HUSQVARNA 253 RB User Manual

KEY TO SYMBOLS

Symbols

ARNING! A clearing saw, brushcutter or trimmer can be dangerous if used incorrectly or carelessly, and can cause serious or fatal injury to the operator or others. It is extremely important that you read and understand the contents of this operator’s manual.

Please read the operator’s manual carefully and make sure you understand the instructions before using the machine.

Always wear:

• A protective helmet where there

is a risk of falling objects

• Approved hearing protection

• Approved eye protection

Max. speed of output shaft, rpm

This product is in accordance with applicable EC directives.

Watch out for thrown objects and ricochets.

The operator of the machine must ensure, while working, that no persons or animals come closer than 15 metres.

Machines ﬁtted with saw blades or grass blades can be thrown violently to the side when the blade comes into contact with a ﬁxed object. This is called blade thrust. The blade is capable of amputating an arm or leg. Always keep people and animals at least 15 metres from the machine.

Arrows which show limits for handle positioning.

Always wear approved protective gloves.

15 m

50FT

Wear sturdy, non-slip boots.

Only use non-metallic, ﬂexible cutting attachments, i.e. trimmer heads with trimmer cord.

Noise emission to the environment according to the European Community’s Directive. The machine’s emission is speciﬁed in chapter Technical data and on label.

Keep all parts of your body away from hot surfaces.

Other symbols/decals on the mac

hine refer to special certiﬁcation requirements for certain markets.

Switch off the engine by moving the stop switch to the STOP position before carrying out any checks or maintenance.

Always wear approved protective gloves.

Regular cleaning is required.

Visual check.

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English

CONTENTS

Contents

KEY

TO SYMBOLS

Symbols

................................................................ 2

CONTENTS

Contents

Note the following before starting: ........................ 3

INTR

Dear Customer

WHA

What is what on the br

GENERAL SAFETY PRECA

Impor

Personal protective equipment ............................. 6

Machine′s safety equipment ................................. 7

Cutting equipment ................................................ 10

ASSEMBL

Fitting the ﬂ Connecting throttle cable and stop switch wires ... 12

Fitting the J-handle .............................................. 13

Fitting blades and trimmer heads ......................... 13

Fitting the transport guard .................................... 15

Adjusting the harness and brush cutter ................ 15

FUEL HANDLING

Fuel saf

Fuel ...................................................................... 17

Fuelling ................................................................. 18

Chec

Starting and stopping ........................................... 19

Gener

MAINTENANCE

Carb

Air ﬁlter ................................................................. 24

Fuel ﬁlter ............................................................... 24

Bevel gear ............................................................ 25

Spark plug ............................................................ 25

Drive shaft ............................................................ 25

Maintenance schedule ......................................... 27

TECHNICAL D

EC-declaration of conformity ................................ 29

............................................................... 3

ODUCTION

, .................................................... 4

T IS WHAT?

ush cutter? ........................ 5

UTIONS

tant .............................................................. 6

exible drive shaft ................................ 12

ety ............................................................ 17

ARTING AND STOPPING

k before starting ........................................... 19

ORKING TECHNIQUES

al working instructions ................................ 21

urettor ........................................................... 24

ATA

echnical data ...................................................... 28

Note the f

ollowing before

starting:

Please read the oper

ARNING! Long-term exposure to noise can result in permanent hearing impairment. So always use approved hearing protection.

ARNING! Under no circumstances may the design of the machine be modiﬁed without the permission of the manufacturer. Always use genuine accessories. Non-authorized modiﬁcations and/or accessories can result in serious personal injury or the death of the operator or others.

ator’s manual carefully.

English –

INTR

ODUCTION

Dear Customer

Cong

ratulations on your choice to buy a Husqvarna product! Husqvarna is based on a tradition that dates back to 1689, when the Swedish King Karl XI ordered the construction of a factory on the banks of the Husqvarna River, for production of muskets. The location was logical, since water power was harnessed from the Huskvarna River to create the waterpowered plant. During the more than 300 years of beeing, the Husqvarna factory has produced a lot of different products, from wood stoves to modern kitchen appliances, sewing machines, bicycles, motorcycles etc. In 1956, the ﬁrst motor driven lawn mowers appeared, followed by chain saws in 1959, and it is within this area Husqvarna is working today.

Today Husqvarna is one of the leading manufacturers in the world of forest and garden products, with quality as our highest priority. The business concept is to develop, manufacture and market motor driven products for forestry and gardening as well as for building and construction industry. Husqvarna ergonomics, usability, security and environmental protection. That is the reason why we have developed many different features to provide our products within these areas.

We are convinced that you will appreciate with great satisfaction the quality and performance of our product for a very long time to come. The purchase of one of our products gives you access to professional help with repairs and service whenever this may be necessary. If the retailer who sells your machine is not one of our authorised dealers, ask for the address of your nearest service workshop.

It is our wish that you will be satisﬁed with your product and that it will be your companion for a long time. Think of this operator

′

s manual as a valuable document. By following its′ content (using, service, maintenance etc) the life span and the second-hand value of the machine can be extended. If you will sell this machine, make sure that the buyer will get the operator

Thank you for using a Husqvarna product. Husqvarna AB has a policy of continuous product development and therefore reserves the right to modify the design and

appearance of products without prior notice.

′

s manual.

′

s aim is also to be in the front edge according to

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English

WHA

T IS

WHA

What is what on the brush cutter?

