Honda UMK422, UMK431 Owner's Manual

The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State California
to
cause cancer, birth defects, or
of
Keep this owner’s manual handy, permanent part of the trimmer/brush cutter and should remain with the trimmer/brush cutter
so
you can refer to it at any time. This owner’s manual is considered a
if
resold.
The information and specifications included in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. Honda Motor design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatever.
Co.,
Ltd. reserves the right, however, to discontinue or change specifications or
No
part
of
this
publication may be reproduced without written permission.

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your selection of a Honda trimmer/brush cutter. We are certain you will be pleased with your purchase of one of the finest trimmers/brush cutters on the market.
We want to help you get the best results from your new trimmer/brush cutter and to operate it safely. This manual contains the information on how to do that; please read it carefully.
As
you read this manual, you will find information preceded by a symbol. That information is
intended to help you avoid damage to your trimmer, other property, or the environment. We suggest you read the warranty policy to fully understand its coverage and your responsibilities of
ownership. The warranty policy is a separate document that should have been given to you by your dealer.
When your trimmedbrush cutter needs scheduled maintenance, keep in mind that your Honda servicing dealer is specially trained in servicing Honda trimmers/brush cutters. Your Honda servicing dealer is dedicated to your satisfaction and will be pleased to answer your questions and concerns.
Best Wishes, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
1
INTRODUCTION
A
FEW WORDS ABOUT SAFETY
Your safety and the safety of others are very important. And using this trimmer/brush cutter safely is an important responsibility.
To help you make informed decisions about safety, we have provided operating procedures and other information on labels and in this manual. This information alerts you to potential hazards that could hurt
or
you Of course, it is not practical
maintaining a trimmedbrush cutter. You must use your own good judgment.
others.
or
possible to warn you about all the hazards associated with operating or
You will find important safety information in
Safety Labels - on the trimmer/brush cutter. Safety Messages - preceded by a safety alert symbol A and one of three signal words, DANGER,
WARNING, or CAUTION. These signal words mean:
You WILL be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT if you don’t follow instructions. You CAN be KILLED or SERIOUSLY HURT You CAN be HURT if you don’t follow instructions.
Safety Headings - such as Safety Section - such as Instructions - how to use this trimmedbrush cutter correctly and safely.
This entire book is filled with important safety information
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.
TRlMM€R
a
variety of forms, including:
SAFETY.
-
please read it carefully.
if
you don’t follow instructions.
2

