Congratulations on your purchase of a new DR TRIMMER/MOWER We have done our
utmost to ensure that your DR
will be one of the most trouble-free and satisfying pieces of
equipment you’ve ever owned.
Please let us know if you have any questions or problems. We want to answer or correct
them quickly. (When you do call or write, please have your serial number and/or order
number handy;
it will speed things up.) We also hope to hear from you about how you like your new
machine.
Please tell your friends about your new DR
TRIMMER/MOWER. Having new owners spread
the word about our products and the way we conduct business is the best advertising we
have and it’s the best way we can provide you with even better service in the years to come.
Thanks once again!
for all of us at
Country Home Products, Inc.
COPYRIGHT
2002 Country Home Products, Inc. All rights reserved.
D
OCUMENTATION
Written by: Ann Zuccardy, Page Designs Inc.
Country Home Products, Inc.
Meigs Road
P.O. Box 25
Vergennes, VT 05491
Chapter 1: Introducing the DRChapter 1: Introducing the DR TRIMMER/MOWER TRIMMER/MOWER
Thank you for the purchase of your new DR TRIMMER/MOWER. Over 500,000 people have
chosen the DR
TRIMMER/MOWER since 1987 to help make property care faster and easier
than ever before.
This manual is shipped with DR
models. It will help you set up and safely operate your new DR
TRIMMER/MOWER SPRINT, PRO, and COMMERCIAL
TRIMMER/MOWER. Careful
adherence to the safety and operating instructions in this manual will ensure many years of
productive use.
Please let us know if you have any questions or problems by contacting us via e-mail or our
toll-free phone number. Our contact information is listed inside the front cover of this
manual. When you call or write, please have your serial number or order number available
so we can help you quickly.
About This Manual
This manual is broken down into six main chapters:
Chapter 1: Introducing the DR
■ Explains the organization of this manual.
■ Provides contact information for Country Home Products, Inc.
Chapter 2: Safety Considerations
■ Explains guidelines for safe operation of your machine.
Chapter 3: Setting Up Your DR
■ Provides instructions for setting up and using your machine after shipment.
Chapter 4: Operating Your DR
■ Provides instructions for starting and stopping the machine’s engine.
■ Explains the many cutting and trimming features of your machine.
■ Provides tips for dealing with obstacles.
Chapter 5: Maintaining the DR
■ Provides machine maintenance tips.
TRIMMER/MOWER
TRIMMER/MOWER
TRIMMER/MOWER
TRIMMER/MOWER
Chapter 6: Troubleshooting and Warranty
■ Lists common problems and their solutions.
■ Explains how to contact Country Home Products, Inc. should you need further
assistance.
■ Provides warranty information.
In addition to these chapters, there is a section at the end of this manual for your notes as
well as a checklist of daily maintenance procedures on the back cover which will keep your
trimmer performing well for years to come.
alerts you to essential operating, safety, and maintenance (servicing)
Important!
or damage to your trimmer.
Tip: This is a helpful hint to guide you in getting the most out of your trimmer.
Tools needed: This indicates you will need a special tool to perform a maintenance function
on your machine.
Note: This information may be is helpful to you.
If you are ever unsure about an action you are about to take, contact Country Home
Product’s toll-free support at 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637).
WARNING! The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle
This information is important in the proper use of your
machine. Failure to follow this instruction could result in injury to you
Taking the time to read and observe all safety instructions will ensure many years of
productive use from your DR
TRIMMER/MOWER and help you avoid injury. Please take a
few moments to read the following guidelines for safely operating your new machine.
Preparing to Use the DR
■ Read these Safety and Operating Instructions and the engine manufacturer’s owner’s
manual before you use the DR
■ Inspect the area in which you will be working. Look for rocks, sticks, rope, wire, garden
TRIMMER/MOWER.
TRIMMER/MOWER
tools, etc. and remove these objects before trimming or mowing. Mowing over these
objects could damage the machine and cause injury.
Safety Information Labels
Take some time to become familiar with the following standard safety cautions applicable to
your trimmer. Replace damaged or missing safety labels immediately. (#148231)
Read the Safety and
Operating Instructions.
Do not operate the machine
near people or animals.
Always wear safety glasses
or goggles while operating
the machine.
Keep body parts away from
the trimmer line.
Remove all objects that could
be thrown by the trimmer
line.
Use caution operating the
machine on slopes.
Make sure you add oil before starting the
engine; the unit is shipped without oil.
Fill the oil reservoir slowly to make sure
you don’t overfill it. (#127811)
A warning notice about the danger
inherent in the spinning cords.
(#144761; SPRINT model only)
To avoid injury, keep your hand and feet away from the
spinning cords. (#136491)
Yet another warning notice for your
safety. (#148221; PRO and
COMMERCIAL models only)
)
In the parallel trimming action (PTA
mode, the
trimmer’s wheels stay straight while the trimmer head
tilts , causing the cords to extend beyond the
The bail bar is an important safety feature: release it
to immediately stop the engine. (#153081)
This notice is a handy reminder of your
equipment’s name and how you can
contact us. (#148241; PRO and
COMMERCIAL models only)
This label reminds you about the
importance of reading and
understanding the Safety &
Operating Instructions manual and
of paying attention to the safety
warnings. (#142671; SPRINT model
only)
■ Always wear the protective goggles while mowing to protect your eyes from possible
thrown objects. Goggles are provided with your DR
■ Wear shoes with non-slip treads when using your DR
TRIMMER/MOWER.