Blade 2 Grease ﬁller cap, bevel gear 3 Bevel gear 4 Cutting attachment guard 5 Shaft 6 J-handle 7 Throttle control 8 Stop switch 9 Throttle lockout 10 Shaft coupling 11 Starter handle 12 Fuel tank 13 Air ﬁlter cover 14 Cylinder cover

15 Spark plug cap and spark plug 16 Air purge 17 Choke control 18 Harness 19 Drive disc 20 Support ﬂange 21 Support cup 22 Locking nut 23 Trimmer head 24 Transport guard 25 Locking pin 26 Socket spanner 27 Screwdriver 28 Operator′s manual

English

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GENERAL SAFETY PRECA

UTIONS

Impor

tant Personal protective equipment

IMPORTANT! The machine is only designed for trimming grass. The only accessories you can operate with this engine

unit are the cutting attachments we recommend in the chapter on Technical data.

Never use the machine if you are tired, if you have drunk alcohol, or if you are taking medication that could affect your vision, your judgement or your co-ordination.

Wear personal protective equipment. See instructions under the heading ”Personal protective equipment”.

Never use a machine that has been modiﬁed in any way from its original speciﬁcation.

Never use a machine that is faulty. Carry out the checks, maintenance and service instructions described in this manual. Some maintenance and service measures must be carried out by trained and qualiﬁed specialists. See instructions under the heading Maintenance.

All covers, guards and handles must be ﬁtted before starting. Ensure that the spark plug cap and ignition lead are undamaged to avoid the risk of electric shock.

The machine operator must ensure that no people or animals come closer than 15 metres while working. When several operators are working in the same area the safety distance should be at least twice the tree height and no less than 15 metres.

ARNING! This machine produces an

electromagnetic ﬁeld during operation.

This ﬁeld may under some circumstances interfere with active or passive medical implants. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury, we recommend persons with medical implants to consult their physician and the medical implant manufacturer before operating this machine.

IMPOR

TANT!

A clearing saw, brushcutter or trimmer can be dangerous if used incorrectly or carelessly, and can cause serious or fatal injury to the operator or others. It is extremely important that you read and understand the contents of this operator’s manual.

You must use approved personal protective equipment whenever you use the machine. Personal protective equipment cannot eliminate the risk of injury but it will reduce the degree of injury if an accident does happen. Ask your dealer for help in choosing the right equipment.

ARNING! Listen out for warning signals or shouts when you are wearing hearing protection. Always remove your hearing protection as soon as the engine stops.

HELMET A protectiv

HEARING PROTECTION Wear hearing protection that provides adequate noise

reduction.

EYE PROTECTION Always wear approved eye protection. If you use a visor

then you must also wear approved protective goggles. Approved protective goggles must comply with standard ANSI Z87.1 in the USA or EN 166 in EU countries.

e helmet where there is a risk of falling objects

ARNING! Running an engine in a

conﬁned or badly ventilated area can

result in death due to asphyxiation or carbon monoxide poisoning.

GLOVES Gloves should be worn when necessary, e.g., when ﬁtting

cutting attachments.

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English

GENERAL SAFETY PRECA

BOO

Wear boots with steel toe-caps and non-slip sole.

CLOTHING Wear clothes made of a strong fabric and avoid loose

clothing that can catch on twigs and branches. Always wear heavy, long pants. Do not wear jewellery, shorts sandals or go barefoot. Secure hair so it is above shoulder level.

FIRST AID KIT Always have a ﬁrst aid kit nearby.

Mac

hine′s safety equipment

This section descr its purpose, and how checks and maintenance should be carried out to ensure that it operates correctly. See the ”What is what?” section to locate where this equipment is positioned on your machine.

The life span of the machine can be reduced and the risk of accidents can increase if machine maintenance is not carried out correctly and if service and/or repairs are not carried out professionally. If you need further information please contact your nearest service workshop.

ibes the machine′s safety equipment,

UTIONS

control and the throttle lockout both move back to their original positions. This movement is controlled by two independent return springs. This arrangement means that the throttle control is automatically locked at the idle setting.

Make sure the throttle control is locked at the idle setting when the throttle lockout is released.

Press the throttle lockout and make sure it returns to its original position when you release it.

IMPORTANT! All servicing and repair work on the machine requires special training. This is especially true of the machine any of the checks described below you must contact your service agent. When you buy any of our products we guarantee the availability of professional repairs and service. If the retailer who sells your machine is not a servicing dealer, ask him for the address of your nearest service agent.

Thr

ottle lockout

The throttle loc operation of the throttle control. When you press the lock (A) (i.e. when you grasp the handle) it releases the throttle control (B). When you release the handle the throttle

′

s safety equipment. If your machine fails

ARNING! Never use a machine with faulty safety equipment. The machine’s safety equipment must be checked and maintained as described in this section. If your machine fails any of these checks contact your service agent to get it repaired.

kout is designed to prevent accidental

Check that the throttle control and throttle lockout move freely and that the return springs work properly.

See instructions under the heading Start. Start the machine and apply full throttle. Release the throttle and check that the cutting attachment stops and remains at a standstill. If the cutting attachment rotates with the throttle in the idle position then the carburettor idle setting must

English –

GENERAL SAFETY PRECA

be chec

ked. See instructions under the heading

Maintenance.

Stop s

witch

Use the stop s

Start the engine and make sure the engine stops when you move the stop switch to the stop setting.

Cutting attac

This guard is intended to pre thrown towards the operator. The guard also protects the operator from accidental contact with the cutting attachment.

witch to switch off the engine.

hment guard

vent loose objects from being

UTIONS

Vibration damping system

our machine is equipped with a vibration damping system that is designed to minimize vibration and make operation easier.

Using incorrectly wound cord or a blunt or incorrect cutting attachment (wrong type or incorrectly ﬁled, see instructions under the heading Filing the blade) increases the level of vibration.

The machine′s vibration damping system reduces the transfer of vibration between the engine unit/cutting equipment and the machine

Regularly check the vibration damping units for cracks or deformation. Check that the vibration damping element is undamaged and securely attached.