CONTENTS

TRIMMER SAFETY
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION ATTACHMENTS
Attachments
Modifications 5 IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO EMPLOYERS SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS
............................................................................
...........................................................................
RECOMMENDED CUTTING ATTACHMENTS ...
CUTTING-LINE HEADS AND SHIELD
Manual-Feed Cutting-Line Head
Semiautomatic (bump-feed) Cutting-Line Head BLADES AND SHIELD
Grassweed Blades
Weed/Brush Blades
Brushwood Blades
Brushwood Blade Cover Installation and Removal CUTTING ATTACHMENT APPLICATIONS
CONTROLS & EQUIPMENT
COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS CONTROLS
Choke Lever
Ignition Switch Operator Presence Lever Throttle Trigger Throttle Set Button
Priming Bulb
Recoil Starter Grip
EQUIPMENT
Shoulder Harness Safety Glasses
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BEFORE OPERATION
ARE YOU READY
Knowledge
Physical and Mental Readiness
Protective Clothing
IS
YOUR WORKING AREA READY?
IS
YOUR TRIMMER READY TO GO? Safety Inspection Cutting Attachment Inspection
Maintenance Inspection 15 ARE YOUR SHOULDER HARNESS AND TRIMMER CORRECTLY ADJUSTED?
Adjusting the Harness
Balancing the Trimmer on the Shoulder Harness
OPERATION
SAFE OPERATING PRECAUTIONS STARTING THE ENGINE STOPPING THE ENGINE TRIMMER/HARNESS QUICK DISCONNECTION TRIMMER OPERATION
Operating Position
Throttle Operation
Using a Nylon Cutting-Line Head
Using Blades SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES
Thrown Debris
Blade Thrust (Kickback) OPERATING TIPS
Scything
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&
MODIFICATIONS
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TO
OPERATE THE TRIMMER?
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4
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7 7
8
8 8 8
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10
10 11
11 11 11 11 12 12 12
13
13 13
14
14
14 14
14 14 15
15
15
16
16
16
17
17 17 19 19 19
19
20
20
21
21
21
22 22
22
OPERATION(continued)
Trimming and Edging Brush Clearing Operation on Slopes
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SERVICING YOUR HONDA TRIMMER ........... 24
THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTENANCE MAINTENANCE SAFETY
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE ENGINE
FUEL SYSTEM
CUTTING ATTACHMENTS
..........................................................................
Engine Oil Level Check Engine Oil Change
Engine Oil Recommendations Air Filter Inspection Air Filter Cleaning Spark Plug Service Spark Arrester Service Cooling Fin Inspection Throttle Cable Inspection Throttle Cable Adjustment
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Refueling
Fuel Recommendations
Fuel Filter and Fuel Tank Cleaning Cutting-Line Heads
Blades
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STORAGE ........................................................ 41
STORAGE PREPARATION
Cleaning
Fuel
Engine Oil Carburetor
Blade
Engine Cylinder
STORAGE PRECAUTIONS
REMOVAL FROM STORAGE
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&
Air Cleaner
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TRANSPORTING ............................................. 43
TAKING CARE
STARTING PROBLEMS ENGINE OPERATING PROBLEMS
CUTTING HEAD PROBLEMS
OF
UNEXPECTED PROBLEMS
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TECHNICAL & CONSUMER INFORMATION
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
Serial Number Locations
Carburetor Modification for High Altitude Operation Oxygenated Fuels
Emission Control System Information Air Index
Specifications
CONSUMER INFORMATION
Honda Publications Warranty Service Information
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QUICK REFERENCE INFORMATION
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Inside back cover
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23 23 23
24 24
25
26
26 26 27 27 27 28 29 30 30 30
31
31 31 32
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33 39
41
41 41 42 42 42
42 42 42
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44 44 45
46
46
46
46
47
48
49
50
52
52
52
3

TRIMMER SAFETY

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Honda UMK422 and UMK431 trimmerdbrush cutters are designed to cut grass, weeds, brush,
if
and/or wood
equipped with an appropriate cutting attachment. Other uses can result in injury to the operator or damage to the trimmer and other property.
These Honda trimmers are intended for use by gardening professionals. Never allow children to operate the trimmer.
Most accidents can be prevented if you follow all instructions in this manual and on the trimmer. The most common hazards are discussed below, along with the best way to protect yourself and others.
Always Wear Eye Protection and Protective Clothing
The most frequent injuries associated with string trimmers are eye injuries caused by thrown debris. Always wear safety glasses or goggles that meet the
ANSI
287.1 rating
whenever you use the trimmer.
The operator must wear hearing protectors when using this trimmer. Hearing protectors will protect the operator’s ears from noise damage.
Wearing protective clothing also reduces the
risk and severity of injury from thrown debris or contact with the cutting attachment. Wear the trimmer harness, gloves, a long-sleeved shirt,
long pants, and sturdy boots with nonslip soles. See page 14 for more information.
Keep Away From Cutting Lines and Blades
0
A
spinning cutting attachment can cut through
your clothes and skin just as easily as it cuts through grass and brush. Keep all parts of your
body away from a spinning cutting attachment.
Off
Turn the Engine
0
If you stop trimming or cutting for any reason,
When Not Trimming
even to clean off the cutting attachment, always shut off the engine.
Keep People Away From Your Working Area
To
prevent injury
least
50
feet
to
others, keep people at
(1
5
meters) away from the
working area during operation.
Always Wear the Harness When Trimming
The harness keeps the trimmer away from your body, lowering your chances of being cut by the trimmer’s blade or cutting line.
Read This Manual Before Using the Trimmer
Read the manual before operating the trimmer. Understand how to use all the controls and obey all warnings.
Clear the Working Area First
Objects thrown by the trimmer can cause serious injury. Before operating the trimmer, carefully inspect the area, and remove all broken glass, pieces of wire, and other loose objects.
Keep the Trimmer Properly Maintained
0
The cutting attachment should be examined for looseness, cracks, broken parts, or excessive wear. Tighten or replace as needed before operating the trimmer.
0
Do
not operate the trimmer without a debris
shield properly installed. Make sure you have the right shield installed for your cutting
attachment. For more information, see page 7 and 8.
0
Even after the engine has stopped, the cutting
attachment will spin for several seconds.
Do
not touch it until it has stopped spinning, or you
may get cut.
4
TRIMMER
SAFETY

