Shindaiwa T450 Owner's manual

SHINDAIWA OWNER’S/OPERTOR'S MANUAL
T450 GRASS TRIMMER
WARNING!
Part Number 62104-94310 Rev. 02/05
Read this manual and familiarize yourself with its contents.
This machine is designed for cutting grass, weed, and bushes. 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 at a particular place so that you can reread it whenever you have
a question about its use.

2
Throughout this manual are special atten-
tion statements.
WARNING!
A statement preceded by the triangular
attention symbol and the word “WARN-
ING” 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
“IMPORTANT” is one that possesses
special significance.
NOTE:
A statement preceded by the word “NOTE”
contains information that is handy to know
and may make your job easier.
Attention Statements
IMPORTANT!
The operational procedures described
in this manual are intended to help you
get the most from your unit as well as
to protect you and others from harm.
These procedures are guidelines for safe
operation under most conditions, and are
not intended to replace any safety rules
and/or laws that may be in force in your
area. If you have questions regarding
your Shindaiwa power tool, or if you do
not understand something in this manual,
your Shindaiwa dealer will be glad to as-
sist you. You may also contact Shindaiwa,
Inc. at the address printed on the back of
this manual.
Introduction
Page
Shindaiwa 450-series hand held power
equipment has been designed and built to
deliver superior performance and reliability
without compromise to quality, comfort,
safety or durability.
Shindaiwa’s high-performance engines
represent the leading edge of 2-cycle
engine technology, delivering exceptionally
high power with remarkably low displace-
ment 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 owner's/
operator's manual describes units avail-
able at the time of publication.
Shindaiwa Inc. reserves the right to
make changes to products without prior
notice, and without obligation to make al-
terations to units previously manufactured.
Attention Statements .................................. 2
General Safety Instructions ....................... 3
Safety Labels ................................................ 5
Checking Unit Condition ........................... 5
Unit Description .......................................... 6
Specifications ............................................... 6
Assembly Procedure ................................... 7
Mixing Fuel ............................................... 10
Starting the Engine ................................... 11
Stopping the Engine ................................. 12
Adjusting Engine Idle ............................... 12
Shoulder Strap/Harness .......................... 12
Operation .................................................. 12
Maintenance .............................................. 13
Long Term Storage ................................... 14
Troubleshooting Guide ............................ 16
Declaration of Conformity ........................ 19
Contents
Read and follow this operators
manual. Failure to do so could
result in serious injury.
Wear head, eye, and hearing
protection during the operation
of this machine.
Wear non-slip gloves, long
trousers and non-skid boots
during the operation of this
machine.
make sure no one is within 15
meters os an operating machine.
Beware of thrown objects.
The maximum speed of the
cutting attachment shaft in min-1.
Sound Power Level (measured
in accordance with 2000/14/EC)

3
Work Safely
Trimmers operate at very high speeds and
can do serious damage or injury if they are
misused or abused. Never allow a person
without training or instruction to operate
this unit!
WARNING!
Use Good Judgment
NEVER run the engine when trans-
porting the unit.
NEVER run the engine indoors! Make
sure there is always good ventila-
tion. Fumes from engine exhaust can
cause serious injury or death.
ALWAYS use the proper cutting tool
for the job.
ALWAYS stop the unit immediately if
it suddenly begins to vibrate or shake.
Inspect for broken, missing or improp-
erly installed parts or attachments.
NEVER extend trimming line beyond
the length specified for your unit.
ALWAYS keep the unit as clean as
practical. Keep it free of loose vegeta-
tion, mud, etc.
ALWAYS hold the unit firmly with both
hands when cutting or trimming, and
maintain control at all times.
ALWAYS keep the handles clean.
ALWAYS disconnect the spark plug
wire before performing any
maintenance work.
Stay Alert
You must be physically and mentally fit to
operate this unit safely.
General Safety Instructions
WARNING!
Never make unauthorized attachment
installations.
WARNING!
Never operate power equip-
ment of any kind if you are
tired or if you are under the influence of
alcohol, drugs, medication or any other
substance that could affect your ability
or judgement.

