Homelite UT70127 User Manual

OPERA TOR’S MANUAL
Trimmer / Brushcutter
F3045
UT70127

Your new trimmer has been engineered and manufactured to Homelite’s high standard f or dependability, ease of operation, and
operator safety. Properly cared for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free performance.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the operator’s manual.

Thank you for b uying a Homelite trimmer.

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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■ Safety..................................................................................................................................................................... 2 - 3

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■ Symbols ................................................................................................................................................................. 4 - 5

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■ Technical Data ........................................................................................................................................................... 5

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■ Unpacking ..................................................................................................................................................................6

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■ Features...................................................................................................................................................................... 6

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■ Assembly............................................................................................................................................................. 7 - 11

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■ Operation............................................................................................................................................................12 - 1 5

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■ Maintenance .......................................................................................................................................................16 - 19

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■ Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................................20 - 21

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■ Warranty ................................................................................................................................................................... 22

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■ Safety Directive......................................................................................................................................................... 22

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SAFETY

W ARNING:

Do not attempt to operate this trimmer until you have read thoroughly and understand completely all instructions,
safety rules etc contained in this manual. Failure to comply may result in accidents involving fire, electric shock
or serious personal injury. Save operator’s manual and review frequently for continuing safe operation, and
instructing others who may use this tool.

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■ Secure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

■ For safe operation, read and understand all instructions
before using the trimmer/brushcutter. Follow all safety
instructions. Failure to follow all safety instructions listed
below, can result in serious personal injury.

■ Do not allow children or untrained individuals to use
this unit.

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■ Never start or run the engine in a closed or poorly

■■

ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill.

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■ Clear the work area before each use. Remove all

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objects such as stones, broken glass, nails, wire or
string which can be thrown or become entangled in the
string head or blade.

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■ Wear full eye and hearing protection while operating

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this unit.

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■ Wear heavy long trousers, boots and gloves. Do not

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wear loose fitting clothing, shorts, jewellery of any kind,
or go barefoot.

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entanglement in any moving parts.

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■ Keep all bystanders, children and pets at least 15 m

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(50 ft) away.

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■ Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill or under

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the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.

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■ Do not operate in poor lighting.

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■ Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach.

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Overreaching may result in loss of balance or exposure
to hot surfaces.

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■ Keep all parts of your body away from any moving part.

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■ Do not touch area round the silencer or cylinder of the

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trimmer/brushcutter; these parts get hot from operation.

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■ Always stop the engine and remove the sparking plug

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wire before making any adjustments or repairs except
for carburettor adjustments.

2

SAFETY

■■

■ Inspect the unit before each use for loose fasteners, fuel

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leaks etc. Replace any damaged parts before use.

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■ The string head or blade will rotate during carburettor

■■

adjustments.

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■ It has been reported that vibrations from hand-held tools

■■

may contribute to a condition called Raynaud’s Syn­drome in certain individuals. Symptoms may include
tingling, numbness and blanching of the fingers, usually
apparent upon exposure to cold. Hereditary factors,
exposure to cold and dampness, diet, smoking and
work practices are all thought to contribute to the
development of these symptoms. It is not known at
present what, if any, vibrations or extent of exposure
may contribute to the condition. There are measures
which can be taken by the operator to possibly reduce
the effects of vibration:

a) Keep your body warm in cold weather. When operat-

ing the unit, wear gloves to keep the hands and wrists
warm. It is reported that cold weather is a major factor
contributing to Raynaud’s Syndrome.

b) After each period of operation, exercise to increase

blood circulation.

c) Take frequent work breaks. Limit the amount of

exposure per day.

d) Keep the tool well maintained, fasteners tightened

and worn parts replaced.

If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition,
immediately discontinue use and see your doctor about
these symptoms.

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■ Mix and store fuel in a container approved for petrol.

■■

■■

■ Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames.

■■

Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m (30 ft) away from
refuelling site before starting engine.

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■ Stop the engine and allow to cool before refuelling or

■■

storing the unit.

■■

■ Allow the engine to cool; empty the fuel tank and secure

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the unit from moving before transporting in a vehicle.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR TRIMMER USE

■■

■ Replace string head if cracked, chipped or damaged in

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any way. Be sure the string head or blade is properly
installed and securely fastened. Failure to do so can
cause serious injury.

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■ Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors and handles

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are properly and securely attached.

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■ Use only the manufacturer’s replacement string in the

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cutting head. Do not use any other cutting attachment.

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■ Never operate unit without the grass deflector in place

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and in good condition.

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■ Maintain a firm grip on both handles while trimming.

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Keep string head below waist level. Never cut with the
string head located over 76 cm (30 in) or more above
the ground.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR BRUSHCUTTER AND
BLADE USE

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■ After engine stops, keep rotating blade in heavy grass or

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pulpy weeds until it stops.

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■ Do not operate the brushcutter unless the blade guard

■■

is firmly secured in place and in good condition.

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■ Use heavy gloves while installing or removing blades.

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■ Always stop the engine and remove the sparking plug

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wire before attempting to remove any obstruction
caught or jammed in the blade or before removing and
installing the blade.

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■ Do not attempt to touch or stop the blade when it

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is rotating.

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■ A coasting blade can cause injury while it continues to

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spin after the engine is stopped or throttle trigger
released. Maintain proper control until the blade has
completely stopped rotating.

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■ Replace any damaged blade. Always make sure

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blade is installed correctly and securely fastened
before each use. Failure to do so can cause
serious injury.