ATTACHMENTS & MODIFICATIONS

Modifying your trimmer/brush cutter, or installing non-Honda attachments, can make your trimmer unsafe. Before you make any modifications or install any attachments, be sure to read the following information.

Attachments

Your Honda trimmer servicing dealer has cutting attachments, debris shields, barrier kits, and shoulder harnesses that have been designed and approved for your trimmer and are covered by warranty.
Non-Honda attachments are usually designed for universal applications. Although aftermarket attachments may fit on your trimmer, they may not meet factory specifications and could make your trimmer unsafe.

Modifications

Do
not remove the debris shield or modify your trimmer in any way that would alter its design or operation. This could make your trimmer unsafe.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO EMPLOYERS

As an employer, you have special responsibilities to the people who work for you.
Before you ask anyone to operate this trimmer/ brush cutter, you need to determine whether the person is old enough, large enough, and strong enough to safely handle and control the trimmer/ brush cutter.
If
you decide he or she is, make sure the employee reads and understands all instructions and warnings in this manual and on the labels before operating the trimmer/brush cutter.
Allow adequate time for hands-on training by a qualified instructor, and personally supervise practice sessions, until you feel sure the employee is ready to operate the trimmer/brush cutter.
Also be sure employees wear proper clothing, eye and hearing protection, and any other gear that may be required by local ordinances or your insurance company.
Remember, too, that you are responsible for keeping the trimmer/brush cutter properly maintained and in safe operating condition.
Your commitment to safety on the job can help prevent accidents and result in longer and more productive years of service.
5
TRIMMER SAFETY

SAFETY LABEL LOCATIONS

The labels shown here contain important safety information. Please read them carefully. These labels are considered permanent parts of your trimmer/brush cutter. If a label comes off or becomes hard to read, contact an authorized Honda servicing dealer for a replacement.
I
II
q
I
I
I I
I
I I
I
I
I I
I
I
A
WARNING
OWNERS
Failure to do result to the oDerator and
I
bystanders.
MANUAL.
in
serious injury
so
can
u-
I
I
(15m)
5011
A
WARNING
OBJECTS THROWN SERIOUS INJURY.
I
9
a
400)
u
CONTACT WITH ROTATING CUTTING ATTACHMENT CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY.
I
Keep away from rotating cutting attachment.
I
Be aware
(See Owner's Manual for special operating precautions)
I
Install proper shield, handle, and harness for cutting attachment.
I
Use onlv Honda recommended cuttine attachments.
Always wear eye protection that meets ANSI 287.1.
I
Always wear hearing protection and protective clothing.
I
Keep bystanders
I
Do
not operate without shield.
A
WARNING
of
possible kickback when using blades.
BY
CUTTING ATTACHMENTS CAN CAUSE
at
least 50 feet (15m) away.
.
1
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I I I I
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I
I I
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6
TYPES
LOOP
EQUIPPED
HANDLE
WITH

RECOMMENDED CUTTING ATTACHMENTS

CUTTING-LINE HEADS AND SHIELD
A cutting-line head containing nylon monofilament line, and a debris shield with cutoff knife is standard equipment. The shield’s cutoff knife automatically removes any excess line that is
released from the cutting head.
Honda UMK431 UNBA trimmers are supplied with two different debris shields. Use the debris shield with the cutoff knife when the cutting-line head is
installed.
Nylon monofilament line is suitable for cutting
grass and ordinary weeds, but not brush and woody growth.

Manual-Feed Cutting-Line Head

CUTTING-LINE HEAD
\
DEBRIS SHIELD
MANUAL-FEED CUTTING-LINE HEAD
NYLON MONOFILAMENT LINE
I
Line is released from the cutting head by
manually pulling and turning the
spool
with the
trimmer stopped.

