Echo GT-200i Operator's Manual
Grass Trimmer
Operator's Manual
MODEL GT-200
Serial Number 05001001 - 05999999
X7712270001
WARNING DANGER
Read rules for safe operation and instructions carefully. ECHO provides an Operator's
Manual and a Safety Manual. Both must be read and understood for proper and safe
operation.
X771000011
10/03
2
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the ECHO family. This ECHO product was designed and manufactured to provide long life and on-the-job
dependability. Read and understand this manual and the SAFETY MANUAL you found in the same package. You will
find both easy to use and full of helpful operations tips and SAFETY messages.
THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Read and understand this manual before operation. Keep it in a safe
place for future reference. It contains specifications and information for
operation, starting, stopping, maintenance, storage, and assembly
specific to this product.
THE SAFETY MANUAL
Read and understand this manual before operation. Keep it in a safe
place for future reference. It explains possible hazards involved with the
use of Grass Trimmers and Brush Cutters and what measures you
should take to make their use safer.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ...............................................................2
- The Operator's Manual .......................................2
- The Safety Manual .............................................2
Manual Safety Symbols and Important Information .. 3
Safety .........................................................................3
- Decals ................................................................. 3
- International Symbols......................................... 4
Safety Instructions .................................................... 5
- Personal Conditions and Safety Equipment ....... 5
- Extended Operation/Extreme Conditions ............5
- Equipment ...........................................................6
- Safe Operation .................................................... 6
Emission Control........................................................ 7
Description ................................................................ 7
- Contents .............................................................7
Specifications........................................................... 10
Assembly ................................................................. 11
- Plastic Shield Installation.................................. 1 1
- Nylon Head Installation.................................... 1 1
- Nylon Line Replacement ................................... 12
- Front (Loop) Handle ......................................... 12
Pre-Operation ........................................................... 13
- Fuel ................................................................... 13
Copyright© 2003 By Echo, Incorporated
All Rights Reserved.
Operation ................................................................. 14
- Starting Cold Engine ......................................... 14
- Starting Warm Engine....................................... 1 5
- Stopping Engine ............................................... 16
Maintenance ............................................................ 16
- Skill Level .......................................................... 16
- Maintenance Intervals ...................................... 17
- Air Filter ............................................................ 18
- Fuel Filter .......................................................... 18
- Spark plug......................................................... 1 9
- Cooling System................................................. 1 9
- Exhaust System................................................. 2 2
- Carburetor Adjustment ..................................... 22
- Lubrication........................................................ 23
Troubleshooting ...................................................... 24
Storage..................................................................... 25
Servicing Info rmation............................................... 2 8
- Parts.................................................................. 28
- Service .............................................................. 28
- ECHO Consumer Product Support.................... 28
- Warranty Card .................................................. 2 8
- Additional or Replacement Manuals ................ 28
Specifications, descriptions and illustrative material in this
literature are as accurate as known at the time of publication, but are subject to change without notice. Illustrations may include optional equipment and accessories,
and may not include all standard equipment.
GRASS TRIMMER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
MANUAL SAFETY SYMBOLS AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Throughout this manual and on the product itself, you will find safety
alerts and helpful, informational messages preceded by symbols or key
words. The following is an explanation of those symbols and key words
and what they mean to you.
IMPORTANT
3
This symbol accompanied by the words
WARNING and DANGER calls attention to an
act or condition that can lead to serious personal
injury to operator and bystanders.
The circle with the slash symbol means whatever is
shown within the circle is prohibited.
SAFETY
DECALS
Locate these safety decals on your unit. Make sure the decals are
legible and that you understand and follow the instructions on them.
If a decal cannot be read, a new one can be ordered from your ECHO
dealer. See PARTS ORDERING instructions for specific information.
NOTE
IMPORTANT The enclosed message
provides information necessary for the
protection of the unit.
NOTE This enclosed message provides tips
for use, care and maintenance of the unit.
Hot Decal (near muffler)
Shaft Decal
SPANISH DECAL
890228-09560
P/N 89022809560
ADVERTENCIA PELIGRO
Esta unidad puede ser peligrosa y producir
lesiones personales graves si no se usa en
forma adecuada. Para reducir el riesgo de
lesionarse, los operadores, los ayudantes y los
espectadores deben leer y comprender el
Manual Del Operador y los Manuales De
Seguridad que se entregan escritos en español.
P/N 89016006361
ENGLISH TRANSLATION
W ARNING DANGER
This unit can be dangerous and cause serious
injury if improperly used. To reduce injury
risk to operator, helpers and bystanders, read
and understand the Operator's and Safety
Manuals, which are provided in Spanish.