TRIMMER/MOWER. If you have
safety shoes, we recommend wearing them. Do not use the machine while barefoot or
wearing open sandals.
■ Wear long pants while trimming or mowing.
■ Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry which might be caught on the mower’s moving
parts.
■ Use earmuffs or earplugs to protect your hearing.
Operating the Machine Safely
■ Only use the DR
■ Use only manufacturer-recommended replacement parts and accessories.
■ Never bend, cut, fit, weld, or alter the DR
■ ALWAYS shut off the engine and remove the spark plug wire before adjusting the
■ The exhaust area on the engine becomes very hot with use. Allow the engine to cool
■ When operating over uneven terrain and slopes, use EXTREME CAUTION to ensure solid
■ Use extra caution when mowing in wet or slippery conditions.
■ The tips of the cutting cords on the DR
■ Turn off the engine whenever you are not operating the machine. Never leave the
■ Never allow children or animals near the work area. Keep at least 50 feet clear of
■ Never allow children or people who are unfamiliar with these instructions to use the DR
WARNING!The items listed in this section will help you keep your
DR
TRIMMER/MOWER
running smoothly and, most importantly,
prevent injury to yourself or others. Please review them carefully
TRIMMER/MOWER for trimming and mowing grass, weeds, and other
growth as specified in this manual.
TRIMMER/MOWER in any way. Modifications
to your machine could cause personal injuries and property damage and may void your
warranty.
machine. If you have to stop to remove grass or debris from the underside of the deck,
ALWAYS disconnect the spark plug wire first.
before doing maintenance or making adjustments.
and firm footing.
TRIMMER/MOWER™ can throw sticks, small
stones, gravel, and bits of debris over long distances at great velocity. Do not travel over
loose materials such as gravel or mulch with the trimmer head spinning. Doing so could
cause personal injury or property damage from thrown objects.
engine running when refueling, changing cords, checking, cleaning or working on the
machine.
bystanders and always turn the machine off when someone approaches.
TRIMMER/MOWER around fencing, wires, ropes, and
hoses. It is possible that these and other debris can become wound around the line
plates of the machine, potentially damaging the bearings or injuring you.
■ Use the machine only in daylight or good artificial light.
■ Never operate the machine with a damaged shield or without the shield in place.
■ Do not operate the machine when under the influence of alcohol or medication.
■ Watch for traffic when mowing near roadways.
Safety with Gasoline-Powered Machines
■ Do not run the engine in an enclosed area or without proper ventilation.
■ Store all fuel in containers specifically designed for this purpose. Plastic containers are
■ Refuel your trimmer outdoors only.
■ Do not smoke while refueling or operating the machine.
■ If you spill gasoline, do not attempt to start the engine. Move the machine away from the
■ Allow the engine to cool completely before storing in any enclosure. Never store the
■ Do not change the engine governor settings or modify the engine speed.
■ Some state and local regulations require the use of a spark arrester on gasoline-powered
WARNING!The items listed in this section will help you keep your
DR
TRIMMER/MOWER
running smoothly and, most importantly,
prevent injury to yourself or others. Please review them carefully
more likely to prevent sediment and condensation problems.
area of the spill and avoid creating any source of ignition until the gas vapors have
dissipated. Wipe up any spilled fuel to prevent a fire hazard and properly dispose of the
waste.
machine near an open flame or spark with gas in the tank.
engines. Contact your local fire marshal or forest service for specific information
pertaining to your area. If you are required to use a spark arrester, please contact one of
our Customer Service Representatives at 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) who will assist
you in obtaining and installing one.
A Note to All California and Washington State
Users
California and Washington state laws and the local regulations of some other states prohibit
you from operating an internal combustion engine using hydrocarbon fuels without an
engine spark arrester. All DR
state are shipped with spark arresters. Failure of the owner or operator to maintain this
equipment in compliance with state regulations is a misdemeanor under California law and
may be in violation of other state and/or federal regulations. Contact your local fire marshal
or forest service for specific information in your state.
TRIMMER/MOWERS shipped to California and Washington
Chapter 3: Setting Up Your DRChapter 3: Setting Up Your DR TRIMMER/MOWER TRIMMER/MOWER
This chapter outlines a few simple steps you will need to follow to set up your new machine
before you use it. It may be helpful to familiarize yourself with the controls and features on
your trimmer by reviewing the picture in the next section before beginning the steps outlined
in this chapter.
DR TRIMMER/MOWER Package Checklist
Country Home Products ships the following items with your new machine. Please check to
make sure you have everything listed below:
■ 2 keys (for electric models only). The key is attached to the trimmer just below the bail
bar spring.
■ 1 pair of goggles
■ 1 metal head locking tool
■ 1 bundle of light trimmer cord
■ 1 bundle of heavy trimmer cord
Note: Remove and discard the plastic shipping caps from the ends of the wheel nuts on your
new machine before using it.
If you are missing any of the items listed above, please call Customer Service at:
1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) for assistance.
Country Home Products, Inc. reserves the right to discontinue, change, and improve its
products at any time without notice or obligation to the purchaser. The descriptions and
specifications contained in this manual were in effect at printing. Equipment described within
this manual may be optional. Some illustrations may not be applicable to your machine.
