PR18B5NRA
Bluebird PR18B5NRA, PR18H5NRA, PR18H5DA, PR18H5FA, PR18NEFA Operator's Manual
...
Operators Manual Models:
MANUAL NO. 107176 REV. 03 (12/02/02)
PR18B5FA
PR18B5NRA
PR18GH5NRA
PR18H5DA
PR18H5FA
PR18H5NRA
PR18NEFA
PR22B5FA
PR22B5NRA
PR22B8FA
PR22B8NRA
PR22GH5NRA
PR22H5FA
PR22H5NRA
PR22NEFA
PR22B5FBA
PR22H5FBA
S22B5DA
S22H5DA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Operating Instructions for
Lawn Dethatcher
with supplement for accessories
Introduction ..................................................3
Congratulations .........................................3
Use ............................................................3
Insure your machine..................................3
Good service .............................................3
Serial number ............................................3
Symbols and decals.....................................4
Decals and machine-bound instructions ...4
Location of decals .....................................5
Translation of instructions .........................6
Safety instructions.......................................7
General use...............................................7
Preparations ..............................................8
Operating...................................................9
Movement/Transport .................................9
Storage......................................................9
Children ...................................................10
Fuel system ............................................10
Maintenance............................................11
Presentation ...............................................12
Presentation ............................................12
Controls ......................................................13
Main components and operating
instruments ...........................................13
Engine .....................................................14
Cutting unit ..............................................14
Blade versatility .......................................15
Setting blade height.................................15
Operation ....................................................16
Before you start .......................................16
Starting ....................................................16
Finishing ..................................................16
Maintenance ...............................................17
Maintenance schedule ............................17
Cutting unit ..............................................18
Two minute rule.......................................22
Cleaning and washing .............................22
Lubrication..................................................23
Lubrication schedule................................23
General....................................................23
Blades......................................................24
Handle .....................................................24
Troubleshooting.........................................25
Storage........................................................26
Winter storage .........................................26
Service.....................................................26
Assembly instructions ..............................27
Assembly – delivery service ....................27
Assembly directions,
catcher bag PR22 ................................28
Assembly directions, seed hopper PR22 33
Service journal ...........................................37
2
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations
Thank you for purchasing a BlueBird lawn care product. Through your confidence in us, you have
chosen an exceptionally high quality product.
This manual is a valuable document. It describes your new BlueBird machine. Read the manual
carefully before attempting to use the machine. Following the instructions (use, service, maintenance,
etc.) can considerably increase the lifespan of your machine and even increase its resale value.
Please contact your dealer for more information.
If you sell your BlueBird machine, make sure to give the operator’s manual to the new owner.
Use
The dethatcher is used to remove the layer of thatch and surface-treat lawns, i.e. power-raking, demossing and collecting thatch in the form of old grass or moss. With an attachment, it can also be
used for seeding, both in initial sowing or overseeding.
Insure your machine
Contact your insurance company to check on insurance coverage for your new machine. You should
have all-inclusive insurance for liability, fire, damage and theft.
Good service
Before the machine was delivered it underwent inspection and was adjusted by your dealer. When
you need spare parts or support in service questions, warranty issues, etc., please consult the following
professional:
This Operator’s Manual belongs to machine
with serial number:
Engine
number:
Serial number
The machine’s serial number can be found on the printed plate attached to the rear side panel of the
machine. The plate includes the following information:
• The machine’s type designation (MODEL).
• The machine’s serial number (S/N).
Please state the type designation and serial number when ordering spare parts.
The engine’s serial number is printed on the engine.
The engine type is specified on the crankcase under the air filter but also appears on the decal on the
starter.
Please state engine serial number and type when ordering replacement engine parts.
3
SYMBOLS AND DECALS
WARNING!
Xxxx xxx xxxx xx xxxx x xxxx.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Xxxx xxx xxxx xx xxxx x xxxx.
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a
risk of personal injury, particularly if the reader
DOES NOT follow the instructions given in the
manual.
Decals and machine-bound instructions
6
4
11
2
Used in this publication to notify the reader of a
risk of material damage, particularly if the reader
DOES NOT follow the instructions given in the
manual. Used also when there is a potential for
misuse or misassembly.
!