4
Shaft Decal
W ARNING DANGER
• This unit can be dangerous and cause serious injury if improperly
used. To reduce injury risk to operator, helpers and bystanders, read
and understand the Operator's and Safety manuals.
• Blindness can occur from objects that are thrown or ricocheted even
with shield in place. Operators, helpers and bystanders must wear
ANSI Z87.1 approved eye protection.
• Always wear hearing protection when operating unit.
• Prevent accidental contact with unit and any cutting attachment.
Maintain a 15m (50 ft.) radius, DANGER ZONE surrounding the
operator. ONLY the operator, dressed in proper protective clothing
should be in the DANGER ZONE.
• DO NOT INSTALL METAL BLADES ON GT (GRASS TRIMMER)
MODELS.
• Cutting attachment does not stop immediately after releasingthrottle.
Keep hands and feet clear of blade/cutting attachment unless engine
is shut off and cutting attachment is not moving.
• Do not remove shields, modify the unit or install attachments or
parts not approved by ECHO. Approved attachment information
and replacement Operator's and Safety Manuals are available from
your ECHO dealer or by writing: ECHO, INCORPORATED, 400
OAKWOOD RD., LAKE ZURICH, IL 60047.
P/N 89031744530
INTERNA TIONAL SYMBOLS
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
Read and understand
Operator's Manual.
WEAR EYES, EARS
AND HEAD
PROTECTION
HOT
SURFACE
WEAR HAND AND
FOOT PROTECTION
SAFETY/ALERT
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
KEEP BYSTANDERS AND HELPERS
AWAY 15 M (50 FT.).
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
FUEL AND OIL
MIXTURE
FINGER SEVERING
WEAR SLIP
RESISTANT
FOOT WEAR.
DO NOT SMOKE
NEAR FUEL.
DO NOT ALLOW
FLAMES OR
SPARKS NEAR
FUEL.
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
CHOKE CONTROL
"COLD START"
POSITION
(CHOKE CLOSED)
CHOKE CONTROL
"RUN"
POSITION
(CHOKE OPEN)
PRIMER
BULB
DO NOT EXCEED
10,000 RPM.
DO NOT OPERATE
WITHOUT GUARDS
AND SHIELDS IN
PLACE.
DO NOT USE
BLADES. STRING
LINE ONLY
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
EMERGENCY STOP
IGNITION
ON/OFF
CARBURETOR
ADJUSTMENT
- HIGH SPEED
MIXTURE
CARBURETOR
ADJUSTMENT
- LOW SPEED MIXTURE
CARBURETOR
ADJUSTMENT
- IDLE SPEED
BEWARE
- THROWN,
RICOCHET
OBJECTS
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
GRASS TRIMMER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
5
PERSONAL
CONDITION AND SAFETY EQUIPMENT
W ARNING DANGER
Trimmer/Brush Cutter users risk injury to themselves and others if the trimmer/brush cutter is used improperly and or
safety precautions are not followed. Proper clothing and safety gear must be worn when operating a trimmer.
Physical Condition
Your judgment and physical dexterity may not be good:
• if you are tired or sick,
• if you are taking medication,
• if you have taken alcohol or drugs.
Operate unit only if you are physically and mentally well.
Eye Protection
Eye protection that meet ANSI Z87.1 or CE requirements
must be worn whenever you operate the unit.
Hand Protection
Wear no-slip, heavy duty work gloves to improve your
grip on the handles. Gloves also reduce the transmission
of machine vibration to your hands.
Hearing Protection
Wear hearing protection. ECHO recommends wearing
hearing protection whenever unit is used.
Proper Clothing
Wear snug fitting, durable clothing;
• Pants should have long legs, shirts with long sleeves.
• DO NOT WEAR SHORTS,
• DO NOT WEAR TIES, SCARFS, JEWELRY.
Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
Wear sturdy work shoes with nonskid soles;
• DO NOT WEAR OPEN TOED SHOES,
• DO NOT OPERATE UNIT BAREFOOTED.
Hot Humid Weather
Heavy protective clothing can increase operator fatigue
which may lead to heat stroke. Schedule heavy work for
early morning or late afternoon hours when temperatures
are cooler.
EXTENDED OPERATION/EXTREME CONDITIONS
Vibration and Cold --
It is believed that a condition called Raynaud’s Phenomenon, which
affects the fingers of certain individuals may be brought about by
exposure to vibration and cold. Exposure to vibration and cold may
cause tingling and burning sensations followed by loss of color and
numbness in the fingers. The following precautions are strongly
recommended because the minimum exposure which might trigger the
ailment is unknown.
• Keep your body warm, especially the head, neck, feet, ankles, hands
and wrists.
