Echo HCA-2400 User Manual

HEDGE CLIPPER	1
OPERATOR'S MANUAL

Shaft Hedge Clipper

Operator's Manual

MODELS:

SHC-1700 - Type 1	- S/N 001001 & Up
SHC-1700 - Type 1E	- S/N 00504768 & Up
SHC-2100 - Type 1	- S/N 001001 & Up
SHC-2100 - Type 1E	- S/N 00506456 & Up
SHC-2400 - Type 1	- S/N 001001 & Up
SHC-2400 - Type 1E	- S/N 00501001 &Up
HCA-2400 - Type 1E	- S/N 00501001 & Up

WARNING

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

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. Failure to do so could resultinserousinjury.

X7502248801	89861112351
	10/99

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 operating tips and SAFETY messages.

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.

THE OPERATORS MANUAL --

contains specifications and information for operation, starting, stopping, maintenance, storage and assembly specific to this product.

THE SAFETY MANUAL --

explains possible hazards involved with the use of Hedge Clippers 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
-	General Description ................................................	3
- ......................................................................Decals		4
- .............................................	International Symbols	5
- ...............................................................	Equipment	5
- ..........................................................................Fuel		6
- .............	Personal Condition and Safety Equipment	6
- .........................................................Safe Operation		8
- ..............Extended Operation/Extreme Conditions		10
Description .......................................................................		11
- ................................................................	Contents	11
- ...................................................Emission Control		11
Specifications ....................................................................		14
- ........Models SHC-1700, 2100, 2400, HCA-2400		14
Assembly ..........................................................................		15
- ..................Gear Housing Assembly / Drive Shaft		15
- ......................................Power Head / Drive Shaft		15
- .........................Throttle Cable and Ignition Leads		16
Pre-Operation ...................................................................		17
- ........................................................................Fuel		18
- ..................................................Equipment Check		18
- ....................................Determine Operation Area		19
Operation ..........................................................................		19
CopyRight© 1999 By Echo, Incorporated
All Rights Reserved.

- Starting Cold Engine ..............................................			20
- Starting Warm Engine ............................................			21
- Stopping Engine ....................................................			22
Maintenance .....................................................................			23
- Skill Levels ............................................................			23
-	Maintenance Intervals ...........................................		24
-	Air Filter ................................................................		25
-	Fuel Filter ..............................................................		25
- Spark Plug .............................................................			26
- Cooling System Cleaning .......................................			26
- Exhaust System .....................................................			27
-	Carburetor Adjustment	Emission .........................	28
-	Carburetor Adjustment	Non Emission .................	29
- Lubrication ............................................................			30
- Sharpening Blades .................................................			31
Troubleshooting ................................................................			32
Storage ..............................................................................			33
ServicingInformation ........................................................			36
-	Parts ......................................................................		36
- Service ...................................................................			36
-	ECHO Consumer Product Support ......................		36
- Warranty Card .......................................................			36
- Additional or Replacement Manuals .....................			36
-	Manual Ordering Instructions ...............................		36

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.

HEDGE CLIPPER	3
OPERATOR'S MANUAL

MANUAL SAFETY SYMBOLS AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Throughout this manual and on the product itself, you will find safety alerts and helpful, information 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.

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.

SAFETY

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

IMPORTANT

See Description and Specification sections for full description and illustration of model variation in power head, and handle type.

	DOUBLESIDE		POWERHEAD
	HEDGECLIPPER	LEFTHANDLE
	BLADEAND		SAFETYDECAL
	GEARHOUSING

	HAND	STOPSWITCH	CLUTCH
		ANDTHROTTLE	HOUSING
	GUARD
		SHC-1700 SHOWN

Operator’s Manual. • STOP engine before making repairs or blade adjustments. • Keep hand away from blade.

• Wear Protective Clothing (head, hearing and eye protection meeting ANSI standards) specified in the

4

DECALS, WARNING/INFORMATIONAL

Locate these safety decals on your unit. The complete unit illustration found in the "DESCRIPTION" section, will help you locate them. 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.