5
8
12
7
13
1. BlueBird logo
2. Model designation PR18
3. Model designation PR22
4. Height setting
5. Seeder Dial
6. DANGER watch your feet
3
10
1
9
8. Warning for carbon monoxide
9. Open/Close (Seedbox)
10. Caution graphics
11. Warning for bagger
12. Handle folding instructions
13. BlueBird logo
7. Seed application chart
4
Location of decals
SYMBOLS AND DECALS
6
12
11
2,
10
1
3
5
9
7
4
8
6
1. BlueBird logo
2. Model designation PR18
3. Model designation PR22
4. Height setting
5. Seeder Dial
6. DANGER watch your feet
7. Seed application chart
13
6
8. Warning for carbon monoxide
9. Open/Close (Seedbox)
10. Caution graphics
11. Warning for bagger
12. Handle folding instructions
13. BlueBird logo
5
Translation of instructions
SYMBOLS AND DECALS
Decal 7
Seed application chart
Values are approximate; quantities of seed depend
on the speed at which the machine is run. Faster
running speed results in sparser sowing.
Preparing the lawn
• Cut the grass to approximately 1-1.5 cm (1/2")
lower than you normally would.
• Do not water before sowing.
• Remove the layer of old grass cuttings (thatch).
• Aerate the lawn with a ground aerator of the
coring type.
• Fertilize the lawn.
Seed application recommendations
• For best results, sow in two directions with a
45° angle between.
• Water generously immediately afterward and
continue watering moderately for 10–14 days
to keep the soil moist.
• After germination, water sporadically to
encourage root growth.
Decal 8
Warning
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
considered by the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
The engine emits carbon monoxide, which is a
colorless, poisonous gas. Do not use the machine
in enclosed spaces.
Decal 10
Important information
Read and make sure you understand the Operator’s
Manual before use or maintenance.
To obtain a replacement manual, please contact
your dealer.
Observe all safety instructions; otherwise you may
injure yourself or others around you.
Make sure that the machine is in serviceable
condition prior to use.
Make sure that all protective devices are in place
when the machine is in use.
Stop the engine and wait until all machine
movement comes to a standstill before service,
adjustment or cleaning.
6
Do not run the engine in poorly ventilated spaces.
Make sure nobody is in the vicinity of the machine
before starting and during use.
Avoid slopes that are too steep to use the machine
safely.
Clear any debris from the lawn prior to use.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
General use
The object of this manual is to help you use your
BlueBird machine safely and to give you
information about how to maintain your machine.
Please read the manual carefully before attempting
to use the machine.
If after reading the operator’s manual you are still
unsure about the safety risks associated with use
of the machine, you should not use the machine.
Please contact your dealer for more information.
These safety instructions only address the basics
for safe use. It would be impossible in the safety
instructions to describe all possible risk situations
that could arise when using the machine. You can,
however, prevent accidents by always using
common sense.
To obtain extra copies of the operator’s manual,
please contact your dealer.
WARNING!
Under no circumstances may the original
design of the machine be modified
without written approval from the
manufacturer. Such modifications not
only affect the performance and
durability of the machine but may even
pose a safety risk for users and those in
the vicinity. Unauthorized modifications
to the design of the machine may absolve
the manufacturer from liability for any
resulting personal injury or property
damage. Modifying the machine without
written approval from the manufacturer
may void the guarantee.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Do not use the machine until you have read
the operator’s manual carefully and
understand the instructions given. All
maintenance work or adjustments not
described in this manual must be
performed by an authorized BlueBird
service workshop.
• Read this manual carefully and make sure you
understand it before using the machine or
performing any maintenance. If the user cannot
read this manual, it is the responsibility of the
machine owner to explain the contents to the
user.
• Follow all safety instructions. Failure to do so
may result in injury to yourself or others.
• Accident prevention regulations, other general
safety regulations, occupational safety rules
and traffic regulations must be followed without
fail.
• All users shall be trained in use of the machine.
The owner is responsible for training users.
• Engage an authorized BlueBird workshop for
all service and repairs not described in this
manual.
• BlueBird original spare parts are designed and
specified to maintain high quality and correct
fit for optimal durability and lifespan. From a
safety point of view, you should only use
BlueBird original spare parts.
• Check that all safety decals are in place. See
the chapter ”Symbols and Decals”.
• Learn how to use the machine and its controls
safely and learn to recognize the safety decals.
• Only use the machine for sowing and
dethatching lawns. It is not intended for any
other use.