• Maintain good blood circulation by performing vigorous arm exercises during frequent work breaks and also by not smoking.
• Limit the hours of operation. Try to fill each day with jobs where
operating the trimmer or other hand-held power equipment is not
required.
• If you experience discomfort, redness and swelling of the fingers
followed by whitening and loss of feeling, consult your physician
before further exposing yourself to cold and vibration.
Repetitive Stress Injuries --
It is believed that overusing the muscles and tendons of the fingers,
hands, arms and shoulders may cause soreness, swelling, numbness,
weakness and extreme pain in those areas. Certain repetitive hand
activities may put you at a high risk for developing a Repetitive Stress
Injury (RSI). An extreme RSI condition is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
(CTS), which could occur when your wrist swells and squeezes a vital
nerve that runs through the area. Some believe that prolonged exposure
to vibration may contribute to CTS. CTS can cause severe pain for
months or even years.
To reduce the risk of RSI/CTS, do the
following:
• Avoid using your wrist in a bent, extended
or twisted position. Instead try to maintain
a straight wrist position. Also, when
grasping, use your whole hand, not just
the thumb and index finger.
• Take periodic breaks to minimize repetition
and rest your hands.
• Reduce the speed and force in which you
do the repetitive movement.
• Do exercises to strengthen the hand and
arm muscles.
• Immediately stop using all power equipment and consult a doctor if you feel
tingling, numbness or pain in the fingers,
hands, wrists or arms. The sooner RSI/
CTS is diagnosed, the more likely permanent nerve and muscle damage can be
prevented.
6
EQUIPMENT
W ARNING DANGER
Use only ECHO approved attachments. Serious injury may result from the use of a non approved attachment combination. ECHO, INC. will not be responsible for the failure of cutting devices, attachments or accessories which have
not been tested and approved by ECHO. Read and comply with all safety instructions listed in this manual and safety
manual.
• Check unit for loose/missing nuts, bolts and screws. Tighten and/or
replace as needed.
• Inspect fuel lines, tank and area around carburetor for fuel leaks.
DO NOT operate unit if leaks are found.
• Inspect shield for damage and ensure that the cut-off knife issecurely
in place. Replace if either is damaged or missing.
• Check that the cutting attachment is firmly attached and in safe
operating condition.
• Check that front (loop) handle and optional shoulder/waist harness
are adjusted for safe, comfortable operation. See Assembly for proper
adjustment.
• Have repairs done only by an authorized ECHO Service Dealer.
• Keep exhaust area clear of flammable debris. Avoid contact during
and immediately after operation.
SAFE OPERATION
W ARNING DANGER
Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately ventilated
areas. Engine exhaust contains poisonous emissions and can cause
serious injury or death.
Read the Manuals
• Provide all users of this equipment with the Operator's Manual and
Safety Manual for instructions on Safe Operation.
Clear the Work Area
• Spectators and fellow workers must be warned, and children and
animals prevented from coming nearer than 15 m (50 ft.) while the unit
is in use.
Keep a Firm Grip
• Hold the front and rear handles with both hands, with thumbs and
fingers tightly encircling the handles.
Keep a Solid Stance
• Maintain footing and balance at all times. Do not stand on slippery,
uneven or unstable surfaces. Do not work in odd positions or on
ladders. Do not over reach.
EMISSION CONTROL
EPA Phase 2
The emission control system for this engine is EM (Engine Modification ).
GRASS TRIMMER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
7
ENGINE FAMILY: 3EHXS.0214EA DISPLACEMENT: 21.2 CC
EMISSION COMPLIANCE PERIOD : 300 HRS.
THIS ENGINE MEETS U.S. EPA PHASE 2 EMISSION
An Emission Control Label is located on the engine. (This is an
EXAMPLE ONLY, information on label varies by engine FAMILY).
PRODUCT EMISSION DURABILITY
The 300 hour emission durability period is the time span selected by the manufacturer certifying the engine emissions output meets applicable emissions regulations, provided that approved maintenance procedures are followed
as listed in the Maintenance Section of this manual.
REGULATIONS FOR SMALL NONROAD ENGINES. REFER
TO OWNER'S MANUAL FOR MAINTENANCE SPECIFICATIONS AND ADJUSTMENTS.
IMPORTANT ENGINE INFORMATION
DESCRIPTION
The ECHO product you purchased has been partially assembled for your convenience. Due to packaging restrictions,
installation of the plastic debris shield, nylon line head, and positioning of the front handle are necessary.
After opening the carton, check for damage. Immediately notify your retailer or ECHO Dealer of damaged or missing
parts. Use the contents list to check for missing parts.