HCA/SHC-2400DRIVESHAFT

HCA-2400DRIVESHAFT

SHC-2400DRIVESHAFT

SHC-1700,2100HANDGUARD

WARNING DANGER

This unit is not designed to insulate against hazards associated with the contact of wires carrying electrical current. To avoid possible injury/death due to electrical

shock or other hazards. DO NOT operate unit if any wires (power, telephone, cable, etc.) are closer than 15 feet (4.5 meters) minimum distance, to any part of the unit or operator. • This unit can be dangerous if used improperly. • Falling objects and/or blade contact can cause serious injury to operator, helpers and bystanders. • Keep helpers and bystanders at least 50 feet (15m) clear of operating area.

• To reduce injury risk, READ AND

UNDERSTAND the

Operator’s Manual. Replacement copies are

available through any ECHO Dealer.

HEDGE CLIPPER	5
OPERATOR'S MANUAL

INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS

Symbol form/shape	Symbol	Symbol form/shape	Symbol
	description/application		description/application
	Read and understand		Fuel and oil mixture
	Operator's Manual.
	Wear eyes, ears and		Finger Severing
	head protection
			Wear hand
			protection. Use
			two handed.
			DO NOT smoke
	Hot		near fuel.
	Surface
	Safety/Alert		DO NOT allow
			flames or sparks
			near fuel.
	Avoid all power lines.		Do not operate clos-
	This unit is not insulat-		er than 15 M (50 ft.)
	ed against electrical		from electrical
	current.		hazards.

Symbol form/shape		Symbol	Symbol form/shape	Symbol
	description/application			description/application
	Keep bystanders at			Plan retreat path
				from falling
	least	15 meters
				objects.
	(50 feet) away.
	Emergency stop			Wear slip resistant
				foot wear.
	Engine choke			Ignition
				ON/OFF
		control.
				Carburetor adjustment
	Primer bulb			- High speed mixture
	Carburetor adjustment			Carburetor adjustment
				- Idle speed
	- Low speed mixture

EQUIPMENT

Before operation a complete check of the unit must be performed;

•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 hand guard for damage. Replace if damaged or missing.

•Check that the blade assembly is firmly attached and in safe operating condition. Dull, loose or damaged blades should not be used.

•Check that front loop handle and shoulder strap/ or shoulder/ waist harness are adjusted for safe, comfortable operation.

•Tighten the blade angle adjustment lever before operating the HCA-2400.

IMPORTANT

Always store and transport Shaft Hedge Clipper in a stable, horizontal position. Support gear case and cutting blades to prevent excessive flexing, which may cause damage to the cutting attachment.

6

FUEL

	WARNING	DANGER
	Fuel isVERYflammable. Use extreme care when mixing, storing or
	handling or serious personal injury may result.
	• Use an approved fuel container.
	• DO NOT smoke near fuel.
	• DO NOT allow flames or sparks near fuel.
	• Fuel tanks/cans may be under pressure. Always loosen fuel caps
	slowly allowing pressure to equalize.
	• NEVER refuel a unit when the engine is HOT!
	• NEVER refuel a unit with the engine running.
	• DO NOT fill fuel tanks indoors. ALWAYS fill fuel tanks outdoors
	over bare ground.
	• Securely tighten fuel cap after refueling.
	• Inspect for fuel leakage. If fuel leakage is found, do not start or
	operate unit until leakage is repaired.
After Refueling;
• Wipe any spilled fuel from the unit.					3M
• Move at least 3M (10 ft.) from refueling location before starting.
					(10 ft.) MINIMUM

After Use;

•DO NOT store a unit with fuel in its tank. Leaks can occur. Return unused fuel to an approved fuel storage container.

PERSONAL CONDITION AND SAFETY EQUIPMENT

WARNING DANGER

Hedge Clipper users risk injury to themselves and others if the shaft hedge clipper is used improperly and or safety precautions are not followed. Proper clothing and safety gear must be worn when operating a shaft hedge clipper.

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.

HEDGE CLIPPER	7
OPERATOR'S MANUAL

Eye Protection

Wear eye protection meeting ANSI Z87.1 of CE requirements whenever you operate the unit.

Face and Head Protection

When trimming overhead, wear head protection meeting ANSI Z89.1 or CE requirements with a full face shield. Head protection with full face shield will help protect you from falling debris.

Hand Protection

Wear no-slip, heavy duty work gloves to improve your grip on the Shaft Hedge Clipper 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.

