The Hitch Coupler MUST be properly
secured to the hitch ball of the towing vehicle.
After assembly and attachment, pull up and
down on the Hitch Coupler to make sure the
hitch ball is tting snugly in the Hitch Coupler.
There must be no play between the hitch
ball and Hitch Coupler. If there is play, tighten
the Adjustment Nut until no play is present. If
the Adjustment Nut is too tight, the Handle
will not lock. Carefully read and follow
the complete instructions in this manual
BEFORE setup or use.
If the Coupler is not secured
properly, the ball could come loose
while the Log Splitter is in motion,
possibly causing property damage,
SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY, or
DEATH.
Keep thi s man ual for th e safety
warnings and prec autions , asse mbly,
operating, inspection, maintenance and
cleaning procedures. Write the product’s
serial number in the back of the manual near
the assembly diagram (or month and year of
purchase if product has no number). Keep
this manual and the receipt in a safe and dry
place for future reference.
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INFORMATION
In this manual, on the labeling,
and all other information
provided with this product:
This is the safety alert
symbol. It is used to alert
you to potential personal
injury hazards. Obey all
safety messages that
follow this symbol to avoid
possible injury or death.
DANGER indicates
DANGER
situation which, if not
avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
WARNING
WARNING
hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
CAUTION, used
CAUTION
alert symbol, indicates a
hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in
minor or moderate injury.
a hazardous
indicates a
with the safety
Notice
CAUTION
NOTICE is used to
address practices
not related to personal injury.
CAUTION, without
the safety alert
symbol, is used to address
practices not related to
personal injury.
WARNING! Read all instructions.
Failure to follow all instructions
listed below may result in re,
serious injury and/or DEATH.
The warnings and precautions
discussed in this manual cannot
cover all possible conditions and
situations that may occur. It must
be understood by the operator that
common sense and caution are
factors which cannot be built into
this product, but must be supplied
by the operator.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
SET UP PRECAUTIONS
Gasoline fuel and fumes are 1.
ammable, and potentially explosive.
Use proper fuel storage and handling
procedures. Do not store fuel or
other ammable materials nearby.
Have multiple ABC class re 2.
extinguishers nearby.
This equipment has a spark 3.
arresting mufer included. A spark
arresting mufer is required by law
in California, on some US Forest
Service land, and possibly in other
areas or situations.
Set up and use only on a at, level, 4.
well-ventilated surface.
Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles, 5.
heavy-duty work gloves, and dust
mask/respirator during set up and
use.
Use only oil and fuel recommended 6.
in the “Specications” section of this
manual.
OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
1. CARBON MONOXIDE
HAZARD
Using an engine indoors
CAN KILL YOU IN
MINUTES.
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide. This is a poison you
cannot see or smell.
NEVER use inside a home or garage,
EVEN IF doors and windows are
open.
Only use OUTSIDE and far away
from windows, doors, and vents.
Keep children and observers 20 feet 2.
away from the equipment while it is
operating.
Tools for your model. Accessories
that may be suitable for one piece of
equipment may become hazardous
when used on another piece of
equipment.
Stay alert, watch what you are 7.
doing and use common sense when
operating a piece of equipment. Do
not use a piece of equipment while
tired or under the inuence of drugs,
alcohol or medication.
Do not overreach. Keep proper 8.
balance at all times. This enables
better control of the equipment in
unexpected situations.
Dress properly. Do not wear loose 9.
clothing or jewelry. Keep hair,
clothing and gloves away from
moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry
or long hair can be caught in moving
parts.
Parts of the equipment, especially 10.
exhaust system components, get
very hot during use. Stay clear of hot
parts.
Do not leave the equipment 3.
unattended when it is running. Turn
off the equipment (and remove safety
keys, if available) before leaving the
work area.
Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles 4.
and hearing protection during use.
People with pacemakers should 5.
consult their physician(s) before
use. Electromagnetic elds in close
proximity to a heart pacemaker could
cause pacemaker interference
or pacemaker failure. Caution is
necessary when near the engine’s
magneto or recoil starter.
Use only accessories that are 6.
recommended by Harbor Freight
Do not cover the engine or equipment 11.
during operation.
Keep the equipment, engine, and 12.
surrounding area clean at all times.
Use the equipment, accessories, etc., 13.
in accordance with these instructions
and in the manner intended for the
particular type of equipment, taking
into account the working conditions
and the work to be performed. Use
of the equipment for operations
different from those intended could
result in a hazardous situation.
Do not operate the equipment with 14.
known leaks in the engine’s fuel system.
This product contains or, when 15.
used, produces a chemical known
to the State of California to cause
cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. (California Health
& Safety Code § 25249.5, et seq.)
When spills of fuel or oil occur, they 16.
must be cleaned up immediately.
Dispose of uids and cleaning
materials as per any local, state,
or federal codes and regulations.