Semiautomatic (bump-feed) Cutting-Line Head

Line is released from the cutting head by bumping
the spool on hard ground during operation.
SEMIAUTOMATIC
(bump-feed)
CUTTING-LINE HEAD
7
RECOMMENDED CUTTING ATTACHMENTS
BLADES AND SHIELD BLADE DEBRIS SHIELD
A
variety of blades are available from your Honda
trimmer servicing dealer. Always use a debris shield designed for use with a blade when attaching a blade to your trimmer. This type of debris shield does not have a cutoff knife.
Honda a blade cover surrounding the edge of the blade. For safety, and to protect the blade, the cover should be installed whenever the trimmer is not in use.
If equipped with a loop handle, also install the optional barrier kit that includes a full shoulder harness, a barrier bar, and a debris shield for metal blades. Follow the installation instructions and safety information that come with the kit.
UMK431
installing a metal blade on a Honda trimmer
UNBA trimmers are supplied with
GRASSNEED BLADE, WEED/BRUSH BLADE
DEBRIS SHIELD FOR BRUSHNOOD BLADE
SHIELD FOR
BLADE
CUlTlNG LINE DEBRIS SHIELD
p
I
CUTOFF KNIFE
BLADE
’/
Grassmeed Blades GRASSMEED BLADE
Grass/weed blades, which may be plastic or metal, are used as an alternative to nylon monofilament line for cutting grass and ordinary weeds. However, blades should never be used for edging against solid surfaces.

Weed/Brush Blades

These metal blades have chisel-shaped teeth that are used for cutting tough field grass, thick weeds, and light brush. They are not designed for sawing woody material. The teeth must be sharp for good results.
BrushNood Blades
These metal saw-tooth blades are used for sawing through saplings, shrubs, and woody brush. The teeth must be sharp for good results.
Brush/wood blades will also cut grass and weeds,
but they are not efficient for that purpose.
WEEDlBRUSH BLADE
BRUSHNOOD BLADE
8
RECOMMENDED CUTTING ATTACHMENTS

Brush/Wood Blade Cover Installation and Removal

1.
Place the blade cover on the blade halfway, starting with end A. To prevent the posts on end A from interfering with the debris shield,
remove end A from the blade and place it
beside the blade as shown.
2.
Turn the blade slowly until end A is clear of the debris shield.
3.
Replace end A on the blade.
4.
With the blade cover fully seated on the blade, fasten the tab at end B on the post at end A.
Remove the blade cover in the reverse order of
installation.

CUTTING ATTACHMENT APPLICATIONS

DEBRIS SHIELD
END
\
6'
BLADE
\
ENDA
4
GRASS AND LIGHT WEEDS
THICK WEEDS AND LIGHT BRUSH
I
WOODY BRUSH, SHRUBS, SAPLINGS
Your Honda trimmer servicing dealer has cutting attachments that have been designed and approved for your trimmer and are covered by warranty. Non-Honda attachments are usually designed for universal applications. Although aftermarket attachments may fit on your trimmer, they may not meet factory specifications and could make your trimmer unsafe.
OK
X
A
OK
X
X
0
OK
OK
X
X
X
OK
9
CONTROLS

COMPONENT & CONTROL LOCATIONS

CUTTING-LINE HEAD
&
EQUIPMENT
\
I
GEAR CASE
LOOP HANDLE
ARNESS HANGER
DEBRIS SHIELD WITH CUTOFF KNIFE OPERATORPRESENCELEVER
DRIVE SHAFT HOUSING
IGNITION SWITCH
FUEL TANK
THROlTLE
SET
BUlTON
CHOKE LEVER SPARK PLUG CAP
fi
FUEL RETURN TUBE [Jear)
FUEL SUPPLY TUBE (black)
STARTER GRIP
A
UMK431 UNBA
(supplied with
cutting
and debris shields)
attachments
two
CUTTING-LINE HEAD
DEBRIS SHIELD FOR BRUSHMOOD BLADE
e
DEBRIS SHIELD WITH CUTOFF KNIFE
BLADE,
GEAR CASE
I
DRIVE SHAFT HOUSING
THROlTLE
SET BUlTON
-HARNESS HANGER
U-TYPE HANDLEBAR
10
I
CONTROLS & EQUIPMENT
CONTROLS Choke Lever
The choke lever opens and closes the choke valve.
The CLOSED.position enriches the fuel mixture for starting a cold engine.
The OPEN position provides the correct fuel
mixture for operation after starting, and for restarting a warm engine.

