Qualcast
1200W Electric Rotary Mower (Model: M2E1232M)
Instruction Manual
After Sales Support
UK/Ireland 08456 400 800
Web www.argosspares.co.uk
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
These instructions contain important information that will help you get the best from
your mower, ensuring it is assembled correctly and safely.
If you need help or have damaged or missing parts, call the Customer Helpline
on 08456 400 800.
Aug 2012
Contents
Safety Information .......................................................................................................................................... 3
Warnings Symbols .......................................................................................................................................3
General Safety ..............................................................................................................................................4
Personal Safety ............................................................................................................................................5
Operating and Maintenance Safety ............................................................................................................7
In the Box .........................................................................................................................................................9
Parts ..............................................................................................................................................................9
Assembly ........................................................................................................................................................10
Step 1 - Handle Assembly .........................................................................................................................10
Step 2 - Grass Collector Assembly...........................................................................................................11
Extension Lead ..........................................................................................................................................12
Step 3 - Fitting / Removing the Grass Collector ......................................................................................14
Operating Instructions & Tips .......................................................................................................................15
Setting the Cutting Heights .......................................................................................................................15
ON/OFF Operation .....................................................................................................................................16
Operation ....................................................................................................................................................17
Mowing Advice ...........................................................................................................................................18
Maintenance ...................................................................................................................................................19
Cleaning & Maintenance ...........................................................................................................................19
Blade Maintenance ....................................................................................................................................19
Carbon Brushes .........................................................................................................................................20
Maintenance and Storage .........................................................................................................................20
Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................................................21
General Troubleshooting ...........................................................................................................................21
Technical Data ................................................................................................................................................22
Technical Data Table ..................................................................................................................................22
Disposal ..........................................................................................................................................................22
Disposal and Recycling .............................................................................................................................22
Getting Help ...................................................................................................................................................22
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Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Warnings Symbols
The following warning symbols appear throughout this assembly manual and indicate the appropriate
safety measures you should take when assembly and operating the mower.
Take extra care, beware of hazards.
Read instruction manual.
Wear eye and ear protection.
Do not use the machine in the rain or leave it outdoors when it is raining.
Pay attention that bystanders are not injured by objects thrown out from the machine.
Keep bystanders a safe distance away from the machine.
Sharp blade. Beware of injury to toes or ngers.
Disconnect from the mains supply before any maintenance work.
Warning. Beware of electric shocks.
Keep the mains supply cord away from the cutting blade.
Wait until all moving parts have stopped completely before touching them. The blade may continue to
rotate after the machine is switched o, a rotating blade can cause injury.
Noise level specication Lwa in dB.
Protection class II
Do not dispose of electrical equipment in domestic waste.
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3
32 cm
Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Warnings Symbols (continued)
Cutting width
Important! When using equipment, the following safety precautions must be followed to avoid injuries and
damage.
• Read all operating instructions carefully and comply with them. It is important to understand these
instructions and to acquaint yourself with the machine, its correct usage and all safety requirements.
• Keep this manual in a safe place so that the information is available at all times.
• If you give the equipment to any other person, give them these operating instructions as well.
We accept no liability for damage or accidents which result from non-compliance with these instructions.
General Safety
Intended usage
This lawn mower if designed for use in private gardens. The machine is to be used for its prescribed
purpose only. Any other use is deemed to be a case of misuse. The user / operator and not the
manufacturer will be liable for any damage or injuries of any kind caused as a result of misuse.
Please note that this equipment has not been designed for use in commercial, trade or industrial
applications. Your warranty will also be voided if the machine is used in commercial, trade or industrial
businesses or for equivalent purposes.
Assembly
The push handles and the grass collector must be fully assembled, undamaged and in correct working
order before using the lawn mower.
Follow the operating these instructions step-by-step and use the pictures provided as a visual guide to
assemble these parts.
Power supply
Before you connect the equipment to the mains supply ensure that the data on the rating plate
corresponds to your mains supply.
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Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Personal Safety
Note! Only supply power to the equipment through circuit protected by an RCD with a maximum trip
current of 30 mA.
• Use only plugs or connectors approved for outdoor usage.
• Extension cables must comply to H07RN-F requirements as described in DIN 57 282/VDE 0282 and
must have a minimum cross-section of 1.5 mm2. The plug must have an earth and any connection
must also be earthed and splashproof. Before use, check the cables for signs of damage and ageing.