Store oil rags in a bottom-ventilated,
covered, metal container.
Keep hands and feet away from 17.
moving parts. Do not reach over or
across equipment while operating.
Before use, check for misalignment 18.
or binding of moving parts, breakage
of parts, and any other condition
that may affect the equipment’s
operation. If damaged, have the equipment serviced before use.
Many accidents are caused by poorly
maintained equipment.
Use the correct equipment for the 19.
application. Do not modify the
equipment and do not use the
equipment for a purpose for which it
is not intended.
SERVICE PRECAUTIONS
Before service, maintenance, or 1.
cleaning:
Turn the engine switch to its a.
“OFF” position.
Allow the engine to completely cool.b.
Then, remove the spark plug c.
wire(s) from the spark plug(s).
guards include mufer, air cleaner,
mechanical guards, and heat shields,
among other guards.
Do not alter or adjust any part of 3.
the equipment or its engine that
is sealed by the manufacturer
or distributor. Only a qualied
service technician may adjust
parts that may increase or
decrease governed engine speed.
Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles, 4.
heavy-duty work gloves, steel toe
work boots, dust mask/respirator and
hard hat during use and service.
Do not allow the hydraulic hose to 5.
come in contact with any hot part
of the unit. The hose might be
damaged, possibly causing it to burst
or leak under high pressure.
Maintain labels and nameplates 6.
on the equipment. These carry
important information. If unreadable
or missing, contact Harbor Freight
Tools for a replacement.
Have the equipment serviced by a 7.
qualied repair person using only
identical replacement parts. This
will ensure that the safety of the
equipment is maintained. Do not
attempt any service or maintenance
procedures not explained in this
manual or any procedures that you
are uncertain about your ability to
perform safely or correctly.
Store equipment out of the reach of 8.
children.
Follow scheduled engine and 9.
equipment maintenance.
Keep all safety guards in place and 2.
in proper working order. Safety
Do not rell the fuel tank while the 2.
engine is running or hot.
do this type of work. To reduce your
exposure to these chemicals: work in
a well ventilated area, and work with
approved safety equipment, such as
those dust masks that are specially
designed to lter out microscopic
particles. (California Health & Safety
Code § 25249.5, et seq.)
Do not ll fuel tank to the top. Leave 3.
a little room for the fuel to expand as
needed.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area only.4.
TRENCHER PRECAUTIONS
Always make sure the hitch coupler 1.
is securely xed to the vehicle before
moving it. If the Coupler is not secured properly, the link could come
loose while the trailer is in motion,
possibly causing property damage,
SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY, or
DEATH.
Contact local utility companies 2.
before beginning any project. Buried
utility lines may not be marked
and, if struck, can cause SERIOUS
PERSONAL INJURY or DEATH.
Never place your hands or body near 4.
a hydraulic uid leak. High-pressure
uid can be forced under the skin
resulting in serious injury.
Do not exceed 30 MPH when towing 5.
the Trencher.
Do not tow the Trencher on roads or 6.
highways. This product is not D.O.T.
compliant, and is not road legal.
SAVE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS.
WARNING: Some dust created by 3.
power sanding, sawing, grinding,
drilling, and other construction
activities, contains chemicals
known [to the State of California] to
cause cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Some examples
of these chemicals are:
• Lead from lead-based paints
• Crystalline silica from bricks and
cement or other masonry products
• Arsenic and chromium from
chemically treated lumber
Your risk from these exposures
varies, depending on how often you
in the TECHNICAL ENGINE
SPECIFICATIONS chart in this
manual.
The emission control system for this
product’s Engine is warranted for standards
set by the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency and by the California Air Resources
Board (also known as CARB). For warranty
information, refer to the last pages of this
manual.
At high altitudes, the engine’s carburetor,
governor (if so equipped), and any other
parts that control the fuel-air ratio will need to
be adjusted by a qualied mechanic to allow
efcient high-altitude use and to prevent
damage to the engine and any other devices
used with this product.
86+ octane unleaded
gasoline
10W 30 above 32° F
5W30 at 32° F or below
8 Feet
UNPACKING
When unpacking, check to make sure
that the item is intact and undamaged. If
any parts are missing or broken, please call
Harbor Freight Tools at the number shown
on the cover of this manual as soon as
possible.
SET UP INSTRUCTIONS
Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT
SAFETY INFORMATION
section at the beginning of this
manual including all text under
subheadings therein before set
up or use of this product.
WARNING
Note: For additional information regarding
Risk of accidental
starting; resulting
in serious personal injury.
Turn the Power Switch of the
equipment to its “OFF”
position, wait for the engine to
cool, and unplug the spark
plug wire(s) before
assembling or making any
adjustments to the equipment.
the parts listed in the following pages,
refer to the Assembly Diagram near
the end of this manual.