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch controls the ignition system. The ignition switch button must be in the ON
( I )
position for the engine to start and run.

CHOKE LEVER

U-type handle: Loop handle:
IGNITION SWITCH BUTTON
(0)
OFF
OFF
Moving the ignition switch button to the
(0)
position stops the engine.

Operator Presence Lever

The operator presence lever blocks the throttle trigger. This safety feature prevents unintentional
if
throttle operation
the trimmer is bumped while
the operator’s hand is not on the control handle. When the operator presses the presence lever by
gripping the control handle, the trigger moves freely.

Throttle Trigger

The throttle trigger controls engine speed.
Pulling the throttle trigger toward the grip
increases engine speed. The trimmer will have the greatest cutting force at maximum engine speed.
Releasing the throttle trigger reduces engine speed. At idle, the cutting-line head or blade should coast to a stop.
K//
IGNITION SWITCH BUTTON
..
FAST‘
(cutting attachment rotates)
QP
\
11
CONTROLS
&
EQUIPMENT

Throttle Set Button

The throttle set button is used to hold the throttle trigger at the fast idle position for starting.
Do
not allow the cutting line or blade to contact any obstruction when starting the engine with the
throttle button engaged To engage the throttle set button, press the
operator presence lever by gripping the control handle, pull the throttle trigger, then press and hold the throttle set button while releasing the
throttle trigger. To disengage the throttle set button, simply pull
the throttle trigger. The throttle set button
automatically disengages when the throttle trigger is pulled.
Do
not use the throttle set button while operating
the trimmer. The trimmer will not return to idle,
or
and the cutting-line head
blade will continue to spin, until the set button is disengaged and the throttle trigger is released.
THROlTLE SET BUlTON
OPERATOR PRESENCE LEVER
FUEL RETURN TUBE (clear plastic tube)
Priming
Bulb
Pressing the priming bulb pumps fuel from the fuel tank to the carburetor. This procedure is necessary for starting the engine.
To ensure that fuel has reached the carburetor, press the priming bulb repeatedly until fuel can be seen in the clear-plastic fuel-return tube.

Recoil Starter Grip

Pulling the starter grip operates the recoil starter to turn the engine for starting.
PRIMING
12
CONTROLS & EQUIPMENT

EQUIPMENT

Honda UMK422 and UMK431 trimmerdbrush cutters are supplied with a shoulder harness and safety glasses. Refer to page 14 for a description
of other equipment and protective clothing you will
need.

Shoulder Harness

A
full shoulder harness must be worn by the operator of these Honda trimmers/brush cutters when equipped with a blade and debris shield.
If
the trimmer is equipped with a cutting-line head
and shield with cutoff knife, the operator may wear a single-strap harness.
A
suitable shoulder harness is supplied with each new Honda UMK422 and UMK431 trimmer/brush cutter. Replacement shoulder harnesses may be purchased through any authorized Honda trimmedbrush cutter servicing dealer.
FULL SHOULDER HARNESS
n
QUICK-RELEASE
SINGLE-STRAP SHOULDER HARNESS
LATCH
Before operation, adjust your shoulder harness as described on page 16.
Quick-Release
Latch
The shoulder harnesses supplied with these
trimmers are equipped with a quick-release latch. Pull the latch tab upward to detach the trimmer
from the harness.
insert the latch tongue in the slot of the quick­release latch to reattach the trimmer
to
the
harness.

Safety Glasses

Safety glasses or goggles that comply with
ANSI
standard 287.1 must be worn by the operator of any Honda trimmer/brush cutter. The safety glasses supplied with each new Honda UMK422 and UMK431 trimmedbrush comply with the
ANSI
standard.
QUICK-RELEASE
QUICK-RELEASE
SAFETY GLASSES (ANSI
LATCH
LATCH TAB
LATCH
287.1)
13

ARE YOU READY TO OPERATE THE TRIMMER?

