Rover R2500 Operator's Manual

769-07249 P00 07/11

Operator’s Manual

NEED HELP? CALL 1300 951 594

R2500

2-Cycle Trimmer

Removing Unit From Carton

11 2

Remove all contents from
carton.

Assemble The Unit

40:1

1 Gallon 3.2 oz.

5 6 7

Mix thoroughly in separate
fuel can:

– 3.2 fl. oz. (95 ml) of

2-cycle engine oil

– 1 US gallon (3.8 liters)

of unleaded petrol

NOTE: Do not mix directly in

fuel tank.

Assemble The Unit

Slot

Bracket

Slide shield’s slot onto
mounting bracket. Rotate

shield onto shaft. Push
square bolt through shield
and bracket. Tighten
washer and wing nut
onto bolt.

Place unit on a level surface.
Fill fuel tank.

3

Remove the cap and gray spacer
from the upper and lower shafts
(if present). Push the upper shaft
straight into the coupler on the
lower shaft. Firmly tighten the
Allen bolt using the 3/16” Allen
wrench provided.

Starting The Unit

Primer

Bulb

10 X

Press primer bulb 10 times,

or until fuel is visible

Min. 6"

4

Put D-handle on shaft. Move
handle a minimum 6 inches
away from shaft grip. Insert
clamp bolt and tighten the
wing nut.

Choke Lever

8

Move choke lever to
Position 1.

Tools Required:

• 3/16” Allen Wrench*

* Denotes tool is provided with unit

Swedge Coupler

Cutting Head Shield

D-Handle

Starter Rope

On/ Off Switch

Throttle Control

Need Help?

Call 1300 951 594

DIDN’T START?

Repeat the starting instructions.

IF the engine fails to start after 2 attempts,

move the choke lever to position 3 and

pull the starter rope until the engine starts.

IF the unit still fails to start, refer to the

Starting and Stopping section of this

manual for additional information.

Fuel Cap

Starting The Unit

19 10

Crouch in starting position. SQUEEZE and HOLD

Reloading The Line*

Bump

Knob

11 2

Unscrew the bump knob
counterclockwise.

Replacement SplitLine® :

Part #49U0134K953

For single line installation, refer to Line Installation

section of this manual.

For replacement spool installation, refer to
Installing a Prewound Reel section of this manual.

*This is to assist in the reloading of SplitLine® only. These
instructions are NOT part of the fast assembly
instructions. Line does not need to be installed on the
initial assembly and start-up.

throttle for ALL further
steps.

Outer
Spool

Remove the inner reel and
spring.

Inner Reel

Spring

Choke Lever

5 X

11

Pull rope 5 times. Move choke lever to

Bottom Hole

3

Take 7' (2.1 m) of 0.080"
(2.03 mm) SplitLine

split 6” (150 mm) on each
end. Insert one line in the top
hole and the other line in the
bottom hole.

Top Hole

®

and

12

Position 2 and squeeze
throttle.

Slot

4

Wind the line tightly in the
direction indicated on the inner
reel. The split wall will divide
the line. Wind the line until it is
completely divided. Insert the
ends into the two 0.080” (2.03
mm) holding slots.

Slot

13

Pull rope 3-5 times to start
engine. Run unit for 30-60
seconds to warm up.

5

Insert the lines into the
eyelets in the outer spool.
Insert the spring and inner
reel into outer spool. Push the
inner reel and outer spool
together.

3-5 X

Eyelets

Choke Lever

14

Continue to squeeze
throttle. Move choke lever
to Position 3.

6

Pull the lines firmly to release
them from the holding slots.

15

Continue to squeeze
throttle. Run unit for an
additional 60 seconds to

complete warm-up. Unit
may be used during this
time.

7

Hold the inner reel in place.
Securely tighten the bump
knob clockwise.

IMPORTANT: READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL THOROUGHLY AND FOLLOW THE SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES WHILE OPERATING THE UNIT.

2

• 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, maintenance,
and repair information.

SAFETY

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

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 fuel 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 50 foot (15 m) radius; there still may be a risk to bystanders from thrown objects.
Bystanders should be encouraged to wear eye protection. If approached, stop the unit immediately.

• Use only 0.080 inch (2.03 mm) diameter original equipment manufacturer replacement line. Never
use metal-reinforced 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.

SAFETY WARNINGS FOR PETROL UNITS

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

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

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

• Mix and add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area where there are no sparks or flames. Do
not smoke while fueling or mixing fuel. Wipe up any spilled fuel from the unit immediately. Always
wipe unit dry before using.