Assembly
This equipment has a spark arresting 1.
mufer. A spark arresting mufer is
required by law in California, on some
US Forest Service land, and possibly
in other areas or situations.
Due to the size of the Trencher and 2.
its components, assistance may be
required during the entire assembly
process.
Use jacks (not included) to evenly 3.
raise the Frame Assembly (90)
& support with jack stands (not
included).
Mount both Axles (50) near the boom 4.
end of the frame and secure with
Lock Pins (82).
Boom
Pivot (38)
Clevis Pin
No. 1 (29)
Place a Tire (52) over the four studs 5.
on each Hub. Secure the Tires to
the Hubs, using four Lug Nuts (53)
per Tire. The lug nuts must be snug.
Inate the tires to 65 PSI.
Slightly raise the Jacks, remove the 6.
Jack Stands, then lower the Jacks.
Block the tires and tighten the Lug
Nuts to at least 90 Ft-Lbs.
Attach Seat (73) to the Seat Bottom 7.
Plate (10) and secure both Seat and
Plate to the post on top of Hydraulic
Oil Tank.
Attach the Control Support (3) to the 8.
Frame Assembly (90) using four Hex
Bolts (81).
NOTE: The Hydraulics of this unit are
tested before shipment. There
may be hydraulic uid present in
components. Assemble the unit in
an area that will not be damaged
by leaking hydraulic uid. It is
recommended that you wrap
rags securely over the Hydraulic
connectors on all the Cylinders during
assembly. Wear splash-resistant
ANSI approved safety goggles and
other protective gear to prevent injury
from leaking uid.
Attach the Main Boom (36) to the 9.
Boom Pivot (38) using the Pin (42)
through the bottom hole and Clevis
Pin No. 1 (29) through the upper
hole. Secure both pins with Hair Pin
Clip (31); Pin (42) requires one Cotter
pin on each end. See photo above
right.
Main
Boom
(36)
Pin
(42)
Mount the Boom Extension (34) to 10.
the Main Boom (36) using the Pin
(42), left, and Clevis Pin No. 1 (29),
top. Secure both pins with Hair Pin
Clip (31).
Attach the Hitch Coupler (58) to 11.
the Frame Assembly (90) under the
Engine (74) using Hex Bolts (75) and
Hex HD. Bolt (72).
Connect, tighten, and check all 12.
hydraulic hose ttings to the proper
connections, as shown in the Hose
Connection Diagram. Hoses and
ttings are numbered. Tighten all
ttings.
Open the Hydraulic Fluid Fill Plug 13.
(11). Top off the Hydraulic Fluid
Reservoir with high quality hydraulic
uid. Check that the Fluid level is
between the lines on the attached
Dipstick. Close the Hydraulic Fluid Fill
Plug securely.
Attaching the Leg Assembly
To use the Trencher, the Leg 1.
Assemblies must be installed next to
the Boom (36), and the Wheels and
Axles (50) moved to the rear.
Start the engine and use the Boom 3.
Controls to curl the bucket toward the
boom without touching the ground.
Moving the Bucket As sembly (32)
down to the ground will raise the
Frame Assembly (90). Lift the Tires
just off the ground and stop.
Ensure the controls will not be 4.
touched or bumped, and that the
Trencher will remain motionless.
Never place any part of your body
under the trencher.
With the Tires (52) off the ground, 5.
remove the Wheel and Axle (50)
to the operator’s left and replace
with the left side Extension Leg (19)
and Leg Assembly (24). Direct the
Extension Leg so it turns toward the
Bucket end of the Trencher. Secure
with Lock Pin No. 2 (82). Repeat
procedure for the right side. Raise
Bucket As sembly again to lower onto
Leg Assembly, and turn Engine off.
Using a jack and jack stands (not 6.
included), raise up the engine end of
the trencher and disconnect from the
towing hitch. Slide the Wheels and
Axles (50) into the engine end of the
Frame (90). Secure each axle with
Lock Pin No. 2 (82).
Press forward on the Main Boom 3.
Lever until the Main Boom is fully
raised. Then, press Forward on the
Boom Extension Lever until the Boom
is fully extended.
Press forward on the Bucket Lever 4.
until the bucket is fully extended. Pull
back on the lever to retract it fully.
Pull back on the Boom Extension 5.
Lever until the Boom is pulled back
all the way. Pull back on the Main
Boom Lever until the Main Boom is
lowered completely.
Adjust the boom back to its rest 6.
position and replace all locking
devices.
Shut off the Engine, check the 7.
Hydraulic Fluid level and rell as
necessary.
Note: The Fill Plug is vented. When 8.
tightening the Fill Plug, tighten it
securely then back it off slightly.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT
SAFETY INFORMATION
section at the beginning of this
manual including all text under
subheadings therein before set
up or use of this product.