4
SAFETY
Be Aware of the Working Environment
Avoid long-term opera-
tion in very hot or very
cold weather.
Make sure bystanders
or observers outside the
15 meter “danger zone”
wear eye protection.
Be extremely careful of slip-
pery terrain, especially during
rainy weather.
Always make sure
the appropriate cutting
attachment shield is
correctly installed.
If contact is made with a hard
object, stop the engine and
inspect the cutting attachment for
damage.
Be constantly alert for objects and debris
that could be thrown either from the rotating
cutting attachment or bounced from a hard
surface.
Reduce the risk of bystanders
being struck by flying debris. Make
sure no one is within 15 meters
— that’s about 16 paces — of an
operating attachment.
Beware of a trimmer head when
brushcutting or edging. A coasting
trimmer head can injure while it
continues to spin after the throttle
trigger is released or after the
engine is stopped.
15
METERS
ALWAYS clear your work area of trash or
hidden debris that could be thrown back at
you or toward a bystander. When operating in
rocky terrain or near electric wires or fences,
use extreme caution to avoid contacting such
items with the cutting attachment.
The Properly Equipped Operator
Always operate with both hands firmly
gripping the unit.
Wear close-fitting clothing to protect legs and arms.
Gloves offer added protection and are strongly recom-
mended. Do not wear clothing or jewelry that could get
caught in machinery or
underbrush. Secure long hair so that it
is above shoulder level.
NEVER wear shorts!
Wear hearing protection devices and a
broad-brimmed hat or helmet. Always wear eye protection such as
goggles or safety glasses to shield
against thrown objects.
Keep away from the rotating
trimmer line or blade at all
times, and never lift a moving
attachment above waist-high.
Wear appropriate footwear (non-skid
boots or shoes): do not wear open-
toed shoes or sandals. Never work
barefooted!
Keep a proper footing and do not overreach.
Maintain your balance at all times during opera-
tion.
Always make sure the appropriate cutting
attachment shield is correctly installed and in
good condition.
Always wear a Shoulder Harness.

5
Safety Labels
IMPORTANT!
Safety and Operation Information
Labels: Make sure all informa-
tion labels are undamaged and
readable. Immediately replace
damaged or missing information
labels. New labels are avail-
able from your local authorized
Shindaiwa dealer.
Checking Unit Condition
WARNING!
A cutting attachment shield or other protective device is no guarantee of protection against ricochet. YOU MUST ALWAYS
GUARD AGAINST FLYING DEBRIS!
Use only authorized Shindaiwa parts and accessories with your
Shindaiwa trimmer. Do not make modifications to this unit without
the written approval of Shindaiwa, Inc.
NEVER operate the unit with the cutting attachment shield or
other protective devices (harness, ignition switch, blade retention
clip, etc.) removed!
ALWAYS make sure the cutting attachment is properly installed
and firmly tightened before operation.
NEVER use a cracked or warped cutting attachment: If a properly
installed attachment vibrates, replace the attachment with a new
one and re-check.
ALWAYS stop the engine immediately and check for damage if
you strike a foreign object or if the unit becomes tangled. Do not
operate with broken or damaged equipment.
NEVER allow the engine to run at high RPM without a load. Do-
ing so could damage the engine.
NEVER operate a unit with worn or damaged fasteners or attach-
ment holders.
NEVER cut with dull blades. Doing so will increase the risk of
blade thrust and may also damage your equipment.