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■ Use only the manufacturer’s replacement TRI-ARC blade

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intended for use on this brushcutter . Do not use any
other blade.

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■ The TRI-ARC blade is suited for cutting pulpy weeds

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and vines only. Do not use for any other purpose. Never
use the TRI-ARC blade to cut woody brush.

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■ Exercise extreme caution when using the blade with this

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unit. Blade thrust is the reaction which may occur when
the spinning blade contacts anything it cannot cut. This
contact may cause the blade to stop for an instant, and
suddenly “thrust” the unit away from the object that was
hit. This reaction can be violent enough to cause the
operator to lose control of the unit. Blade thrust can
occur without warning if the blade snags, stalls or binds.
This is more likely to occur in areas where it is difficult to
see the material being cut. For cutting ease and safety,
approach the weeds being cut from the right to the left. In
the event that an unexpected object or woody stock is
encountered, this could minimise the blade thrust
reaction.

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■ Never cut any material over 13 mm (1/2 in) diameter.

■■

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■ Always wear the shoulder strap when using the

■■

brushcutter and adjust to a comfortable operating
position. Maintain a firm grip on both handles while
cutting with a blade. Keep the blade away from body
and below waist. Never use the brushcutter with the
blade located 76 cm (30 in) or more above the
ground level.

3

SYMBOLS

Important: Some of the following symbols may be used on your tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper

interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and more safely.

SYMBOL NAME EXPLANATION

Safety Alert Symbol Indicates danger, warning or caution. It means

attention!!! Your safety is involved.

Read Your Operator’s Manual Your manual contains special messages to bring

attention to potential safety concerns as well as
operating and servicing information. Please read all
the information carefully to assure satisfaction and
safe use.

Wear eye and hearing protection Wear eye and hearing protection when operating this

equipment.

Keep bystanders away Keep all bystanders at least 15 m (50 ft) away.

Ricochet Danger of Ricochet.

10,000/

min

Tri-Arc blade Tri-Arc blade is appropriate for this unit and is suited

for cutting pulpy weeds and vines.

Do not use toothed blade This unit is not intended for use with a toothed saw

type blade.

RPM Decal Rotational direction and maximum speed of the shaft

-1

for the cutting attachment.

Boots Wear non-slip safety footwear when using this

equipment.

Gloves Wear non-slip, heavy-duty gloves.

No Smoking Do not smoke when mixing fuel or filling fuel tank.

Petrol Use unleaded petrol intended for motor vehicle use

with an octane rating of 87 ([R + M] / 2) or higher.

Oil Use 2-cycle oil for air-cooled engines.

Mix Petrol and Oil Mix the fuel mix thoroughly and also each time before

refuelling.

4

SYMBOLS

SYMBOL NAME EXPLANATION

Switch On/Off Switch

I = ON to Run
O = OFF to Stop

The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols and the explanations
with them deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do not by themselves eliminate any
danger. The instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.

SYMBOL MEANING

DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or

serious injury.

WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in

serious injury.

CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or

moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices that may cause property damage.

NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to the operation or maintenance of the equipment.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

TECHNICAL DA TA

Weight Without fuel, cutting attachment..........................................................................................................5.58 Kg

With blade ...........................................................................................................................................5.90 Kg

With string head ..................................................................................................................................5.77 Kg

Fuel tank volume ................................................................................................................................................... 42.5 cm

Cutting swath.......................................................................................................................................................... 457 mm

Engine displacement ................................................................................................................................................ 30 cm

Maximum engine performance (in accordance with ISO 8893) ...............................................................................0.78 kW

Maximum rotational frequency of the spindle ...................................................................................................10,000/min

Engine Speed (rotational frequency) at recommended max. spindle rotational frequency.................................12,500/min

Engine speed (rotational frequency) at idle .............................................................................................2,000 - 2,500/min

Fuel consumption (in accordance with ISO 8893) at max. engine performance................................................... 0.52 kg/h

Specific fuel consumption (in accordance with ISO 8893) at max. engine performance ...................................... 0.47 kg/h

Vibration level idling Front Handle ......................................................................................................................... 4.9

Rear Handle .......................................................................................................................... 5.8

Vibration level racing Front Handle ......................................................................................................................... 5.1

Rear Handle .......................................................................................................................... 6.2

Sound pressure level (in accordance with EN ISO 11806:1997, ISO 7917:1987) ............................................................ 99

Sound power level (in accordance with ISO 10884) ...................................................................................................... 113

3

3

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5

UNPACKING

INSTRUCTIONS

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■ Carefully remove the product from the carton.

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■ Inspect the product to make sure no breakage or

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damage occurred during carriage.

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■ Do not discard the packing material until you have

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inspected and operated the product.

FEATURES

CUTTING

LINE

GRASS DEFLECTOR

PACKING LIST FOR OWNER’S KIT

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■ Grass deflector

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■ Blade guard

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■ Tri-Arc blade

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■ Shoulder strap

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■ Silencer guard, torque wrench and screws

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■ Front “J” handle

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■ Holding pin

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■ Spanners - 13 mm (1/2 in) and 16 mm (5/8 in)

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■ Fixings

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■ Operator’s manual

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ENGINE HOUSING

THROTTLE

INTERLOCK

GEAR HEAD

LINE CUT-

OFF BLADE

SHAFT

BLADE GUARD

COUPLER

IGNITION

SWITCH

FRONT “J” HANDLE

STARTER GRIP

THROTTLE

TRIGGER

STRAP

HANGER

KNOB

SHOULDER

STRAP

TRI-ARC BLADE

Fig. 1

6

ATTACHING THE POWER HEAD TO THE
TRIMMER ATTACHMENT

See Figure 2.

