MTD LT31CS, LT31C, LT31 User Manual

Operator’s Manual

IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.

PRINTED IN U.S.A. PART NO. 769-01389 (12/04)

LT31, LT31C

2-Cycle Petrol

Trimmers

LT31CS

Trimmer /

Brushcutter

INTRODUCTION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Service Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Rules for Safe Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Know Your Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Assembly Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Oil and Petrol Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Starting/Stopping Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Operating Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Maintenance and Repair Instructions . . . . . . . . . . .19

Troubleshooting Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Copy the serial number

here:

THANK YOU

Thank you for buying this quality product. This modern outdoor power tool will provide many hours of useful service. You will find it to be a great labor-saving device. This operator’s manual provides you with easy-tounderstand operating instructions. Read the whole manual and follow all the instructions to keep your new outdoor power tool in top operating condition.

PRODUCT REFERENCES, ILLUSTRATIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

All information, illustrations, and specifications in this manual are based on the latest product information available at the time of printing. We reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice.

SERVICE INFORMATION

Service on this unit both within and after the warranty period should be performed only by an authorized and approved service dealer.

DO NOT RETURN THE UNIT TO THE RETAILER. PROOF OF PURCHASE WILL BE REQUIRED FOR WARRANTY SERVICE.

Before beginning, locate the unit’s model plate. It lists the model and serial numbers of your unit. Refer to the sample plate below and copy the information for future reference.

Make sure you carefully read and understand this manual before starting or operating this equipment.

THIS PRODUCT IS COVERED BY ONE OR MORE U.S. PATENTS. OTHER PATENTS PENDING.

Copy the model and parent

part number here:

MODEL :

S/N :

ITEM :

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

BEFORE OPERATING

• Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the unit.

• Do not operate this unit when tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.

• Children and teens under the age of 15 must not use the unit, except for teens guided by an adult.

• All guards and safety attachments must be installed properly before operating the unit.

• Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts. Check for petrol leaks. Make sure all fasteners are in place and secure. Replace parts that are cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.

• Carefully inspect the area before starting the unit. Remove all debris and hard or sharp objects such as glass, wire, etc.

• Be aware of the risk of injury to the head, hands and feet.

• Clear the area of children, bystanders, and pets. At a minimum, keep all children, bystanders, and pets outside a 15 m (50 foot) radius; there still may be a risk to bystanders from thrown objects. Bystanders should be encouraged to wear eye protection. If you are approached, stop the unit immediately.

•Use only

2.41mm, 0.095 inch (for the brushcutter

LT31CS), or 2.03 mm, 0.080 inch (for trimmers LT31 & LT31C), diameter original equipment

manufacturer replacement line. Never use metalreinforced line, wire or rope. These can break off and become dangerous projectiles.

• Squeeze the throttle control and check that it returns automatically to the idle position. Make all adjustments or repairs before using unit.

•

Trimmer models LT31 & LT31C only: These units

was not designed to be used as a brushcutter. Do not attach or operate these units with any type of brushcutting blade or brushcutting attachment.

SAFETY WARNINGS FOR PETROL UNITS

• Store petrol only in containers specifically designed and approved for the storage of such materials.

• Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled petrol. Do not start the engine until petrol vapors dissipate.

SYMBOL MEANING

The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols, and their explanations, 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.

NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to

the operation or maintenance of the equipment.

SYMBOL MEANING

When using the unit,

you must follow the safety rules. Please read these instructions before operating the unit in order to ensure the safety of the operator and any bystanders. Please keep these instructions for later use.

WARNING:

• IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS •

Failure to obey a

safety warning can result in injury to yourself and others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

WARNING:

Failure to obey a

safety warning will result in serious injury to yourself or to others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

DANGER:

Failure to obey a

safety warning may result in property damage or personal injury to yourself or to others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.

CAUTION:

Indicates

danger, warning or caution. Attention is required in order to avoid serious personal injury. May be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.

SAFETY ALERT:

Petrol is highly

flammable, and its vapors can explode if ignited. Take the following precautions:

WARNING:

Read the Operator’s Manual(s) and follow all

warnings and safety instructions.

Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the

operator and/or bystanders.

• Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the feul tank. Never remove the feul tank cap or add fuel when the engine is hot. Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place. Loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve any pressure in the tank.

• Add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area where there are no sparks or flames. Remove the fuel cap slowly, and only after the engine stops. Do not smoke while fueling or mixing fuel. Wipe up any spilled fuel from the unit immediately.

• Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Do not start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.

• Move the unit at least 9.1 m (30 feet) from the fueling source and site before starting the engine. Do not smoke. Keep sparks and open flames away from the area while adding fuel or operating the unit.

WHILE OPERATING

• Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or building. Breathing exhaust fumes can be fatal. Operate this unit only in a well-ventilated outdoor area.

• Wear safety glasses or goggles that meet ANSI Z87.1 standards and are marked as such. Wear ear/hearing protection when operating this unit. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty.

• Wear heavy long pants, boots, gloves and a long sleeve shirt. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals or go barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.

• The cutting attachment shield must always be in place while operating the unit as a trimmer. Do not operate unit without both trimming lines extended, and the proper line installed. Do not extend the trimming line beyond the length of the shield.

• CLUTCH: LT31: This unit does not have a clutch. The cutting

attachment continues rotating when the engine is idling. If it does not, have the unit adjusted by an authorized service technician.

LT31C & LT31CS: These units have a clutch. The cutting attachment remains stationary when the engine is idling. If it does not, have the unit adjusted by an authorized service technician.

• Adjust the handle to your size in order to provide the best grip.

• Be sure the cutting attachment is not in contact with anything before starting the unit.

• Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.

• Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position whenever pulling the starter rope. The operator and unit must be in a stable position while starting. Refer to Starting/Stopping Instructions.

• Use the right tool. Only use this tool for its intended purpose.

• Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance.

• Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a firm grip on both handles or grips.

• Keep hands, face, and feet at a distance from all moving parts. Do not touch or try to stop the cutting attachment when it rotates.

• Do not touch the engine, gear housing or muffler. These parts get extremely hot from operation, even after the unit is turned off.

• Do not operate the engine faster than the speed needed to cut, trim or edge. Do not run the engine at high speed when not cutting.

• Always stop the engine when cutting is delayed or when walking from one cutting location to another.

• If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the engine immediately and check for damage. Do not operate before repairing damage. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.

• Stop the unit, switch the engine to off, and disconnect the spark plug for maintenance or repair.

• Use only original equipment manufacturer replacement parts and accessories for this unit. These are available from your authorized service dealer. Use of any unauthorized parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user, or damage to the unit, and void your warranty.

• Keep unit clean of vegetation and other materials. They may become lodged between the cutting attachment and shield.

• To reduce fire hazard, replace a faulty muffler and spark arrestor. Keep the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves, excessive grease or carbon build up.

BRUSHCUTTER LT31CS ONLY:

WHILE

OPERATING WITH CUTTING BLADE

• Read and understand all safety warnings before operating this unit.

• Always use the shoulder harness when using the brush blade accessory.

• Keep the J-handle between the operator and cutting attachment or blade at all times.

• NEVER cut when the cutting blade is 76 cm (30 inches) or more above the ground level.

• Blade thrust may occur when the spinning blade contacts an object that it does not immediately cut. Blade thrust can be violent enough to propel the unit and/or operator in any direction, possibly causing a loss of control. 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 operation with the brush blade, do not cut anything thicker than 1/2 inch or a violent kickback could occur.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

• Do not attempt to touch or stop the blade when it is rotating.

•A coasting blade can cause injury while it continues to spin after the engine is stopped or the throttle trigger is released. Maintain proper control until the blade has completely stopped rotating.

• Do not run the unit at high speed when not cutting.

• If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the engine immediately and check for damage. Have any damage repaired before attempting further operations. Do not operate unit with a bent, cracked or dull blade. Discard blades that are bent, warped, cracked or broken.

• Do not sharpen the cutting blade. Sharpening the blade can cause the blade tip to break off while in use. This can result in severe personal injury. Replace the blade.

• Do not use the cutting blade for edging or as an edger; severe personal injury to yourself or others may incur. Use the cutting blade only for the purpose described in this manual.

