and follow the recommended
maintenance schedule.
NEVER modify or disable any of the
hedge trimmer’s safety devices.
■
■
■
■
■
■ALWAYS use genuine Shindaiwa
parts and accessories when
repairing or maintaining this hedge
trimmer. These components have
been manufactured specifically for
use on this unit and meet the
specifications for performance and
safety.
Make sure the cutters are correctly
adjusted before operating the hedge
trimmer.
NEVER attempt to adjust the cutter
with the engine running.
NEVER use a cracked or broken
cutter or cutter bar; replace it with a
new or serviceable one.
Make sure the powerhead is clean
and that the engine cooling fins and
muffler are unobstructed and free of
debris and loose vegetation.
Do not operate the hedge trimmer
with the muffler removed.
When transporting or storing the
hedge trimmer, make sure the blade
cover is attached to the cutter.
Always ensure all handles and
guards are attached and secure
when using the machine.
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■
■ Squeezing the throttle increases
engine speed, causing the clutch to
engage and operate the cutters.
■ Releasing the throttle decreases
engine speed, causing the cutters to
slow, and then stop altogether as the
clutch disengages.
Operation of the Hedge Trimmer
■ Use a sweeping motion when
cutting, and vary throttle settings
often.
■ Trim the hedge swinging the blade
as the illustration shows. At vertical
cutting the hedge trimmer is used
with circular pendulation, swinging up
and down close to the hedge.
■ Avoid cutting material larger than
1.2 cm (1/2 inch) in diameter. Do not
cut metal objects or wire.
■ Speed adjustment, turning the
maximum speed adjustment dial
counterclockwise decreases the
engine speed when the throttle is
fully squeezed. Adjust the maximum
engine speed to suit your work.
(The maximum speed adjustment
dial is preset on its maximum speed
position at the factory.)
Operational Precautions
Reduce Speed

6
Specifications
Familiarize yourself with your machine and its various components. Understanding your machine helps ensure
top performance, long service life, and safer operation.
HT230/EC1-30 DH230/EC1-24
SHT230EC
2-cycle, horizontal cylinder, air cooled
5.6 kg 5.7 kg
32mm x 28mm
22.5 cm3
8,000 min-1 (rpm)
0.75 kW
3,000 min-1 (rpm)
11,500 min-1 (rpm)
50:1
600 cm3
Walbro, WYJ
Fully Electronic, transistor controlled
NGK BMR6A
Semi-wet Type
Recoil Starter
Slide Switch
1070 x 260 x 220mm 1080 x 250 x 210mm
74 dB (A)
96 dB (A) 97dB (A)
84 dB (A) 86 dB (A)
105 dB (A)
5.7/6.5m/s2 3.8/4.8m/s2
6.8/8.7m/s2 7.2/10.7m/s2
Model Name ............................................................................................
Engine Model .......................................................................................................
Engine Type ............................................................................................
Dry Weight (excluding cutting attachment) ..............................................
Bore x Stroke ..........................................................................................
Displacement ..........................................................................................
Engine Speed at Maximum Power Output ...............................................
Maximum Power Output ........................................................................
Engine Speed at Idling ............................................................................
Maximum Engine Speed .........................................................................
Fuel/Oil Ratio .........................................................................................
Fuel Tank Capacity .................................................................................
Carburator .............................................................................................
Ignition System .......................................................................................
Spark Plug ..............................................................................................
Air Cleaner .............................................................................................
Starting Method ......................................................................................
Stopping Method ....................................................................................
Dimensions (L x W x H) ...........................................................................
Sound Pressure Level * .................................................................. Idling
Racing
Sound Power Level * ...................................................................... Idling
Racing
Vibration Level (Front/Rear)* ....................................................... Idling
Racing
* Sound Pressure Level: in accordance with ISO 11201
* Sound Power Level: in accordance with ISO 3744
* Vibration Level: in accordance with EN 28662-1
Product Description
Prior to Assembly
Before assembling this product,
please make sure you have all the
components required for a complete
unit:
■ Engine assembly (powerhead)
■ Cutter and gearcase assembly
■ Rear handle
■ Front handle
■ Bolt package
■ Tool kit including, allen wrenches,
screwdriver, combination spark
plug/13mm wrench, 8mm and
10mm wrench (HT230 only).
Carefully inspect all components for
damage.
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 of this product.
IMPORTANT! WARNING!
Do not make unauthorized
modifications or alterations
to this machine or any of its
components or accessories.
DH230
HT230
Guide Bar Front Handle
Safety Guard
Cutter
Speed Adjustment Dial
Throttle Rear Handle
Recoil Starter
ON-OFF
Switch Fuel Cap
Cover
Fuel Tank Gearcase
Air Cleaner Cover
Choke
ON-OFF
Switch
Fuel Cap
Cover
Fuel Tank
Air Cleaner Cover
Choke
Protector
Guide Bar Front Handle
Safety Guard
Cutter
Muffler
Throttle
Trigger
Rear
Handle
Recoil Starter

