Echo GT-251E User Manual
Grass Trimmer
Operator's Manual
MODELS GT-251E
X7502021703
W ARNING 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.
X750007973
11/05
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
Safety .............................................................................. 3
- Manual Safety Symbols and Important Information... 3
- International Symbols.............................................. 3
- Personal Conditions and Safety Equipment ............ 3
- Equipment ................................................................ 6
Emission Control............................................................. 6
Description ..................................................................... 7
Contents ......................................................................... 9
Assembly ...................................................................... 10
- Plastic Shield Installation....................................... 1 0
- Nylon Line Head Installation ................................. 1 0
- Nylon Line Installation .......................................... 1 1
- Front (Loop) Handle .............................................. 11
Operation ...................................................................... 12
- Fuel ........................................................................ 12
- Starting Cold Engine .............................................. 1 3
- Starting Warm Engine............................................ 14
- Stopping Engine .................................................... 14
Copyright© 2005 By Echo, Incorporated
All Rights Reserved.
Maintenance ................................................................. 15
- Skill Levels ............................................................. 15
- Maintenance Intervals ........................................... 15
- Air Filter ................................................................. 16
- Fuel Filter ............................................................... 16
- Spark Plug.............................................................. 17
- Cooling System...................................................... 1 7
- Exhaust System...................................................... 1 8
- Carburetor Adjustment .......................................... 19
- Lubrication............................................................. 21
Troubleshooting ........................................................... 22
Storage.......................................................................... 23
Specifications................................................................ 24
Servicing Info rmation.................................................... 2 8
- Parts/Serial Number ............................................... 28
- Service ................................................................... 28
- ECHO Consumer Product Support......................... 28
- Warranty Card ....................................................... 28
- Additional or Replacement Manuals ..................... 2 8
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.
SAFETY
GRASS TRIMMER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
3
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.
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.
INTERNA TIONAL SYMBOLS
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
Read and understand
Operator's Manual.
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
FUEL AND OIL
MIXTURE
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
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.
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
PRIMER
BULB
SYMBOL FORM/
SHAPE
SYMBOL
DESCRIPTION/APPLICATION
EMERGENCY STOP
WEAR EYES, EARS
AND HEAD
PROTECTION
HOT
SURFACE
WEAR HAND AND
FOOT PROTECTION
SAFETY/ALERT
FINGER SEVERING
WEAR SLIP
RESISTANT
FOOT WEAR.
DO NOT SMOKE
NEAR FUEL.
DO NOT ALLOW
FLAMES OR
SPARKS NEAR
FUEL.
KEEP BYSTANDERS AND HELPERS
AWAY 15 M (50 FT.).
DO NOT EXCEED
10,000 RPM.
BEWARE
- THROWN,
RICOCHET
OBJECTS
CARBURETOR
ADJUSTMENT
- IDLE SPEED
CHOKE CONTROL
"COLD START"
POSITION
(CHOKE CLOSED)
DO NOT USE
BLADES. STRING
LINE ONLY
IGNITION
ON/OFF
CARBURETOR
ADJUSTMENT
- HIGH SPEED
MIXTURE
CARBURETOR
ADJUSTMENT
- LOW SPEED
MIXTURE
CHOKE CONTROL
POSITION
(CHOKE OPEN)
BEWARE
- THROWN,
RICOCHET
OBJECTS
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.
"RUN"
4
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
Wear eye protection that meets ANSI Z87.1 or CE requirements 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
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.
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 unit 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.
GRASS TRIMMER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
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 with 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.
5
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 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.
Avoid Hot Surfaces
• Keep exhaust area clear of flammable debris. Avoid contact during
and immediately after operation.
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 is securely 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.
EMISSION CONTROL
EPA Phase 2
The emission control system for this engine is EM (Engine Modification).
ENGINE FAMILY: 5EHXS.0254ED DISPLACEMENT: 25.4 CC
EMISSION COMPLIANCE PERIOD : 300 HRS.
THIS ENGINE MEETS U.S. EPA PHASE 2 EMISSION REGULATIONS
FOR SMALL NONROAD ENGINES. REFER TO OWNER'S MANUAL
FOR MAINTENANCE SPECIFICATIONS AND ADJUSTMENTS.
Emission Control Label located on Engine (EXAMPLE ONLY, information on label varies by FAMILY).
The 300 hour emission durability compliance 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.
IMPORTANT ENGINE INFORMATION
PRODUCT EMISSION DURABILITY
GRASS TRIMMER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
DESCRIPTION
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.
18
Hot Decal (near muffler)
17
16
P/N 89016006361
7
10
15
14
11
12
13
5
6
7
8
4
3
2
1
9
P/N X505001930
Shaft Decal
P/N 89031748731
8
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. STOP SWITCH - "SLIDE SWITCH" mounted on top of the Throttle Trigger Housing. Move switch FORWARD to
RUN, BACK to STOP.
4. FRONT HANDLE - The Front (loop) handle is factory assembled to the Drive Shaft assembly but must be reposi-
tioned for proper cutting attitude and operator comfort.
5. 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.
6. RAPID LOADER
7. CUT-OFF KNIFE - Trims line to the correct length (5 in.). If trimmer is operated without a cut-off knife the line will
become too long - more than (5 in.) - the operating speed will slow, the engine overheat and performance will suffer.
8. 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.
9. THROTTLE TRIGGER - Spring loaded to return to idle when released. During acceleration, press trigger gradually
for best operating technique.
10. SHOULDER HARNESS - Optional (P/N 99944200201). An adjustable strap that suspends the unit from the operator.
11. 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.
12. FUEL TANK - Contains fuel and fuel filter.
13. I-30 RECOIL STARTER/HANDLE - i30 spring-assisted recoil starter requires 30% less pulling force than standard
recoil starter. Pull handle slowly until starter engages, then quickly and firmly. When engine starts, return handle
slowly. DO NOT let handle snap back or damage to unit will occur.
14. FUEL TANK CAP - Cover and seals fuel tank opening.
15. CHOKE - Located at the rear of the air cleaner housing. Move choke lever to "Cold Start" ( ) to close choke for
TM
HEAD - Contains replaceable nylon trimming lines.
cold starting. Move choke lever to "Run" ( ) position to open choke.
16. AIR CLEANER - Contains replaceable filter element.
17. PURGE BULB - Pumping purge bulb before starting engine draws fresh fuel from the fuel tank, purging air from the
carburetor. Pump purge bulb until fuel is visible and flows freely in the clear fuel tank return line. Pump purge bulb
an additional 4 or 5 times.
18. SPARK PLUG - Provides spark to ignite fuel mixture.
GRASS TRIMMER
OPERATOR'S MANUAL
CONTENTS
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.
____ - 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
9
*__ - 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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