Never use the mower if the cables are not in perfect condition (this also applies to the supply cable on
the mower). If the cable is damaged whilst the mower is working, disconnect the mains plug from the
power supply immediately and then check the extent of the damage.
• Never allow children or others who are no familiar with the operating instructions to use the lawn
mower. Local regulations may stipulate the minimum age of the user of this type of machinery.
• In areas where the mains supply is weak or bearing a high load, this mower may cause further voltage
uctuations as it starts. In extreme cases, this can cause damage to other equipment working from
the same supply. In this case we recommend to temporarily switch o any unneeded equipment or
connect it to a dierent circuit.
• This machine is not designed to be used by people (including children) with limited physical, sensory
or mental capacities or those with no experience and/or knowledge unless they are supervised by
a person who is responsible for their safety or they have received instructions from such a person in
how to use the machine safely. Children must always be supervised in order to ensure that they do not
play with the machine.
• Always check the mower for signs of damage before each usage.
• Always disconnect the mains lead from the electrical supply before carrying out any inspection,
servicing or maintenance work.
• Ensure that all the guards are securely tted and in good working order.
• Check the grass collector at regular intervals for signs of wear and to ensure that it is always in perfect
working order.
• Before each use, inspect the mower to check the cutting blade, fastening bolts and the entire cutting
unit for any signs of wear or damage. To prevent imbalance or vibration, worn or damaged cutting
blades and fastening bolts must always be replaced in full.
• Damaged parts on the mower must be replaced by qualied personnel. Use only genuine spare parts.
• Repair work on the electrical parts of the lawn mower may only be carried out by a qualied
electrician.
• Follow the instructions to t or remove the blade and wear protective gloves.
• The user remains responsible for any injury to third parties within the working area of the lawn mower
whilst the lawnmower is being used.
• Only work in good daylight or appropriate and adequate articial light.
• Never use the mower when you are tired.
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5
Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Personal Safety (continued)
• Never run the mower in enclosed or poorly ventilated rooms or if there are inammable or explosive
uids, vapours or gases nearby.
• Switch o the motor and disconnect the mains lead before clearing blockages in the grass ejection
area and before you inspect it if the mower has struck a foreign body.
• Always use the lawn mower with the grass collector correctly tted.
• Check the site on which you intend to use the lawn mower and remove all objects that may be caught
or thrown up by the mower. Foreign bodies must be removed before you start mowing. Keep an eye
of the power cable and keep it away from the cutting blade at all times.
• Ensure that you do not push the mower over areas that might damage or snare the power cable.
• Never lift the lawn mower when you start the motor.
• Before you lift the lawn mower to transport it, switch o the motor, disconnect the mains lead and
wait until the blade has come to a complete standstill.
• When you start the motor, the lawn mower should not be tilted unless the grass is particularly long. In
this case only tilt it up as far as is really necessary and only raise the side that is furthest away from the
user.
• Never reach towards rotating parts with your hands or feet. Always keep away from the discharge
chute.
• Before you attach or empty the grass collector, switch o the motor and wait until the blade has come
to a complete standstill.
• Make sure you keep your feet at a safe distance from the mower blade at all times! Do not stand near
the grass ejection chute if the grass collector is not tted.
• The safety distance from the moving blade produced by the push handle must be maintained at all
times.
• If you use the mower on a small incline, mow across the slope (not in an up and down direction).
Always be sure of your footing on slopes.
• Be particularly careful when changing direction with the mower whilst working on a slope.
• Do not use the lawn mower on gradients of over 15 degree.
• Ensure that you have safe footing at all times whilst working with the mower.
• Always wear strong, anti-slip footwear and long trousers when using the mower. Never mow in bare
feet or in open-toed sandals.
• When the mower is running ensure that no person or pet, particularly children and animals, is in the
immediate vicinity of the lawn mower. Ensure that you keep everybody at least 10meters away from
the mower when it is working.
• Switch o the motor and disconnect the plug from the power supply if the mower strikes a foreign
body. Check the mower for signs of damage and carry out all necessary repair work before you start
the mower again.
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Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Personal Safety (continued)
• If the lawn mower begins to vibrate abnormally, switch it o immediately, disconnect the plug
immediately and check it carefully. Ensure that all the nuts, bolts and screws are tight and that the
mower is in a safe condition for use.