Connecting the Battery Wire
(Electric-Starting Models Only)
We ship all electric-starting trimmers with the negative terminal battery wire disconnected.
This prevents the battery from discharging during shipment. Before using your trimmer, you
must connect the battery wire.
1. Connect the wire by pushing
the plastic connector onto the
negative (–) terminal as shown
in Figure 2.
⇒ The dipstick should NOT be screwed down on Kawasaki engines.
approximately 15 ounces of SAE 30 high detergent oil.
Tip: To avoid confusion, we recommend leaving the caps on the fuel and oil fills until you
are ready to pour either gasoline or oil into the correct fill.
Tools needed: You will need approximately 15 ounces of SAE 30 high detergent oil.
Use only SAE 30 high detergent oil. Other types of oil could cause problems operating your
machine. Please refer to your engine manufacturer’s owner’s manual for detailed oil
information.
WARNING! You must add oil before starting the engine.
This machine is shipped without oil. Traces of oil may be
in the reservoir from factory testing, but you must add oil
before starting the engine. Fill the reservoir slowly
checking the dipstick frequently to avoid overfilling. Use
To get an accurate reading when checking the oil level:
⇒ The machine should be on a level surface.
⇒ The dipstick should be screwed down
on Briggs and Stratton engines.
1. Add 15 ounces of SAE 30 high detergent oil and wait one minute for the oil to settle.
(Figure 3)
2. Check the dipstick and continue adding
a few ounces of oil at a time,
rechecking the dipstick until the oil
reaches the fill mark. Be careful not to
overfill.
3. Fill the gas tank to within ¼ inch of the
top with fresh, unleaded gas. See your
engine manufacturer’s owner’s manual
for more information.
It is important to find a handlebar height that allows the Mow-Ball
ground and remain balanced so you don’t have having to push down or pull up on the
handlebar.
WARNING! Before performing any maintenance procedure, stop the
Support to glide along the
At the proper height, your hands should rest at a comfortable level and the front end of the
trimmer should roll easily on the Mow-Ball
Support as shown in Figure 13 on page 20. You
may find you like different handlebar heights for different mowing conditions.
There are two ways to adjust the height of the handlebar outlined in the following steps:
1. Loosen both the adjustment knobs and move the handlebar up or down until the
adjustment is the same on both sides. Use the notches on the adjusters (Figure 4) to
measure how many teeth you’ve moved away from the center. When you’ve found a
comfortable height, tighten the adjustment knobs securely.
2. For additional height adjustment
options, there are two holes in the
upper and lower handlebars where
the adjustment knobs are located.
Most people start with the
handlebars set in the lower holes
of both the upper and lower
handlebar. You can adjust the
height up or down by removing
the adjustment knob assembly and
repositioning the handlebars to a
higher or lower hole. Be sure the
notches in the two adjusters line up
when you reassemble them.
(Figure 4)
It is easy to adjust the PTA feature. If you’ve moved the handlebar up or down, the PTA
(Parallel Trimming Action) lever may need to be adjusted. When the PTA
engaged there should be just a little slack in the cable. For more information on PTA
read the section called Using PTA
Trimming Action) on page 15.
1. Loosen the knob on the PTA
2. Move the assembly up the handlebar to
WARNING! Before performing any maintenance procedure, stop the
feature is properly
(Parallel
. (Figure
5).
tighten the cable or down the
handlebar to loosen it.
Chapter 4: Operating Your DRChapter 4: Operating Your DR TRIMMER/MOWER TRIMMER/MOWER
This chapter covers the procedures for starting and stopping your new DR TRIMMER/
MOWER
TRIMMER/MOWER
and discusses basic operation features. You may find it helpful to review the DR
Controls and Features picture (Figure 1) on page 8 before reading this
chapter.
Electric-Starting
Note: Use the following steps with electric-starting models only.
1. Push the throttle lever on the right side of the handlebar (see trimmer picture, Figure
1, on page 8)all the way forward to the START position.
2. If your model has a primer, prime the engine.
Push the primer bulb in (see trimmer picture, Figure 1, on page 8) for three seconds and
completely release it, letting it pop back to its original position. Repeat three to four
times.
Note: Priming is usually not necessary when restarting a warm engine. In cool weather,
you may need to repeat priming.
3. Turn the key (see trimmer picture, Figure 1, on page 8) to the START position until
the engine starts, then release. The key will snap back to the RUN position and the
engine will continue to run.
Manual-Starting
Note: You may use this starting method with both manual and electric-starting models.
1. Push the throttle lever on the right side of the handlebar (see trimmer picture on page 8)
all the way forward to the START position.
2. If your model has a primer, prime the engine.
Push the primer bulb in (see trimmer picture on page 8) for three seconds and
completely release it, letting it pop back to its original position. Repeat three to four
times.
Note: Priming is usually not necessary when restarting a warm engine. In cool weather,
you may need to repeat priming.
3. Grasp the recoil starter handle and slowly pull until you feel resistance. Let the cord
retract a little bit, then pull the cord rapidly to start the engine. One or two pulls
usually starts the DR
Note: If you have an electric-starting model, please note that the key does not stop the
engine. You must follow these instructions for both electric and manual-starting models.