ARNING! Overexposure to vibration can lead to circulatory damage or nerve damage in people who have impaired circulation. Contact your doctor if you experience symptoms of overexposure to vibration. Such symptoms include numbness, loss of feeling, tingling, pricking, pain, loss of strength, changes in skin colour or condition. These symptoms normally appear in the ﬁngers, hands or wrists. The risk increases at low temperatures.

Mufﬂ

The m

ufﬂer is designed to keep noise levels to a minimum and to direct exhaust fumes away from the user. A mufﬂer ﬁtted with a catalytic converter is also designed to reduce harmful exhaust gases.

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s handle unit.

Check that the guard is undamaged and not cracked. Replace the guard if it has been exposed to impact or is cracked.

Always use the recommended guard for the cutting attachment you are using. See chapter on Technical data.

ARNING! Never use a cutting

attachment without an approved guard.

See the chapter on Technical data. If an incorrect or faulty guard is ﬁtted this can cause serious personal injury.

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English

GENERAL SAFETY PRECA

ver use a machine that has a faulty mufﬂer.

Regularly check that the mufﬂer is securely attached to the machine.

If the mufﬂer on your machine is ﬁtted with a spark arrestor mesh this must be cleaned regularly. A blocked mesh will cause the engine to overheat and may lead to serious damage.

ARNING! Mufﬂers ﬁtted with catalytic

converters get very hot during use and

remain so for some time after stopping. This also applies at idle speed. Contact can result in burns to the skin. Remember the risk of ﬁre!

UTIONS

Loc

king nut

A loc

king nut is used to secure some types of cutting

attachment.

When ﬁtting, tighten the nut in the opposite direction to the direction of rotation of the cutting attachment. To remove it, undo the nut in the same direction as the cutting attachment rotates. (CAUTION! The nut has a left-hand thread.) Tighten the nut using the socket spanner.

The nylon lining inside the locking nut must not be so worn that you can turn it by hand. The lining should offer a resistance of at least 1.5 Nm. The nut should be replaced after it has been put on approx. 10 times.

Harness

ARNING! The inside of the mufﬂer

contain chemicals that may be

carcinogenic. Avoid contact with these elements in the event of a damaged mufﬂer.

ARNING! Bear in mind that: The

exhaust fumes from the engine are hot

and may contain sparks which can start a ﬁre. Never start the machine indoors or near combustible material!

Chec

k that the harness is not damaged.

In an emergency situation, release yourself from machine and harness according to the following method.

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GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Cutting equipment

This section describes how to choose and maintain your cutting equipment in order to:

• Reduce the risk of blade thrust.

• Obtain maximum cutting performance.

• Extend the life of cutting equipment.

IMPORTANT! Only use cutting attachments with the guards we

recommend! See the chapter on Technical data. Refer to the instructions for the cutting attachment to

check the correct way to load the cord and the correct cord diameter.

Keep the teeth of the blade correctly sharpened! Follow our recommendations. Also refer to the instructions on the blade packaging.

WARNING! Always stop the engine before doing any work on the cutting

attachment. This continues to rotate even after the throttle has been released. Ensure that the cutting attachment has stopped completely and disconnect the HT lead from the spark plug before you start to work on it.

WARNING! Using an incorrect cutting attachment or an incorrectly sharpened

blade increases the risk of blade thrust.

Cutting equipment

Grass blades and grass cutters are intended for cutting coarse grass.

General rules

Only use cutting attachments with the guards we recommend! See the chapter on Technical data.

Keep the teeth of the blade correctly sharpened! Follow our instructions and use the recommended ﬁle gauge. An incorrectly sharpened or damaged blade increases the risk of accidents.

Check the cutting attachment for damage or cracks. A damaged cutting attachment should always be replaced.

Sharpening grass cutters and grass blades

A trimmer head is intended for trimming grass.

10 – English

• See the cutting attachment packaging for correct

sharpening instructions. Sharpen blades and cutters using a single-cut ﬂat ﬁle.

• Sharpen all edges equally to maintain the balance of

the blade.

WARNING! Always discard a blade that is bent, twisted, cracked, broken or damaged in any other way. Never attempt to straighten a twisted blade so that it can be reused. Only use original blades of the speciﬁed type.

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Trimmer head

IMPORTANT! Always ensure the trimmer cord is wound tightly and

evenly around the drum, otherwise the machine will generate harmful vibration.

• Only use the recommended trimmer heads and trimmer cords. These have been tested by the manufacturer to suit a particular engine size. This is especially important when a fully automatic trimmer head is used. Only use the recommended cutting attachment. See the chapter on Technical data.

• Smaller machines generally require small trimmer heads and vice versa. This is because when clearing using a cord the engine must throw out the cord radially from the trimmer head and overcome the resistance of the grass being cleared.

• The length of the cord is also important. A longer cord requires greater engine power than a shorter cord of the same diameter.

• Make sure that the cutter on the trimmer guard is intact. This is used to cut the cord to the correct length.

• To increase the life of the cord it can be soaked in water for a couple of days. This will make the line tougher so that it lasts longer.

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ASSEMBLY

Fitting the ﬂexible drive shaft

• Loosen two screws at the shaft coupling.

• Slide the ﬂexible shaft through the loops at the cabling, and ﬁt the ﬂexible shaft to the shaft coupling. Make sure the shaft engages correctly by turning it and pushing at the same time.

• Tighten the two screws.

• Install the drive shaft sleeve in the clutch cover so that the hole is positioned directly underneath the locking button on the clutch cover.

Connecting throttle cable and stop switch wires

• Place the throttle wire from the cabling (A) and the throttle wire from the engine (B) in the plastic sleeve as shown.