7
Assembly
1) Temporarily remove the 5mm
x 12mm index bolt.
2) Loosen, but do not remove, the
5mm x 25mm clamp screw, and
verify that the D- washer (shim) is
oriented as shown.
3) Position the rear handle assembly
as shown. Starting from the rear of
the trimmer, push the throttle cable,
ignition wire, and ground wire
through the handle mounting
bracket.
HT230
(a) Attaching the Rear Handle
to the Gearcase
4) Slide the rear handle into the
handle mounting bracket until it
bottoms. Use care to avoid pinching
or otherwise damaging the wires and
cable installed in Step 3.
■ Align the hole in the rear handle
with the matching hole in the handle
mounting bracket, and then install
and firmly tighten the 5mm
x 12mm index bolt.
■ Tighten the 5mm x 25mm clamp
screw firmly.
Orient the gearcase assembly to the
powerhead as shown, and secure
with the three 6mm x 16mm screws.
1) Securely tighten Screws A and B.
2) Push Screw C through the eye
terminal in the throttle control
ground wire, and then install and
firmly tighten the screw to the
powerhead.
(b) Installing the Powerhead
on the Gearcase
IMPORTANT!
Improper shoulder bolt adjustment can
shorten gearcase life drastically! Blade
durability and cutting performance are af-
fected by shoulder bolt adjustment.
(c) Install the Front Handle
The front handle is installed over a
5mm stud on the guide bar, as well
as a special 6mm x 30mm shoulder
bolt assembly that is also used for
guide bar adjustment. When install-
ing the front handle, it is extremely
important to maintain correct bar
adjustment as described below:
1) Install the 5mm flange nut over
the stud on the guide bar, and
then tighten the nut firmly.
2) Hand-tighten the shoulder bolt,
and then loosen the shoulder bolt
1/2- turn.
3) Install the 6mm washer and lock
nut on the shoulder bolt but do
not tighten the lock nut at this time.
4) While holding the shoulder bolt
with a wrench, firmly tighten the
lock nut.
Rear Handle
Assembly
Index Bolt
D-washer
Throttle Cable,
Ignition, and
Ground Wires
Clamp Screw
WARNING!
Incorrect assembly could expose the operator to serious injury! Read
and follow assembly instructions carefully.
Powerhead
Screw C
Screws A
and B
5mm
Flange
Nut
6mm Nut
and Washer
Front
Handle
Stud
Shoulder Bolt (ad-
just from below)

8
DH230
(1) Attaching the Rear Handle
to the Gearcase Assembly
1) Slide the rear handle onto the
rear flange of the cutter/gearcase as-
sembly. Make sure the throttle cable
and ignition and ground wires do not
bind during assembly.
2) Make sure the mating holes
between the rear handle and the
gearcase are aligned, then secure the
rear handle using two 6mm x 35mm
socket head cap screws and washers.
IMPORTANT!
The washers used on the front handle
and the rear handle are not the same.
The washers for the rear handle are black
for identification.
(2) Install the Front Handle
1) Locate the front handle onto the
cutter/gearcase assembly as shown.
2) Secure the handle using two
6mm x 35mm socket head capscrews
and washers.
(3) Installing the Powerhead
on the Gearcase
Orient the gearcase assembly and
powerhead as shown and secure with
the three 6mm x 16mm screws
(Screws A, B, and C).
1) Securely tighten Screws A and B.
2) Push Screw C through the eye
terminal in the throttle control
ground wire (black), and then
install and firmly tighten the
screw to the powerhead.
6mm Nuts and Washers
Front Handle
Incorrect as-
sembly could
expose the
operator to
serious injury!
Read and fol-
low assembly
instructions
carefully.
WARNING!
Collar
Rear
Handle
Cushion
Cushion
Before attaching the rear handle,
make sure the rear handle cush-
ions are located correctly.
Viewed from
the bottom
Throttle Cable,
Ignition and Ground
Wires
Rear Handle
Assembly
Cutter/Gearcase
Assembly
6mm x 35mm
Socket Head Cap-
screws and Washers
(washers black for
identification)
Powerhead
Screw C
(6 x 16mm)
Screws A and B
(6 x 16mm)

