Shindaiwa T235 User manual

X7732272700
© 1/2016 ECHO Inc.
Operator’s Manual
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.
x7722271404 / x772000164
T235
GRASS TRIMMER /
BRUSH CUTTER
Burn Hazard
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.
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm.

TABLE OF CONTENTS T235
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Users of this equipment risk injury to themselves and
others if the unit is used improperly and/or safety
precautions are not followed. ECHO provides an
operator’s manual. It must be read and understood for
proper and safe operation. Failure to do so could
result in serious injury.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents .............................................................................................. 2
Introduction ....................................................................................................... 4
The Operator’s Manual .............................................................................. 4
Servicing Information ........................................................................................ 4
Parts/Serial Number .................................................................................. 4
Service....................................................................................................... 4
Consumer Product Support ....................................................................... 5
Product Registration .................................................................................. 5
Additional or Replacement Manuals .......................................................... 5
Safety ................................................................................................................ 5
Manual Safety Symbols and Important Information................................... 5
International Symbols ................................................................................ 6
Personal Condition and Safety Equipment ................................................ 7
Equipment................................................................................................ 11
Emission Control (Exhaust & Evaporative) .................................................... 12
CARB And EPA Emissions Control Information....................................... 12
Description ...................................................................................................... 14
Contents.......................................................................................................... 17
Assembly......................................................................................................... 18
Shield Installation..................................................................................... 18
Nylon Line Head Installation .................................................................... 18
To Advance Trimmer Line ........................................................................ 19
Remove Nylon Line Headv ...................................................................... 20
Support Handle Installation...................................................................... 20
Operation ........................................................................................................ 20
Fuel.......................................................................................................... 21
Starting Cold Engine................................................................................ 23
Starting Warm Engine.............................................................................. 24
Stopping Engine ...................................................................................... 25

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T235 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Maintenance.................................................................................................... 26
Skill Levels ............................................................................................... 26
Maintenance Intervals .............................................................................. 26
Air Filter.................................................................................................... 27
Fuel Filter ................................................................................................. 28
Spark Plug................................................................................................ 29
Cooling System ........................................................................................ 29
Exhaust System ....................................................................................... 31
Carburetor Adjustment ............................................................................. 32
Lubrication................................................................................................ 33
Nylon Line Head Disassembly Instructions .............................................. 34
Nylon Line Replacement .......................................................................... 34
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................... 36
Storage............................................................................................................ 37
Long Term Storage (Over 30 Days) ......................................................... 37
Specifications .................................................................................................. 39
Notes ............................................................................................................... 41
Product Registration ........................................................................................ 42
Notes ............................................................................................................... 44

INTRODUCTION T235
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INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the SHINDAIWA family. This SHINDAIWA product was designed
and manufactured to provide long life and on-the-job dependability. Read and
understand this manual. You will find it easy to use and full of helpful operating
tips and SAFETY messages.
The Operator’s Manual
Keep it in a safe place for future reference. Contains specifications and
information for safety, operation, maintenance, storage and assembly specific to
this product.
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. _________________
SN. ___________________
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.

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T235 SAFETY
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.COMor 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.

SAFETY T235
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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
Hot Surface Fuel and Oil Mixture
DO NOT Allow Flames
or Sparks Near Fuel
Ignition
ON / OFF
DO NOT Smoke Near
Fuel Primer Bulb

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T235 SAFETY
Personal Condition and Safety Equipment
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.
Choke Control “RUN”
Position (Choke Open)
Choke Control “COLD
START” Position (Choke
Closed)
Keep Bystanders and
Helpers
Away 15 m (50 ft.).
Do not use blades.
String line only.
Beware Thrown
Objects
Do not use blades. String
line only.
Symbol Description Symbol Description

SAFETY T235
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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.
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.

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T235 SAFETY
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 T235
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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 exercise 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.
Read the Manuals
• Provide all users of this equipment with the Operator’s Manual for instructions
on Safe Operation.

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T235 SAFETY
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
• Keep exhaust area clear of flammable
debris. 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,
attachments or accessories which have not been tested and
approved 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 shield for damage and ensure that the cut-off knife is securely in
place. Replace if either is damaged or missing.
• Check that the cutting attachment is firmly attached and in safe operating
condition.
• 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.

EMISSION CONTROL T235
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◆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.
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).

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T235 EMISSION CONTROL
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 T235
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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. See PARTS
ORDERING instructions for specific information.
11 12
13
14
15
18
19
1
2
5
6
8
9
4
3
7
16
17
10
9

