Earthquake M200 User Manual
GAS/OIL
RATIO
50:1
Operator's Manual
String Mower
M200
SN
Get parts online at
www.GetEarthquake.com
Includes Model:
M200
P/N: 30405
ECN: 11855
REV1: 010/17/2017
© 2017 Ardisam, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
Operator's Manual
String Mower 22230
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on your investment in quality. Thank you for purchasing an Earthquake™ String Mower. We have worked to ensure
that the string mower meets the highest standards for usability and durability. With proper care, your string mower will provide
many years of service.
Please read this entire manual before installation and use. Earthquake™ reserves the right to change, alter or improve the
product and this document at any time without prior notice.
CONTENTS
Registration ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................2
Warnings and Safety Precautions ...........................................................................................................................................................................................3-6
Features ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................7
Assembly ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8-9
Operation ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................9-10
Maintenance, Service and Storage ...................................................................................................................................................................................11-17
Maintenance ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................11
Servicing and Adjustment ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 12-15
Storage ...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................15
Troubleshooting ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................15-16
Slope Guide ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................17
Parts Breakdown ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18-21
Warranty ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................23
REGISTRATION, SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE LOG
Record the model number and serial number in the space provided for easy
reference. Warranty is valid only if the completed registration is received by
Earthquake™ within 30 days of purchase. You can register your warranty online
by visiting www.getearthquake.com. If you do not have a computer, call our
customer service department at (800) 345-6007 Mondays through Fridays
from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST.
MODEL AND SERIAL
NUMBER LOCATION
OWNERSHIP RECORDS
Owner’s Name:
Owner’s Address:
City: State/Province: Zip Code/Postal Code:
Model Number: Serial Number:
Date of Purchase:
Notes:
This manual may contain information for several models. Read and keep this manual for future reference. This manual contains
important information on SAFETY, ASSEMBLY, OPERATION, AND MAINTENANCE. The owner must be certain that all the product
information is included with the unit. This information includes the MANUAL, the REPLACEMENT PARTS and the WARRANTIES.
This information must be included to make sure state laws and other laws are followed. All persons to whom rent/loan this unit
must have access to and understand this information. This manual should remain with the product even if it is resold.
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-52
WARNINGS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITY
Accurate assembly and safe and effective use of the string
mower is the owner’s responsibility.
• Read and follow all safety instructions.
• Carefully follow all assembly instructions.
• Maintain the string mower according to directions and
schedule included in this Earthquake™ operator’s manual.
• Ensure that anyone who uses the string mower is familiar
with all controls and safety precautions.
SPECIAL MESSAGES
Your manual contains special messages to bring attention to
potential safety concerns, machine damage as well as helpful
operating and servicing information. Please read all the
information carefully to avoid injury and machine damage.
NOTE: General information is given throughout the manual
that may help the operator in the operation or service of
the machine.
Operator's Manual
String Mower 22230
WARNING
WARNING INDICATES A HAZARD WHICH, IF NOT
AVOIDED, COULD RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS
INJURY AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
CAUTION
CAUTION INDICATES YOU CAN BE HURT OR YOUR
EQUIPMENT DAMAGED IF THE SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
THAT FOLLOW THIS SIGNAL WORD ARE NOT OBEYED.
IMPORTANT
INDICATES HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR PROPER
ASSEMBLY, OPERATION, OR MAINTENANCE OF YOUR
EQUIPMENT.
This symbol points out important safety
instructions which if not followed could endanger
your personal safety. Read and follow all
instructions in this manual before attempting to
operate this equipment.
BEFORE OPERATING ENGINE:
Please read this section carefully. Read entire operating and
maintenance instructions AND the entire engine manual which
accompanies this product. Failure to follow instructions could
result in serious injury or death. Operate the string mower
according to the safety instructions outlined here and inserted
throughout the text. Anyone who uses this string mower must
read the instructions and be familiar with the controls.
INTENDED USE / FORESEEABLE MISUSE
This is a motorized string mower that cuts long grasses and
weeds. It is pedestrian-controlled, but not self-propelled. It has
a petrol-fuelled internal combustion engine that powers the
cutting head. It shall not be used for any other purpose.
WARNING
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS
CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA
TO CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS, OR OTHER
REPRODUCTIVE HARM.