ASSEMBLY

TRIMMER SHAFT

COUPLER

WARNING:

Never attach or adjust any attachment while power head
is running. Failure to stop the engine may cause serious
personal injury.

The trimmer attachment connects to the power head by
means of a coupler device.

1 . Loosen the knob on the coupler of the power head shaft

and remove the end cap from the attachment.

2. Push in the button located on the trimmer attachment
shaft. Align the button with the guide recess on the
power head coupler and slide the two shafts together.
Rotate the trimmer attachment shaft until the button
locks into the positioning hole.

NOTE: If the button does not release completely in the
positioning hole, the shafts are not locked into place.
Slightly rotate from side to side until the button is locked
into place.

3. Tighten the knob securely.

WARNING:

Be certain the knob is fully tightened before operating
equipment; check it periodically for tightness during use
to avoid serious injury.

GUIDE RECESS

POSITIONING

HOLE

TRIMMER ATTACHMENT

HOLE

KNOB

Fig. 2

HANGER CAP

REMOVING THE ATTACHMENT FROM THE
POWER HEAD

For removing or changing the attachment:

1. Loosen the knob.

2. Push in the button and twist the shafts to remove and
separate ends.

ATTACHING THE STORAGE HANGER

See Figure 3.

There are two ways to hang your attachment for storage.

■■

■ To use the hanger cap, push in the button and place the

■■

hanger cap over end of the lower end attachment shaft.
Slightly rotate the cap from side to side until the button
locks into place.

■■

■ The secondary hole in the attachment shaft can also be

■■

used for hanging.

BUTTON

Fig. 3

7

ASSEMBLY

FRONT HANDLE

See Figure 4.

A barrier handle should be used for ensuring the best
control and maximising operator safety.

1. Hold the top and bottom clamp snugly in position on the

shaft housing so that handle will be located to the
operator’s left.

2 . Insert the end of the handle between the clamps.

3. Align the bolt holes and push the long bolt

(1/4-20 x 1 1/2 in) through the handle side.

4. Place short bolt (1/4-20 x 1 in) through opposite side of

clamp. Install flat washer, lock washers and hex nuts to
hold the assembly in place.

5 . After assembly is complete, adjust the position of the

handle for best balance and comfort.
6 . Tighten first the long bolt and then the short bolt.
7 . Connect the shoulder strap to the strap hanger adjust to

a comfortable position.
NOTE: Do not attempt to remove or modify the spacer.

This spacer limits the upper position of the handle grip.

See Figure 4.

ATTACHING THE SHOULDER STRAP

See Figure 5.

1 . Connect the latch on the shoulder strap to the strap

hanger.
2 . Adjust the strap to a comfortable position.
NOTE: To quickly release the product from the shoulder

strap, sharply pull the quick release tab.

FRONT

HANDLE

CLAMP

CLAMP

QUICK

RELEASE

TAB

BOLT

1/4-20 x 1 in

BOLT

1/4-20 x 1 1/2 in.

HEX NUT

FLAT WASHER

LOCK WASHER

SHOULDER

STRAP

STRAP

HANGER

SPACER

Fig. 4

LATCH

STRAP

HANGER

Fig. 5

8

ASSEMBLY

SILENCER GUARD ASSEMBLY

See Figure 6.

1. Remove silencer guard and two screws from the

owner’s kit.
2 . Attach the silencer guard to the rear housing.

NOTE: Make sure the bent end of the silencer guard

fits securely into the opening of the rear housing.
3 . Install two screws.

4. Tighten screws securely.

GRASS DEFLECTOR AND BLADE
GUARD USE

See Figure 7.

NOTE: When converting from brushcutter to trimmer, or
trimmer to brushcutter, make sure the correct guard/
deflector is being used.

TORQUE

WRENCH

REAR HOUSING

SILENCER

GUARD

SCREWS

BENT END OF

SILENCER GUARD

OPENING IN REAR

HOUSING

GRASS DEFLECTOR

FOR TRIMMER USE

BLADE GUARD FOR

BRUSHCUTTER USE

Fig. 6

Fig. 7

9

ASSEMBLY

BLADE GUARD

See Figure 8.

1 . Attach the blade guard to the mounting bracket; install

the four screws (10-24 x 3/4 in) from the top of the mount-

ing bracket through the blade guard and into the

threaded mounting plates.
2 . Using the torque wrench supplied, tighten all four screws

securely.
NOTE: When using the string head, the string shield must be

attached to blade guard.

GRASS DEFLECTOR

See Figure 8.

1. Attach the grass deflector to the blade guard by placing

the three locking tabs into the three notches.

2. Snap the blade guard and grass deflector together to

lock into place.

W ARNING:

Always stop the engine and remove the sparking
plug wire before making any adjustments such as
changing cutting heads; this is to reduce the risk of
serious personal injury.

FOUR SCREWS

MOUNTING CLAMP

BLADE GUARD

NOTCHES

LOCKING

TABS

THREADED

MOUNTING PLATES

CONVERTING FROM TRIMMER TO
BRUSHCUTTER

REMOVING THE STRING HEAD

See Figure 9.