1. Move the throttle lever back to the STOP position.
2. The key has a pressure lock that prevents it from vibrating loose during operation. If
you wish to remove the key, push it in and then quickly and firmly pull it out. If the
key becomes difficult to remove, spray FLUID FILM
keyhole.
or a similar lubricant into the
Engaging the Trimmer Head
1. Bring the bail bar toward you and grip it together with the handlebar. (See trimmer
picture on page 8.) Keep holding the bail bar to the handlebar. The cutting cords will
rotate and will continue to rotate until you release the bail bar.
Stopping the Cords from Spinning
1. Release the bail bar from the handlebar. The trimmer head will stop spinning while the
engine continues to run.
driveways. Flying debris can cause serious damage.
Important!
(Parallel Trimming Action)
Your trimmer’s PTA feature moves the machine in a straight line while the trimmer head is
both pivoted and tilted to the left for better access to fence lines and other obstacles. PTA
allows you to trim in difficult areas without having to pull the machine back and forth.
The following two sections explain how to engage PTA
flat and forward mode (normal operation) after using PTA
and how to return your trimmer to
.
WARNING! Use caution when edging along gravel paths and
of the bottom four line plates only. Using the upper line plates may cause
the cords to hit the wheel. For more information, see Your Machine’s
Cutting Cords on page 16.
When using PTA, you should install the cutting cords in one
Note: In PTA
mode, the trimmer’s
wheels stay straight while trimmer
head tilts as shown in Figure 6.
The cutting cords extend beyond
the wheelbase in the PTA
mode,
allowing you to easily cut under
obstacles. The trimmer head and
the cutting cords also tilt slightly in
mode so you can edge and
PTA
trim along gardens, paths, and
driveways.
When using PTA
along garden
edges, fences, and buildings, we
recommend making your first past
with the DR
TRIMMER/ MOWER
in the regular mowing position,
staying 4 to 8 inches from the
obstacle. Then return for another
pass with the machine in PTA
1. Pull the PTA lever (Figure 7) against the handlebar and hold it there. This unlocks
the axle (Figure 8).
2. Push down on the handlebar to tip
the nose of the machine a few
inches off the ground. Balancing
the weight of the machine on the
wheels makes it easier to pivot the
front of the trimmer to the left.
3. While continuing to hold the PTA
lever down, grip the sides of the
handlebar pulling up with the right
hand and pushing down with the
left, swinging the front of the
trimmer to the left.
4. Release the PTA
lock the axle in PTA
lever. This will
mode (Figure
8).
Returning to Flat and Forward Mode
1. Pull the PTA lever (Figure 7)
against the handlebar and hold it
there.
2. Push down on the handlebar to tip
the nose of the machine up a few
inches off the ground.
3. While continuing to hold the PTA
lever down, grip the sides of the
handlebar pulling up with the left
hand and pushing down with the
right, swinging the front of the
trimmer to the right, stopping at
center.
The following figures (Figures 9 and 10) illustrate how the cords are installed on the line
plates. These figures show the line plates from a cross section point of view. It may look
complicated, but once you’ve done it a couple of times, it’s easy. There are two sets of
installation points on each line plate, 180 degrees apart. One set of holes is for larger cord
(155 mil) and is marked with large arrows. The other set of holes accommodates smaller cord
(130 mil) and is marked with small arrows. Always install two cords opposite each other for
the best performance.
WARNING! Always turn the engine off when installing or changing
Running the trimmer with only one cord installed, or cords
installed at other than 180 degrees can cause excessive vibration and
cords on the upper line plates can cause the cord to hit the wheel. For
The standard cord installation method is shown in Figures 11–13. Your trimmer is shipped
from the factory with the cords installed in this manner.
Important! When using PTA (Parallel Trimming Action), install the
cutting cords in one of the bottom four line plates. Installing the cutting
Note: After you install the cords and before trimming, engage the cutting head with the
engine running and spin new cords for a few seconds so they pull tight and are set.
1. Insert the ends of the cords into
the openings in the line plate, as
shown in Figures 11 and 12.
There are different sized arrows at
the insertion points to indicate
what size cords fit the holes.
2. Push the cord through until it
comes out the center hole in the
line plate as shown in Figure 12.
You may also reference Figures 9 and 10 for a cross sectional look
at installing the cords. Adjust the
cords so the tips are even.
Figure 11
3. Pull the cords through the loop
and push the loop up into the
Figure 12
line plate groove above them, as
shown in Figure 13. The larger
cord exits through the larger
opening and the smaller cord
through the smaller opening. Pull
the cords tight.
We ship two thicknesses of cutting cord with your DR TRIMMER/MOWER
mil) and extra heavy-duty (155 mil). Because conditions and vegetation vary so much, you
should experiment with cord weights (diameters) to discover what works best for your
particular mowing and trimming situations. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
■ If you buy cutting cord in rolls, cut it in 23″ lengths.
■ Cord life depends on trimming conditions. Replace cords when they become broken or
frayed.
■ The smallest diameter cord capable of cutting the material at hand combined with the
fastest engine speed usually provides the best trimming performance. When you need
more power for thicker growth such as berry canes, brambles, thistles, or ragweed, you
may want to use the extra heavy-duty (155 mil) cord in combination with the highest
engine speed.
■ Ease the ends of the cord into heavy growth and move slowly through thick growth. If
there are woody weeds in the material you are cutting, the cutting cords may wrap
around the stalks they cannot cut, and pull away from the trimmer head.
■ To increase the cutting swath, install each cord slightly offset, with one end of the cord
about an inch longer than the other. Be careful not to offset the cords by more than an
inch. Doing so may cause the cords to hit the wheels.