6
Specifications
Unit Description
Outer Tube
Grip
Cutting Attachment
Shield
Using the accompanying illustrations as
a guide, familiarize yourself with this unit
and its various components. Understanding
the product helps ensure top performance,
long service life, and safer operation.
WARNING!
Do not make unauthorized
modifications or alterations to any of
these units or their components.
Throttle
Trigger Tank
Guard
Ignition
Switch
Fuel
Tank
Spark
Plug
T450 TRIMMER
Shoulder
Harness
Air
Filter
* Sound Pressure Level: In accordance with EN ISO 11806 and ISO 7917
** Sound Power Level In accordance with EN ISO 11806 and ISO 10884
*** Vibration Level: In accordance with EN ISO 11806 and ISO 7916
Note 1: 8-tooth blade equipped.
Note 2: Trimmer head equipped.
Handle
Gearcase
Model Name ............................................................................................T450/EC1
Engine Model ......................................................................................................... S450EC1
Engine Type .........................................................2-cycle, vertical cylinder, air cooled
Displacement ............................................................................................ 41.5 cm3
Bore and Stroke .................................................................................... 40 x 33 mm
Maximum Power Output .............................................................................. 1.6 kW
Engine Speed at Idling ........................................................................... 2,750 min-1
Maximum Engine Speed ...................................................................... 11,500 min-1
Engine Speed at Maximum Power Output .............................................. 7,500 min-1
Dry Weight (Without cutting attachment and guard.) ................................................. 7.5 kg
Dimensions (L x H x H) mm ............................................................ 1,795x370x320
Fuel Tank Capacity .................................................................................. 1000 cm3
Fuel/Oil Ratio ..................................................................................................50:1
Carburetor Type .............................................................. TK, DPV11W, Diaphragm
Ignition ............................................................. Fully electronic, transistor controlled
Spark Plug .......................................................................................... NGK BMR6A
Air Cleaner Type .......................................................................................Semi-wet
Starting Method ................................................................................. Recoil Starter
Stopping Method ................................................................................. Slide Switch
Handle Type .............................................................................................J-Handle
Sound Pressure Level* (average data between at Idling and at Racing) Note 1 ............................95 dB (A)
Sound Power Level** (average data between at Idling and at Racing) Note 1 ..................................107 dB
Vibration Level*** Note 1 Idling (Left/Right) .............................................3.6/2.3 m/s2
Racing (Left/Right) 4.6/7.2 m/s2
Sound Pressure Level* (average data between at Idling and at WOT) Note 2 ..............................99 dB (A)
Sound Power Level** (average data between at Idling and at WOT) Note 2 ...............................112 dB (A)
Vibration Level*** Note 2 Idling (Left/Right) .............................................1.9/1.0 m/s2
WOT (Left/Right) 3.4/4.7 m/s2

7
Prior to Assembly
Before assembling, make sure you have all
the components required for a complete
unit:
 Engine assembly
 Outer tube assembly
 Throttle Lever
 Cutting attachment shield
 Cutting attachment
 Handle
 Kit containing cutting attachment
shield mounting bracket and hardware,
operator’s handle mounting bracket and
hardware, gearcase tool holder, this
manual and tool kit for routine mainte-
nance. Tool kits vary by model and may
include a hex wrench, spanner and a
combination spark plug wrench/screw-
driver.
Carefully inspect all components for dam-
age.
IMPORTANT!
The terms “left”, “left-hand”, and “LH”;
“right”, “right-hand”, and “RH”; “front” and
“rear” refer to directions as viewed by the
operator during normal operation.
Assembly Procedure
Assembling the Outer Tube
1. Insert the throttle lever in the outer tube.
2. Loosen the 2 joint bolts fully.
JOINT BOLT
JOINT
TUBE
THROTTLE
CABLE
THROTTLE
LEVER
3. Slip the outer tube into the joint until
the tube bottoms. The outer tube or
gearcase shaft may have to be rotated
slightly for the splines on the mainshaft
to fully engage to the engine.
GROUND
WIRE
4. Attach the ground wire to the joint bolt.
5. Tighten the 2 joint bolts securely.
6. Loosen the screws that tighten the
throttle lever to the outer tube. Shift the
throttle lever toward the saw blade.
7. Shift the throttle lever back to the
original position, pull the ground wire
and the throttle cable and tighten the
screws securely.
8. Remove the bolts tightening the cylinder
cover.
9. Put the bolt through the hole of the
ground wire terminal and tighten the
bolt.

8
Front Handle Inatallation
WARNING!
NEVER operate this machine
without the front handle.
Operating without the front handle may
result in serious injury.
NOTE:
Tighten four bolts diagonally to prop-
erly secure the handle.
NOTE:
Adjust the handle at the best position
for operator comfort.
1. Remove the 4mm retaining screws and
lower cap from the front handle bracket.
2. Mount the front handle on the outer tube
and align it with the "Attach Handle on
This Line" decal.
3. Reinstall the lower cap and retaining
screws. Tighten the retaining screws
evenly.
FRONT HANDLE
FRONT HANDLE
BRACKET
OUTER
TUBE INSTALLATION
DECAL
CAP
LOWER CAP
RETAINING
SCREWS
Throttle Cable Installation
1. Install the throttle cable sleeve on the
throttle grip throttle cable.
2. Connect the powerhead and the throttle
cable ends.
IMPORTANT!
Make sure the metal end of the
powerhead throttle cable jacket fits in the
grooved end of the cable connector.
3. Center the throttle cable sleeve over
the connected cable ends and place the
assembly in the throttle cable connector.
4. Using hand pressure, close the throttle
cable connector.
5. Secure each end of the throttle connector
with a cable tie.
6. Connect the powerhead and stop switch
wire terminals
7. Connect the stop switch ground wire and
the powerhead ground wire terminals.
Connecting Throttle Cable Ends
THROTTLE CABLE
SLEEVE
THROTTLE CABLE
SLEEVE
THROTTLE CABLE
SLEEVE
THROTTLE CABLE
CONNECTOR
Connecting Throttle Cable Ends
STOP SWITCH CONNECTOR
THROTTLE CABLE HOUSING
CABLE TIES