9
1) Loosen the air cleaner cover
retaining screw, and remove the
air cleaner cover.
2) Working from the bottom of the
trimmer, push the throttle cable
through the cable adjustment fitting.
Rotate the carburetor throttle about
450 and place the cable terminal in
the throttle fitting.
3) Measure free play at the end
of the throttle lever. If necessary,
turn the cable adjustment fitting
in or out until throttle lever free
play is approximately 5-10mm
(0.2- 0.4 inch).
4) Firmly connect the two igni-
tion wires as shown and tuck the
wire behind the gasket.
5) Replace the air cleaner cover,
and tighten the cover retaining
screw securely.
Throttle Cable Adjustment Mixing Fuel
■ When mixing fuel, combine 2-
cycle Engine Oil with gasoline at a
ratio of 50:1.
■ Use only fresh, clean unleaded
gasoline with an octane rating of
87 or above.
CAUTION!
■ This engine is certified to operate
on a 50:1 mixture consisting of un-
leaded gasoline and 2-cycle mixing
oil only.
■ Some motor fuels contain alcohol
as an oxygenate! Oxygenated fuels
may cause increased operating
temperatures. Under certain condi-
tions, alcohol-based fuels may also
reduce the lubricating qualities of
some mixing oils.
■ Never use any fuel containing
more than 10% alcohol by volume!
When an oxygenated fuel must be
used, a fuel containing MTBE is to
be preferred over an alcohol based
fuel.
■ 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
trimmer!
■ 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™.
Throttle Lever Free Play
HT230 DH230
5 ~ 10mm
(0.2 ~ 0.4”) 5 ~ 10mm
(0.2 ~ 0.4”)
Throttle Fitting
Air Cleaner Cover
Throttle Cable
Adjuster
Ground Wire
Screw C
Ignition Wire
(red)
Ignition Wire
Connection
Throttle Cable
Terminal
Gasket
The Hedge Trimmer should now be assembled.

10
Filling the Fuel Tank
WARNING!
Minimize the risk of fire!
■ Handle fuel with extreme care
since it is highly flammable!
■ Always allow the engine to
cool before refueling!
■ Wipe all spilled fuel and move
the machine at least 3 meters
(10 feet) from the fueling
point before restarting!
■ Never smoke or light any fires
near the unit or fuels!
■ Never place any flammable
material near the engine
muffler!
■ Never operate the unit without
the muffler in place and
properly functioning!
■ Never operate the unit if fuel
system components are
damaged or are leaking.
WARNING!
Do not inhale fuel fumes as
they are toxic!
1. Place the unit on the ground or
on a flat surface.
2. Clear any dirt or other debris
from around the fuel filler cap.
3. Remove the fuel cap slowly, and
fill the fuel tank with clean, fresh
fuel mixture.
4. Replace and firmly tighten the
fuel cap.
5. Wipe up any spilled fuel from
the powerhead before starting the
engine.
Starting Procedure
IMPORTANT!
Engine ignition is controlled by a two-
position switch mounted on the throttle
body labeled “I” for ON or START and
“O” for OFF or STOP.
2. Set the throttle lever to the
“fast idle” position by
performing the following.
3. Prime the carburetor by
depressing the carburetor
primer bulb 4 or 5 times
until you see clear fuel
flowing through the
transparent primer bulb.
4. Move the choke lever forward
to the “closed” position to
choke the engine.
WARNING!
KEEP CLEAR OF THE
CUTTING ATTACHMENT DURING
STARTING OPERATIONS! THE
CUTTERS MAY MOVE WHEN THE
ENGINE IS STARTED
■ Place the trimmer on the
ground during all starting
operations.
■ Make sure you have a secure
footing, and keep a firm grip
on the machine as well.
■ Keep all bystanders and pets
well clear of the trimmer
during starting operations.
a. Depress and hold the throttle
lockout lever, then squeeze
the throttle lever.
b. Depress and hold the throttle
lock button.
c. While depressing the throttle
lock button, release the
throttle lockout lever and
throttle lever.
Control Positions (Cold Engine)
1. Move the ignition switch
rearward to the “I” or
START position.
Ignition ON
Ignition Switch
HT230
DH230
Ignition ON
Ignition
Switch
HT230
DH230
Throttle
Lock
Fast Idle
Button
Throttle Trigger
Fast Idle
Button
Throttle
Lock
Throttle
Trigger
Primer Bulb (viewed
from rear)
Choke Closed