• Do not leave the mower out in the rain. The lawn must not be wet or very damp.
• Only push the mower at a normal walking pace.
• Be particularly careful when you change the direction of the mower or pull it towards you. Avoid
pulling it towards you while the blade is moving.
• Switch o the mower if it has to be pushed over surfaces other than grass, and when moving the
mower to and from the area you wish to mow.
• Carefully actuate the starter switch in accordance with the instructions. (See Operating Instructions)
• Do not switch the mower on and o frequently over a short period of time, and in particular do not
play with the ON/OFF switch.
• Do not touch the cutting blade until the machine has been disconnected from the mains and the
cutting blade has reached a complete standstill.
• Never lift or carry the mower whilst the motor is running.
• Switch o the motor and disconnect the plug whenever you leave the lawn mower.
• Keep the lawn mower in a dry place which is inaccessible to children at all times.
• Before you adjust or clean the mower or check whether the mains lead is kinked or damaged, switch
o the mower and disconnect the plug from the power supply.
Operating and Maintenance Safety
CAUTION! Read all safety requirements and instructions.
Any errors made in following the safety requirements and instruction may result in an electric shock, re
and serious injury.
Keep all safety regulations and instructions in a safe place for future use.
• Do not use the lawnmower if the cords are damaged or worn.
• Do not connect a damaged cord to the mains supply or touch a damaged cord before it is
disconnected from the mains supply. A damaged cord could allow parts to become live and cause a
risk of electrocution.
• Do not attempt to touch the blades before the machine is disconnected from the supply and the
blades have come to a complete stop.
• Keep extension cords away from the blade. The blade can cause damage to cords and lead to contact
with live parts.
• Disconnect from the mains supply (i.e. remove the plug from the mains socket)
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Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Operating and Maintenance Safety (continued)
• Disconnect from the mains supply (i.e. remove the plug from the mains socket)
whenever leaving the machine unattended,
before cleaning a blockage,
after striking a foreign object,
whenever the machine starts vibrating abnormally.
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In the Box
Parts
1
Curved handle
section
2
Handle fastener (x2)
3
Bottom handle bar (x2)
5
Wheels
6
Housing and deck
7
Grass chute deector
guard
9
Switch box
10 Safety lock-o button
11 Cable strain-release
hook
13 Screws
(x2)
4
Grass collector
1
12
11
10
8
Cable clamp
9
8
12 Switch on/o lever
1
2
3
7
6
4
13
5
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Assembly
Step 1 - Handle Assembly
2
6
6
3
3
3 4
13
3
3
1313
13
6
6
2
2
1
1
8
14
14
• Insert the each lower bar 3 into the slot in the housing
• Use the 2 screws 13 provided to lock each bar into position in the deck.
• Fix the top curved handle 1 section to the lower bars 3. Use the bolts 14 and wing nut fasteners
2
provided. There are two possible height positions. Chose the one most suitable to the operator’s
height.
• Clip the cable to the handle bar with the cable clamp 8 provided.
When the two wing nuts are loosened, the handle can be folded (Fig.4 ) for easy storage. Ensure the power
cable is not caught between the folding sections.
2
2
1
1
14
14
3
3
6
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Assembly
Step 2 - Grass Collector Assembly
5a
5c
5b
15
16
5d
17
4
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Assembly
Step 2 - Grass Collector Assembly (continued)
5a. Clip the handle 15 into the top half of the grass box
5b. Align the front ends of the top half and the bottom half of the grass collector box. Clip the two halves
together starting at the front.
5c. Once the front clips on either side are secure, work back on either side to secure each clip . This
method will help to keep the two halves of the box aligned.
5d. Finally, press the insert 17 into the grass collector 4 as shown in 5d, and make sure the insert is
located securely in position. This insert assists the grass ow into the grass collector when the grass
collector is tted to the mower.
ATTENTION! Never operate the mower unless the deector guard and grass collector are fully installed.
Risk of injury!
Extension Lead
6
16
8
8
Before you connect the mower to the mains supply make sure that data on the rating plate are identical to
the mains data. Connect the plug to an extension cable. It is imperative to sucure the extension cable with
the
Cable clamp
8 .