Starting the Engine
Purging the Cylinder
Remove all Safety Locking Pins (15), 1.
disengage the Safety Latch (41) and
loosen Hydraulic Tank Fill Plug (11).
Press forward on the Boom Swing 2.
Lever (located on Control Panel (9)
until the Boom stops moving, then
pull back on it until it moves in the
other direction. Center the Boom.
Inspect engine and equipment
looking for damaged, loose,
and missing parts before
set up and starting. If any
each use, check the oil level. Do not
run the engine with low or no engine
oil. Running the engine with no or
low engine oil WILL permanently
damage the engine.
Clean the Oil Filler Cap and the area 1.
around it.
Remove the Oil Filler Cap/Dipstick. 2.
Read the engine service manual for
the proper way to check the oil level.
If the oil level is low, add the proper 3.
type and weight. See information
below.
Oil type:
32° F or above = SAE 10W-30
Below 32° F = SAE 5W-30.
Replace the Oil Filler Cap.4.
Fill the Fuel Tank to about 1 inch 3.
under the lip of the gasoline tank
with the stabilized unleaded gasoline
mixture.
Then replace the Fuel Filler Cap.4.
Start Procedure
Before starting the engine:
Follow the Set Up a.
Instructions to prepare the
equipment.
Inspect the equipment and b.
engine.
Fill the engine with the c.
proper amount and type of
both fuel and oil.
Read the Equipment d.
Operation section that
follows.
Turn the fuel valve lever to its 1.
“OPEN” position.
CAUTION! Do not run the engine with too
little or too much oil. The engine will
be permanently damaged.
Checking Fuel Level
WARNING! To prevent re,
shut the engine off and wait
for it to cool before adding
fuel. Do not smoke.
Clean the Fuel Filler Cap and the 1.
area around it.
To Check the fuel level, unscrew and 1.
remove the Fuel Filler Cap.
Turn the ignition switch to its ON or 2.
RUN position.
Then, turn the engine choke lever to 3.
its “CHOKE” position. Set the choke
lever in the “RUN” position when
starting a warm engine.
Grasp the starter handle, and pull 4.
slowly until resistance is felt. While
holding the handle, allow the starter
rope to rewind slowly. Then, pull the
starter handle with a rapid, full arm
stroke. Once again while holding
the handle, allow the rope to rewind
slowly. Repeat as necessary, until
the engine starts.
While the end of the boom is being 2.
supported; remove the Pin (29), align
the cylinder with the appropriate hole,
insert the Pin (29), and secure it with
the Hair Pin Clip (31).
With the Engine running, sit in the 3.
Operator Seat (73) and pull the Boom
Lever control backward to raise the
Main Boom (36).
Pull back on the Boom Extension 4.
handle control to raise the Boom
Extension (34).
Push forward on the Bucket handle 5.
control to open the Bucket Assembly.
(32).
Push forward on the Boom handle 6.
to lower the Boom until the Bucket
reaches the ground.
Pull back on the Bucket Lever control 7.
until the Bucket scoops up the dirt.
Pull back on both the Boom and 8.
Boom Extension control levers to
raise the load.
Press in, or push out, the Boom 9.
Swing control levers to move the
Bucket left or right. Note: The Boom’s
travel is 60 degrees left and 60
degrees right.
Press in on the Bucket control handle 10.
to dump the load.
Moving the Trencher
One method for moving the trencher 11.
around the work area is by using the
Boom to push the Trencher across
the ground.
12. WARNING: This technique
can be difcult to control and
should only be attempted by an
experienced operator. The stability
of the Trencher is dependent on the
stability of the ground; if you choose
to move the Trencher in this way, do
so at your own risk. Do not use the
Trencher near ditches or drop-offs.
Swing the Bucket inward so that the 13.
front of the bucket, not the scoop, is
facing downward. Press the Bucket
down onto a solid piece of ground
and press down hard enough to raise
the front legs off the ground.
Carefully operate the controls to 14.
move the boom and slowly roll
yourself in the desired direction. Be
certain that the Tires and the new
resting places for the Legs all remain
on solid, stable ground.
After you have repositioned the 15.
Trencher, raise the Boom to lower the
outriggers back onto the ground. The
procedure can be repeated to move
farther.
Transporting the Trencher
When transporting the Trencher, 19.
make sure your hitch (not included)
is compatible with the Hitch Coupler
(92). Follow all of the safety warnings
for towing in your vehicle’s manual.
The Hitch Coupler will only accept a 2
inch hitch ball.
Lock the Boom in Place. Use the 16.
Bucket Lever to line the hole on the
Bucket (32) up with the hole on the
Boom Extension (34). Insert a Safety
Locking Pin (15) and secure with a
Ball Pin.