1 . Align the slot in the upper flange washer with the hole in

the gear head. Place the holding pin through the slot in

the upper flange washer and the hole in the gear head.

Turn the spool retainer clockwise to remove. Remove

the spool and string head from the drive connector.

2 . Place the holding pin through the upper flange washer

and the gear head. Using the 16 mm (5/8 in) spanner

supplied, turn the drive connector clockwise to remove.

3 . Remove the upper flange washer from the gear shaft

and retain for blade installation.

4. Remove the grass deflector by pushing in on the three
locking tabs while pulling on the grass deflector to
separate from the blade guard.

NOTE: Store the string head parts together for later use.

GEAR
HEAD

UPPER FLANGE

WASHER

HOLDING PIN

GRASS DEFLECTOR

Fig. 8

GRASS

DEFLECTOR

SPANNER

(16 mm)

DRIVE CONNECTOR

10

STRING HEAD

SPOOL RETAINER

Fig. 9

ASSEMBLY

INSTALLING THE BLADE

See Figure 10.

1 . Place the upper flange washer over the gear shaft with

the hollow side towards the blade guard.

2 . Centre the blade on the upper flange, making sure the

blade sits flat. Install the cupped washer with the raised
centre away from the blade. Install the blade nut. The
blade turns anticlockwise from the operator’s position.

3 . Place the holding pin through the slot in the upper flange

washer and the hole in the gear head. Using the
13 mm (1/2 in) spanner supplied, turn the blade nut
anticlockwise.

4 . Tighten nut securely.

CONVERTING FROM BRUSHCUTTER TO
TRIMMER

REMOVING THE BLADE

See Figure 10.

1 . Place the holding pin through the slot in the upper flange

washer and the gear head. Turn the blade nut clockwise
to remove.

2. Remove the cupped washer and the blade.
3 . Remove the upper flange washer from the gear shaft

and retain for the string head installation.

4. Attach the grass deflector to the blade guard by placing
the three locking tabs into the three notches.

5. Snap the blade guard and grass deflector together to
lock into place.

NOTE: Store the brushcutter parts together for later use.

GEAR
HEAD

BLADE
GUARD

HOLDING PIN

CUPPED
WASHER

BLADE NUT

UPPER FLANGE

WASHER

BLADE

SPANNER

(13 mm)

Fig. 10

INSTALLING THE STRING HEAD

See Figure 9.

1 . Install the upper flange washer onto the gear shaft with

the hollow side towards the gear head.

2 . Place the holding pin through the slot in the upper flange

washer and the hole in the gear head. Using the 16 mm
(5/8 in) spanner supplied, turn the drive connector

anticlockwise to install. Tighten securely.
3 . Place the string head on the drive connector.
4 . Place the holding pin through the slot in the upper flange

washer and the hole in the gear head. Install the spool

retainer and turn anticlockwise to tighten securely.

11

OPERATION

FUEL AND REFUELLING

HANDLING THE FUEL SAFELY

■■

■ Always handle fuel with care. It is highly flammable.

■■

■■

■ Always refuel outdoors where there are no sparks and

■■

flames. Do not inhale fuel vapour.

■■

■ Do not let petrol or oil come in contact with your skin.

■■

■■

■ Keep petrol and oil away from the eyes. If petrol or oil

■■

comes in contact with the eyes, wash them immediately
with clean water. If irritation is still present, see a doctor
immediately.

■■

■ Clean up spilled fuel immediately.

■■

MIXING THE FUEL

■■

■ This product is powered by a 2-cycle engine and

■■

requires pre-mixing petrol and 2-cycle oil. Pre-mix
unleaded petrol and 2-cycle engine oil in a clean
container approved for petrol.

■■

■ This engine is certified to operate on unleaded petrol

■■

intended for motor vehicle use with an octane rating of
87 ([R + M] / 2) or higher.

■■

■ Do not use any type of pre-mixed petrol/oil from fuel

■■

service stations. This includes the pre-mixed petrol/oil
intended for use in mopeds, motorcycles etc.

■■

■ Use high a quality 2-cycle self-mixing oil for air-cooled

■■

engines. Do not use motor vehicle oil or 2-cycle out­board oil.

■■

■ Mix 2% oil into the petrol. This is a 50:1 ratio.

■■

■■

■ Mix the fuel thoroughly and also each time before

■■

refuelling.

■■

■ Mix in small quantities. Do not mix quantities larger than

■■

usable in a 30 day period. A 2-cycle oil containing a fuel
stabiliser is recommended.

FILLING THE TANK

1 . Clean surface round fuel cap to prevent contamination.

2. Loosen fuel cap slowly to release pressure and to keep

fuel from escaping around the cap.

3 . Carefully pour fuel mixture into the tank. Avoid spillage.

4. Prior to replacing the fuel cap, clean and inspect
the gasket.

5. Immediately replace fuel cap and hand tighten. Wipe up
any fuel spillage. Move 9 m (30 ft) away from refuelling
site before starting engine.

NOTE: It is normal for smoke to be emitted from a new
engine during and after first use.

W ARNING:

Always shut off engine before refuelling. Never add
fuel to a machine with a running or hot engine. Move
at least 9 m (30 ft) from refuelling site before starting
engine. Do not smoke!