11
Control Positions
1. Move the ignition stop
switch rearward to the “I” or
START position.
2. Set the throttle lever to the
“fast idle” position as in Step
2, previous page.
3. Move the choke lever back
(rearward) to the “open”
position.
Start the Engine
CAUTION!
The recoil starter can be easily
damaged by abuse.
■ Always engage the starter
before attempting to crank the
engine.
■ Never pull the starter cord to
its full length.
■ Always rewind the starter cord
slowly.
1. Place the machine on the
ground. Grip the engine cover
with your left hand and the
starter handle with your right
hand.
2. Pull the starter handle slowly
toward you until you feel the
starter mechanism engage.
3. Start the trimmer by pulling
the starting handle rapidly
outward.
When the engine starts or fires...
1. Open the choke by moving
the choke lever backward
(toward the fuel tank).
2. If the engine does not
continue to run, repeat the
appropriate starting
procedures for a cold or
warm engine.
3. When the engine starts, clear
excess fuel from the
combustion chamber by
accelerating the engine
several times with the
throttle lever.
4. Operating the throttle will
automatically disengage the
fast idle setting.
If the engine does not start
■ Repeat the appropriate
starting procedure for a cold or
warm engine.
■ If the engine still fails to
start, use the procedures for
“Starting a Flooded Engine”.
1. Disconnect the spark plug
lead, then use the spark
plug wrench to remove the
spark plug
(counterclockwise to remove).
3. Set the ignition switch to the
“O ” or STOP position and open
the choke. Fully depress the
throttle lever with your left hand
and pull the starter handle
rapidly with your right hand
several times to clear excess fuel
from the engine combustion
chamber.
Starting a Flooded Engine
4. Replace the spark plug and
tighten it firmly with the
spark plug wrench. If a torque
wrench is available, torque the
spark plug to 16.7-18.6 N∙m
(170-190 kg-cm).
5. Repeat the starting procedures
for a warm engine.
6. If the engine still fails to start
or fire, refer to the
troubleshooting chart at the end
of this manual.
(Warm Engine)
WARNING!
The cutting attachment will
move when the engine ac-
celerates!
CAUTION!
Incorrect spark plug installation can
result in serious engine damage!
WARNING!
Move the ignition switch
forward to the “O” or STOP
position.
WARNING!
Burn danger from hot engine!
Allow engine to cool before
removing spark plug.
2. If the spark plug is fouled or
is soaked with fuel, clean or
replace the plug as
necessary. For spark plug
specifications and gapping
procedure. See Page 13.
Choke Open
Cover
Spark Plug
Lead
Spark Plug
STOP
Position
Choke Open