9
Throttle Cable Adjustment
(1) Pull the throttle trigger gently,
and check for free-play of
approximately 3mm.
(2) If free-play is out of specifications:
(a) Slide the cable cap toward the
muffler side until the adjusting
nut and the lock nut appear.
(b) Loosen the lock nut slightly.
(c) Turn the adjusting nut so that
free-play is about 3mm.
(d) Then, tighten the lock nut.
(e) Slide the cable cap back.
Cutting Attachment Shield Assembly
WARNING!
NEVER operate this machine
without the cutting attachment
shield. Operating without the cutting
attachment shield may result in seri-
ous injury.
Cutting Attachment Shield
(1) Insert the cutting attachment
shield between the outer tube and the
lower clamp. Loosen the nut and bolt
which are tightening the lower clamp
if the cutting attachment shield does
not fit with the lower clamp.
NOTE:
It may be necessary to loosen the lower
clamp bolt so that the shield will fit
between the tube and clamp.
(2) Fit the upper clamp over the outer
pipe and tighten with four bolts.
NOTE:
Tighten four bolts a crisscross fashion.
(3) Tighten the lower clamp bolt and
nut securely.
WARNING!
Carefully inspect the debris
shield assembly to make sure
it is tightened securely and does not
wobble.
Shield Extension
(1) Attach the shield extension to the
cutting attachment shield.
NOTE:
Make sure the shield extension is com-
pletely hooked at the hook receiver.
CAUTION!
The line cutter is attached to the shield
extension and must be used when op-
erating with a trimmer head.
FREE PLAY = 3mm
THROTTLE CABLE
CABLE CAP
ADJUSTING NUT
LOCK NUT
UPPER
CLAMP
BOLT
OUTER TUBE
LOWER CLAMP
NUT
CUTTING
ATTACHMENT
SHIELD
BOLT

10
Mixing Fuel
WARNING!
Minimize the risk of fire,
burns, and personal injury!
 STOP engine before refueling.
 ALWAYS allow the engine to cool
before refueling
 ALWAYS open the fuel cap slowly
to allow any pressure build-up
in the tank to release fuel vapor
slowly.
 ALWAYS transport and store fuels
in an approved container.
 Avoid overfilling and wipe-up all
spilled fuel. Move the engine at
least 3 meters from the fueling
point, storage area, and other
readily flammable materials before
restarting.
 ALWAYS inspect the unit for fuel
leaks before each use. During
each refill, make sure there are no
fuel leaks around the fuel cap and/
or tank. If a fuel leak is evident,
stop using the unit immediately.
Fuel leaks must be repaired before
using the unit.
 NEVER smoke or light any fires
near the engine or fuel source.
 NEVER place any flammable ma-
terial near the engine or muffler.
 NEVER operate the engine without
the muffler in good working condi-
tion.
ALWAYS move the unit to a place
well away from a fuel storage area
or other readily flammable materi-
als before starting the engine.
CAUTION!
Some gasolines contain alcohol as
an oxygenate! Oxygenated fuels may
cause increased operating tem-
peratures. Under certain conditions,
alcohol-based fuels may also reduce
the lubricating qualities of some mixing
oils. Never use any fuel containing
more than 10% alcohol by volume!
Generic oils and some outboard motor
oils may not be intended for use in
high-performance air cooled 2-cycle
engines, and should never be used in
your Shindaiwa engine!
CAUTION!
This engine is designed to operate on
a 50:1 mixture consisting of unleaded
gasoline and a premium 2-cycle mixing
oil only. Use of Non-approved mixing
oils can lead to excessive maintenance
costs and/or engine damage.
Installing a Blade
(1) Make sure the switch is off and
the engine is stopped.
(2) Wear gloves to protect your hands.
(3) Turn the unit over so the saw
holder flange extending from the gear
case is facing up.
(4) Using the small end of the plug
wrench, loosen the bolt (turn clock-
wise) and remove the bolt, bolt guard,
and holder B.
(5) Slide the safety clip as shown in
the illustration.
WARNING!
Before operating, make sure
the blade is securely mounted.
Turn the blade with your hand slightly
and make sure the blade turns smoothly
without wobbling.
WARNING!
The blade must fit flat. Make
sure the direction of the arrow
indicated on the blade corresponds
with the arrow indicated on the cutting
attachment shield.
(7) Put holder B and bolt guard back
and at this time only finger tighten
the bolt.
Make sure holder B is flat against
the blade and the recess in holder B
must face the blade and completely
cover the safety clip.
(8) Rotate holder A until the hole in
its skirt aligns with the hole in the
gear case. Insert the hex wrench
through both holes (to prevent the
shaft from turning).
(9) Holding the hex wrench and blade
with one hand, tighten the bolt (turn
counterclockwise) securely using the
hex socket end of the plug wrench.
(10) Remove the hex wrench.
WARNING!
Never operate this machine
without the safety clip in
place.
(6) Fit the blade over the safety clip
onto holder A. Then, slide the safety
clip back to its original position.
WARNING!
The blade must fit flat against
holder A. The blade’s mounting
hole must be centered over the raised
boss of holder A.