WARNING
THIS CUTTING MACHINE IS CAPABLE OF THROWING
OBJECTS.
WARNING
DEBRIS THROWN FROM THE MOWER CAN RESULT
IN FOREIGN OBJECTS BEING THROWN INTO THE
EYES, WHICH CAN CAUSE SEVERE EYE DAMAGE AND
INJURY. ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES OR EYE
SHIELDS WHEN OPERATING THE MOWER.
IF YOU WEAR EYE GLASSES, PUT A WIDE VISION
SAFETY MASK OVER THEM.
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-5 3
Operator's Manual
String Mower 22230
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
• Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine
and in the manual(s). Be thoroughly familiar with the controls
and the proper use of the mower before starting.
• Familiarize yourself with all of the safety and operating
decals on this equipment and on any of its attachments or
accessories.
• Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts.
• Only allow responsible individuals, who are familiar with the
instructions, to operate the mower.
• Thoroughly inspect the area where the machine is to be
used and remove all foreign objects. Your equipment can
propel small objects at high speed causing personal injury
or property damage. Stay away from breakable objects, such
as house windows, automobile, greenhouses, etc.
• Keep the area of operation clear of all persons, particularly
small children, and pets.
• Wear appropriate clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt or
jacket. Also wear long trousers or slacks. Do not wear shorts.
• Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can get caught
in moving parts.
• Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
when operating mower to protect your eyes from foreign
objects which can be thrown from the unit.
• Always wear work gloves and sturdy footwear. Wear footwear
that will improve footing on slippery surfaces. Leather work
shoes or short boots work well for most people. These will
protect the operator’s ankles and shins from small sticks,
splinters, and other debris.
• It is advisable to wear protective headgear to prevent the
possibility of being struck by small flying particles, or being
struck by low hanging branches, twigs, or other objects
which may be unnoticed by the operator.
• Do not operate the mower without proper guards or other
safety protective devices in place.
• Use this equipment for its intended purpose only.
• See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and
installation of accessories. Only use accessories approved
by the manufacturer.
• Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Do not operate product when fatigued or under the
influence of alcohol, drugs or other medication which
can cause drowsiness or affect your ability to operate this
machine safely.
• Never operate mower in wet grass. Always be sure of your
footing; keep a firm hold on the handle and walk; never run.
• Before each use, inspect the throttle control lever and
cable. Make sure that the cable is free and that the lever is
not damaged. Also check the cable linkage running to the
carburetor for kinks, loose fittings, and obstructions. Verify
that the control bail is working properly.
• Stop the rotating mower head when crossing gravel drives,
walks, or roads. Wait for the cutting lines to stop rotating.
• Watch for traffic when operating near, or when crossing
roads.
• Stop the engine whenever you leave the equipment, before
cleaning, repairing or inspecting the unit, be sure the mower
head and all moving parts have stopped. Let the engine cool,
disconnect the spark plug wire and move it away from the
spark plug.
• If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire and prevent it
from touching the spark plug. Check immediately for cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.
• After striking a foreign object, stop the engine. Remove the
wire from the spark plug. Inspect the mower for damage. If
damaged, repair before starting and operating the mower.
• Never leave the mower unattended when the engine is
running. Remove the wire from the spark plug.
• Regularly inspect the mower. Make sure parts are not bent,
damaged or loose.
• Allow muffler and engine areas to cool before touching.
Never pick up or carry the mower while the engine is running.
• Prolonged exposure to noise and vibration from gasoline
engine powered equipment should be avoided. Take
intermittent breaks and/or wear ear protection from engine
noise as well as heavy work gloves to reduce vibration in the
hands.
• Check local regulations for age restrictions on use of this
machine.
• If the noise or vibrations of the machine increase, stop
immediately and perform an inspection.
• The fuel used in this machine is considered extremely
flammable and should be handled with care. When storing
extra fuel be sure that it is in an appropriate container and
away from any fire hazards.
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-54
Operator's Manual
String Mower 22230
SLOPE OPERATION
Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents which
can result in severe injury. All slopes require extra caution. If you
feel uneasy on a slope, do not mow it. Do mow across the face of
slopes; never up and down. Do not mow excessively steep slopes
(maximum 15 degrees) or areas where the ground is very rough.