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Assembly
Extension Lead (continued)
7
11
Hook the mains cable through the cable strain-release 11 to reduce the strain on the cable tting as you
mow.
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Assembly
Step 3 - Fitting / Removing the Grass Collector
8
7
4
• Lift the deector guard
• Place the grass collector 4 on the mounting bracket at the back of the lawn mower. Ensure the grass
collector ts snugly against the mower deck.
• Lower the deector guard 7 onto the grass collector 4 – a spring tensioner holds it in place.
• To remove the grass collector 4 , lift the deector guard 7 and unhook the grass collector from the
mounting bracket. Ensure the deector returns down to its original position.
7
17
6
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Operating Instructions & Tips
Setting the Cutting Heights
9
3
2
1
IMPORTANT! Set the cutting height only when the motor is switched o and the power cable has been
disconnected.
• Turn the mower on its side.
• Pull the spring loaded axle forward or backward.
• Select a slot and insert the wheel axle.
Ensure you use the same height setting for all 4 wheels.
Position Cutting height
1 20 mm
2 40 mm
3 60 mm
A higher cut height should generally be selected for the rst cut of the season.
Before you begin to mow, check to ensure that the blade is not blunt and that none of the fasteners are
damaged. To prevent any imbalance, replace blunt and/or damaged blades. To carry out this check, rst
switch o the motor and pull out the power plug.
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Operating Instructions & Tips
ON/OFF Operation
10
10
• Connect the mower to your power supply socket.
12
• Before switching on, ensure that the mower is not in contact with any foreign objects.
• To switch on, press the safety lock-o button 10 on the handle, then activate the start/stop switch
lever 12. Release the lock-o button 10.
• To switch o, release the start/stop switch lever 12.
After switching o the equipment, the blade may continue to turn for several seconds. Do not touch the
moving blade. There is a risk of serious injury.
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Operating Instructions & Tips
Operation
Before you connect the equipment to the mains supply make sure that the data on the rating plate
corresponds to your mains supply.
IMPORTANT! Always ensure the on/o switch is working correctly. Do not use if you suspect a fault.
Before you perform any repair or maintenance work on the machine, ensure that the blade is not rotating
and that the power supply is disconnected.
IMPORTANT! Never open the deector ap if the grass box is being emptied and the motor is still
running. The rotating blade can cause serious injuries and throw objects out at high speed.
Always the grass deector and grass collector t securely. Always switch o the motor before you remove
these items.
A safe distance between the blade deck and the user is provided by the length of the handle. This
distance must be maintained at all times. Take special care when mowing and changing direction on
embankments and slopes. Ensure that you have a secure surface to stand on, wear shoes with anti-slip
soles that oer good grip, and long trousers. Always mow across the slope (not in up or down direction).
Do not use the mower on gradients exceeding 15° for safety reasons.
Take special care when moving backwards and pulling the lawn mower. Never pull the mower backwards
when the motor is running.
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Operating Instructions & Tips
Mowing Advice
We recommend that you mow in overlapping lines. Only mow with a sharp blade so that the blades of
grass do not fray. This can cause grass to turn yellow. To achieve a good cut, guide the lawn mower in lines
that are as straight as possible. These lines should always overlap by a few centimeters so that you do not
leave any uncut strips.
How often you need to mow your lawn depends on how fast the grass is growing. During the main growth
period mow more frequently. If the grass is longer than usual, cut it in 2 or more stages. This will cause less
stress to both the mower and the grass. Never cut the grass by more than half its height.
Keep the under side of the mower casing clean and remove all grass deposits from it. Deposits make it
more dicult to start the mower and also adversely aect the mowing quality and the grass collection.
Switch o the motor before you carry out any inspections of the blade. Remember that the blade will
continue to turn for a few seconds after the motor has been switched o. Never attempt to stop the blade.
Check regularly that the blade is correctly secured, in good condition and sharp. If not, sharpen or replace
the blade.
If the moving blade strikes an object, stop the mower and wait until the blade has come to a complete
standstill. Then check the condition of the blade and the blade mounting. If they are damaged, they must
be replaced.
Place the mains lead in loops on the ground near the wall socket. Mow away from the socket and cable
and ensure that the mains lead is always on the section of lawn that you have already mowed so that you
do not run over the mains lead with the mower.