11
Mixing Fuel Filling The Fuel Tank
1. Place the unit on a flat, level surface,
and wipe any debris from around the
fuel cap.
2. Remove the fuel cap.
3. Fill the tank with clean, fresh fuel.
4. Replace the cap, and wipe away any
spilled fuel before starting the engine.
IMPORTANT!
Mix only enough fuel for your immediate
needs! If fuel must be stored longer than
30-days, it should first be treated with a
stabilizer such as StaBil™ or equivalent
product!
CAUTION!
Never attempt to mix fuel in the unit’s
fuel tank. Always mix all fuels in a
clean approved container.
 Use only fresh, clean unleaded gasoline
with a pump octane rating of 87 or
higher.
 Mix fuel with a Premium 2-cycle
mixing oil designed for use with high-
performance 2-cycle air-cooled engines.
 Refer to the following examples of 50:1
fuel to oil mix quantaties:
Gasoline 2-cycle mixing oil
liters milliliters
2.5 l ............................. 50 ml
5 l ................................100 ml
10 l ..............................200 ml
20 l ..............................400 ml
WARNING!
MAKE SURE THE CUTTING
ATTACHMENT IS WELL
CLEAR OF ANY INTERFERENCE.
Before starting the engine, place unit
on clear, level surface. Make sure
you have good secure footing and
always keep a firm grip on the ma-
chine. THE CUTTING ATTACHMENT
MAY ROTATE WHEN THE ENGINE
STARTS.
Starting the Engine
WARNING!
Move at least three meters
away from the fuel site before
starting the engine.
WARNING!
Never operate the engine
without the cutting attach-
ment installed.
Starting a Cold Engine and/or
Restarting After Refueling.
(a) Slide the ON-OFF switch to the “I”
position.
(b) Prime the engine by repeatedly
depressing the carburetor primer bulb
until fuel can be seen flowing through
the transparent overflow return tube:
(c) Push the choke lever upward
(“ closed“ position). (Cold engine.)
(d) While firmly holding the outer
tube with one hand, pull the recoil
starter handle upward with your
other hand. Pull slowly at first until
you feel the starter engage, then pull
quickly to start the engine. Do not
pull the starter rope to the end of its
travel.
CAUTION!
Pulling the starter rope to the end
of its travel may damage the starter
mechanism.
OVERFLOW TUBE
Make sure the cutting
attachment is clear
of obstructions.
ON-OFF SWITCH LOCK LEVER
THROTTLE LEVER