• Close the plastic sleeve.

• Plug the stop switch wires into the matching connectors from the engine. Note that wire polarity is not important.

• Make sure the shaft engages correctly by turning it and pushing at the same time.

• Make sure the locking pin returns to its original position, so that the drive shaft sleeve cannot come off the clutch case.

12 – English

ASSEMBLY

Fitting the J-handle

• Position the handle on the shaft. Note that the handle must be mounted below the arrow on the shaft.

• Slide the spacer into the slot in the loop handle.

• Fit the nut and screw. Do not overtighten.

• Attach the J-handle to the loop handle using the three screws, as shown.

• Now adjust the trimmer to give a comfortable working position. Tighten the bolt/knob.

Fitting blades and trimmer heads

WARNING! When ﬁtting the cutting attachment it is

extremely important that the raised section on the drive disc/support ﬂange engages correctly in the centre hole of the cutting attachment. If the cutting attachment is ﬁtted incorrectly it can result in serious and/or fatal personal injury.

WARNING! Never use a cutting attachment without an approved guard. See the chapter on Technical data. If an incorrect or faulty guard is ﬁtted this can cause serious personal injury.

IMPORTANT! If a saw blade or grass blade are to be used the machine must be equipped with the correct handlebar, blade guard and harness.

Fitting the guard extension

CAUTION! The guard extension shall always be ﬁtted

when using the trimmer head/plastic blades and combination guard. The guard extension shall always be removed when using the grass blade and combination guard.

Hook the blade guard/combination guard (A) onto the ﬁtting on the shaft and secure with the bolt.

Enter the guard extension guide in the slot of the combination guard. Then click the guard extension into position on the guard with the four quick-fasteners.

WARNING! Only grass blades/grass cutters or trimmer heads/plastic blades

may be used when the J-handle is ﬁtted. Saw blades must never be used with the J-handle.

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ASSEMBLY

The guard extension is removed easily using a screwdriver, see illustration.

Fitting a blade guard, grass blade and grass cutter

the spanner in the opposite direction to the direction of rotation (Caution! left-hand thread).

• Hook the blade guard/combination guard (A) onto the ﬁtting on the shaft and secure with the bolt (L). Use the recommended blade guard. See the Technical data section. CAUTION! Ensure that the guard extension is removed.

• Fit the drive disc (B) on the output shaft.

• Turn the blade shaft until one of the holes in the drive disc aligns with the corresponding hole in the gear housing.

• Insert the locking pin (C) in the hole to lock the shaft.

• Place the blade (D), support cup (E) and support ﬂange (F) on the output shaft.

• Fit the nut (G). The nut must be tightened to a torque of 35-50 Nm (3.5-5 kpm). Use the socket spanner in the tool kit. Hold the shaft of the spanner as close to the blade guard as possible. To tighten the nut, turn

Fitting the trimmer guard and trimmer head

• Fit the correct trimmer guard (A) for use with the trimmer head. CAUTION! Ensure that the guard extension is ﬁtted.

• Hook the trimmer guard/combination guard onto the ﬁtting on the shaft and secure with the bolt (L).

• Fit the drive disc (B) on the output shaft.

• Turn the blade shaft until one of the holes in the drive disc aligns with the corresponding hole in the gear housing.

• Insert the locking pin (C) in the hole to lock the shaft.

• Screw on the trimmer head/plastic blades (H) in the opposite direction to the direction of rotation.

14 – English

• To dismantle, follow the instructions in the reverse order.

ASSEMBLY

Fitting the transport guard

• Insert the blade in the transport guard (A).

• Snap the two fasteners (B) into the slots (C) to secure the transport guard.

Adjusting the harness and brush cutter

Adjusting the backplate height

• Loosen the two fasteners holding the backplate.

• Loosen the backplate from the frame on one side.

• Move the backplate to the desired height and fasten it. Make sure the pin aligns with one of the holes on the frame, see picture.

Adjusting the harness

• Put on the harness.

• Tighten the waist strap so that it sits securely.

English – 15

ASSEMBLY

• Tighten the chest strap.

• Adjust the chest strap vertically if needed and make sure it ﬁts well.

• Adjust the shoulder straps to distribute the load evenly across your shoulders.

• Loosen or tighten the waist strap so that approx. 70% of the load is on your waist and 30% on your shoulders.

16 – English

FUEL HANDLING

Fuel safety

Never start the machine: 1 If you have spilt fuel on it. Wipe off the spillage and

allow remaining fuel to evaporate.

2 If you have spilt fuel on yourself or your clothes,

change your clothes. Wash any part of your body that has come in contact with fuel. Use soap and water.

3 If the machine is leaking fuel. Check regularly for

leaks from the fuel cap and fuel lines.

Transport and storage

• Store and transport the machine and fuel so that there is no risk of any leakage or fumes coming into contact with sparks or naked ﬂames, for example, from electrical machinery, electric motors, electrical relays/ switches or boilers.

• When storing and transporting fuel always use approved containers intended for this purpose.

• When storing the machine for long periods the fuel tank must be emptied. Contact your local petrol station to ﬁnd out where to dispose of excess fuel.

• Ensure the machine is cleaned and that a complete service is carried out before long-term storage.

• The transport guard must always be ﬁtted to the cutting attachment when the machine is being transported or in storage.

• Secure the machine during transport.

WARNING! Take care when handling fuel. Bear in mind the risk of ﬁre, explosion

and inhaling fumes.

Fuel

CAUTION! The machine is equipped with a two-stroke

engine and must always been run using a mixture of petrol and two-stroke oil. It is important to accurately measure the amount of oil to be mixed to ensure that the correct mixture is obtained. When mixing small amounts of fuel, even small inaccuracies can drastically affect the ratio of the mixture.