See the “Slope Guide” in the back of this manual to check a slope.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.
• Remove objects such as rocks, tree limbs, etc.
• Watch for holes, ruts, or bumps. Tall grass can hide obstacles.
• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or embankments. The
operator could lose footing or balance.
• Do not mow excessively steep slopes.
• Do not mow on wet grass. Reduced footing could cause
slipping.
CHILDREN
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the mower
and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain
where you last saw them.
• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the watchful
care of a responsible adult.
• Be alert and turn mower off if children enter the area.
• Before and while moving backwards, look behind and down
for small children.
• Never allow children to operate the mower.
• Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees,
or other objects that may obscure vision.
SERVICE
• Use extra care in handling gasoline and other fuels. They are
flammable and vapors are explosive.
• Use only an approved container.
• Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running.
Allow engine to cool before refueling. Do not smoke while
refueling.
• Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill fuel tank
indoors or near appliances with pilot lights, heaters, or other
ignition sources. Replace fuel cap securely. If fuel is spilled, do
not start the engine but move product and fuel container from
area. Clean up spilled fuel and allow to evaporate.
• Never store the machine or fuel container inside where there
is an open flame (such as a water heater), or other ignition
source.
• If the fuel has to be drained, this should be done outdoors.
The drained fuel should be stored in a container specifically
designed for fuel storage or it should be disposed of carefully.
• Engines give off carbon monoxide, an odorless, colorless,
poison gas. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause
nausea, fainting or death. Always start and run engine
outdoors. Do not start or run engine in an enclosed area,
even if doors or windows are open.
• Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine (motor)
running. Disconnect the spark plug wire, and keep the wire
away from the plug to prevent accidental starting (remove
the ignition key if equipped with an electric start). Always
wear eye protection when you make adjustments or repairs.
• Check the mower head and engine mounting bolts at
frequent intervals for proper tightness.
• Keep all nuts and bolts tight and keep equipment in good
condition. Check mounting hardware on mower head every
time you change mower line and prior to each use.
• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.
• When servicing or repairing the mower, do not tip the
machine over or up unless specifically instructed to do so
in this manual. Service and repair procedures can be done
with the mower in an upright position. Some procedures
will be easier if the machine is lifted on a raised platform or
working surface.
• To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves, or
other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage. Allow
mower to cool before storing.
• Stop and inspect the equipment if you strike an object.
Repair, if necessary, before restarting.
• Always disconnect spark plug wire before cleaning, repairing,
or adjusting.
• Do not change the engine governor setting or over-speed
the engine.
• Clean and replace safety and instruction decals as necessary.
• To guard against engine over-heating, always have engine
debris filter mounted and clean.
• Inspect mower before storage. When not in use, disconnect
spark plug lead and store indoors in a dry place locked or
otherwise inaccessible to children.
• Use only original equipment or authorized replacement
parts.
• Never replace the cutting lines with metal parts.
• When storing gasoline or equipment with fuel in the tank,
store away from furnaces, stoves, water heaters or other
appliances that have a pilot light or other ignition source
because they can ignite gasoline vapors.
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-5 5
SAFETY DECALS AND WARNINGS
Pictured below are safety and hazard symbols on the unit
or in this manual. Before you operate your unit, learn and
understand the purpose for each symbol.
Operator's Manual
String Mower 22230
WARNING/AVERTISSEMENT
A
G
B
H
M N
DC
I
O
E
P
F
LKJ
A: Warning!
B: Read Owner's Manual Before Operating Machine.
C: Do Not Operate While Others Are Around.
D: Remove Objects that Could Be Thrown By This Machine.
E: Never Operate Machine Up and Down Slopes, ALWAYS
Operate Mower Across Slopes.
F: Be Aware of Moving and Rotating Parts.
G: Wear Ear and Eye Protection At All Times.
H: Do Not Service or Adjust Moving Parts Unless Engine is
Stopped and Spark Plug Wire is Disconnected.
I: Direction of Rotating Mower Lines.
J: Toxic Fumes —Do Not Operate in Unventilated Areas.
K: Hot Surfaces.
L: Fire Hazards.
M. Do Not Use In Thunderstorms--For severe weather, stop
operation of this machine and seek shelter.
N. Team Lift--For your safety, always have at least two people
when lifting this machine.