12
IMPORTANT!
Repeated cranking of the engine with
the choke CLOSED (“ “) will lead to
engine flooding. If the engine fails to
start after several attempts, move the
choke lever to the OPEN position and
continue cranking.
(e) When the engine first fires, gradu-
ally return the choke to OPEN
(“ ”) position if you have not al-
ready done so.
• If the engine stops before the choke
is fully open, restart with the choke
closed.
• If the engine stops after the initial
firing, restart with choke closed.
WARNING!
Never start the engine from
the operating position.
Starting a Warm Engine
Starting a warm engine involves all of
the steps of starting a cold engine.
EXCEPT:
• The choke should be in the OPEN
position.
If the engine does not start, follow the
cold engine starting procedure.
When the engine starts:
• After the engine starts, allow the en-
gine to warm-up at idle for 2 or 3 min-
utes before operating the machine.
• After the engine is warm, pick up
the machine and clip on the strap.
• Advancing the throttle makes the
cutting attachment rotate faster;
releasing the throttle makes the at-
tachment stop running. If the cutting
attachment continues to rotate, car-
buretor idle speed should be adjusted.
Stopping the Engine
Idle the engine briefly before stop-
ping, then slide the ON-OFF switch to
the “O” (for STOP) position.
WARNING!
The cutting attachment con-
tinues rotating for a while after
the switch is turned off.
WARNING!
The cutting attachment must
NEVER rotate at engine idle!
If the idle speed can not be adjusted
by the procedure described here, have
the unit inspected at an authorized
Shindaiwa dealer.
The engine must return to idle speed
whenever the throttle lever is re-
leased. Idle speed is adjustable, and
must be set low enough to permit the
engine clutch to disengage the cut-
ting attachment when the throttle is
released.
Engine Idle Adjustment
NOTE:
Carburetor fuel mixture adjustments
are preset at the factory on units with
emission control systems and cannot
be serviced in the field.
(3) If a tachometer is available, the
engine idle speed should be adjusted
to 2,750 min-1 (rpm)
(1) Place the unit on the ground, then
start the engine and allow it to idle
for 2-3 minutes until warm.
(2) If the attachment rotates when
the engine is at idle, reduce the idle
speed by turning the idle adjustment
screw counterclockwise.
To Wear the Harness
Shoulder Harness
1. Wear the harness as the illustration
shows.
2. Pressing the button, fasten the chest
belt.
3. Hook the harness hook to the hanger.
4. Adjust the length of the belts for your
comfortable operation.
Emergency Release
In case of emergency, firmly pull the
white tab at the hook. The machine
will release from the strap.
Idle Adjust
Screw
IMPORTANT!
Adjust the shoulder strap so the shoulder
pad rests comfortably on the off-side
shoulder and the cutting path of the cutting
attachements is parallel to the ground. Make
sure all hooks and adjustment devices are
secure.
ON-OFF SWITCH
Starting the Engine
(Continued)

13
Operation
CAUTION!
To prevent possible engine damage,
do not allow the machine to run at high
speeds without a load. Avoid operating
the engine at low speeds. Doing so can
lead to rapid clutch wear. In addition,
slow-speed operation tends to cause
grass and debris to wrap around the
cutting attachment.
WARNING!
“BLADE THRUST” is a sudden
sideway or backward motion of
the machine. Such motion may
occur when the blade jams or catches
on an object such as a sapling tree or
tree stump. BE CONSTANTLY ALERT
FOR BLADE THRUST AND GUARD
AGAINST ITS EFFECTS.
WARNING!
Position the blade so cuts
are made between blade’s
8 o’clock and 10 o’clock
positions (as viewed from above).
DO NOT cut between the 11 o’clock
and 5 o’clock positions.
CAUTION!
DO NOT use 2-tooth blades with this
machine.
(1) After starting the engine, pull
the throttle lever gradually.
The engine speed increases
and the blade will start
rotating.
(2) When the throttle lever is
released, the engine goes
back to idle speed
automatically.
(3) Operate the machine at full
throttle while cutting. Best
fuel efficiency is obtained by
releasing the throttle when
swinging back after cut.
(4) The blade rotates
counterclockwise. For best
performance and to minimize
being stuck by debris, move
the blade from right to left
while advancing on your
work.
WARNING!
NEVER strike or slam the
spinning blade against the
wood.
WARNING!
When transporting, make sure
the engine is not running and
blade is covered with blade cover.
Using A Blade
Maintenance
WARNING!
Before performing any
maintenance, repair,
or cleaning work on the
machine, make sure the engine and
cutting attachment are completely
stopped. Disconnect the spark plug
wire before performing service or
maintenance work.
Prior to each work day, perform the
following:
 Remove the dirt and debris
from the engine, check the
cooling fins and air cleaner
for clogging, and clean them
as necessary.
 Carefully remove any
accumulations of dirt or
debris from the muffler and
fuel tank. Dirt buildup in
these areas can lead to
engine overheating, fire, or
premature wear.
 Check for loose or missing
screws or components. Make
sure the cutting attachment
is securely fastened.
 Check the machine for
leaking fuel or grease.
Daily Maintenance
WARNING!
Never repair a damaged blade
by welding, straightening,
or by modifying its shape.
An altered blade may break during
operation, resulting in serious injury.