WARNING! Fuel and fuel fumes are highly inﬂammable and can cause

serious injury when inhaled or allowed to come in contact with the skin. For this reason observe caution when handling fuel and make sure there is adequate ventilation.

Petrol

CAUTION! Always use a quality petrol/oil mixture at least

90 octane (RON). If your machine is equipped with a catalytic converter (see chapter on Technical data) always use a good quality unleaded petrol/oil mixture. Leaded petrol will destroy the catalytic converter.

Use low-emission petrol, also known as alkylate petrol, if it is available.

• The lowest octane recommended is 90 (RON). If you run the engine on a lower octane grade than 90 socalled knocking can occur. This gives rise to a high engine temperature, which can result in serious engine damage.

• When working at continuous high revs a higher octane rating is recommended.

Two-stroke oil

• For best results and performance use HUSQVARNA two-stroke engine oil, which is specially formulated for our air-cooled two-stroke engines.

• Never use two-stroke oil intended for water-cooled engines, sometimes referred to as outboard oil (rated TCW).

• Never use oil intended for four-stroke engines.

• A poor oil quality and/or too high oil/fuel ratio may jeopardise function and decrease the life time of catalytic converters.

• Mixing ratio 1:50 (2%) with HUSQVARNA two-stroke oil. 1:33 (3%) with oils class JASO FB or ISO EGB

formulated for air-cooled, two-stroke engines.

Petrol, litre

5 0,10 0,15 10 0,20 0,30 15 0,30 0,45 20 0,40 0,60

Two-stroke oil, litre 2% (1:50) 3% (1:33)

English – 17

FUEL HANDLING

Mixing

• Always mix the petrol and oil in a clean container intended for fuel.

• Always start by ﬁlling half the amount of the petrol to be used. Then add the entire amount of oil. Mix (shake) the fuel mixture. Add the remaining amount of petrol.

• Mix (shake) the fuel mixture thoroughly before ﬁlling the machine’s fuel tank.

• Do not mix more than one month’s supply of fuel at a time.

• If the machine is not used for some time the fuel tank should be emptied and cleaned.

WARNING! The catalytic converter mufﬂer gets very hot during and after

use. This also applies during idling. Be aware of the ﬁre hazard, especially when working near ﬂammable substances and/ or vapours.

Fuelling

WARNING! Taking the following precautions, will lessen the risk of ﬁre:

Do not smoke or place hot objects near fuel.

Always shut off the engine before refuelling.

Always stop the engine and let it cool for a few minutes before refuelling.

When refuelling, open the fuel cap slowly so that any excess pressure is released gently.

Tighten the fuel cap carefully after refuelling.

Always move the machine away from the refuelling area before starting.

• Always use a fuel container with an anti-spill valve.

• Clean the area around the fuel cap. Contamination in the tank can cause operating problems.

• Ensure that the fuel is well mixed by shaking the container before ﬁlling the tank.

18 – English

STARTING AND STOPPING

Check before starting

• Never use the machine without a guard nor with a defective guard.

• All covers must be correctly ﬁtted and undamaged before you start the machine.

• Check the blade to ensure that no cracks have formed at the bottom of the teeth or by the centre hole. The most common reason why cracks are formed is that sharp corners have been formed at the bottom of the teeth while sharpening or that the blade has been used with dull teeth. Discard a blade if cracks are found.

• Check that the support ﬂange is not cracked due to fatigue or due to being tightened too much. Discard the support ﬂange if it is cracked.

• Ensure the locking nut has not lost its captive force. The nut lock should have a locking force of at least 1.5 Nm. The tightening torque of the locking nut should be 35-50 Nm.

trimmer guard if they have been exposed to impact or are cracked.

Starting and stopping

WARNING! The complete clutch cover and shaft must be ﬁtted before the machine is started, otherwise the clutch can come loose and cause personal injury.

Always move the machine away from the refuelling area before starting. Place the machine on a ﬂat surface. Ensure the cutting attachment cannot come into contact with any object.

Make sure no unauthorised persons are in the working area, otherwise there is a risk of serious personal injury. The safety distance is 15 metres.

Starting

• Check that the blade guard is not damaged or cracked. Replace the blade guard if it is exposed to impact or is cracked.

• Check that the trimmer head and trimmer guard are not damaged or cracked. Replace the trimmer head or

Ignition: Set the stop switch to the start position. Primer bulb: Press the air purge repeatedly until fuel

begins to ﬁll the bulb. The bulb need not be completely ﬁlled.

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STARTING AND STOPPING

Choke: Set the choke control in the choke position.

WARNING! When the engine is started with the choke in either the choke or

start throttle positions the cutting attachment will start to rotate immediately.

Hold the body of the machine on the ground using your left hand (CAUTION! Not with your foot!). Grip the starter handle, slowly pull out the cord with your right hand until you feel some resistance (the starter pawls grip), now quickly and powerfully pull the cord.

starter cord around your hand.

Repeat pulling the cord until the engine starts. When the engine starts. return choke control to run position and apply full throttle; the throttle will automatically disengage from the start setting.

CAUTION! Do not pull the star ter cord all the way out and do not let go of the starter handle when the cord is fully extended. This can damage the machine.

Never twist the

use gloves. Do not use a machine with damaged spark plug cap.

Stopping

Stop the engine by switching off the ignition.

CAUTION! Do not put any part of your body in marked area. Contact can result in burns to the skin, or electrical shock if the spark plug cap has been damaged. Always

20 – English

WORKING TECHNIQUES

General working instructions

IMPORTANT! This section describes the basic safety precautions for

working with brush cutters and trimmers. If you encounter a situation where you are uncertain

how to proceed you should ask an expert. Contact your dealer or your service workshop.

