Shindaiwa M235 User manual

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© 3/2018 ECHO Inc.
ENGLISH
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.
Operator’s Manual
M235 Multi-Tool
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 operator’s manual (and safety
manual if included) before use. Failure to read the
manuals could result in serious injury.

TABLE OF CONTENTS M235
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ........................................................................................ 2
Introduction ................................................................................................. 3
Servicing Information .................................................................................. 3
Parts/Serial Number ............................................................................ 3
Service................................................................................................. 3
Consumer Product Support ................................................................. 4
Product Registration ............................................................................ 4
Additional or Replacement Manuals .................................................... 4
Safety .......................................................................................................... 4
Manual Safety Symbols and Important Information............................. 4
International Symbols .......................................................................... 5
Personal Condition and Safety Equipment .......................................... 7
Equipment.......................................................................................... 12
Emission Control (Exhaust & Evaporative) .............................................. 14
CARB And EPA Emissions Control Information................................. 14
Description ................................................................................................ 15
Contents.................................................................................................... 16
Assembly................................................................................................... 17
Power Head Shaft to Lower Shaft Assembly ..................................... 17
Support Handle Installation................................................................ 18
Operation .................................................................................................. 18
Fuel.................................................................................................... 19
Starting Cold Engine.......................................................................... 22
Stopping Engine ................................................................................ 24
Maintenance ............................................................................................. 25
Skill Levels ......................................................................................... 25
Maintenance Intervals........................................................................ 25
Air Filter ............................................................................................. 27
Fuel Filter........................................................................................... 27
Spark Plug ......................................................................................... 28
Cooling System.................................................................................. 28
Exhaust System................................................................................. 30
Carburetor Adjustment....................................................................... 32
Lubrication ......................................................................................... 33
Troubleshooting......................................................................................... 34
Storage...................................................................................................... 36
Long Term Storage (Over 30 Days) ................................................... 36
Specifications............................................................................................ 37
SHINDAIWA Optional Attachments ................................................... 38
Product Registration.................................................................................. 38

M235 INTRODUCTION
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INTRODUCTION
This product was designed and manufactured to provide long life and on-
the-job dependability. Read and understand all provided literature. Keep
manuals in a safe place for future reference. Literature contains
specifications and information for safety, operation, maintenance, storage
and assembly specific to this product. Scan QR codes for more information.
For questions regarding terms used in this manual, visit:
https://www.echo-usa.com/Support-Help/Technical-
Documents
OR
https://www.shindaiwa-usa.com/Tech-Support/Technical-
Documents
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. _________________
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.

SAFETY M235
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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 or Replacement Manuals
Replacement Operator and Parts Catalogs are available from your
SHINDAIWA dealer or at WWW.SHINDAIWA-USA.COM or by contacting
the Consumer Product Support Department (1-877-986-7783). Always
check WWW.SHINDAIWA-USA.COM for updated information.
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.
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.

M235 SAFETY
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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 and
Foot Protection
Carburetor
Adjustment - Low
Speed Mixture
Safety / Alert Emergency Stop
H
T
L

SAFETY M235
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Hot Surface Fuel and Oil Mixture
AVOID KICKOUT
Keep Bystanders At Least
15 m (50 ft.) Away
Beware Thrown Objects
Wear Eye Protection
Keep Bystanders and Helpers
Away 15 m (50 ft.)
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)
Keep Feet Away
From Blade
Rotating Cutting
Attachment
Thrown Objects Wear Face Shield
Symbol Description Symbol Description

M235 SAFETY
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Personal Condition and Safety Equipment
Cancer and Reproductive Harm
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
Finger Severing Wear Slip Resistant
Footwear
Do not operate
closer than 15 m
(50 ft.) from
electrical hazards.
Keep bystanders
a t l e a s t 1 5 m
(50 ft.) away.
DO NOT USE
BLADES - Line
Head Only
Plan retreat path
from falling
objects.
Symbol Description Symbol Description

SAFETY M235
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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
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 hearing protection whenever unit is used.