• Stop the engine IMMEDIATELY if you feel excessive vibration. Vibration is a sign of trouble. Inspect thoroughly for loose nuts, bolts or damage before continuing. Repair or replace affected parts as necessary.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

After Use

• Clean cutting blades with a household cleaner to remove any gum buildup. Oil the blade with machine oil to prevent rust.

• Lock up and store the cutting blade in an appropriate area to protect the blade from unauthorized use or damage.

OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS

• Never store a fueled unit inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.

• Allow the engine to cool before storing or transporting. Be sure to secure the unit while transporting.

• Store the unit in a dry area, locked up or up high to prevent unauthorized use or damage, out of the reach of children.

• Never douse or squirt the unit with water or any other liquid. Keep handles dry, clean and free from debris. Clean after each use, see Cleaning and Storage instructions.

• Keep these instructions. Refer to them often and use them to instruct other users. If you loan someone this unit, also loan them these instructions.

SAVE THESE

INSTRUCTIONS

SAFETY AND INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS

This operator's manual describes safety and international symbols and pictographs that may appear on this product. Read the operator's manual for complete safety, assembly, operating and maintenance and repair information.

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

SYMBOL MEANING

• WEAR HEAD PROTECTION

WARNING: Falling objects can cause severe head injury. Wear head protection when operating this unit.

• ON/OFF STOP CONTROL

ON / START / RUN

• ON/OFF STOP CONTROL

OFF or STOP

•HOT SURFACE WARNING

Do not touch a hot muffler or cylinder. You may get burned. These parts get extremely hot from operation. They remain hot for a short time even after the unit is turned off.

• SHARP BLADE

WARNING: Sharp blade on cutting head guard. To prevent serious injury, do not touch line cutting blade.

• LT31CS ONLY: Bruscutters

Replace dull blade

Do not sharpen the cutting blade. Sharpening the blade can cause the blade tip to break off while in use. This can result in severe personal injury.

• CHOKE CONTROL

1. FULL choke position.

2. PARTIAL choke position.

3. RUN position.

• LT31CS ONLY: TRIMMER/

BRUSHCUTTER SAFETY

WARNING: Thrown objects and rotating cutter can cause severe injury. Keep bystanders, especially children and pets, at least 15 meters (50 ft.) away from the cutting area. The cutting head guard must be used when using the trimmer cutting head.

SYMBOL MEANING

• SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL

Indicates danger, warning, or caution. May be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.

•WARNING - READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

Read the Operator’s Manual(s) and follow all warnings and safety instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders.

• WEAR EYE AND HEARING PROTECTION

WARNING:

Thrown objects and loud noise can cause severe eye injury and hearing loss. Wear eye protection meeting ANSI Z87.1-1989 standards and ear protection when operating this unit. Use a full face shield when needed.

• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY

WARNING: Keep all bystanders, especially children and pets, at least 50 feet (15 m) from the operating area.

• PRIMER

Push primer bulb, fully and slowly, 10 times.

• UNLEADED PETROL

Always use clean, fresh unleaded petrol.

•OIL

Refer to operator's manual for the proper type of oil.

• THROWN OBJECTS CAN CAUSE SEVERE INJURY

WARNING: Keep clear of blower outlet. Never point the blower at yourself or others. Objects can be thrown from blower. Do not operate unit without proper attachments and guards in place.

KNOW YOUR UNIT

APPLICATIONS

As a trimmer:

• Cutting grass and light weeds

• Edging

• Decorative trimming around trees, fences, etc.

Fuel Cap

Throttle

Control

D-Handle

Shaft

Grip

Primer

Bulb

Blue Choke

Lever

Air Filter/Muffler

Cover

Shaft Tube

Starter

Rope Grip

Line Cutting Blade

Muffler

On/Off Stop

Control

Cutting Attachment

Trimmer Model

LT31

Take the time to identify the configuration of your unit, which is either a LT31, LT31C or LT31CS. Use this page, and the two that follow, to identify which unit is yours, then familiarize yourself with it.

APPLICATIONS

As a trimmer:

• Cutting grass and light weeds

• Edging

• Decorative trimming around trees, fences, etc.