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T235 DESCRIPTION
1. POWER HEAD - Includes the Engine, Clutch, Fuel System, Ignition
System and Recoil Starter.
2. THROTTLE HANDLE - FOR RIGHT HAND - Contains Stop Switch,
Throttle Lockout, and Throttle Trigger.
3. THROTTLE TRIGGER LOCKOUT - This lever must be held during
starting. Operation of the throttle trigger is prevented unless throttle trigger
lockout lever is engaged.
4. STOP SWITCH - “SLIDE SWITCH” mounted on top of the Throttle Handle.
Move switch FORWARD to RUN, BACK to STOP.
5. SUPPORT HANDLE - FOR LEFT HAND - The support handle is factory
assembled to the Drive Shaft assembly but must be re-positioned for
proper cutting attitude and operator comfort.
6. DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY - Includes the Throttle Handle, Gear Housing
assembly, Support Handle, Drive Shaft and Safety Decal.
7. NYLON CUTTER HEAD - Contains replaceable nylon trimming line that
advances when the trimmer head is tapped against the ground while the
head is turning at normal operating speed.
8. CUT-OFF KNIFE - Automatically trims line to the correct length: 13 cm (5
inches) after head is tapped on the ground. If trimmer is operated without a
cut-off knife, the line will become too long, the engine will overheat, and
engine damage may occur.
9. DEBRIS SHIELD with CUT-OFF KNIFE - Required when unit is equipped
with nylon line head. Do not operate unit without shield.
10. THROTTLE TRIGGER - Spring loaded to return to idle when released.
During acceleration, press trigger gradually for best operating technique
11. SPARK PLUG - Provides spark to ignite fuel mixture.
12. ARM REST - Provides arm rest during operation and protects arm from the
hot engine.
13. RECOIL STARTER HANDLE - Pull handle slowly until starter engages,
then quickly and firmly. When engine starts, return handle slowly. DO NOT
let handle snap back or damage to unit will occur.
Shaft Label
Hot Label

DESCRIPTION T235
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14. SPARK ARRESTOR MUFFLER OR SPARK ARRESTOR MUFFLER
WITH CATALYST -The muffler or catalytic muffler controls exhaust noise
and emission. The spark arrestor screen prevents hot, glowing particles of
carbon from leaving the muffler. Keep exhaust area clear of flammable
debris.
15. FUEL TANK - Contains fuel and fuel filter.
16. FUEL TANK CAP - Covers and seals fuel tank opening.
17. CHOKE - The choke control is located at the rear of the air cleaner
housing. Move choke lever to COLD START ( ) to close choke for cold
start. Move choke lever to “RUN” ( ) position to open choke.
18. AIR CLEANER - Contains replaceable filter element.
19. PURGE BULB - Pumping purge bulb before starting engine draws fresh
fuel from the fuel tank, purging air from the carburetor. Pump purge bulb
until fuel is visible and flows freely in the clear fuel tank return line. Pump
purge bulb an additional 4 or 5 times.

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T235 CONTENTS
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 / Drive Shaft Assembly
_____ 1 - Operator’s Manual
_____ 1 - Warranty Statement
_____ 1 - Safety Glasses
____ 1 - Nylon Trimmer Head
____ 1 - Debris Shield
____ 1 - Shield Plate
____ 3 - 5 x 16mm Screws (shield mount)
Specifications,descr iptionsand illustrative material in thisliterature areas accurate as known at the time
of publication, but are subject to change without notice. Illustrationsmayinclude optional equipment and
accessories, and may not include all standardequipment.
Operator’s Manual
X7722271404 / X772000164
© 4/2011 ECHO Inc.
X7722271404 / X772000164
T235
Burn Hazard
The muffler or catalyticmuffler and surrounding cover may become extremely hot.
Alwayskeep clear of exhaustand muffler area, otherwise serious personalinjury mayoccur.
The engine exhaust from thisproduct containschemicalsknownto the State of Californiatocause cancer.
birth defectsor other reproductive harm.
Read rulesfor safe operation and instructionscarefully. E CHO providesanOperator’s Manual
and aSafety Manual. Both must be read and understood for properand safe operation.

ASSEMBLY T235
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ASSEMBLY
Shield Installation
(Nylon line operation)
Shield with cutoff knife is for use with the Nylon Line Head only.
1. Place the shield on the bottom of
the bearing housing flange.
2. Place shield plate (B) on shield,
align holes. Install three (3) screws
from bottom through plate and
shield into gear case.
3. Assemble adapter plate (C) onto
PTO shaft.
Nylon Line Head Installation
Wear Gloves or personal injury may result:
◆Cutoff knife is sharp.
◆Gearcase and surrounding area may be hot.
Parts Required: Debris Shield, Shield Plate,
three (3) 5 x 16 mm screws.
Parts Required: Nylon Line Head.
B
C

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T235 ASSEMBLY
1. Be sure adapter plate (C)
remains on PTO shaft (A).
2. Align locking hole in upper plate
with notch in edge of gear
housing and insert head locking
tool (D).
3. Thread line head (E) onto shaft
by turning it counterclockwise
until head is tight against adapter
plate (C).
4. Remove locking tool (D).
Semi-automatic nylon line heads
must be used only with debris
shield with cutoff knife. Using
nylon line heads with debris shield
without cutoff knife can result in
trimmer damage, caused by
operation with excessive line length.
Note: Your nylon line head may appear different than nylon line head
shown.
To Advance Trimmer Line
See Maintenance Section for nylon line replacement.
Note: To advance trimmer line, tap trimmer head against the ground
while the head is turning at normal operating speed.
D
C
A
D
E

OPERATION T235
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Remove Nylon Line
Headv
Note: Do not disassemble nylon
line head.
1. Align locking hole in upper plate
with notch in edge of gear
housing and insert head locking
tool (D).
2. Remove line head (E) by turning
it clockwise until head is
completely off of shaft.
3. Remove locking tool (D).
Support Handle
Installation
Note: 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.
D
E