M235 SAFETY
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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.
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.

SAFETY M235
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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.

M235 SAFETY
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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.
Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately
ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains poisonous emissions
and can cause serious injury or death.

SAFETY M235
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Read the Manuals
• Provide all users of this equipment with the Operator’s Manual 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
• Always hold throttle handle and support handle with thumbs and fingers
tightly encircling the handles.
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.
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, at-
tachments or accessories which have not been tested and ap-
proved by ECHO. Read and comply with all safety instructions
listed in this manual and safety manual.
◆Check unit for loose/missing nuts, bolts, and screws.
Tighten and/or replace as needed.
◆Inspect guards and shields for damage and to ensure that
they are securely in place. Replace if damaged or missing.
◆Check that the attachment is firmly attached and in safe
operating condition.

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◆Check that handle and harness (if included) are adjusted
for safe, comfortable operation. See Assembly Section for
proper adjustment.
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.

EMISSION CONTROL M235
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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.

M235 DESCRIPTION
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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. The safety
label is for example only. Your label may appear slightly different.

CONTENTS M235
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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.
1. Power Head
2. Throttle Handle - For Right Hand
3. Throttle Trigger Lockout
4. Stop Switch
5. Support Handle - For Left Hand
6. Upper Drive Shaft Assembly
7. Drive Shaft Coupler
8. Throttle Trigger
9. Top Guard
10. Recoil Starter Handle
11. Spark Arrestor Muffler or Spark Arrestor Muffler With Catalyst
12. Fuel Tank
13. Fuel Tank Cap
14. Choke Control
15. Air Cleaner
16. Purge Bulb
17. Spark Plug
____1 Power Head and Drive Shaft Assembly
____1 Operator’s Manual
____1 Safety Glasses

M235 ASSEMBLY
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ASSEMBLY
Power Head Shaft to Lower Shaft Assembly
Do not perform maintenance or assembly procedures with
engine running.
1. Set Power Head/Shaft Assembly on a level surface.
2. Pull locater pin (A) out, and turn counter-clockwise ¼ turn to lock-out
position.
3. Remove vinyl cap from attachment drive shaft.
4. Remove cardboard spacer, if necessary.
Note: Your coupler may appear different than coupler shown.
5. Carefully fit attachment drive
shaft assembly into coupler (B)
to decal assembly line (C),
making sure that the inner
lower drive shaft engages the
square upper drive shaft
socket.
Note: Earlier model power
heads may have shorter
couplings.
Note: Lower bearing housing
and head assembly must be in line with the engine.
6. Rotate locater pin (A) ¼ turn
clockwise to engage lower shaft
hole. Insure locater pin is fully
engaged by twisting lower drive
shaft. Locater pin should snap
flush in coupler. Full
engagement will prevent further
shaft rotation.
7. Secure lower shaft assembly to
coupler by tightening clamping
knob (D).
Parts Required: Multi-Tool Power Head Shaft and Coupling
B
A
C
D
A

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Support Handle Installation
Label shows minimum
spacing for support
handle location.
1. If necessary, position support
handle for comfortable
operation and securely tighten
screws.
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.
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.

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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. ECHO Red Armor Fuel™(Power Fuel™) is
93 octane, ethanol-free fuel premixed with ECHO Red Armor®engine oil at
50:1 ratio. Use of ECHO Red Armor Fuel™(Power Fuel™) is recommended
to extend engine life in all air-cooled 2-stroke and 2/4-stroke hybrid engines.
Two Stroke Oil - A two-stroke engine oil meeting ISO-L-EGD (ISO/CD
13738) and J.A.S.O. FD Standards must be used. Shindaiwa brand 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, such as Shindaiwa brand 2-stroke oils, will void the
two-stroke engine warranty.
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.

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◆WEAR SAFETY GLASSES when mixing or handling.
◆AVOID repeated or prolonged skin contact
◆AVOID inhaling oil mists or vapors.
Shindaiwa brand 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.
◆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.