Avoid all usage which you consider to be beyond your capability.

You must understand the difference between forestry clearing, grass clearing and grass trimming before use.

Basic safety rules

1 Look around you:

• To ensure that people, animals or other things cannot affect your control of the machine.

• To ensure that people, animals, etc., do not come into contact with the cutting attachment or loose objects that are thrown out by the cutting attachment.

• CAUTION! Do not use the machine unless you are able to call for help in the event of an accident.

2 Inspect the working area. Remove all loose objects,

such as stones, broken glass, nails, steel wire, string, etc. that could be thrown out or become wrapped around the cutting attachment.

3 Do not use the machine in bad weather, such as

dense fog, heavy rain, strong wind, intense cold, etc. Working in bad weather is tiring and often brings added risks, such as icy ground, unpredictable felling direction, etc.

4 Make sure you can move and stand safely. Check the

area around you for possible obstacles (roots, rocks, branches, ditches, etc.) in case you have to move suddenly. Take great care when working on sloping ground.

8 Switch off the engine before moving to another area.

Fit the transport guard before carrying or transporting the equipment any distance.

9 Never put the machine down with the engine running

unless you have it in clear sight.

WARNING! Neither the operator of the machine nor anyone else may attempt to remove the cut material while the engine is running or the cutting equipment is rotating, as this can result in serious injury.

Stop the engine and cutting equipment before you remove material that has wound around the blade shaft as otherwise there is a risk of injury. The bevel gear can get hot during use and may remain so for a while afterwards. You could get burnt if you touch it.

WARNING! Watch out for thrown objects. Always wear approved eye protection. Never lean over the cutting attachment guard. Stones, rubbish, etc. can be thrown up into the eyes causing blindness or serious injury.

Keep unauthorised persons at a distance. Children, animals, onlookers and helpers should be kept outside the safety zone of 15 m. Stop the machine immediately if anyone approaches. Never swing the machine around without ﬁrst checking behind you to make sure noone is within the safety zone.

Basic working techniques

Always slow the engine to idle speed after each working operation. Long periods at full throttle without any load on the engine can lead to serious engine damage.

WARNING! Sometimes branches or grass get caught between the guard and cutting attachment. Always stop the engine before cleaning.

5 Keep a good balance and a ﬁrm foothold. 6 Always hold the machine with both hands. 7 Keep the cutting attachment below waist level.

English – 21

WORKING TECHNIQUES

WARNING! Machines ﬁtted with saw blades or grass blades can be thrown

violently to the side when the blade comes into contact with a ﬁxed object. This is called blade thrust. A blade thrust can be violent enough to cause the machine and/or operator to be propelled in any direction, and possibly lose control of the machine. Blade thrust can occur without warning if the machine snags, stalls or binds. Blade thrust is more likely to occur in areas where it is difﬁcult to see the material being cut.

Avoid cutting with the area of the blade between the 12 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions. Because of the speed of rotation of the blade, blade thrust can occur if you attempt to cut thick stems with this area of the blade.

Grass clearing using a grass blade

• Grass blades and grass cutters must not be used on woody stems.

• A grass blade is used for all types of tall or coarse grass.

• The grass is cut down with a sideways, swinging movement, where the movement from right-to-left is the clearing stroke and the movement from left-toright is the return stroke. Let the left-hand side of the blade (between 8 and 12 o’clock) do the cutting.

• Stop the engine, unclip the harness and place the machine on the ground before you start to collect the cut material.

Grass trimming with a trimmer head

Trimming

• Hold the trimmer head just above the ground at an angle. It is the end of the cord that does the work. Let the cord work at its own pace. Never press the cord into the area to be cut.

• The cord can easily remove grass and weeds up against walls, fences, trees and borders, however it can also damage sensitive bark on trees and bushes, and damage fence posts.

• Reduce the risk of damaging plants by shortening the cord to 10-12 cm and reducing the engine speed.

Clearing

• The clearing technique removes all unwanted vegetation. Keep the trimmer head just above the ground and tilt it. Let the end of the cord strike the ground around trees, posts, statues and the like. CAUTION! This technique increases the wear on the cord.

• If the blade is angled to the left when clearing grass, the grass will collect in a line, which makes it easier to collect, e.g. by raking.

• Try to work rhythmically. Stand ﬁrmly with your feet apart. Move forward after the return stroke and stand ﬁrmly again.

• Let the support cup rest lightly against the ground. It is used to protect the blade from hitting the ground.

• Reduce the risk of material wrapping around the blade by following these instructions:

1 Always work at full throttle. 2 Avoid the previously cut material during the return

stroke.

22 – English

• The cord wears quicker and must be fed forward more often when working against stones, brick, concrete, metal fences, etc., than when coming into contact with trees and wooden fences.

• When trimming and clearing you should use less than full throttle so that the cord lasts longer and to reduce the wear on the trimmer head.

Cutting

• The trimmer is ideal for cutting grass that is difﬁcult to reach using a normal lawn mower. Keep the cord parallel to the ground when cutting. Avoid pressing the trimmer head against the ground as this can ruin the lawn and damage the tool.

WORKING TECHNIQUES

• Do not allow the trimmer head to constantly come into contact with the ground during normal cutting. Constant contact of this type can cause damage and wear to the trimmer head.

Sweeping

• The fan effect of the rotating cord can be used for quick and easy clearing up. Hold the cord parallel to and above the area to be swept and move the tool to and fro.

• When cutting and sweeping you should use full throttle to obtain the best results.