•DONOTWEARSHORTS,

•DONOTWEARTIES,SCARVES,JEWELRY.

Wear sturdy work shoes with non-skid soles;

•DONOTWEAROPENTOEDSHOES,

•DONOTOPERATEUNITBAREFOOTED.

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.

8

SAFE OPERATION

Determine Operation Area

•Provide all operators of this equipment with the Operator's Manuals and instructions for safe operation.

•Review the area to be trimmed. Look for hazards that could contribute to unsafe conditions. DO NOT operate unit if any wires (power, telephone, cable, etc.) are closer than 4.5 M (15 ft.) to any part of the operator or unit.

•Spectators and fellow workers must be warned, and children and animals prevented from coming nearer than 15 M (50 ft.) while the Hedge Clipper is in use.

Operation

UseProperClothing&Equipment

•Before starting the unit, equip yourself and any other person working within the 15 M (50 ft.) Safety Zone with the required Protective Equipment and clothing.

WARNING DANGER

Do not operate this product indoors or in inadequately ventilated areas. Engine exhaust contains poisonous emissions and can cause serious injury or death.

AvoidHotSurfaces

•During operation, the complete unit, especially the drive shaft housing, power head, muffler area and gear box may become very hot, too hot to touch. Avoid contact during and immediately after operation.

KeepAFirmGrip

•Hold the front and rear handles with both hands with thumbs and fingers encircling the handles

KeepASolidStance

•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.

HEDGE CLIPPER	9
OPERATOR'S MANUAL

Operation (HCA)

•Never adjust blade angle of HCA while standing.

•Only adjust cutting angle with HCA resting flat on the ground, with the engine stop switch in the "STOP" position.

•Adjust cutting angle by moving locking lever (A) up. Depress blade indexing lever (B) and change blade angle with rear cutter assembly handle. Release indexing lever (B) into notch. Move locking lever (A) down to completely engage internal gears.

IMPORTANT

Lever (A) does not secure gearbox angle setting. Moving lever in the down position reduces internal play in the gear box. Do not over tighten castle nut (C) to insure gear box angle setting tightness because damage to internal gears will occur. If the lever is loose or very tight adjust nut (C) for snug 90° movement.

A C

B

10

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 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.

HEDGE CLIPPER 11

OPERATOR'S MANUAL

DESCRIPTION

The ECHO product you have purchased has been factory pre-assembled for your convenience. Due to packaging restrictions, some assembly of Models SHC-2100, SHC-2400 and HCA-2400 is required.

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.

CONTENTS LIST

				MODEL
_____ 1		- Shaft Hedge Clipper Assembly		ALL
_____ 1		- Shaft Assembly		HCA-2400
_____ 1		- Power Head Assembly	SHC-2400/HCA-2400
_____ 1 - Cutting Attachment Assembly				HCA-2400
_____ 1		- Gear Housing Assembly
_____	1	- Operator's Manual		ALL
_____ 1		- Hedge Clipper Safety Manual		ALL
_____ 1		- Warranty Statement		ALL
_____	1	- Warranty Registration Card		ALL
_____	1	- 2-Stroke Oil Sample, 2.6 oz.		ALL
_____ 1		- T-Wrench		ALL
_____ 1		-3mmHexwrench	SHC-2100/2400/HCA-2400
_____ 1		- 4mm Hex Wrench	SHC-2100/2400/HCA-2400
_____ 1-8mm/10mmWrench				SHC-2400
_____ 1		- Shoulder Strap Assembly		HCA-2400
_____ 1		- Front Handle Assembly		HCA-2400
_____	1	- Safety Glasses		ALL

EMISSION CONTROL

The emission control system for this engine is EM (Engine Modification).

IMPORTANT ENGINE INFORMATION

ENGINE FAMILY : TEH021UB24RA

DISPLACEMENT : 23.6 cc

THIS ENGINE MEETS U.S. EPA PHI AND 1995 - 1999

CALIFORNIAEMISSION REGULATIONS FOR ULGE

ENGINES. REFER TO OWNER’S MANUAL FOR

MAINTENANCE SPECIFICATIONS ANDADJUST-

MENTS.

An Emission Control Label is located on the engine. (This is an EXAMPLE ONLY, information on label varies by engine FAMILY).