• Check that the machine is in serviceable
condition prior to use; see the chapter
”Maintenance/Maintenance schedule”.
• Only use the machine in daylight or in other
well-lit conditions. Keep the machine a safe
distance from holes or other irregularities in the
ground. Pay attention to other possible risks.
• Only allow the machine to be used by adults
who are familiar with its use.
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SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
• Never allow children or persons not trained in
the use of the machine to use or service it. Local
laws may regulate the age of the user.
• People and animals can distract you causing
you to lose control of the machine. For this
reason, you should always concentrate and
focus on the task at hand.
• Never leave the machine unsupervised with the
engine running.
• Make sure that other people are nearby when
you are using the machine so that you can call
for help should an emergency arise.
• The machine is tested and approved only with
the equipment originally provided or
recommended by the manufacturer.
WARNING!
The engine can become very hot. To
avoid being burned, you must turn off the
engine and wait until all parts have cooled
before touching the engine.
WARNING!
Overexposure to vibration may lead to
circulatory or nerve damage, particularly
in people who have impaired circulation.
Contact your doctor if you experience
symptoms that could have been caused
by overexposure to vibration. Examples
of common symptoms include
numbness, pain, muscle weakness,
change of skin color or an
uncomfortable feeling of tingling. These
symptoms appear most frequently in the
fingers, hands or wrists.
Preparations
• Make sure that you always have first aid
equipment at hand when using the machine.
• Make sure nobody else is in the vicinity of the
machine when you start the engine, engage
the drive or run the machine.
• Make sure animals and people maintain a safe
distance from the machine.
• Clear the area of objects such as stones, toys,
steel wire, etc. that could become caught in
moving machine parts and thrown out.
• Find and locate all fixed objects in the ground,
such as sprinkler systems, poles, water valves,
bases for washing lines, etc. Be certain to check
for hidden electrical cables or similar in the
surface of the lawn. Always run the machine
around these objects. Never intentionally run
the machine over foreign objects.
• Make sure all guard plates and protective
shields are in place and intact when using the
machine.
• Makes sure no clothing, long hair or jewelry
can catch in moving machine parts.
• Never use the machine when barefoot. Always
wear protective shoes or protective boots with
anti-slip and preferably with steel toes.
• Wear approved ear-protection when running
the machine. Ask your dealer about approved
ear-protection.
WARNING!
Always use approved protective clothing
and approved protective equipment when
using the machine. Protective clothing and
protective equipment cannot eliminate the
risk of accidents, but wearing proper
clothing and the correct equipment will
reduce the degree of injury should an
accident occur. Ask your dealer about
approved protective clothing and approved
protective equipment recommended by
BlueBird.
8
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Operating
• Do not use the machine on grades of more
than 20°. We recommend working across
slopes rather than up and down. This will yield
a more even result. Do not leave the machine
standing on a slope unattended.
• Do not use the machine if you are tired, if you
have consumed alcohol, or if you are taking
other drugs or medication that can affect your
vision, judgment or co-ordination.
• Never use the machine indoors or in spaces
lacking proper ventilation.
WARNING!
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents
and certain vehicle components contain
or emit chemicals considered to cause
cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm. The engine emits
carbon monoxide, which is a colorless,
poisonous gas. Do not use the machine
in enclosed spaces.
• Do not use the machine on any surface other
than grass.
• Make sure you have a proper foothold when
using the machine, particularly when backing.
Walk, don’t run. Never work on wet grass. Poor
traction may cause you to slip.
• Keep your hands and feet away from moving
parts.
• Keep your hands and feet away from the work
tools.
• Slow down and be especially careful on slopes.
Make sure to run the machine in the
recommended direction on slopes. Be careful
when working close to sudden changes in level.
• Smoking, open flames or sparks in the vicinity
of the machine are strictly forbidden. Gasoline
is extremely flammable and carelessness in
handling can result in personal injury or fire.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you run over
or into anything. If necessary, make repairs
before beginning again.
• Whatever happens, you should always park the
machine on even ground, disengage the drive,
turn off the engine and wait until all moving parts
have stopped before leaving the operating
position behind the machine.
Movement/Transport
• To turn and steer the machine, press down on
the handle and turn on the back wheels.
• Turn off the engine and allow it to cool at least
2 minutes before transport.
• Collapse the handle if the machine is equipped
with a collapsible handle.
• Be careful and use safe lifting and moving
techniques when loading/unloading the
machine.