■ Please note that installing more than two cords at a time does not improve trimming
performance—in fact, it can lessen it. Adding additional cords creates drag on the
trimmer head, robs the engine of power and may cause wrapping. Installing two cords,
180 degrees apart, is the best method for optimal trimming performance.
■ When replacing cords, do it one at a time and use the old cord to mark the position for
the new cord to be installed.
■ If the cord breaks off flush at the line plate, use the new cord to push the old cord out.
■ Storing the cord in a plastic bag with a damp sponge or cloth will help keep it pliable.
You can also soak your cutting cord in a bucket of room temperature water for a few
days before use to make it more pliable.
Adjusting the cutting height is easy. Cutting heights range, in ½ inch increments, from 1½
inches when using the bottom line plate, to approximately 4 inches when using the top line
plate
(Figure 14).
1. Install the cutting cords in the line
plate that gives you the desired
cutting height.
Figure 14
The Mow Ball Support
Allow the front end of the machine
to rest lightly on the Mow-Ball
Support as you are trimming. The
Mow-Ball
™
Support should glide on
the ground as you maneuver the
machine. To achieve the best and
smoothest cut, do not lift up on the
handlebar while operating your
TRIMMER/ MOWER™. Lifting
DR
the handlebar will force weight
down on the Mow-Ball
Support.
This uses more energy, slows
down the cutting, and produces an
unsatisfactory cut. Ideally, the
Mow-Ball
Support should lightly
rest on the ground while the
wheels balance most of the weight
of the machine (Figure 15).
driveways or over loose stones or mulch with the trimmer head
Dealing with obstacles in the terrain is easy with your new DR TRIMMER/MOWER. The
following section explains how to approach most common obstacles.
WARNING! The trimmer engine's power can easily throw stones,
sticks and other debris at great velocity, which could cause personal
injury or property damage. DO NOT run the machine over gravel
Tip: The DR
trim with the uncut tall grass or weeds on the left.
■ Always check your work area before trimming and remove any debris that might tangle
or damage the machine.
■ If you do run into debris and the trimmer becomes tangled, turn off the engine and
disconnect the spark plug wire before attempting to untangle the machine.
■ For the neatest appearance, do your trimming first, discharging clippings away from
borders and shrubs, then do your mowing.
Many owners like to mow easy, open
areas with their regular riding or walkbehind mower and finish trimming all
the odd and hard-to-reach spots with
the DR
16).
TRIMMER/MOWER discharges cut material to the right. Always try to cut and
Take your time in heavy growth.
Be sure to keep uncut material to
your left, maintaining a clear
discharge area to your right
(Figure 17). If the machine can’t
do it all in one pass, overlap half
of the cutting swath. If the grass
is very thick and heavy, try
raising the trimmer head off the
ground a few inches by pushing
down on the handlebar. Cut the
material at this height, and then
make a second pass with the
Mow-Ball
ground.
Ease the DR
into denser growth. If the
material is too tough or woody
to cut, the cutting cords will
wrap around it, wear down or
even break off. Sometimes the
growth is so heavy, it can’t be
mowed in rows. Use a back and
forth “vacuum cleaner” motion in
these cases.
Because there is no housing to
restrict the flow of cut material, you
can also use your DR
MOWER
™
to mow wet or heavy
growth. The DR
TRIMMER/
can be used in
damp conditions— after a rain or
in the early morning dew—without
clogging or stalling. You can also
mow wet areas such as ditches and
around ponds (Figure 18).
Very Dry Conditions
engine and the cooling fins on the front of the engine to prevent
When trimming and mowing in very dry conditions, be extra cautious of cut grass, chaff,
weeds, seeds, etc., accumulating on the engine, especially around the recoil-starter housing
and engine cooling fins. Please see the engine manufacturer’s owner’s manual for more
detailed information on cleaning the air intake, air filter, and cooling system on the engine.
Frequently remove debris from the recoil guard on top of the
Slopes
You can trim and mow on slopes up to 20 degrees. Continuous use on slopes steeper than
20 degrees may deprive the engine of adequate lubrication, and damage components.
Windrows
The DR TRIMMER/MOWER’s cutting cords cut even tall grass in just one pass, so you can
collect clippings and leaves for mulch without raking. The machine ejects cut material to its
right, so you can use it like a lawn broom to make windrows for easy clean up.
Firebreaks
Use your trimmer as a labor-saving tool to cut material when creating firebreaks.
Garden Clean-Up
The DR TRIMMER/MOWER is perfect for cutting down dead perennials, annuals and
wildflowers, saving you hours of hand pruning and deadheading. You can also recut
downed material a second time to create mulch for garden beds.
Chapter 5: Maintaining the DRChapter 5: Maintaining the DR TRIMME TRIMMER/MOWERR/MOWER
Important!
manufacturer’s owner’s manual. Please follow the recommendations
the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance procedure.
This chapter covers regular maintenance procedures that will ensure the best performance
and long life of your machine. For engine maintenance, please refer to the engine
manufacturer’s owner’s manual that came with your trimmer.
TRIMMER/MOWER
Paper Air Filter Cartridge: Replace the paper air cartridge every 25 hours of operation.
Replace more frequently if operating in extremely dry or dusty conditions.