English – 23

MAINTENANCE

Carburettor

Adjusting the idle speed (T)

Check that the air ﬁlter is clean. When the idle speed is correct, the cutting attachment should not rotate. If adjustment is required, close (turn clockwise) the idle adjustment screw T, with the engine running, until the cutting attachment starts to rotate. Open (turn anticlockwise) the screw until the cutting attachment stops. The idle speed is correctly set when the engine runs smoothly in all positions, and there is a clear margin to the speed at which the cutting attachment starts to rotate.

WARNING! If the idle speed cannot be adjusted so that the cutting attachment

stops, contact your dealer/service workshop. Do not use the machine until it has been correctly adjusted or repaired.

• Excessive fuel consumption.

Clean the ﬁlter every 25 hours, or more regularly if conditions are exceptionally dusty.

Cleaning the air ﬁlter

Remove the air ﬁlter cover and take out the ﬁlter. Wash it clean in warm, soapy water. Ensure that the ﬁlter is dry before reﬁtting it.

An air ﬁlter that has been in use for a long time cannot be cleaned completely. The ﬁlter must therefore be replaced with a new one at regular intervals.

must always be replaced.

A damaged air ﬁlter

Fuel ﬁlter

Air ﬁlter

The air ﬁlter must be regularly cleaned to remove dust and dirt in order to avoid:

• Carburettor malfunctions

• Starting problems

• Loss of engine power

• Unnecessary wear to engine parts.

24 – English

1 Fuel ﬁlter When the engine runs short of fuel supply, check the fuel

cap and the fuel ﬁlter for blockage.

MAINTENANCE

Bevel gear

The bevel gear is ﬁlled with the right quantity of grease at the factory. However, before using the machine you should check that the bevel gear is ﬁlled three-quarters full with grease. Use HUSQVARNA special grease.

The grease in the bevel gear does not normally need to be changed except if repairs are carried out.

Spark plug

The spark plug condition is inﬂuenced by:

• Incorrect carburettor adjustment.

• An incorrect fuel mixture (too much or incorrect type of oil).

• A dirty air ﬁlter.

These factors cause deposits on the spark plug electrodes, which may result in operating problems and starting difﬁculties.

If the machine is low on power, difﬁcult to start or runs poorly at idle speed: always check the spark plug ﬁrst before taking any further action. If the spark plug is dirty, clean it and check that the electrode gap is 0,6-0,7 mm. The spark plug should be replaced after about a month in operation or earlier if necessary.

Drive shaft

The ﬂexible drive axle is lubricated with Husqvarna drive axle grease. The axle must be lubricated at least every 6 months.

• Lift up the locking button that holds the drive shaft sleeve in the clutch cover.

• Pull the drive shaft sleeve out of the clutch cover.

• Remove the drive shaft from the sleeve either by shaking it out or pulling it out using pliers.

• Apply the grease from the tube along the whole axle. Spread with a brush or cloth.

CAUTION! Always use the recommended spark plug type! Use of the wrong spark plug can damage the piston/ cylinder. Check that the spark plug is ﬁtted with a suppressor.

English – 25

MAINTENANCE

• Slide the drive shaft back into the sleeve. Make sure the shaft engages correctly by turning it and pushing at the same time.

• When the shaft is correctly installed in the sleeve, the end of the shaft should project about 10 mm beyond the edge of the sleeve.

• Install the drive shaft sleeve in the clutch cover so that the hole is positioned directly underneath the locking button on the clutch cover.

• Make sure the shaft engages correctly by turning it and pushing at the same time.

26 – English

MAINTENANCE

Maintenance schedule

The following is a list of the maintenance that must be performed on the machine. Most of the items are described in the Maintenance section. The user must only carry out the maintenance and service work described in this Operator’s Manual. More extensive work must be carried out by an authorized service workshop.

Maintenance

Clean the outside of the machine. X Check that the harness is not damaged. X Make sure the throttle trigger lock and the throttle function

correctly from a safety point of view. Check that the handle and handlebar are undamaged and

secured correctly. Check that the stop switch works correctly. X Check that the cutting attachment does not rotate at idle. X Clean the air ﬁlter. Replace if necessary. X Check that the guard is undamaged and not cracked. Replace

the guard if it has been exposed to impact or is cracked. Check that the blade is correctly centred, is sharp, and is not

cracked. An off-centre blade will cause vibration that could result in damage to the machine.

Check that the trimmer head is undamaged and not cracked. Replace the trimmer head if necessary.

Check that the locking nut of the cutting equipment is tighten correctly.

Check that the transport guard for the blade is intact and that it can be secured correctly.

Check that nuts and screws are tight. X Check that there are no fuel leaks from the engine, tank or fuel

lines. Check the starter and starter cord. X Check that the vibration damping elements are not damaged. X Clean the outside of the spark plug. Remove it and check the

electrode gap. Adjust the gap to 0,6-0,7 mm or replace the spark plug. Check that the spark plug is ﬁtted with a suppressor.

Clean the machine’s cooling system. X Clean the outside of the carburettor and the space around it. X Check that the bevel gear is ﬁlled three-quarters full with

lubricant. Fill if necessary using special grease. Clean the mufﬂer. X Check the fuel ﬁlter from contamination and the fuel hose from

cracks or other defects. Replace if necessary. Check all cables and connections. X Check the clutch, clutch springs and the clutch drum for wear.

Replace if necessary by an autorized service workshop. Replace the spark plug. Check that the spark plug is ﬁtted with a

suppressor. Lubricate the drive axle with Husqvarna drive axle grease. Do this every six months.