1 Litre + 20 ml =
2 Litres + 40 ml =
3 Litres + 60 ml =
4 Litres + 80 ml =
5 Litres + 100 ml =

}

OPERATING THE TRIMMER

Hold the trimmer/brushcutter with the right hand on the rear
handle and the left hand on the front handle. Keep a firm
grip with both hands while in operation. Trimmer should be
held at a comfortable position with the trigger handle about
hip height. See

Always operate trimmer at full throttle. Cut tall grass from
the top down. This will pre vent grass from wr apping round
the shaft housing and string head, which may cause
damage from overheating. If grass becomes wrapped round
the string head, stop the engine, disconnect the sparking
plug wire, and remove the gr ass. Prolonged cutting at partial
throttle will result in oil dripping from the silencer.

Figure 11.

50:1

12

OPERATION

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CUTTING TIPS

See Figure 12.

■ Keep the trimmer tilted towards the area being cut; this
is the best cutting area.

■ Do not cut in dangerous cutting area.

■ Use the tip of string to do the cutting; do not force string

head into uncut grass.

■ Wire and picket fences cause extra string wear, even
breakage. Stone and brick walls, kerbs and wood may
wear string rapidly.

■ Avoid trees and shrubs. Tree bark, wood mouldings,
cladding and fence posts can easily be damaged by
the string.

Fig. 11

DANGEROUS

CUTTING AREA

ADVANCING THE STRING

ADVANCING STRING USING THE EZ LINE™ TAP
ADVANCE SYSTEM

String advance is controlled by tapping string head on grass
while running engine at full throttle.

1 . Run engine at full throttle.

2. Tap string head on ground to advance string. String
advances each time the head is tapped.

3 . Several taps may be required until string strikes the cut-

off blade.

4 . Resume trimming.
NOTE: If the string is worn too short you may not be able to

advance the string by tapping it on the ground. If so, STOP
THE ENGINE, and manually advance the string.

ADVANCING THE STRING MANUALLY

Push the spool retainer down while pulling on string(s) to
manually advance the string.

DIRECTION OF

ROTATION

GRASS DEFLECTOR LINE TRIMMING CUT­OFF BLADE

See Figure 13.

This trimmer is equipped with a line trimming cut-off blade
on the grass deflector. For best cutting, advance string until
it is trimmed to length by the cut-off blade. Advance string
whenever you hear the engine running faster than normal.
This will maintain best performance and keep string long
enough to advance properly.

BEST CUTTING

AREA

Fig. 12

13

Fig. 13

OPERATION

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OPERATING THE BRUSHCUTTER

Hold the brushcutter with the right hand on the trigger
handle and the left hand on the left handle. Keep a firm grip
with both hands while in operation. Brushcutter should be
held at a comfortable position with the trigger handle about
hip height. Maintain your grip and balance on both feet.
Position yourself so that you will not be drawn off balance
by the kick-back reaction of the cutting blade.

Adjust the shoulder strap to position the brushcutter at a
comfortable operating position and to assure that the
shoulder strap will reduce the risk of operator contact with
the blade.

See Figure 14.

APPROACH THE WEEDS

BEING CUT FROM THE RIGHT.

THE WEEDS WILL BE CUT

AGAINST THE LEFT SIDE OF

THE BLADE GUARD.

Fig. 15

TRI-ARC BLADE

The TRI-ARC blade is suited only for pulpy weeds and
vines. When the blade becomes dull, it can be turned over
to extend the life of the blade. Do not sharpen the TRI-ARC
blade.

Use only TRI-ARC b lade, part number 984227001,
available at y our local retailer .

CUTTING TECHNIQUE - BLADE

Fig. 14

Exercise extreme caution when using the blade with this
unit. Blade thrust is the reaction which may occur when the
spinning blade contacts anything it cannot cut. This contact
may cause the blade to stop for an instant, and suddenly
“thrust” the unit away from the object that was hit. This
reaction can be violent enough to cause the operator to
lose control of the unit. Blade thrust may occur without
warning if the blade snags, stalls or binds. This is more
likely to occur in areas where it is difficult to see the mate­rial being cut. For cutting ease and safety, approach the
weeds being cut from the right to the left. In the event that an
unexpected object or woody stock is encountered, this
could minimise the blade thrust reaction.

See Figure 15.

WARNING:

Extreme care must be taken when using blades to
ensure safe operation. Read the safety information
for safe operation using the blade, refer to “Specific
Safety Rules for Brushcutter and Blade Use” earlier
in this manual.

■ Always hold brushcutter with both hands when operating.
Use a firm grip on both handles.

■ Maintain your grip and balance on both feet. Position
yourself so that you will not be drawn off balance by the
kick-back reaction of the cutting blade.

■ Inspect and clear the area of any hidden objects such
as glass, stones, concrete, fencing, wire, wood,
metal etc.

■ Never use blades near footpaths, fencing, posts,
buildings or other immovable objects.

■ Never use a blade after hitting a hard object without first
inspecting it for damage. Do not use if any damage
is detected.

■ Scythe, the broad s weeping of the unit bac k and f orth
from side to side, with TRI-ARC blade only.

14

OPERATION

STARTING AND STOPPING

See Figures 16 and 17.

NOTE: The unit is equipped with an automatic choke feature.
The starting instructions for this feature are different from units
with a manual choke. Be sure to read and follow the starting
instructions below.

WARNING:

Never start or run the engine inside a closed or
poorly ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes
can kill.

TO START A COLD ENGINE:

1. Lay trimmer on a flat, bare surface.
2 . Push primer bulb 8 to 10 times.
NOTE: Do not squeeze the throttle trigger before engine

starts. Squeezing the throttle trigger at this time will prevent
the unit from starting.