Use the Boom Swing Lever to line up 17.
the hole in the Boom Pivot (38) with
the Hole in the Frame (90). Insert a
Safety Locking Pin (15) and secure
with a Ball Pin.
Safety Locking
Pin (15)
To reduce friction between the hitch 20.
ball and Hitch Coupler (58), apply a
layer of heavy weight grease over the
hitch ball.
See illustration below. Temporarily 21.
remove the “R” Pin and Safety Pin.
Then, pull up on the Trigger and lift
up on the Handle.
R-Pin
Safety Pin
Hitch
Coupler (58)
Safety
Latch (41)
Put the Boom into the Shallow 18.
Position and raise it until the pin on
the side of the Main Boom (36) is
close enough for the Safety Latch
(41) to swing over it. To use the
Safety Latch, pull out on the handle,
swing it over the pin, and lower it over
the pin, locking it in place.
Place the Hitch Coupler (58) over 22.
the vehicle’s hitch ball, pull the
trigger, push down on the Handle,
and release the Trigger, making
sure it locks in the slot. Pull up and
down on the Coupler to make sure
the hitch ball is tting snugly in the
Coupler. There should be no play
between the hitch ball and Coupler. If
there is play, tighten the Adjustment
Nut until no play is present. If the
Adjustment Nut is too tight, the
Handle will not lock. WARNING! If
the Hitch Coupler is not secured
properly, the ball could come loose
while the Trencher is in motion,
possibly causing property damage or
SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY.
Trigger
Handle
Adjustment
Hitch Ball
(Not Included)
Make sure to attach each side of 23.
the Safety Chain (56) equally to
the towing vehicle’s rear bumper or
frame.
Nut
Safety
Chain
(56)
CAUTION! Care must be taken 24.
when backing up the Trencher. Only
back up the Trencher on a straight
path. If the Trencher is allowed
to turn off the straight path while
backing up, the Trencher could
jackknife, causing severe damage
to the Trencher and to the towing
vehicle.
To prevent accidents, turn off the 25.
engine, wait for it to cool, and
disconnect its spark plug wire after
use. Clean external parts with clean
cloth, then store the equipment out of
children’s reach.
Battery Required12V 18Ah
Bore x Stroke77mm x 58mm
Displacement270cc
Compression Ratio8.2:1
Rotation viewed from PTO
(power takeoff - the output shaft)
Fuel
Engine Oil
Spark Plug
Valve
Clearance
Speed
Type
Capacity1.58 Gallons
Type SAE
Capacity1.2 Quarts
Type
Gap0.028 - 0.031”
Intake0.15 ± 0.02 mm
Exhaust0.20 ± 0.02 mm
Idle1,400 ± 150 RPM
Maximum3600 RPM
OHV, 9HP Air Cooled,
Recoil Start
Counterclockwise
86+ octane unleaded
gasoline
10W30 above 32° F
5W30 at 32° F or below
NGK®, BPR7ES
LD®, F7TC
Many maintenance procedures,
including any not detailed
in this manual, will need to
be performed by a qualied
technician for safety. If you
have any doubts about your
ability to safely service the
equipment or engine, have a
qualied technician service the
equipment instead.
Engine Oil Change
CAUTION! Oil is very hot during
operation and can cause burns. Wait
for engine to cool before changing oil.
Place a drain pan (not included) 1.
underneath the crankcase’s drain
plug.
Remove the drain plug and drain the 2.
oil out. Recycle used oil.
Replace the drain plug and tighten it.3.
SERVICING
Risk of serious
WARNING
from accidental starting. Turn
the Power Switch of the
equipment to its “OFF”
position, wait for the engine to
cool, and unplug the spark
plug wire(s) before performing
any inspection, maintenance,
or cleaning procedures.
Damaged equipment can fail,
causing serious personal
injury. Do not use damaged
equipment. If abnormal noise,
vibration, or excess smoking
occurs, have the problem
corrected before further use.
Rell the oil to the proper level 4.
following the instructions under the
Starting the Engine section.
personal injury
Air Filter Element Maintenance
The air cleaner cover is held in place 1.
by a wing nut or clamps. Remove it.
Remove the air lter element.2.
Cleaning:3.
For “paper” lter elements:a.
To prevent injury from dust and
debris, wear ANSI-approved safety
goggles, NIOSH-approved dust
mask/respirator, and heavy-duty
work gloves. In a well-ventilated
area away from bystanders, use
pressurized air to blow dust out of
the air lter. If this does not get the
lter reasonably clean, replace it.
For foam lter elements:b.
Wash the element in warm water
and mild detergent several times.
Rinse. Squeeze out excess water
and allow it to dry completely. Soak
the lter in lightweight oil briey, then
squeeze out the excess oil.
Install the new lter or the cleaned 4.
lter. Secure the Air Cleaner Cover
before use.
Spark Plug Maintenance
Disconnect spark plug wire from 1.
end of plug. Clean out debris from
around spark plug.