O. Never Fit Metal Cutting Parts--Do not attach any metal parts
to the cutting head of this machine.
P. Do Not Operate When Children Or Others Are Around.
Avoid Serious Injury Or Death.
Read And Follow Owner’s Manual. Do Not Operate When Children Or Others Are Around.
Remove Objects That Could Be Thrown By The Cutting Lines. Do Not Service Or Adjust
Cutting Head Or Other Moving Parts, Unless Engine Is Stopped And Spark Plug Wire Is
Disconnected. Wear Safety Approved Eye Protection When Operating. Go Across Slopes,
Not Up And Down. Keep Safety Devices, Such As Guards And Deectors In Place And
Operating. Look Down And Behind Before And While Moving Backwards.
Danger de blessure grave ou de mort.
Lire et suivre le manuel de l’utilisateur. Ne pas utiliser en présence d’enfants ou autres
personnes. Enlever les objets susceptibles d’être projetés par les lignes de coupe. Ne pas
eectuer l’entretien ou le réglage de la tête de coupe ou d’autres pièces en mouvement
avant d’avoir coupé le moteur et débranché le câble de bougie. Porter une protection
oculaire homologuée pour la sécurité durant l’utilisation. Traverser les pentes latéralement, pas de haut en bas. Maintenir les dispositifs de sécurité, tels que les carters de
protection et les déecteurs, en place et en état de marche. Regarder vers le bas et
l’arrière avant et durant les déplacements en marche arrière.
Part No. 28353
String Mower Warning Decal
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-56
Operator's Manual
String Mower 22230
FEATURES
Read this owner’s manual and safety rules before operating your mower. Take time to compare the following illustration with the
mower to familiarize yourself with the product and its controls. SEE FIGURE 1
1
2
3
11
4
5
6
10
9
FIGURE 1: String Mower Features
1. Mower Head Drive Lever - Engages rotation of Mower Head
2. Upper Handle
3. Engine ON/OFF Switch
4. Recoil Starter Pull Handle - Easy Pull Recoil Starter
5. Handle Adjustment Knob
6. Oil Level Indicator Dip Stick and Fill Port
7. Mower Line
8. Mower Head
9. Primer Bulb - Injects fuel directly into the carburetor for easy starting
10. Debris Screen
11. Fuel Cap and Fill Port
7
8
Specications:
Mower Line Diameter: 0.155 inches
Mower Line Length: 21.5 inches
Mower Cutting Diameter: 22 inches
Wheel Diameter: 14 inches
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-5 7
Operator's Manual
String Mower 22230
ASSEMBLY
Contents of Parts Bag
• Owner’s manual
• Engine manual
• Warranty card
• Replacement mower line
• L-handle allen wrench
• Spark plug wrench
To Remove the Mower from the Carton
1. Remove any of the loose parts in packaging, including the
parts bags, from the carton.
2. Remove the packing material positioned around the unit.
3 Cut down all four corners of the carton and lay the side panels
flat.
4. Pull the mower out of the carton. SEE FIGURE 2
How to Raise the Handle
1. Hold the handle with one hand and loosen both handle
adjustment knobs until the ratchet teeth are disengaged.
Do not remove the handle adjustment knobs.
2. Raise the handle to the operating position.
3. Stand in the operator’s position behind the mower. Put the
handle in a comfortable position. Make sure both sides of
the handle are level.
NOTE: Make sure the cables are not caught between the
upper and lower handle.
4. Tighten the handle adjustment knobs. Make sure the handle
pivots are locked in place.
NOTE: The handle height is adjustable. See “How To Adjust
The Height Of The Handle” in the Service and Adjustment
section.
FIGURE 2: Your new mower as it is shipped to you.
WARNING
USE THE CORRECT PERSONAL PROTECTION.
WEAR SAFETY GLASSES OR EYE SHIELDS WHILE
ASSEMBLING OR OPERATING THE STRING MOWER.
REMOVE SPARK PLUG WIRE FROM SPARK PLUG
BEFORE DOING ANY ASSEMBLY OR MAINTENANCE TO
THE STRING MOWER.
Check for parts online at www.getearthquake.com or call 800-345-6007 M-F 8-58
HANDLE
ADJUSTING
KNOB
FIGURE 3: Adjusting the Handle Bars.
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