3. Move the lever to the “COLD START” position.

Figure 17.

4 . Pull the starter rope until engine runs.
5 . Allow the engine to warm up for 4-10 seconds.

6. Depress the interlock then squeeze and release the
throttle trigger. This allows the choke to automatically
set to the “WARM START” position. Your unit is now
ready for use.

NOTE: The lever will automatically set to the “WARM
START” position after the throttle trigger is squeezed for
the first time.

See

IGNITION SWITCH
I = ON TO RUN
O = OFF TO STOP

THROTTLE

INTERLOCK

THROTTLE

TRIGGER

Fig. 16

PRIMER BULB

TO START A WARM ENGINE:

1. Lay trimmer on a flat, bare surface.

2. Choke lever should already be in the “WARM START”
position. If not, squeeze and release throttle trigger.
Pull the starter rope until unit runs.

TO STOP THE ENGINE:
To stop the engine, depress the switch to the “O” position.

LEVER

WARM START

POSITION

COLD START

POSITION

Fig. 17

15

MAINTENANCE

W ARNING:

Use only original manufacturer’s replacement parts,
accessories and attachments. Failure to do so can
cause possible injury, poor performance and may
void your warranty.

■ You may make adjustments and repairs described here.
For other repairs, have the trimmer serviced by an
authorised service dealer.

■ Consequences of improper maintenance may include
excess carbon deposits resulting in loss of performance
and discharge of black oily residue dripping from
the silencer.

■ Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors and handles are
properly and securely attached to avoid the risk of
personal injury.

SPOOL REPLACEMENT
EZ LINE™ TAP ADVANCE SYSTEM

NEW PRE-WOUND SPOOL

See Figures 18 and 19.

If replacing string only, refer to “String Replacement” later in
this manual.

Use only 2.4 mm (0.095 in) diameter monofilament string.
Use the manufacturer’s replacement string for best
performance.

1. Stop the engine and disconnect the sparking plug wire.
Hold the string head and unscrew the spool retainer.
Turn clockwise.

2 . Remove the empty spool from the string head. Keep the

spring attached to the spool.

3 . To install the new spool, make sure the two strings are

captured in the slots opposite each other on the new
spool. Make sure the ends of each string are extended
approximately 152 mm (6 in) beyond each slot.

4 . Thread the strings into the eyelets in the string head.

Carefully push the spool into the string head (gently pull
the strings to the outside if necessary). When the spool
is positioned in the string head, grasp the strings and
pull sharply to release them from the slots in the spool.

5 . Push down and turn the spool anticlockwise until it no

longer turns. Hold the spool down and rotate clockwise
a small amount. Release the spool. The spool should
be locked down in the string head. If not, hold down and
rotate until locked.

6. Make sure the string head and the spool retainer are
installed on the shaft by turning the retainer
anticlockwise to tighten.

7 . Pull the strings again to rotate the spool into cutting

position. Push the spool retainer down while pulling on
string(s) to manually advance the string and to check for
proper assembly of the string head.

SPOOL

RETAINER

Fig. 18

SPRING

SPOOL

SLOTS

STRING HEAD

EYELETS

SHAFT

EYELETS

Fig. 19

16

MAINTENANCE

STRING REPLACEMENT

See Figures 20, 21, 22 and 23.

1. Stop the engine and disconnect the sparking plug wire.
Hold the string head and unscrew the spool retainer.
Turn clockwise.

2. Remove the spool from the string head. NOTE: Keep
the spring attached to the spool. Remove any old string
remaining on the spool.

3. Cut two pieces of string, each being approximately

2.7 m (9 ft) long.

4. Insert the first string into the anchor hole in the upper
part of the spool. Wind the first string round the upper
part of the spool anticlockwise, as shown by the arrows
on the spool. Place string in the slot on upper spool
flange, leaving about 152 mm (6 in) extended beyond the
slot. Do not overfill. After winding the string, there should
be at least 6 mm (1/4 in) between the wound string and
the outside edge of the spool.

5. Repeat above step with second string, using the bottom
part of spool. Do not overfill.

6. Replace the spool and the spool retainer. Refer to
“Spool Replacement “ earlier in this manual.

SLOT

SECOND

STRING

Fig. 22

ARROWS ON

SPOOL

SPRING

FIRST STRING

FIRST STRING

SLOT

SPOOL

ARROWS ON

SPOOL

ANCHOR

HOLE

Fig. 23

BLADE PROTECTOR

See Figures 24.

Always place the blade protector on the blade when the
unit is not in use. The blade protector has clips round the
edges to snap over the blade and keep it in place. Wear
gloves and be cautious when handling the blade.

NOTE: Always remove the blade protector before using
the unit. If not removed, the blade protector could become a
thrown object as the blade begins to turn.

Fig. 20

BLADE

Fig. 21

17

BLADE

PROTECTOR

CLIPS

Fig. 24

S

T

MAINTENANCE

CLEANING THE EXHAUST PORT AND
SILENCER

Depending on the type of fuel used, the type and amount of
oil used, and/or your operating conditions, the exhaust port
and silencer may become blocked with carbon deposits. If
you notice a power loss with your petrol-powered tool, a
qualified service technician will need to remove these
deposits to restore performance.

SPARK ARRESTER

The spark arrester must be cleaned or replaced every
25 hours or yearly to ensure proper performance of your
product. Spark arresters may be in different locations
depending on the model purchased. Please contact your
nearest service dealer for the location of the spark arrester
for your model.