Using a spark plug wrench, remove 2.
the spark plug.
Inspect the spark plug: 3.
If the electrode is oily, clean it using a
clean, dry rag.
If the electrode has deposits on it,
polish it using emery paper.
If the white insulator is cracked or
chipped, the spark plug needs to be
replaced.
Remove Fuel Filter (6R). Reattach 4.
Fuel Cap to prevent debris from
entering into Gas Tank.
Remove Buel Strainer. Wash with 5.
warm water and light detergent.
Flush and let dry.
Reinstall in the Gas Tank.6.
When installing a new spark 4.
plug, adjust the plug’s gap to the
specication on the Technical
specication chart. Do not pry
against the electrode, the spark plug
can be damaged.
Install the spark plug into the engine. 5.
Gasket-style: Finger-tighten until the
gasket contacts the cylinder head,
then turn about 1/2-2/3 more.
Non-gasket-style: Finger-tighten until
the plug contacts the head, then turn
about 1/16 more.
Apply dielectric spark plug boot 6.
protector (not included) to the end of
Cleaning, Maintenance, and
Lubrication Schedule
Note: This maintenance schedule
is intended solely as a general
guide. If performance decreases
or if equipment operates unusually,
check systems immediately. The
maintenance needs of each piece
of equipment will differ depending
on factors such as duty cycle,
temperature, air quality, fuel quality,
and other factors.
Note: These procedures are in addition to
the regular checks and maintenance
explained as part of the regular
When the equipment is to remain idle 2.
for longer than 20 days, prepare the
engine for storage as follows:
Change engine oil and empty fuel a.
tank.
Either leave fuel tank empty or b.
rell fuel tank with fresh unleaded
gasoline mixed with a fuel stabilizer
intended for long term engine
storage (not included). After lling,
run engine for about 5-10 minutes
to circulate the treated gasoline
through the carburetor. Wait for
engine to cool before proceeding.
Clean out area around spark plug. c.
Remove spark plug and pour one
tablespoon of engine oil into cylinder
through spark plug hole.
Replace spark plug, but leave spark d.
plug wire disconnected.
Note: All maintenance procedures
scheduled for 25, 50, and 100
operation hours should be performed
at least yearly.
After Every 300 Operation Hours:
Clean fuel tank and carburetor.a.
Clean carbon build-up from b.
combustion chamber.
Periodically:
Periodically, apply grease to all boom 1.
axis-movement points using a grease
gun, at the points shown in the
illustration on the next page.
Storage
Wait for engine to cool, then clean 1.
engine with clean cloth.
Pull recoil starter to distribute oil e.
in cylinder. Pull one full length of
Recoil Starter Rope.
Disconnect battery cables (if f.
equipped).
Apply a thin coat of rust preventive oil 3.
to all metal parts.
Cover and store in a dry, well-4.
ventilated area out of reach of
children.
Before starting the engine after 5.
storage, keep in mind that untreated
gasoline will deteriorate quickly.
Drain the fuel tank and change to
fresh fuel if untreated gasoline has
been sitting for a month, if treated
gasoline has been sitting beyond the
fuel stabilizer’s recommended time
period, or if the engine does not start
properly.
Choke not in start position, 2.
especially with cold engine.
Low quality or deteriorated old 3.
gasoline.
Carburetor not primed. 4.
Dirty fuel passageways blocking 5.
fuel ow.
Carburetor needle stuck. Fuel can 6.
be smelled in the air.
Too much fuel in chamber. This can 7.
be caused by the carburetor needle
sticking.
IGNITION (SPARK) RELATED:
Spark plug wire not connected 1.
securely.
Spark plug electrode wet or dirty.2.
Incorrect spark plug gap.3.
Spark plug wire broken.4.
Incorrect spark timing or faulty 5.
ignition system.
COMPRESSION RELATED:
Cylinder not lubricated. Problem 1.
after long storage periods.
Loose or broken spark plug. 2.
(Hissing noise will occur when
trying to start.)
Loose cylinder head or damaged 3.
head gasket. (Hissing noise will
occur when trying to start.)
Engine valves or tappets 4.
misadjusted or stuck.
FUEL RELATED:
Fill fuel tank and open fuel valve.1.
Move choke to start position if 2.
engine is cold.
Use only fresh 86+ octane 3.
unleaded gasoline.
Prime carburetor by pressing 4.
priming bulb (if equipped).
Clean out passageways using 5.
fuel additive. Heavy deposits may
require further cleaning.
Gently6. tap side of carburetor oat
chamber with screwdriver handle.
Turn Fuel Valve to its off position. 7.
Turn choke to run position.
Remove spark plug and pull the
start handle several times to air out
the chamber. Reinstall spark plug
and set choke to start position.