• We recommend having two people to lift the
machine.
• Fasten the machine properly in place with
approved fasteners, such as tension belts,
chains or rope. Always check that you are in
compliance with applicable traffic regulations
before transporting the machine.
Storage
• Allow the engine to cool before storing the
machine. Never store the machine near a open
flame.
• Store the machine with the fuel valve closed.
• Store the machine and fuel in such a way that
there is no risk that leaking fuel or fumes can
come in contact with flames or sparks from
electrical machines, electric engines, relays,
switches, boilers or similar.
• Store the machine in a locked space away from
children and adults untrained in use of the
machine.
9
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Children
Serious accidents can occur if you fail to be on
guard for children in the vicinity of the machine.
Never assume that children will stay put where you
last saw them.
• Keep children away from the machine.
• Keep children away from the work area and
under close supervision by another adult.
• Keep an eye out and shut off the machine if
children enter the work area.
• Never allow children to operate the machine.
• Be particularly careful near corners, bushes,
trees or other objects that block your view.
Fuel system
8011-036
Close the fuel valve.
• Check the fuel level before each use and leave
space for the fuel to expand, because the heat
from the engine and the sun can otherwise
cause the fuel to expand and overflow.
WARNING!
Gasoline and gasoline fumes are
poisonous and extremely flammable. Be
especially careful when handling
gasoline, as carelessness can result in
personal injury or fire.
• Only store fuel in containers approved for that
purpose.
• Never remove the fuel cap and fill the fuel tank
when the engine is running.
• Always stop the engine when refueling.
• Do not smoke when filling the gasoline tank
and do not pour gasoline in the vicinity of sparks
or open flame.
• Never fill the fuel tank indoors.
• Before starting the machine after refueling, it
should be moved at least 10 feet (3 M) from
the location where it was filled.
• Avoid overfilling. If you spill gasoline on the
machine, wipe up the spill and wait until it has
evaporated before starting the engine. If you
spill gasoline on your clothing, change your
clothing.
• Turn off the fuel supply for storage or transport.
• If leaks arise in the fuel system, the engine must
not be started until the problem has been
resolved.
10
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Maintenance
• Never make adjustments with the engine
running.
• Disengage the drive units, shut off the engine
and wait until all moving parts come to a
complete stop before making adjustments,
performing maintenance or cleaning the
machine.
• Disconnect the spark plug cable before
beginning repair work.
• Keep all components in serviceable condition
and make sure all nuts, bolts, etc. are tight.
Replace worn or damaged decals.
• Be careful when checking work tools. Use
gloves when performing maintenance work.
8011-027
Disconnect the spark plug cable before repair work.
• Never allow persons not trained in the use of
the machine to perform service on it.
• Always park the machine on even ground
before performing maintenance or making
adjustments.
• Do not disassemble the engine. This can
invalidate your engine warranty. Contact your
dealer if you have any questions regarding
service or guarantee matters. Follow all
maintenance instructions.
• Do not change the setting of governors and
avoid running the engine with overly high RPM.
If you run the engine too fast, you risk damaging
the machine components.
• Do not modify safety equipment. Check
regularly to be sure it works properly. The
machine must not be run with defective or
disassembled safety equipment.
• The muffler is designed to maintain sound
levels at an approved level and keep direct
exhaust away from the user. Exhaust gases
from the engine are extremely hot and may
contain sparks that can cause fires or burn the
user.
WARNING!
Wait until all moving parts are completely
still before performing maintenance on
the machine.
Turn off the engine and remove the spark
plug cable.
• Never use a machine with a defective muffler.
• Reduce the risk of fire by removing grass,
leaves and other debris that may have caught
in the machine.
11
PRESENTATION
Presentation
Congratulations on your choice of an exceptionally
high quality product. This operator’s manual
describes the BlueBird dethatcher. The machine is
available in two basic designs 18" and 22" widths.
The machine is equipped with a 5.5 hp Honda, 5. 5
hp or 8 hp Briggs & Stratton, four-cycle engine.
The 22 " dethatcher can be equipped with a catcher.
It is available as an accessory at your BlueBird
dealer. It can be mounted after purchase.
Alternatively, the 22" dethatcher can be equipped
with a seeder. It is available as an accessory at
your BlueBird dealer. It can be mounted after
purchase.
It is not possible to use a catcher and seeder
simultaneously.
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