14
10 Hour Maintenance
CAUTION!
Do not operate the machine if the air
cleaner or element is damaged, or if
the element is water-soaked.
Remove the air cleaner element from
the carburetor and clean it thorough-
ly with soap and water. Squeeze out
excess, let dry and reassemble the
element.
10/15 Hour Maintenance
CAUTION!
Before removing the spark plug, clean
the area around the plug to prevent dirt
and dust from getting into the engine’s
internal parts.
Remove and clean the spark plug.
Adjust the spark plug electrode gap
to 0.6 - 0.7mm. If the plug must be
replaced, use only NGK BMR6A.
Long Term Storage
Whenever the unit will not be used for
30 days or longer, use the following
procedures to prepare it for storage:
 Clean external parts thoroughly and
apply a light coating of oil to all metal
surfaces.
 Drain all the fuel from the fuel tank.
IMPORTANT!
All stored fuels should be stabilized with a
fuel stabilizer such as STA-BIL™.
To remove the remaining fuel from the
fuel lines and carburetor and with the fuel
drained from the fuel tank.
1. Prime the primer bulb until no more fuel
is passing through.
2. Start and run the engine until stops
running.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 until the engine will
no longer start.
CAUTION!
Gasoline stored in the carburetor
for extended periods can cause
hard starting, and could also lead to
increased service and maintenance
costs.
 Remove the spark plug and pour about
7 grams of 2-cycle mixing oil into the
cylinder through the spark plug hole.
Slowly pull the recoil starter 2 or 3
times so oil will evenly coat the interior
of the engine. Reinstall the spark plug.
 Before storing the unit, repair or replace
any worn or damaged parts.
 Remove the air cleaner element from the
carburetor and clean it thoroughly with
soap and water. Let dry and reassemble
the element.
 Store the unit in a clean, dust-free area.
50 Hour Maintenance
Cleaning
Remove and clean the cylinder cover
and clean grass and dirt from the
cylinder fins.
Remove the cutting attachment and
the gear shaft collar, and press new
grease into the gear case until the
old grease has been pushed out. Use
only lithium base grease (such as
Shindaiwa Gear Case Lubricant).
Use a hooked wire to extract the
fuel filter from inside the fuel tank.
Remove and replace the filter ele-
ment. Before reinstalling the filter,
inspect the condition of the fuel
line. If damage or deterioration are
noted, the unit should be removed
from service until you can con-
sult with an authorized servicing
dealer.
Hooked
Wire
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.
Fuel Filter Maintenance
BOLT
STAY
CYLINDER
COVER
BOLT
PROTECTOR
MUFFLER
COVER
GASKET

15
Blade Sharpening
WARNING!
Sharpen only the cutting
teeth of a blade. DO NOT
alter the contour of the blade
in any way. In order to keep the blade
in balance, all cutting edges must be
sharpened equally. DO NOT file the
tips of the teeth too sharp.
With the file or a grinder, file a blade
as follows.
Recommended
Cutting Attachments
Make sure to use the following rec-
ommended Shindaiwa cutting attach-
ment with this machine.
Blades
PART NUMBER 60903-98310
8-TOOTH BLADE
INNER BORE: 25.4mm
DIAMETER: 255.0mm
THICKNESS: 2.0mm
PART NUMBER 72430-92142
3-TOOTH BLADE
INNER BORE: 25.4mm
DIAMETER: 255.0mm
THICKNESS: 2.2mm
PART NUMBER 60903-98320
4-TOOTH BLADE
INNER BORE: 25.4mm
DIAMETER: 255.0mm
THICKNESS: 2.0mm
Trimmer Head
PART NUMBER 78820-14000
SEMI-AUTOMATIC TRIMMER HEAD
BOLT DIAMETER: 10mm
THREAD: LEFT,1.25mm PITCH