IGNITION (SPARK) RELATED:
Connect spark plug wire properly. 1.
Clean spark plug.2.
Correct spark plug gap.3.
Replace spark plug wire.4.
Have qualied technician diagnose/5.
repair ignition system.
COMPRESSION RELATED:
Pour tablespoon of oil into spark 1.
plug hole. Crank engine a few
times and try to start again.
Tighten spark plug. If that does 2.
not work, replace spark plug. If
problem persists, may have head
gasket problem, see #3.
Tighten head. If that does not 3.
remedy problem, replace head
gasket.
Adjust valve clearance. If that does 4.
not work, clean or replace valves/
tappets.
Follow all safety precautions whenever diagnosing or servicing the
equipment or engine.
Incorrect spark plug gap or 2.
damaged spark plug.
Defective spark plug wire.3.
Old or low quality gasoline. 4.
Incorrect compression.5.
Low oil shutdown. 1.
Fuel tank empty or full of impure or 2.
low quality gasoline.
Defective fuel tank cap creating 3.
vacuum, preventing proper fuel
ow.
Faulty magneto.4.
Engine overloaded. 2.
Incorrect spark timing, deposit 3.
buildup, worn engine, or other
mechanical problems.
Engine too cold. 2.
Intake valve stuck or overheated 3.
engine.
Bleed hydraulic system. Replace 1.
hydraulic lter/celan strainer.
Tighten/replace hose.2.
Check wire connections.1.
Re-gap or replace spark plug. 2.
Replace spark plug wire.3.
Use only fresh 86+ octane 4.
unleaded gasoline.
Diagnose and repair compression. 5.
Fill engine oil to proper level. 1.
Check engine oil before EVERY
use.
Fill fuel tank with fresh 86+ octane 2.
unleaded gasoline.
Test/replace fuel tank cap. 3.
Have qualied technician service 4.
magneto.
Fill fuel tank with fresh 86+ octane 1.
unleaded gasoline.
Do not exceed equipment’s load 2.
rating.
Have qualied technician diagnose 3.
and service engine.
Fill fuel tank with fresh 86+ octane 1.
unleaded gasoline.
Use cold weather fuel and oil 2.
additives to prevent backring.
Have qualied technician diagnose 3.
and service engine.
Follow all safety precautions whenever diagnosing or servicing the
equipment or engine.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY
THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR HAS PROVIDED THE PARTS LIST AND ASSEMBLY DIAGRAM IN
THIS MANUAL AS A REFERENCE TOOL ONLY. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER OR DISTRIBUTOR MAKES ANY
REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND TO THE BUYER THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO MAKE ANY
REPAIRS TO THE PRODUCT, OR THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO REPLACE ANY PARTS OF THE PRODUCT.
IN FACT, THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR EXPRESSLY STATES THAT ALL REPAIRS AND PARTS
REPLACEMENTS SHOULD BE UNDERTAKEN BY CERTIFIED AND LICENSED TECHNICIANS, AND NOT BY THE
BUYER. THE BUYER ASSUMES ALL RISK AND LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER REPAIRS TO THE
ORIGINAL PRODUCT OR REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO, OR ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER INSTALLATION
OF REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO.
Harbor Freight Tools Co. makes every effort to assure that its products meet
high quality and durability standards, and
warrants to the original purchaser that
for a period of ninety days from date of
purchase that the engine/motor, the belts
(if so equipped), and the blades (if so
equipped) are free of defects in materials
and workmanship. Harbor Freight Tools
also warrants to the original purchaser,
for a period of one year from date of purchase, that all other parts and components
of the product are free from defects in materials and workmanship (90 days if used
by a professional contractor or if used as
rental equipment). This warranty does not
apply to damage due directly or indirectly,
to misuse, abuse, negligence or accidents,
repairs or alterations outside our facilities,
normal wear and tear, or to lack of maintenance. We shall in no event be liable for
death, injuries to persons or property, or
for incidental, contingent, special or consequential damages arising from the use
of our product. Some states do not allow
the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages, so the above
limitation of exclusion may not apply to
you. THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY
IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES,
EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS.
To take advantage of this warranty,
the product or part must be returned to us
with transportation charges prepaid. Proof
of purchase date and an explanation of the
complaint must accompany the merchan-
dise. If our inspection veries the defect,
we will either repair or replace the product
at our election or we may elect to refund
the purchase price if we cannot readily
and quickly provide you with a replacement. We will return repaired products at
our expense, but if we determine there is
no defect, or that the defect resulted from
causes not within the scope of our warranty, then you must bear the cost of returning
the product.
This warranty gives you specic legal
rights and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state.