12
WARNING!
Non-standard parts may
not operate properly with
your unit and may cause damage
and lead to personal injury.
Stopping the Engine
1. Cool the engine by allowing it to
idle for 2 - 3 minutes.
2. Move the ignition switch forward
to the “O” or STOP position.
Engine Idle Adjustment
WARNING!
The cutters must NEVER
engage at engine idle
speeds! If the idle speed cannot be
adjusted by the procedure de-
scribed here, return the trimmer to
your dealer for inspection.
The engine must return to idle
speed whenever the throttle lever is
released. Idle speed is adjustable,
and must be set low enough
to permit the engine clutch to
disengage the cutters.
Idle Speed Adjustment
1. Place the unit on the ground,
then start the engine and
allow it to idle 2-3 minutes
until warm.
2. If the cutters move when the
engine is at idle, reduce idle
speed by turning the idle
adjustment screw
counterclockwise.
3. If a tachometer is available, the
engine idle speed should be
adjusted to 3,000 min-1 (rpm).
4. Carburetor fuel mixture
adjustments are preset at the
factory and cannot be serviced in
the field.
IMPORTANT!
MAINTENANCE, REPLACEMENT
OR REPAIR OF EMISSION CON-
TROL DEVICES AND SYSTEMS MAY
BE PERFORMED BY ANY REPAIR
ESTABLISHMENT OR INDIVIDUAL;
HOWEVER, WARRANTY REPAIRS
MUST BE PERFORMED BY A DEAL-
ER OR SERVICE CENTER AUTHO-
RIZED BY SHINDAIWA KOGYO CO.,
LTD. THE USE OF PARTS THAT
ARE NOT EQUIVALENT IN PERFOR-
MANCE AND DURABILITY TO AU-
THORIZED PARTS MAY IMPAIR THE
EFFECTIVENESS OF THE EMISSION
CONTROL SYSTEM AND MAY HAVE
A BEARING ON THE OUTCOME OF A
WARRANTY CLAIM.
General Maintenance
WARNING!
Before performing any main-
tenance, 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 maintnenance work.
NOTE:
Using non-standard replacement
parts could invalidate your Shindaiwa
warranty.
WARNING!
The cutters can continue
oscillating after the engine is
switched off.
WARNING!
Know how to stop the
machine quickly in an
emergency.
Ignition Switch
Ignition Stop (O)
HT230
DH230
Ignition Stop (O)
Ignition Switch
Reduce Idle
Speed
Idle Adjustment Screw

13
10-15 Hour Maintenance
Prior to each work day, perform the
following:
WARNING!
To reduce fire hazard, keep
the engine and muffler free of
debris, leaves, or excessive grease.
■ Lubricate the cutters with oil be-
fore use, and after refueling.
■ Check the cutters for damage or
improper adjustment, and adjust
or replace as necessary.
■ Carefully remove any accumula-
tions of dirt or debris from the
muffler and fuel tank. Dirt build-
up in these areas can lead to en-
gine overheating, fire, or premature
wear.
■ Clean any debris or dirt from the
hedge trimmer cutter blades. Lu-
bricate the blades before use and
after refueling. Check the cutters
for damage or incorrect adjust-
ment.
■ Check for loose or missing screws
or components. Make sure the
cutter attachment is securely fas-
tened.
■ Check the entire unit for leaking
fuel or grease.
Muffler
Keep intake
clean
Keep cooling
fins clean
This unit must never be operated
with a faulty or missing spark arrest-
er or muffler. Make sure the muffler
is well secured and in good condition.
A worn or damaged muffler is a fire
hazard and may also cause hearing
loss.
Spark Plug
Keep the spark plug and wire connec-
tions tight and clean.
Fasteners
Make sure nuts, bolts, and screws
(except carburetor adjusting screws)
are tight.
Daily 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.
Rinse and dry thoroughly. Add a few
drops of oil and work it in, then reas-
semble.
Every 10 to 15 hours
of operation:
■ Remove and clean the spark plug.
Adjust the spark plug electrode
gap to 0.6 mm (0.024-inch). If the
plug must be replaced, use only:
NGK BMR6A or an equivalent
spark plug of the correct heat
range.
Clean the spark plug and check the
gap at the electrode.
0.6 mm
(0.024 inch)
CAUTION!
Do not operate the unit if the air
cleaner or element is damaged, or if
the element is wet.
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.
Clean debris from
tank and muffler
Inspect cooling
fins, and clean as
required
Clean around
spark plug
Lubricate
cutters
Check cutters for
damage and correct
adjustment
Inspect/clean air filter
element
Air Cleaner
Element
Air Cleaner
Cover
Cover
Clean Debris