Oil: Drain and replace oil after the first 5 hours of operation. Then drain and replace oil
every subsequent 25 hours of operation.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the best way to ensure the best performance and long life of your
machine. Below is a list of recommended maintenance procedures. Follow the instructions in
this manual and your engine manufacturer’s owner’s manual.
You should change the air filters and oil in your DR®
more frequently than is recommended in your engine
WARNING! Always allow the engine to cool completely and remove
1. Using a brush or rag, clean any debris from the top and bottom of the machine, cylinder
head fins, blower housing, finger guard, debris guard, filter and muffler areas.
2. Replace the paper air filter and clean the foam filter (if applicable) every 25 hours of
operation. Replace these items more frequently if operating in extremely dry and dusty
conditions.
3. Replace the oil and filter (if applicable) after the first 5 hours and every subsequent
25 hours of operation.
4. Clean the spark plug and replace it if needed. Consult the engine manufacturer’s
owner’s manual for more information.
5. Check the Mow-Ball
6. Lubricate the engine throttle cable, trimmer control cable, and idler pulley with
FLUID FILM
or a similar lubricant.
7. Check the Mow-Ball
Support assembly and clean out any debris.
Support and line plates for wear.
8. Replace broken or frayed cutting cords.
9. Inspect the belt for fraying or stretching. Replace it if necessary.
10. Check the bolts and nuts on the bearing housing assembly. If they are loose, tighten
them. Check all the bolts and nuts occasionally throughout the season to be sure
they’re secure.
Proper care can extend the life of a battery. Follow these recommendations to ensure your
battery’s best performance and long life:
■ Do not continue to crank the engine with a low battery.
■ Try to keep the battery at full charge to maximize its life. If the machine is not used, you
should charge the battery every thirty to sixty days. See the next section for information
on how to charge a battery.
■ Store an unused battery in a dry area that does not freeze.
Connecting a Battery Charger
Automobile batteries last for years because they are recharged every time you drive your
car—usually on a daily basis. An Electric-Starting DR
TRIMMER/MOWER will recharge its
battery while you operate it continuously for about 45 minutes or more. However, if you run
your trimmer infrequently (less than 45 minutes with each use) or let it sit during the offseason without recharging, the battery life is shortened. If the battery loses its charge, use the
®
Battery Charger (available from Country Home Products) or other trickle charger, to
DR
recharge it. The charger should have an output of 12 Volts at 1–2 amps.
■ At 1 amp the battery may need to be charged for as long as 48 hours.
■ At 2 amps, the battery may need to be charged for as long as 24 hours.
Do not charge an already charged battery. In theory, you cannot overcharge our battery with
a trickle charger; however, when a battery is fully charged and the charger is still on, it
generates heat that could be harmful to the battery. We do not recommend keeping the
charger connected to the battery for more than 48 hours.
Note: Using the recoil starter and then running the engine will not recharge a dead or
significantly discharged battery.
To connect a battery charger to your DR
1. Detach the two battery wires going to the wiring harness on your DR
MOWER
.
TRIMMER/MOWER follow the steps listed below.
TRIMMER/
2. Attach the black (–) battery charger wire to the black (–) wire. Attach the red (+)
battery charger wire to the red (+) wire.
3. Plug the battery charger into an outlet.
4. When the battery is charged, disconnect the charger from the battery before
WARNING! Before performing any maintenance procedure, stop the
Tools needed: You will need a #3 Phillips head screwdriver with at least a 6″ shank. or the
head locking tool that comes with your trimmer.
1. Insert the screwdriver or
head locking tool into the
hole in the frame, then
rotate the Mow-Ball
Support until the
screwdriver fits into a
second hole in the shaft,
locking it into place
(Figure 19).
2. Turn the Mow-Ball
Support assembly
counterclockwise until it
unscrews completely from
the bearing housing.
(Figure 20). Remove the
tool or screwdriver after
you’ve removed the Mow-
assembly.
Ball
Note: If the Mow-Ball
Support assembly
continues to turn, but does
not come off, check to be
sure the screwdriver is
locked into the shaft.
WARNING! Before performing any maintenance procedure, stop the
Note: We turned the trimmer on its side to take the photos in this section. To do so, we
removed gas and oil from the machine.
You can access the underside of the
trimmer without having to drain gas and oil
by tilting back on its handlebar.
Tools needed: You will need a
3
⁄8″ wrench
or socket to perform these steps.
1. Remove the screws on either side of
the stone guard and drop it from the
frame (Figure 22).
Tip: Keep the screws together with the
stone guard.
Removing and Replacing the Bottom Shield
WARNING! Before performing any maintenance procedure, stop the
Note: You do not need to remove the side shield or any of its hardware when removing the
bottom shield.
Tools needed: You will need a
1. Remove the Mow-Ball
Ball™ Assembly section on page 26.
7
⁄16″ wrench or socket to perform these steps.
Support Assembly. See the Removing and Reinstalling the Mow-
2. Remove the stone guard flap. See “Removing the Stone Guard Flap” on page 28.
3. Remove the two mounting bolts and
washers at the rear of the frame
(Figure 23).
4. Remove the third mounting bolt and
washer from the front of the frame on
the outer edge near the bearing
housing.
5. Slide the bottom shield out from
under the lip of
the side shield and remove it.
6. When reinstalling the bottom shield,
be sure to tuck it under the lip of the
side shield first, then finish positioning it and install the mounting hardware.