Your safety is your responsibility. A little time spent in preparation will significantly reduce your risk of injury.

Knowledge

Read and understand this manual. Know what the
controls do and how to operate them.
Familiarize yourself with the trimmer and its
operation before you begin to use it. Know what
to do in case of emergencies.

Physical and Mental Readiness

You must be alert and in good physical condition to operate the trimmer. trimmer if you are tired, of alcohol, medication, or any substance that
might impair your vision, dexterity,
If
you have any physical problem that may be aggravated by strenuous work, consult your physician before operating the trimmer.
Do
not operate the
ill,
or under the influence
or
judgment.
Hearing Protection
Hearing protectors will help to protect your ears from noise. Earmuff-style hearing protectors can also protect your ears from thrown objects.
Hand and Body Protection
Wear gloves, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants made of heavy material. Clothing should fit
closely but allow freedom of movement, and
should have no strings, straps, etc. that could catch on brush or the trimmer. Keep clothing
fastened.
Foot
Protection
Wear sturdy work boots with good toe protection and nonslip soles.

Protective Clothing

Wearing protective clothing will reduce your risk of injury. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals, or go barefoot. Secure hair so
it is above shoulder level.
Eye, Face, and Head Protection
Always wear safety glasses or goggles that comply with ANSI standard eyes from thrown objects. Prescription glasses may be worn under the safety glasses or goggles.
A helmet with a face shield is recommended for further protection. However, safety glasses or goggles should always be worn under the face
Do
shield. protect your eyes.
Wearing a dust mask will help to reduce the amount of pollens and dust inhaled.
not rely on a face shield alone to
287.1
to protect your
IS
YOUR
Objects thrown by the trimmer can cause serious injury. Before operating the trimmer, carefully inspect the area, and remove all objects that could be thrown by, or entangled in attachment, such as rocks, broken glass, nails,
wire, or string. Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets.
Keep all children, bystanders, and pets at least feet being operated.
Even outside a 50-foot trimmer, there may be a risk of injury from thrown objects, wear eye protection.
If anyone approaches you while you are operating the trimmer, release the throttle trigger and stop
the engine.
WORKING
(15
meters) away from where the trimmer is
so
bystanders should be encouraged to
AREA READY?
,
the cutting
(1
5-meter) radius of the
50
14
IS
YOUR
TRIMMER READY TO
BEFORE OPERATION
GO?
For your safety, and to maximize the service life
of your equipment, it is very important to take a few moments before you operate the trimmer to check its condition. Be sure to take care of any
problem you find, or have your servicing dealer correct it, before you operate the trimmer.
Improperly maintaining this trimmer, or failing to correct a problem before operation, could cause a malfunction in which you could be seriously injured.
Always perform a preoperation inspection before each operation, and correct any problem.

Safety Inspection

Look around the engine for signs of oil or gasoline leaks. Wipe up any spills before starting the engine.

Cutting Attachment Inspection

Look for signs of damage to the cutting
33
and
39).
attachment (see pages any cutting attachment and parts that are worn out, bent, cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way.
If
using a metal blade, be sure it is sharp.
dull blade is more likely to snag and thrust.
If
using a metal blade on a trimmer equipped
with a loop handle, be sure the barrier bar
(optional part) is installed beneath the loop handle.
Make sure the cutting attachment is properly installed and securely fastened (see pages and
40).
Check that the debris shield is the correct shield for the cutting attachment (see page and that it is securely installed and in good condition.
Replace
A
38
9),
Replace any damaged parts. Check that all fasteners are in place and
secure. Tighten as necessary.

Maintenance Inspection

Check the oil level (see page engine with a low oil level can cause engine damage.
Check the air filter (see page filter will restrict air flow to the carburetor, reducing engine and trimmer performance.
Check throttle cable free play (see page The cable must be correctly adjusted and operate smoothly for good throttle control.
Check the fuel level (see page with a full tank will help to eliminate or reduce operating interruptions for refueling.
26).
Running the
27).
A
31).
Starting
dirty air
30).
15
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