14
Gearcase Lubrication
Every 20 Hours
Connect a grease gun to the grease
fitting on the left side of the gearcase.
Top off the gearcase grease level by
adding a high quality lithium-based
grease. Three pumps of the grease
gun handle should be adequate. DO
NOT OVERFILL THE GEARCASE!
Long Term Storage
■ Thoroughly clean the exterior of
the machine.
■ Remove all clippings and other
debris from the cylinder fins and
other components (as previously
described under Daily Mainte-
nance).
■ Drain all unused fuel from the fuel
tank, and then clear the carburetor
and fuel lines by running the trim-
mer until it stops from lack of fuel.
IMPORTANT!
All stored fuel should be stabilized with
fuel stabilizer such as STA-BIL™
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.
50-Hour Maintenance
Remove the gearcase cover. Use
solvent and a soft brush to remove
all old grease from the gearcase. To
refill, hand-pack the gearcase with
approximately 40–50 grams of high
quality lithium-based grease (50–70%
of capacity). DO NOT OVERFILL!
(30 days or longer)
CAUTION!
Over-lubricating may cause the
gearcase to run slower than normal,
and may also cause leakage from
excess grease.
CAUTION!
Never store this unit with any fuel
remaining in the tank, fuel lines or
carburetor!
NOTE:
Your Shindaiwa warranty does not include
coverage for damage caused by stale or
contaminated fuels.
■ Remove the spark plug, and pour
about 7 grams of 2-cycle mixing oil
into the cylinder through the spark
plug hole. Before reinstalling the
spark plug, slowly pull the recoil
starter 2–3 times to distribute the
oil over the cylinder wall.
■ Service the air cleaner element as
previously described in the daily
maintenance section of this manu-
al.
■ Repair or replace any damaged
components as required, and then
store the unit in a clean, dry, and
dust-free area.
(more frequently in dusty or dirty condi-
tions or before long-term storage):
■ Use a hooked wire to extract the
fuel filter from inside the fuel tank.
Inspect the fuel filter element. If it
shows signs of contamination from
debris, replace it with a genuine
Shindaiwa replacement fuel filter
element. Before reinstalling the
filter, inspect the fuel line. If you
discover damage or deterioration,
the unit should be removed from
service until it can be inspected by
a Shindaiwa-trained service techni-
cian.
VIEWED FROM THE BOTTOM
Gearcase
Grease
Fitting
VIEWED FROM THE BOTTOM
DO NOT REMOVE
CONRODS!
Gearcase
Cover
socket-head Cap-
screws
Hooked
Wire
Filter Element

15
Cutter Blade Adjustment
Cutter performance of this unit
depends in great measure on cutter
blade clearance. Properly adjusted
blades will oscillate freely yet help
prevent binding of cut material
between blades. Adjust blades as
follows:
1. Loosen all blade locknuts at least
one full turn.
2. Tighten each blade shoulder bolt
firmly, and then loosen the shoul-
der bolts 1/4 to 1/2 turn.
3. Working from the gearcase end,
lock each bolt in place by firmly
tightening its locknut while pre-
venting the shoulder bolt from
turning.
When shoulder bolt adjustment is
correct, there should be a gap of
0.25–0.50 mm between the cutter
blades and the flat washers, and the
flat washer beneath each bolt head
should turn freely.
Guide Bar Locknut
Cutter Blades
Shoulder
Bolt
Washer
(should turn
freely)
Seasonally (or whenever you experi-
ence hard starting or poor perfor-
mance):
WARNING!
Never operate this machine
with a damaged or missing
muffler or spark arrester! Operating
with missing or damaged exhaust com-
ponents is a fire hazard, and may also
damage your hearing.
■ Hard starting or a gradual loss
of performance can be caused
by carbon deposits lodged in the
muffler’s spark arrester screen.
Remove the spark arrester screw
and remove the screen from the
muffler with the point of a small
pliers. Thoroughly clean the screen
with a stiff bristle brush. A dam-
aged or otherwise unserviceable
screen must be replaced. Reinstall
by gently tapping the screen into
place and retightening the screw.
■ If carbon accumulations in the
muffler or cylinder are severe or
if you do not notice an improve-
ment in performance after servic-
ing, return the trimmer to your
Shindaiwa dealer for inspection.
Muffler Maintenance
WARNING!
The cutter blades are very
sharp! Always wear gloves when work-
ing around the cutter assembly!
CAUTION!
Operating the hedge trimmer with worn
or improperly adjusted cutters will re-
duce cutter performance and may also
damage this unit.
Muffler
Arrester Screen
Arrester
Screw