If you you see mown grass on the lawn whilst you are mowing it means the grass collector is full and
needs to be emptied immediately.
IMPORTANT! Before you remove the grass collector, switch o the motor and wait until the blade
reaches a complete standstill.
To remove the grass collector, raise the deector guard with one hand and remove the grass collector
holding its handle with your other hand.To maintain safety, the deector guard will close when you
remove the grass collector to seal the rear discharge opening. If any grass drops onto the ground you need
push the mower away from the area to make it easier to re-start the motor.
Do not remove grass cuttings in the mower casing or on the cutter by hand or with your feet. Instead
use suitable tools such as a brush or broom. To ensure ecient grass collection the grass collector should
be cleaned after use. This will ensure the air is able to ow freely through it for best grass collection
performance.
Only t the grass collector when the motor is switched o and the blade is not moving. Raise the deector
guard with one hand and, holding the grass collector by its handle in your other hand, position it squarely
onto its support. Ensure it ts snug against the body of the mower before starting.
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Maintenance
Cleaning & Maintenance
Always disconnect the mains power plug before engaging in any cleaning work.
Cleaning
• Keep all safety devices, air vents and the motor housing free of dirt and dust as far as possible. Wipe
the equipment with a soft brush or blow it with compressed air at low pressure after usage.
• Clean the mower regularly with a moist cloth and some soft soap. Do not use cleaning agents or
solvents; these may damage plastic components.
• Ensure that no water can seep into the device.
Blade Maintenance
11
18
20
19
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20
Maintenance
Blade Maintenance (continued)
If the blade is blunt, it can be sharpened in a specialised workshop. If the blade is damaged or showing
signs of imbalance, it must be replaced.
Carry out the following steps to change the blade:
• Turn the mower over and rest it carefully on its side 20.
• Use sturdy gloves and hold the blade rmly. Turn the blade bolt 18 anticlockwise to remove the blade
.
19
• Install the new blade in the reverse order. Ensure that the blade is positioned correctly and the screw
tightened rmly. The blade’s wings should be angled upwards (towards the mower).
• Tighten the fastening bolt. The tightening torque should be approx. 25 Nm.
IMPORTANT! Always wear work gloves when engaging in any maintenance work.
Only replace the blade with a genuine replacement blade as this will ensure top performance and safety
under all conditions.
Carbon Brushes
In case of excessive sparking, have the carbon brushes checked only by a qualied electrician. Important!
Carbon brushes should only be replaced by a qualied electrician.
Maintenance and Storage
• There are no parts inside the mower which require additional maintenance.
• Store in a dry place, out of reach of children.
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Troubleshooting
General Troubleshooting
The following table provides solutions to common problems encountered with the mower.
Fault Possible Cause Solution
Mower does not start No power at mains socket Check the fuse, switch, socket,
Motor stops Blade is blocked Disconnect from mains and
Untidy nish, motor labours Cut height too low Set a higher cut height
Blade fails to turn Blade blocked by grass Remove blockage
Strange noises, rattling or
vibrations
cable, wire and have any repairs
carried out by a qualied
electrician
Defective on/o switch Repair by a qualied technician
Worn carbon brushes
Defective motor
Grass too long Set at a higher cut setting. Lift
Blade blunt Sharpen or replace the blade
Blade area blocked Remove blockage
Blade assembled incorrectly Install the blade correctly
Blade screw loose Tighten the blade screw
Blade screw loose Tighten the blade screw
Blade damaged Replace the blade
required
the front wheels slightly by
pressing down on the handle
bar.
remove blockage
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22
Technical Data
Technical Data Table
Specification Value
Voltage 220-240 V ~ 50 Hz
Power input 1200W
Motor speed 3350min
Cutting width 32cm
Cutting height adjustment 20, 40, 60 mm; 3 levels
Volume of grass collector 30 litres
Wheel size 140/140mm
LpA sound pressure level 73.5dB(A) K=1.79dB(A)
LWA sound power level 96 dB(A)
Vibration at the handlebars ahv < 2.03m/s2
Protection class II
-1
Disposal
Disposal and Recycling
Do not dispose with household waste.
Recycle products and components according to local legal requirements.
Getting Help
After sales helpline number: 08456 400 800
Spare parts purchases: www.argosspares.co.uk
Customer Helpline 08456 400 800
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