Cleaning Instructions:

■■

■ Remove the spark arrester from the silencer.

■■

■■

■ If your spark arrester is made of fibreglass, discard

■■

and replace.

■■

■ If your spark arrester is made of metal, follow these

■■

cleaning instructions:
1 . Spray the spark arrester with a quality carbon

cleaner.
2 . Gently clean using a wire brush.
3 . Install the new or cleaned spark arrester and reas-

semble completely before use.

REPLACING AND CLEANING AIR FILTER

See Figures 25 and 26.

For proper performance and long life, keep air filter clean.
1 . Remove the air filter cover by pushing down on the latch

with your thumb while gently pulling on the cover.

2 . Remove the filter, clean it in warm soapy water. Rinse

and let dry completely. For best performance, replace
annually.

3 . Reinstall the filter.
4 . Replace the air filter cover by inserting the tabs on the

bottom of the cover into the slots on the air filter base;
push the cover up until it latches securely in place.

LATCH

PULL COVER

TO OPEN

Fig. 25

FILTER

3

2

1

S

T

OP

AIR FILTER

COVER

ST
O

P

1

3

2

Fig. 26

18

MAINTENANCE

FUEL CAP

W ARNING:

A leaking fuel cap is a fire hazard and must be
replaced immediately.

The fuel cap contains a non-serviceable filter and a check
valve. A clogged fuel filter will cause poor engine perfor­mance. If performance improves when the fuel cap is
loosened, the check valve may be faulty or the filter
clogged. Replace fuel cap if required.

SPARKING PLUG

This engine uses a Champion RCJ-6Y with 0.63 mm
(0.025 in) electrode gap. Use an exact replacement and
replace annually.

STORAGE (1 MONTH OR LONGER)

1 . Drain all fuel from tank into a container approved for

petrol. Run engine until it stops.

2. Clean all foreign material from the trimmer. Store it in a
well-ventilated place that is inaccessible to children.
Keep away from corrosive agents such as garden
chemicals and de-icing salts.

3. Abide by all ISO and local regulations for the safe
storage and handling of petrol. Excess fuel should be
used up in other 2-cycle engine-powered equipment.

19

TROUBLESHOOTING

IF THESE SOLUTIONS DO NOT SOL VE THE PROBLEM, CONT ACT YOUR AUTHORISED SER VICE DEALER.

PROBLEMPROBLEM

PROBLEM

PROBLEMPROBLEM

Engine will not start:

POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE

POSSIBLE CAUSE

POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE

1. No spark.

2 . No fuel.

3. Flooded engine.

4 . Starter rope pulls harder now than

when new.

SOLUTIONSOLUTION

SOLUTION

SOLUTIONSOLUTION

1. Check spark. Remove sparking plug. Reattach
the sparking plug cap and lay sparking plug on
metal cylinder. Pull the starter rope and watch
for spark at sparking plug tip. If there is no
spark, repeat test with a new sparking plug.

2. Push primer bulb until bulb is full of fuel. If
bulb does not fill, primary fuel delivery system
is blocked. Contact a service dealer. If primer
bulb fills, engine may be flooded (see
next item).

3. Remove sparking plug, turn trimmer so
sparking plug hole is aimed at the ground.
Make sure lev er is in the “W ARM START”
position and pull starter cord 10 to 14 times.
This will clear excess fuel from engine. Clean
and reinstall sparking plug. With the throttle
trigger fully depressed, pull starter cord three
times with lever at “WARM ST AR T” position. If
engine does not start, move choke lever to
“COLD ST AR T” and follow normal starting
instructions in “ST AR TING AND STOPPING”
section. If engine still fails to start, repeat
procedure with a new sparking plug.

4. Contact a service dealer.

Lever will not go into the
“COLD START” position:

Engine starts but will not
accelerate:

Engine does not reach full
speed and emits excessive
smoke:

Engine starts, runs, and ac­celerates but will not idle:

Blade continues to rotate at
idle speed:

Throttle trigger is depressed.

Carburettor requires adjustment.

1. Check oil fuel mixture.

2. Air filter dirty.

3. Carburettor requires adjustment.

Carburettor requires adjustment.

Carburettor requires adjustment.

Release throttle trigger. Refer to “Starting and
Stopping” earlier in this manual.

*Turn “L” needle anticlockwise 1/16 turn. If “L” low
needle cannot be turned anticlockwise; do not force
plastic limiter caps. Contact a service dealer.

See

Figure 27.

1. Use fresh fuel and the correct 2-cycle oil mix.

2. Clean air filter. Refer to “Replacing and Cleaning
Air Filter” earlier in this manual.

3. Turn “H” needle clockwise 1/16 - 1/8 turn. See

Figure 27.

Turn idle speed screw clockwise to increase
idle speed. See

Turn idle speed screw anticlockwise to reduce
idle speed.
blade continues to rotate, return to an authorised
service dealer for repair.

Figure 27.

See Figure 27

. If after adjustment,

20

TROUBLESHOOTING

IF THESE SOLUTIONS DO NOT SOL VE THE PROBLEM, CONT ACT YOUR AUTHORISED SER VICE DEALER.

PROBLEMPROBLEM

PROBLEM

PROBLEMPROBLEM

String will not advance:

Grass wraps round shaft
housing and string
head:

Spool retainer hard to
turn:

Oil drips from silencer:

POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE

POSSIBLE CAUSE

POSSIBLE CAUSEPOSSIBLE CAUSE

1. String welded to itself.
2 . Not enough string on spool.

3 . String worn too short.