16
Troubleshooting Guide
WARNING!
Do not attempt to repair the
machine unless you are quali-
fied to do so.
What to Check
Does the engine crank?
Good compression?
Does the tank contain fresh fuel
of the proper grade?
Is fuel visible and moving in the
return line when priming?
Is there spark at the spark plug
wire terminal?
Check the spark plug.
Possible Cause
Faulty recoil starter.
Fluid in the crankcase.
Internal damage.
Loose spark plug.
Excess wear on cylinder, piston, rings.
Fuel is old or contaminated.
Clogged fuel filter and/or vent.
Carburetor primer failure.
The ignition switch is in OFF ("O").
Faulty ignition ground.
Faulty transistor unit.
If the plug is wet, excess fuel may be
in the cylinder.
The plug may be fouled or improperly
gapped.
The plug may be damaged internally or
is the wrong size.
Remedy
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
Tighten and re-test.
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
Refill with clean fresh unleaded gasoline
with a pump octane of 87 or higher, mixed
with a Premium 2-cycle Engine Oil at a
50:1 gasoline/oil ratio. Re-start.
Clean or replace filter/vent as required.
Re-start.
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
Move switch to ON ("I") and re-start.
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
Crank the engine with the plug removed
and the ignition switch off. Replace the
plug, and re-start.
Clean and re-gap the plug to 0.024 inch
(0.6mm). Re-start.
Replace the plug with a NGK BMR6A.
Re-start.
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO

17
Troubleshooting Guide
What to Check
Is the engine overheating?
Engine is rough at all speeds.
May also have black smoke
and/or unburned fuel at the
exhaust.
Engine is knocking.
Possible Cause
Operator is overworking the unit.
Carburetor mixture is too lean.
Improper fuel/oil ratio.
Fan, fan cover, cylinder fins dirty or
damaged.
Carbon deposits on the piston or in the
muffler.
Clogged air filter.
Loose or damaged spark plug.
Air leakage or clogged fuel line.
Fuel is old or contaminated.
Piston seizure.
Faulty carburetor and/or diaphragm.
Overheating condition.
Improper fuel.
Remedy
Cut at a slower rate.
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
Refill with clean fresh unleaded gaso-
line with a pump octane of 87 or higher,
mixed with a Premium 2-cycle Engine
Oil at a 50:1 gasoline/oil ratio.
Clean, repair or replace as necessary.
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
Clean or replace the air filter.
Tighten or replace.
Repair or replace filter and/or fuel line.
Refill with clean fresh unleaded gaso-
line with a pump octane of 87 or higher,
mixed with a Premium 2-cycle Engine
Oil at a 50:1 gasoline/oil ratio.
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
See "Overheating" above.
Low Power Out-

18
Troubleshooting Guide
Symptom
Poor acceleration.
Engine stops abruptly.
Engine difficult to shut off.
Cutting attachment rotates at
engine idle.
Excessive vibration.
Possible Cause
Clogged air filter.
Clogged fuel filter.
Carburetor mixture too lean.
Idle speed set too low.
Switch turned off.
Fuel tank empty.
Clogged fuel filter.
Water in the fuel.
Shorted spark plug or loose terminal.
Ignition failure.
Piston seizure.
Ground (stop) wire is disconnected, or
switch is defective.
Overheating due to incorrect spark
plug.
Overheated engine.
Engine idle too high.
Broken clutch spring or worn clutch
spring boss.
Warped or damaged guide bar or cut-
ters.
Damaged gearcase.
Shoulder bolts/cutters worn or out of
adjustment.
Remedy
Clean the air filter.
Replace the fuel filter.
Return trimmer to the dealer.
Adjust: 3000 (
±
250) rpm (min-1)
Reset the switch and re-start.
Refuel.
Replace filter.
Drain; replace with clean fuel.
(See page 9).
Clean and replace spark plug, tighten
the terminal.
Replace the ignition unit.
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
Test and replace as required.
Clean and regap to 0.024"
Correct plug; NGK BMR6A
Idle engine until cool.
Set idle: 3000 (±250) rpm (min-1)
Replace spring/shoes as required,
check idle speed.
Inspect and replace as required.
Consult with an authorized Shindaiwa
dealer.
Adjust or replace replace as required.

19
Declaration of Conformity

Shindaiwa Inc.
11975 S.W. Herman Road
Tualatin, Oregon 97062
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.shindaiwa.com
Shin-Daiwa Kogyo Co., Ltd.
Head Office: 6-2-11 Ozuka
Nishi, Asaminami-ku
Hiroshima, 731-3167, Japan
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
© 2004 Shindaiwa, Inc.
Part Number 62821-94310
Revision 8/04
Printed in Japan
Shindaiwa Tornado is a trademark,
and Shindaiwa is a registered trademark
of Shindaiwa, Inc.
Specifications subject to change without notice.