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd. • PO Box
6009 • Camarillo, CA 93011 • (800)
444-3353
EMISSION CONTROL
SYSTEM WARRANTY
California and United States Emission Control
Defects Warranty Statement
The California Air Resources Board (herein CARB), the United
States Environmental Protection Agency (herein EPA), and Harbor
Freight Tools (herein HFT) are pleased to explain the emission control system warranty on your 1995 and later Small Off-Road Engine
(herein engine). In California, the engine must be designed, built
and equipped to meet the State’s stringent anti-smog standards.
Elsewhere within the United States, new off-road, spark-ignition
engines certied for model year 1997 and later, must meet similar
standards set forth by the EPA. HFT must warrant the emission
control system on your engine for the periods of time described
below, provided there has been no abuse, neglect or improper
maintenance of your engine.
Your emission control system may include parts such as the
carburetor or fuel-injection system, and the ignition system. Also
included may be hoses, belts, connectors and other emissionrelated assemblies.
Where a warrantable condition exists, HFT will repair your
engine at no cost to you including diagnosis, parts and labor.
Manufacturer’s Warranty Coverage
The 1995 and later engines are warranted for two (2) years.
If any emission-related part on your engine is defective, the part
will be repaired or replaced by HFT.
Harbor Freight Tools Emission Control Defects
Warranty Coverage
Engines are warranted for a period of two (2) years relative to
emission control parts defects, subject to the provisions set forth
below. If any emission related part on your engine is defective, the
part will be repaired or replaced by HFT.
As the engine owner, you are responsible for the performance •
of the required maintenance listed in your Owner’s Manual.
HFT recommends that you retain all receipts covering maintenance on your engine, but HFT cannot deny warranty
solely for the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the
performance of all scheduled maintenance.
As the engine owner, you should, however, be aware that •
HFT may deny you warranty coverage if your engine or a part
has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or
unapproved modications.
You are responsible for shipping your engine to a HFT war-•
ranty station as soon as a problem exists. Contact the HFT
Customer Service department at the number below to make
shipping arrangements. The warranty repairs should be
completed in a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed
30 days.
If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights
and responsibilities, you should contact the Harbor Freight Tools
Customer Service Department at 1-800-444-3353.
Harbor Freight Tools Emission Control Defects
Warranty Provisions
1. Length of Coverage
HFT warrants to a rst retail purchaser and each subsequent
purchaser that the engine is free from defects in materials
and workmanship that cause the failure of warranted parts
for a period of two (2) years after the date of delivery to the
rst retail purchaser.
2. No Charge Repair or Replacement
Repair or replacement of any warranted part will be performed
at no charge to the owner if the work is performed through a
warranty station authorized by HFT. For emissions warranty
service, contact the HFT Customer Service Department at
1-800-444-3353.
3. Consequential Damages Coverage
Coverage under this warranty shall also extend to the failure
of any engine components caused by the failure of any war-
ranted part while it is still covered under this warranty.
4. Coverage Exclusions
Warranty claims shall be led in accordance with the provi-
sions of the HFT warranty policy explained in the box at the
top of the previous page. HFT shall not be liable for any loss
of use of the engine, for any alternative usage, for any damage
to goods, loss of time, or inconvenience. Warranty coverage
shall also be excluded for any part which fails, malfunctions,
or is damaged due to failure to follow the maintenance and
operating instructions set forth in the Owner’s Manual includ-
ing, but not limited to:
Use of parts which are not authorized by HFTa)
Improper installation, adjustment or repair of the engine b)
or of any warranted part unless performed by an authorized warranty center
Failure to follow recommendations on fuel use contained c)
in the Owner’s Manual
Improper or inadequate maintenance of any warranted d)
parts
Repairs performed outside of the authorized warranty e)
service dealers
Alterations by changing, adding to or removing parts f)
from the engine.
5. Service and Maintenance
Component parts which are not scheduled for replacement
as required maintenance or are scheduled only for regular
inspection to the effect of “repair or replace as necessary”
are warranted for the warranty period. Any warranted part
which is scheduled for replacement as required maintenance
is warranted for the period of time up to the rst scheduled
replacement point for that part. Any replacement part, provided it is equivalent in durability and performance, may be
used in performance of maintenance or repairs. The owner
is responsible for commissioning a qualied technician/mechanic to perform all required maintenance, as outlined in
the Inspection, Cleaning, and Maintenance section in this
manual.
6. Warranted Parts
1) Fuel Metering System
Carburetor and its internal parts.i)
Fuel pump (if so equipped).ii)
Cold start enrichment system.iii)
2) Air Induction System
Intake pipe/manifold.i)
Air cleaner.ii)
3) Ignition System
Spark plug.i)
Magneto ignition system.ii)
4) Catalyst System (if so equipped)
Exhaust pipe stud.i)
Mufer.ii)
Catalytic converter (if so equipped).iii)
5) Miscellaneous Items Used in Above Systems
Vacuum, temperature and time sensitive valves i)
and switches.