* Some units may be factory pre-assembled. No assembly tools are needed and the nylon line head, plastic debris shield,
and mounting hardware, shown in the contents list, are pre-assembled to the unit. Only the front handle may need to be
re-positioned for comfortable operation.
CONTENTS LIST
____ - Trimmer Assembly:
____ - Power Head
____ - Drive Shaft Assembly
____ - Plastic Bag (Co-Pack)
____ - Operator's Manual
____ - Safety Manual
____ - Warranty Card & Limited Warranty
____ - Locking Tool, P/N 89751801131 (head locking tool)
____ - Safety Glasses
____ - Echo Power Blend TM 2-stroke oil sample
____ - 12 pcs. 8 in. x .080 Pre-cut Nylon Line
*__ - Rapid Loader
TM
2-line Head
*__ - Shield Assembly
*__ - Line Head Mounting Hardware:
* ___ - 3/8-24 Locknut
* ___ - Small Washer
* ___ - Large Washer
* ___ - Locking Tool, P/N 89751801131 (wrench handle)
* ___ - Wrench 17 x 14.5, P/N X602000031
*
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20
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16
15
14
5
4
3
7
11
12
13
6
2
1
8
10
9
GRASS TRIMMER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
1. POWER HEAD - Factory Assembled to the Drive shaft assembly. Includes the Engine, Clutch, Fuel System, Ignition
System and Recoil Starter.
2. GRIP - Rear (right hand) handle.
3. FRONT HANDLE - The Front (loop) handle is factory assembled to the Drive Shaft assembly but must be re-
positioned for proper cutting attitude and operator comfort.
4. DRIVE SHAFT ASSEMBLY - Factory Assembled to the Power Head. Includes the Rear (right hand) Handle
Assembly, Bearing Housing Assembly, Throttle Trigger, Front (loop, left hand) Handle Assembly, Flexible Drive
Cable and Safety Decals.
5. NYLON CUTTER HEAD - Contains replaceable nylon trimming lines.
6. DEBRIS SHIELD ASSEMBLY - Included in plastic bag (co-pack). MUST be installed on unit before use, see
Assembly Instructions. Shield assembly includes the Cut-Off Knife and Safety Decal. Mounts on the Bearing
Housing Assembly just above the cutting attachment. Helps protect the operator by deflecting debris produced
during the trimming operation.
7. CUT-OFF KNIFE - Trims line to the correct length (5 in.). If trimmer is operated without a cut-off knife the line may be
too long - more than (5 in.) - the operating speed will slow, the engine overheat and performance will suffer.
8. THROTTLE TRIGGER - Spring loaded to return to idle when released. During acceleration, press trigger gradually
for best operating technique.
9. STOP SWITCH - "TOGGLE SWITCH" mounted on the engine. Move switch UP to RUN, DOWN to STOP.
10. SHOULDER HARNESS (Optional) - An adjustable strap that suspends the unit from the operator.
11. TOP GUARD - Protects arm from hot engine during normal operation.
12. SPARK ARRESTOR - CATALYTIC MUFFLER / MUFFLER -The muffler or catalytic muffler controls exhaust noise
and emission. The spark arrestor screen prevents hot, glowing particles of carbon from leaving the muffler. Keep
exhaust area clear of flammable debris.
13. FUEL TANK - Contains fuel and fuel filter.
14. FUEL TANK CAP - Cover and seals fuel tank opening.
15. RECOIL STARTER HANDLE/ROPE - Pull recoil starter handle/rope using light pulling force, approximately 2/3
(2 ft.) of rope length. Two (2) to Six (6) pulls are required to properly tension starter spring prior to automatic engine
engagement. DO NOT let handle snap back or damage to unit will occur.
16. PRIMER BULB - Pumping primer bulb before starting engine draws fresh fuel from the fuel tank priming the carbure-
tor for starting. Pump primer bulb until fuel is visible and flows freely in the clear fuel tank return line. Pump bulb an
additional 4 or 5 times.
17. AIR CLEANER - Contains replaceable filter element.
18. CHOKE - Located at the rear of the air cleaner housing. Move choke lever to "Cold Start" ( ) to close choke for
9
cold starting. Move choke lever to "Run" ( ) position to open choke.
19. SPARK PLUG - Provides spark to ignite fuel mixture.
20. SAFETY VIDEO - (Not included with unit) P/N 99922202540 English version and P/N 99922203508 Spanish version
are available at a cost of $5.00 from ECHO, INC. or any authorized ECHO dealer. The video overviews safety precautions and proper operating techniques and is supplemental to the Safety Manual. Read and understand the Safety
Manual for complete information on safe operation.