16
Does the engine
crank?
Faulty recoil starter.
Fluid in the crankcase.
Internal damage.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
NO
Good
compression?
Loose spark plug.
Excess wear on
cylinder, piston, rings.
Tighten and re-test.
NO
YES
Does the tank
contain fresh
fuel of the
proper grade?
Refill with clean fresh unleaded
gasoline with a pump octane of
87 or higher, mixed with
Premium 2-cycle mixing oil at a 50:1
gasoline/oil ratio.
Fuel incorrect, stale, or
contaminated; mixture
incorrect.
NO
YES
Is fuel visible
and moving in
the return line
when priming?
Check for clogged fuel
filter and/or vent.
Replace fuel filter or vent as required.
Restart.
NO
Is there spark at
the spark plug
wire terminal?
The ignition switch
is in “O” (OFF) position.
Shorted ignition ground.
Faulty ignition unit.
Move switch to “I” (ON)
position and re-start.
NO
NO
YES
YES
Check the
spark plug.
If the plug is wet, excess
fuel may be in the
cylinder.
The plug is fouled
or improperly gapped.
The plug is damaged
internally or of the
wrong size.
Crank the engine with the
plug removed, replace the
plug, and re-start.
Clean and re-gap the plug to
0.6 ~ 0.7 mm. Re-start.
Replace the plug with a
NGK BMR6A. Re-start.
YES
What To Check Possible Cause Remedy
Troubleshooting Guide
Engine Does Not Start

17
Low Power Output
Troubleshooting Guide (Continued)
Is the engine
overheating?
Operator is overworking
the unit.
Carburetor mixture is
too lean.
Improper fuel ratio.
Fan, fan cover, cylinder
fins dirty or damaged.
Carbon deposits on the
piston or in the muffler.
Cut at a slower rate.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
Refill with clean fresh unleaded
gasoline with a pump octane of
87 or higher, mixed with
Premium 2-cycle mixing oil at a
50:1 gasoline/oil ratio.
Clean, repair or replace
as necessary.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
What To Check Possible Cause Remedy
Engine is rough
at all speeds.
May also have
black smoke
and/or unburned
fuel at the
exhaust.
Clogged air cleaner
element.
Loose or damaged
spark plug.
Air leakage or clogged
fuel line.
Water in the fuel.
Piston seizure.
Faulty carburetor and/
or diaphragm.
Clean or replace the air filter.
Tighten or replace the plug with
a NGK BMR6A. Re-start.
Repair or replace fuel
filter and/or fuel line.
Refill with fresh fuel/oil
mixture.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
Engine is
knocking.
Overheating condition.
Improper fuel.
Carbon deposits in the
combustion chamber.
See above.
Check fuel octane rating;
check for presence of
alcohol in the fuel. Refuel as
necessary.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.

18
Inspect and replace
attachment as required.
Tighten gearcase securely.
Inspect and replace
as necessary.
Poor
acceleration.
Clogged air filter.
Clogged fuel filter.
Lean fuel/air
mixture.
Idle speed set too low.
Clean or replace the air filter.
Replace the fuel filter.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
Adjust: 2,750 min-1
Symptom Possible Cause Remedy
Engine stops
abruptly.
Switch turned off.
Fuel tank empty.
Clogged fuel filter.
Water in the fuel.
Shorted spark plug or
loose terminal.
Ignition failure.
Piston seizure.
Reset the switch and re-start.
Refuel. See page 11.
Replace fuel filter.
Drain; replace with clean fuel.
See page 11.
Clean or replace spark plug with
a NGK BMR6A. Tighten the terminal.
Replace the ignition unit.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
Engine difficult
to shut off.
Ground (stop) wire is
disconnected, or
switch is defective.
Overheating due to
incorrect spark plug.
Overheated engine.
Test and replace
as required.
Replace spark plug with a NGK BMR6A.
Idle engine until cool.
Cutting
attachment
moves at
engine idle.
Engine idle too high.
Broken clutch spring
or worn clutch spring
boss.
Loose attachment
holder.
Set idle: 2,750 min-1
Replace spring/shoes as
required, check idle speed.
Inspect and re-tighten
holders securely.
Excessive
vibration
Warped or damaged
attachment.
Loose gearcase.
Bent main shaft/worn
or damaged bushings.
Attachment will
not rotate
Shaft not installed
in powerhead or
gearcase.
Broken shaft.
Damaged gearcase.
Inspect and reinstall
as required.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
Consult with an authorized
servicing dealer.
Additional Problems
Troubleshooting Guide (Continued)

19
Declaration Of Conformity

20
Shindaiwa Inc.
11975 SW Herman Rd.
Tualatin, Oregon 97062
U.S.A.
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.shindaiwa.com
Shindaiwa Kogyo Co., Ltd.
6-2-11, Ozuka-Nishi,
Asaminami-Ku, Hiroshima
731-3167, Japan
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
© 2005 Shindaiwa Inc.
Part Number 62104-94310
Revision 02/05
Shindaiwa is a registered trademark of Shindaiwa, Inc.
Specifications subject to change without notice.