Cutting

Attachment

Shield

Fuel Cap

Throttle

Control

D-Handle

Cutting Attachment

Shaft Grip

Primer

Bulb

Air Filter/Muffler

Cover

Spark Plug

On/Off Stop Control

Shaft

Housing

Starter Rope

Grip

Line Cutting

Blade

Muffler

Support Fitting

Throttle Control

Blue Choke

Lever

KNOW YOUR UNIT

Trimmer Model

LT31C

KNOW YOUR UNIT

APPLICATIONS

As a trimmer:

• Cutting grass and light weeds

• Edging

• Decorative trimming around trees, fences, etc. As a brushcutter:

• Cutting weeds and light bush of up to 1/2 inch in diameter

Cutting

Attachment

Shield

Fuel Cap

Throttle

Control

J-Handle

Cutting Attachment

Gear Housing

Shaft Grip

Primer Bulb

Air Filter/Muffler

Cover

Spark Plug

On/Off Stop Control

Shaft

Housing

Starter Rope

Grip

Blade Shield /

Shield Mount

Cutting Blade

Line Cutting

Blade

Muffler

Support Fitting

Throttle Lock-Out

Throttle Control

Blue Choke

Lever

Brushcutter Model

LT31CS

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

LT31CS:

J-handle

1. Place the J-handle between the top and middle clamp pieces (Fig. 3).

(4) Screws

Top Clamp

J-Handle

Middle Clamp

Bottom Clamp

Nuts

2. While holding the three pieces together, install the four (4) screws through the top clamp and into middle clamp.

NOTE: The holes in the top and middle clamp will line up

only when assembled correctly.

3. Place the clamps and the J-handle over the shaft housing and onto the bottom clamp.

4. Hold each hex nut in the bottom clamp recess with a finger. Start screws with a large Phillips screwdriver. Do not tighten until you make the handle adjustment.

5. Slide the J-handle in or out until the arrow/white line on the decal touches the clamp assembly (Fig. 4). You must first loosen the screws if the handle is pre-installed.

Fig. 3

Fig. 4

6. While holding the unit in the operating position (Fig.

27), position the J-handle to the location that provides you the best grip.

7. Tighten the clamp screws evenly, until the J-handle is secure.

Decal

INSTALL AND ADJUST THE HANDLE

Use the following information to install or adjust the handle onto your trimmer. Follow the instructions that apply to your type of handle.

LT31:

Small D-handle

1. Push the D-handle down onto the shaft housing so that the handle slants towards the shaft grip (Fig. 1). The squared bolt hole in the handle is to the right.

2. Insert the shoulder bolt into the squared hole in the handle and push through. On the left side of the handle, place the washer on the bolt, then screw the wing nut onto the bolt. Do not tighten until you make the handle adjustment.

3. Rotate the D-handle to place the grip above the top of the shaft housing. Place it a minimum of 15.24 cm (6 inches) from the end of the shaft grip.

4. While holding the unit in the operating position (Fig. 27), position the D-handle to the location that provides you the best grip.

5. Tighten the wing nut until the D-handle is secure.

Fig. 1

Bolt

Washer

Wing Nut

Tighten

Shaft Grip

D-Handle

Minimum 6 inches

(15.24 cm)

Shaft Housing

LT31C: Large D-handle

1. Remove the screws and bottom clamp piece that were installed on the D-handle for shipping.

2. Place D-handle the over the shaft housing and onto the bottom clamp (Fig. 2). Place it a minimum of

15.24 cm (6 inches) from the end of the shaft grip.

(4) Screws

Shaft

Housing

D-Handle

Bottom Clamp

Shaft Grip

Minimum 6 inches

(15.24 cm)

Fig. 2

3. Start screws with a large Flat-head or T-25 Torx screwdriver. Do not tighten until you make the handle adjustment.

4. If the D-handle was pre-installed, loosen the screws on the handle just enough to move it.

5. While holding the unit in the operating position (Fig. 27), maneuver the D-handle to the location that provides you the best grip.

6. Tighten the clamp screws evenly, until the D-handle is secure.

+ 22 hidden pages