4. String tangled on spool.

5. Engine speed too slow.

1. Cutting tall grass at
ground level.

2. Operating trimmer at
part throttle.

Screw threads dirty or damaged.

1. Operating trimmer at
part throttle.

2. Check oil/fuel mixture.

3 . Air filter dirty.

4. Carburettor requires
adjustment.

SOLUTIONSOLUTION

SOLUTION

SOLUTIONSOLUTION

1. Lubricate with silicone spray.
2 . Install more string. Refer to “String Replacement”

earlier in this manual.

3 . Pull strings while alternately pressing down on and

releasing spool retainer.

4 . Remove string from spool and rewind. Refer to “String

Replacement” earlier in this manual.

5 . Advance string at full throttle.

1. Cut tall grass from the top down.

2. Operate trimmer at full throttle.

Clean threads and lubricate with grease - if no improve­ment, replace spool retainer.

1. Operate trimmer at full throttle.

2. Use fresh fuel and the correct 2-cycle oil mix.

3. Clean per instruction in Maintenance Section.

4. Tu rn “H” needle clockwise 1/16 - 1/8 turn.

See Figure 27.

NOTE: The carburettor adjustment needle(s) are equipped
with plastic cap(s) which prevent anticlockwise rotation from
the original factory adjustment. If your unit exhibits specific
performance problem(s) where the Troubleshooting Section
recommends an anticlockwise needle adjustment and no
adjustments have been made since original purchase, the
unit should be taken to a factory-authorised service dealer
for repair. In most cases, the needed adjustment is a simple
task for the factory-trained service representative.

IDLE SPEED

SCREW

“L” LO

NEEDLE

“H” HIGH

NEEDLE

Fig. 27

21

WARRANTY

GUARANTEE – STATEMENT
(RTSA / RTUK / RTG)

All Homelite products are guaranteed from defects in material and workmanship for a period of twenty-four (24) months,
effective and evidenced from date of original invoice or delivery note.

Defects caused by normal wear and tear, unauthorised/improper maintenance/handling or overload are excluded from
this guarantee, as are accessories such as battery packs, bulbs, blades and bits etc.

In the event of malfunction within the guarantee period, please return the assembled product with proof of purchase to your
dealer or nearest Homelite Service Centre.

Your statutory rights in respect of defective products remain unaffected by the w arranty.

Ryobi T echnologies GmbH,
Ryobi Technologies, Customer Services, Anvil House, Tuns Lane, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 1SA, UK
Homelite / R.T.S.A BP 50012 - 95945 Roissy CDG Cedex – FRANCE
Ryobi Technologies Australia PTY Limited, 359-361 Horsley Road, Milperra, NSW 2214 Australia

Itterpark 7, D-40724 Hilden, Germany

SAFETY DIRECTIVE

SOUND POWER/PRESSURE AND HANDLE VIBRATION CHART FOR TRIMMERS /
BRUSHCUTTERS

Information on Noise Emission per European Machine Safety Directive 98/37/EC.
The individual equipment listed was operated in a manner consistent with normal working conditions.
The A-weighted sound pressure level (LpA) at the operator’s ear and the A-weighted sound power level (LWA) were both measured

in accordance
with Directive 79/113/EEC. Hearing protection is recommended where levels exceed 85 dBA.
Handle vibration was measured in accordance to ISO 7916. Read the safety precautions section of the manual.

SOUND PRESSURE SOUND POWER VIBRATION

MODEL MODEL NO. LpA (dBA) LwA (dBpA) m/s

2

F3045 UT70127 99 113 6.2

EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

According to machinery directive 98/37/EC and EMC directive 89/336/EEC - We,

Homelite Consumer Products Inc., 1428 Pearman Dairy Road, Anderson, SC 29625, USA

declare in sole responsibility that the product: F3045 (UT70127) - to which this certificate applies, conforms to the basic health and
safety requirements of the Machinery Directive 98/37/EC and other relevant directives, such as EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and
Outdoor Directive 2000/14/EC.

To effect correct application of the health and safety requirements stated in the EEC directives, the following European and/or
national standards and/or technical specifications were consulted: EN ISO 14982:1998, ISO 7916 & 7917, EN ISO 11806:1997,
ISO 7918-1995, ISO 8380-1993, ISO 8893-1989, ISO 10884-1995. EN 292-1.1991, EN 292-2-1991, EN 292-2:1991/A1;1995, EN
563-1994, EN 27917-1991, ISO 7112-1982, ISO 7113-1991

Wayne Hill
Director, Environmental Compliance

Homelite Consumer Products, Inc.
1428 Pearman Dairy Road
Anderson, SC 29625, USA

December 22, 2002

22

NOTES

23

OPERA TOR’S MANUAL
Trimmer / Brushcutter
F3045
UT70127

983000-206
2-03

Ryobi T echnologies GmbH

Itterpark 7

D-40724 Hilden

Germany

Tel.: [phone] / 29 58 0

Fax : [phone] / 29 58 29

[e-mail]

Ryobi T echnologies

Customer Services

Anvil House

Tuns Lane

Henley-on-Thames

RG9 1SA

UK

Homelite / R.T.S.A

BP 50012 - 95945 Roissy CDG Cedex – FRANCE

Ryobi T echnologies Australia PTY Limited

359-361 Horsley Road, Milperra, NSW 2214 Australia