• Move the unit at least 30 feet (9.1 m) from the fueling source and site before starting the engine. Do
not smoke or allow sparks and open flames near 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 kill.
Operate this unit only in a well ventilated outdoor area.

• Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as meeting ANSI Z87.1-1989 standards. Also
wear ear/hearing protection when operating this unit. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is
dusty. Long sleeve shirts are recommended.

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

• The cutting head shield must always be in place while operating the unit. 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.

• The cutting attachment will spin during idle speed adjustments. Wear protective clothing and
observe all safety instructions to prevent serious personal injury.

• Adjust the D-handle to provide the best grip.

• Be sure the cutting head 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. See Starting and Stopping Instructions.

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

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

• Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a firm grip on both the front and rear
handle or grips.

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

• Do not touch the engine or muffler. These parts get extremely hot from operation. They remain hot
for a short time after turning off the unit.

• 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 the unit is struck or becomes 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 and switch the engine to off for maintenance, repair, or for changing the cutting head or
other Add-Ons.

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

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

• To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves, excessive grease or
carbon build up.

OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS

• Never store the unit, with fuel in the tank, 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 the Cleaning and Storage instructions.

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

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

• IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS •

SERVICE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Know Your Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Oil and Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Starting and Stopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Cleaning and Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

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.

Copyright© 2011 MTD SOUTHWEST INC, All Rights Reserved.

For service, call 1300 951 594 to obtain a list of authorized service dealers near you. For more details
about your unit, visit our website at www.rovermowers.com.au.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation
or maintenance of this unit, please call the Customer Support Department.

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

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

Read the Operator’s Manual and follow all warnings and safety instructions. Failure to do so

can result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders.

FOR QUESTIONS, CALL 1300 951 594

SAFETY ALERT: 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.

DANGER: 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.

WARNING: 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.

CAUTION: 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.

WARNING: 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: Petrol is highly flammable, and its vapors can explode if ignited. Take the

following precautions:

SAFETY

SYMBOL MEANING

• SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL

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

• READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL

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.

• 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.

• UNLEADED FUEL

Always use clean, fresh unleaded fuel

• DO NOT USE E85 FUEL IN THIS UNIT

WARNING: It has been proven that fuel containing greater than 10% ethanol will

likely damage this engine and void the warranty.

• OIL

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

• ON/OFF CONTROL

ON / START / RUN

• ON/OFF CONTROL

OFF

• CHOKE CONTROL

1. • FULL choke position

2. • PARTIAL choke position

3. • RUN choke position

• HOT SURFACE WARNING

Do not touch a hot muffler or cylinder. You may get burned. These parts get extremely
hot from operation. When turned off they remain hot for a short time.

• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY

WARNING: Keep all bystanders, especially children and pets, at least 50 feet (15

m) from the operating area.

• THROWN OBJECTS AND ROTATING CUTTER CAN CAUSE SEVERE INJURY

WARNING:

Small objects can be propelled at high speed, causing injury. Keep

away from the rotating rotor.

• SHARP BLADE

WARNING: Sharp blade on cutting attachment shield. To prevent serious injury, do

not touch the line cutting blade.

Throttle Control

D-Handle

Shaft Grip

Air Filter Cover

Spark Plug

Shaft Housing

Starter Rope Grip

Line Cutting

Blade

Muffler

On/Off Control

Cutting Head

Cutting Head Shield

Fuel Cap

Choke Lever

Primer

Bulb

Swedge Coupler

OIL AND FUEL MIXING INSTRUCTIONS

Old and/or improperly mixed fuel are the main reasons for the unit not running properly. Be sure to
use fresh, clean unleaded fuel. Follow the instructions carefully for the proper fuel/oil mixture.

DEFINITION OF BLENDED FUELS

Today's fuels are often a blend of petrol and oxygenates such as ethanol, methanol, or MTBE (ether).
Alcohol-blended fuel absorbs water. As little as 1% water in the fuel can make fuel and oil separate. It
forms acids when stored. When using alcohol-blended fuel, use fresh fuel (less than 30 days old).

USING BLENDED FUELS

If choosing to use a blended fuel, or its use is unavoidable, follow recommended precautions:

• Always use the fresh fuel mix explained in the operator's manual

• Always agitate the fuel mix before fueling the unit

• Use the fuel additive STA-BIL® or an equivalent

• Drain the tank and run the engine dry before storing the unit

USING FUEL ADDITIVES

The bottle of 2-cycle oil contains a fuel additive which will help
inhibit corrosion and minimize the formation of gum deposits. It is
recommended to use our 2-cycle oil with this unit.