Tools needed: You will need the tools listed below.
■
■
■ DR
1. Remove the Mow-Ball
2. Remove the stone guard flap.
3. Remove the bottom shield. (See
4. Remove the four Allen set bolts
5. Remove the belt.
6. Install the new belt. Be sure the
7. Replace the lower bearing
8. Tighten all four in the same
9. Reinstall the bottom shield.
10. Reinstall the stone guard flap.
11. Reinstall the Mow-Ball
WARNING! Before performing any maintenance procedure, stop the
Important! Use only DR
9
⁄16″ wrench or socket
3
⁄16″ Allen wrench
belt (Part Number – 114431)
belts on your machine. Do not use hardware
Support assembly. (See “Removing and Reinstalling the Mow-Ball
Assembly” on page 26.)
(See “Removing the Stone Guard
Flap” on page 28.)
“Removing the Bottom Shield”
on page 28.)
on the underside of the lower
bearing housing plate (Figure
25). The lower bearing should
come off with the plate (Figure
26).
Figure 24
belt is on the inside of idler
pulley 2, the outside of idler
pulley 1 and correctly fitted
around the engine pulley (Figure
24).
housing plate, being sure to align
the notch with the locking tool
hole in the side of the housing
and mount the four set screws in
this order: Mount and make snug
Figure 25
one set screw, then the set screw
opposite it. Make the other two
screws snug.
Tools needed: You will need two ½″ open-end or adjustable wrenches.
If the trimmer head stops spinning
when the bail bar is engaged and the
machine is operating under a heavy
load, the belt may be too loose. In this
case, you may need to adjust the
trimmer control cable to put more
tension on it. The adjuster is located on
the right handlebar, just above the
throttle control lever.
To increase tension on the belt:
WARNING! Before performing any maintenance procedure, stop the
Before making any adjustments to the trimmer control cable,
check that the belt is mounted on the correct side of the idler pulleys
1. Loosen the upper control cable
adjustment nut, leaving about
space between the nut and
bracket(Figure 26).
2. Gently grip the metal end of the
black cable with pliers, making
sure you DO NOT crimp it. At the
same time, tighten the lower nut
until it is flush and snug against the
bracket (Figure 27).
Note: If the trimmer head keeps
spinning after releasing the bail bar,
the belt may be too tight.
Chapter 6: Troubleshooting and WarrantyChapter 6: Troubleshooting and Warranty
engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.
Most problems are easy to fix. Consult the troubleshooting table for common problems and
their solutions. If you continue to experience problems call Country Home Products, Inc. for
support.
Troubleshooting Table
SYMPTOMPOSSIBLE CAUSE
The engine won’t start
manually.
(Please refer to the
engine manufacture’s
owner’s manual for
engine-specific
procedures.)
The engine won’t start
using electric-start.
(Please refer to the
engine manufacturer’s
owner’s manual for
engine-specific
procedures.)
WARNING! Before performing any maintenance procedure, stop the
⇒ Are you priming? Push the primer bulb 3 to 5 times, releasing completely
each time.
⇒ Are you using fresh, clean gas? If the gas is old, change it. Use a fuel
stabilizer if you keep gas longer than two months.
⇒ Does the engine have the right amount of clean oil? If the oil is dirty,
change it following the procedure in the engine manufacturer’s owner’s
manual.
⇒ Is the spark plug clean? If the spark plug is dirty or cracked, change it. If
it’s oily, leave it out, hold a rag over the plug hole and pull the recoil cord
several times to blow out any oil in the cylinder, then wipe off the plug
and reinsert it.
⇒ Is the air filter clean? If it’s dirty, change it following the procedure in the
engine manufacturer’s owner’s manual.
⇒ Is the throttle cable attached to the engine and moving freely?
⇒ If your engine still won’t start, call 1(800)DR-OWNER (376-9637) for
assistance.
⇒ Have you checked all the items under the section called Electric Starting
on page 13? If not, do so now.
⇒ Is your battery charged? Check it yourself or at a gas station. If it’s low,
charge it with a 12-volt, 1 to 2 amp trickle charger. If you don’t use your
trimmer for at least 45 minutes at a time, the battery may need to be
periodically charged. See the Battery Care section on page 25.
The engine lacks
power or is not
running smoothly.
(Please refer to the
engine manufacturer’s
owner’s manual for
engine-specific
procedures.)
The trimmer head
won’t spin or lacks
power.
The trimmer head
keeps spinning or
spins when you
release the bail bar.
The cutting cords are
breaking.
⇒ Are you using fresh, clean gas? If it’s old, change it. Use a fuel stabilizer
if you keep gas longer than two weeks or so.
⇒ Does your engine have the right amount of clean oil? If it’s dirty, change
it following the procedure in the engine manufacturer’s owner’s manual.
⇒ Is the spark plug clean? If it’s fouled or cracked, change it. If it’s oily,
leave it out, hold a rag over the plug hole and pull your recoil cord
several times to blow out any oil in the cylinder, then wipe off the plug
and reinsert it.
⇒ Is the air filter clean? If it’s dirty, change it following the procedure in the
engine manufacturer’s owner’s manual.
⇒ Is the throttle cable attached to the engine and moving freely?
⇒ Are the blower housing, throttle linkage, and cooling fins free of debris?
Clean them following the instructions in the engine manufacturer’s
owner’s manual.