Daily maintenance

Weekly maintenance

Monthly maintenance

English – 27

TECHNICAL DATA

Technical data

253RB

Engine

Cylinder displacement, cm Cylinder bore, mm 45,5 Stroke, mm 31,1 Idle speed, rpm 2800 Recommended max. speed, rpm 13000 Speed of output shaft, rpm 9285 Max. engine output, acc. to ISO 8893, kW/ rpm 2,3/9500 Catalytic converter mufﬂer No

Ignition system

Spark plug NGK CMR7H Electrode gap, mm 0,6-0,7

Fuel and lubrication system

Fuel tank capacity, litre 0,8

Weight

Weight without fuel, cutting attachment and guard, kg 12,1

Noise emissions

(see note 1) Sound power level, measured dB(A) 117 Sound power level, guaranteed LWA dB(A) 118

Noise levels

(see note 2) Equivalent sound pressure level at the operator’s ear,

measured according to EN ISO 11806 and ISO 22868, dB(A):

Equipped with trimmer head (original) 97 Equipped with grass blade (original) 97

Vibration levels

(see note 3) Equivalent vibration levels (a

measured according to EN ISO 11806 and ISO 22867,

m/s Equipped with trimmer head (original), left/right 2,0/3,0 Equipped with grass blade (original), left/right 2,0/2,0

Note 1: Noise emissions in the environment measured as sound power (LWA) in conformity with EC directive 2000/14/ EC. Reported sound power level for the machine has been measured with the original cutting attachment that gives the highest level. The difference between guaranteed and measured sound power is that the guaranteed sound power also includes dispersion in the measurement result and the variations between different machines of the same model according to Directive 2000/14/EC.

Note 2: Reported data for equivalent sound pressure level for the machine has a typical statistical dispersion (standard deviation) of 1 dB (A).

Note 3: Reported data for equivalent vibration level has a typical statistical dispersion (standard deviation) of 1 m/s2.

hv,eq

50,6

) at handles,

28 – English

TECHNICAL DATA

Approved accessories Type Cutting attachment guard, Art. no.

Grass blade/grass cutter

Trimmer head

Support cup Fixed -

EC-declaration of conformity (Applies to Europe only)

We, Husqvarna AB, SE-561 82 Huskvarna, Sweden, tel: +46-36-146500, declare that the brush cutters Husqvarna 253RB

with serial numbers dating from 2010 onwards (the year is clearly stated on the rating plate, followed by the serial

number), comply with the requirements of the COUNCIL’S DIRECTIVE:

- of May 17, 2006 "relating to machinery" 2006/42/EC

- of December 15, 2004 ”relating to electromagnetic compatibility” 2004/108/EC.

- of May 8, 2000 ”relating to the noise emissions in the environment” 2000/14/EC. Conformity assessment according to Annex V. For information relating to noise emissions, see the chapter Technical data.

The following standards have been applied: EN ISO 12100-2:2003, CISPR 12:2007, EN ISO 11806:2008 Huskvarna February 1, 2010

Bo Jonsson, Development manager (Authorized representative for Husqvarna AB and responsible for technical documentation.)

Multi 300-3 (Ø 300 3 teeth) 537 33 16-03 Multi 275-4 (Ø 275 4 teeth) 537 33 16-03 T45x (Ø 2.7 - 3.3 mm cord) 537 33 16-03 T55x (Ø 2.7 - 3.3 mm cord) 537 33 16-03

English – 29

SYMBOLERKLÄRUNG

Symbole

WARNUNG! Falsch oder nachlässig angewendete Freischneider, Motorsensen oder Trimmer sind gefährliche Geräte, die schwere Verletzungen oder tödliche Unfälle von Anwendern oder anderen Personen verursachen können. Es ist sehr wichtig, dass Sie den Inhalt dieser Bedienungsanweisung lesen und verstehen.

Lesen Sie die Bedienungsanweisung sorgfältig durch und machen Sie sich mit dem Inhalt vertraut, bevor Sie das Gerät benutzen.

Benutzen Sie immer:

• Schutzhelm in Bereichen, in denen Gefahr für von oben herabfallende Gegenstände besteht

• Einen zugelassenen Gehörschutz

• Zugelassener Augenschutz

Max. Drehzahl der Abtriebswelle, U/min

Dieses Produkt stimmt mit den geltenden CE-Richtlinien überein.

Warnung vor hochgeschleuderten und abprallenden Gegenständen.

Der Anwender des Geräts hat darauf zu achten, dass während der Arbeit keine Menschen oder Tiere näher als 15 m herankommen.

Maschinen mit Säge- oder Grasklingen können heftig zur Seite geschleudert werden, wenn die Klinge auf einen festen Gegenstand trifft. Dies wird als Klingenstoß bezeichnet. Die Klinge kann Arme oder Beine durchtrennen. Menschen oder Tiere müssen sich stets mindestens 15 m von der Maschine entfernt aufhalten.

Pfeile, die die Grenzen für die Platzierung des Handgriffhalters markieren.

15 m

50FT

Stets zugelassene Schutzhandschuhe tragen.

Rutschfeste und stabile Stiefel tragen.

Nur für nichtmetallische, ﬂexible Schneidausrüstungen bestimmt, d. h. für Trimmerköpfe mit Trimmerfäden.

Umweltbelastende Geräuschemissionen gemäß der Richtlinie der Europäischen Gemeinschaft. Die Emission des Gerätes ist im Kapitel Technische Daten und auf dem Geräteschild angegeben.

Sämtliche Körperteile von heißen Oberﬂächen fernhalten.

Sonstige Symbole/Aufkleber am Gerät beziehen sich auf spezielle Zertiﬁzierungsanforderungen, die in bestimmten Ländern gelten.

Eine Kontrolle und/oder Wartung ist bei abgestelltem Motor vorzunehmen, wenn der Stoppschalter in Stellung STOP steht.

Stets zugelassene Schutzhandschuhe tragen.

Regelmäßige Reinigung ist notwendig.

Visuelle Kontrolle.

30 – German

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