⇒ If your engine still lacks power, call 1(800)DR-OWNER (376-9637) for
assistance.
⇒ Is your v-belt properly aligned? Check it against the diagram in the Belt
section on page 18.
⇒ Is your belt worn or frayed? If so, replace it.
⇒ If the head still will not spin, follow the procedure for Adjusting the Belt
Tension through the Trimmer Control Cable on page 30.
⇒ If none of the above helps, call 1(800)DR-OWNER (376-9637) for
assistance.
⇒ Is your v-belt properly aligned? Check it against the figures in the section
called Removing and Replacing the Belt on page 29.
⇒ If the head keeps spinning when you release the bail bar, see Adjusting
the Belt Tension through the Trimmer Control Cable on page 30.
⇒ If none of the above works, call 1(800)DR-OWNER (376-9637) for
assistance.
⇒ Are your cords too dry? Store cords in a plastic bag with a damp sponge
or cloth to make them less prone to breaking or soak them in a bucket of
water for a few days.
⇒ Try a lighter cord.
⇒ Are you trying to do too much too fast? Ease into the material to be cut;
let the cord tips do the work. Take small bites of tall or tough vegetation.
Cut half a swath at a time, keeping the cut area to the discharge or right
side of the trimmer. Go over tall material twice, the first time with the
head tilted up and back; the second time with the Mow-Ball
on the ground.
⇒ Are you hitting your cords against a stone or a chain-link fence? The
cords won’t last as long against obstacles as in the open. Work on
controlling the cutting pattern. With practice, you’ll learn to cut closer to
obstacles without hitting them.
⇒ If none of the above works, call 1(800)DR-OWNER (376-9637) for
warranties on all engines. However, to obtain service, repair or replacement of any engine within the time period
Terms and Conditions
The DR TRIMMER/MOWER™ is warranted for one (1) year against defects in materials or workmanship when put
to ordinary and normal consumer use; ninety (90) days for any other use. The engine is warranted separately by
the engine manufacturer.
For the purposes of all the above warranties, “ordinary and normal consumer use” refers to non-commercial
residential use and does not include misuse, accidents or damage due to inadequate maintenance.
Country Home Products, Inc. certifies that the DR
product of this type is used. Country Home Products, Inc. however, limits the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness in duration to a period of one (1) year in consumer use; ninety (90) days for any oth
use.
The 1-Year Limited Warranty on the DR TRIMMER/MOWER™ starts on the date the machine ships from our
factory. The 1-Year Limited Warranty is applicable only to the original owner.
The warranty holder is responsible for the performance of the required maintenance as defined by the manufacturer's
owner's manuals. The warranty holder is responsible for replacement of normally wearing parts such as the belts,
cutting cord, bearings, debris shield, Mow-Ball
not covered by this warranty.
During the warranty period the warranty holder is responsible for machine transportation charges, if required. During
the warranty period warranty parts will be shipped by standard method at no charge to the warranty holder. Expedited
shipping of warranty parts is the responsibility of the warranty holder.
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON THE LENGTH OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
TRIMMER/MOWER™ is fit for ordinary purposes for which a
™
Support, and battery. Attachments and accessories to the machine are
Country Home Products, Inc. shall not be liable under any circumstances for any incidental or consequential damages or expenses of any kind, including, but not limited to, cost of equipment rentals, loss of profit, or cost
of hiring services to perform tasks normally performed by the DR
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
TRIMMER/ MOWER™.
Customer Service Hotline
Country Home Products, Inc.’s objective is to have 100% satisfied customers. For that reason, we operate a 6-daya-week Technical Service Department for our Owners. You can access a Representative by dialing our TOLLHotline at 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637). The sole job of our well-trained and friendly folks is to ensure that you
get any help you need in a timely fashion. They are there to answer all your questions including: (1) inquiries on
any of the above warranties, (2) inquiries about replacement parts, or (3) your questions regarding service,
maintenance and operation.
Our Customer Service Representatives will also be happy to answer any of your questions regarding the separate
covered by the manufacturer’s limited warranty, follow the instructions and warranty information specifically
pertaining to those items provided by their separate manufacturers.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY
FROM STATE TO STATE.
Daily Checklist for the DR® TRIMMER/MOWER
To help maintain your DR® for optimum performance, we recommend you follow this
checklist each time you use your machine.
[ ] GAS: Fill the gas tank with clean, fresh, unleaded gas.
[ ] OIL: Check the oil level with the dipstick and add more if necessary (only add oil to the
level indicated on the dipstick—do not overfill). Use SAE 30 high detergent oil.
[ ] SPARK PLUG: Clean the spark plug and replace if needed.
[ ] AIR FILTER: A clean air filter will mean a much easier-starting and better running engine.
You should replace the paper air filter after every 25 hours of use, more frequently if you
are trimming and mowing in dusty conditions.
[ ] ENGINE AIR COOLING SYSTEM: It is very important to keep the engine clean of debris.
Remove grass and other built-up materials from the air intake screen before, during and
after you mow. Regularly remove debris from the blower housing and cooling fins. A
dirty engine retains heat and can cause damage to the internal engine parts.
[ ] BELT: Check the belt for wear, proper alignment and tension.
[ ] CUTTING CORDS: Replace broken or frayed cords.
[ ] MOW-BALL
wear and replace as needed.
SUPPORT & LINE PLATES: Check the Mow-Ball Support and line plates for