If unavailable, use a good 2-cycle oil designed for air-cooled
engines along with a fuel additive, such as STA-BIL® Fuel Stabilizer
or an equivalent. Add 0.8 oz. (23 ml) of fuel additive per gallon of
fuel according to the instructions on the container. NEVER add fuel
additives directly to the unit's fuel tank.

Thoroughly mix the proper ratio of 2-cycle engine oil with unleaded
fuel in a separate fuel can. Use a 40:1 fuel/oil ratio. Do not mix
them directly in the engine fuel tank. See the table for specific
petrol and oil mixing ratios.

NOTE: One US gallon (3.8 liters) of unleaded fuel mixed with one 3.2 oz. (95 ml) bottle of 2-cycle oil

makes a 40:1 fuel/oil ratio.

NOTE: Dispose of the old fuel/oil mix according to regulations.

FUELING THE UNIT

1. Turn unit on its side, with the fuel cap facing up, and remove the fuel cap.

2. Place the petrol container’s spout into the fill hole on the fuel tank and fill the tank.
NOTE: Do not overfill the tank.

3. Wipe up any fuel mix that may have spilled.

4. Reinstall the fuel cap.

5. Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fueling source and site before starting the engine.

MIXING RATIO - 40:1

3

KNOW YOUR UNIT

APPLICATIONS

As a trimmer:

• Cutting grass and light weeds.

• Edging

• Decorative trimming around
trees, fences, etc.

INSTALL CUTTING HEAD SHIELD

Use the following instructions if the cutting attachment shield on the unit
is not installed. Use only the instructions that apply to the type of shaft
and shield that the unit is equipped with.

1. Place the cutting head shield onto the shaft housing. Be sure the guard
mounting bracket slides into the slot on the edge of the cutting shield.
Rotate the shield into place, counterclockwise (Fig. 1). The holes in the
guard mounting bracket and cutting head shield will line up.

2. From inside the cutting head shield, push the square bolt through the
hole until the threaded end protrudes through the guard mounting
bracket (Fig. 2).

3. Put the washer on the bolt, then screw the wing nut onto the bolt and
tighten.

INSTALL AND ADJUST THE D-HANDLE

1. Push the D-handle down onto the shaft housing (Fig. 3). The hex bolt
hole in the handle should be on the left side.

2. Insert the bolt into the hex hole in the handle and push through.
Place the washer on the bolt, then screw the wing nut onto the bolt.
Do not tighten until making the handle adjustment.

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

4. While holding the unit in the operating position (Fig. 9), move the D­handle to the location that provides the best grip.

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

INSTALLING THE LOWER SHAFT AND CUTTING HEAD

1. Remove the cap and gray spacer from the upper and lower shafts (if
present).

2. Using the 3/16 in. Allen wrench provided with the unit, make sure the
Allen bolt is loose (Fig. 5).

3. While firmly holding the upper shaft, push it straight into the coupler
on the lower shaft (Fig. 4).

NOTE: Make sure to align the release button with the guide recess prior

to installation of the lower shaft.

4. Tighten the Allen bolt using the 3/16 Allen wrench provided with the
unit until the lower shaft is firmly in place.

ASSEMBLY

WARNING: To prevent serious personal injury, never operate the trimmer without the

cutting attachment shield in place.

Cutting

Shield

Mount

Bracket

Fig. 1

Fig. 2

Fig. 3

Square Bolt

UNLEADED

PETROL

2 CYCLE OIL

1 GALLON US

(3.8 LITERS)

3.2 FL. OZ.
(95 ml)

1 LITER 25 ml

CAUTION: For proper engine operation and maximum reliability, pay strict attention to

the oil and fuel mixing instructions on the 2-cycle oil container. Using improperly mixed fuel
can severely damage the engine.

WARNING: Petrol is extremely flammable. Ignited vapors may explode. Always stop the

engine and allow it to cool before filling the fuel tank. Do not smoke while filling the tank.
Keep sparks and open flames at a distance from the area.

WARNING:

Remove fuel cap slowly to avoid injury from fuel spray. Never operate the

unit without the fuel cap securely in place.

WARNING: Add fuel in a clean, level and well ventilated outdoor area. Wipe up any

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

STARTING AND STOPPING

WARNING:

Avoid accidental starting. Make sure you are
in the starting position when pulling the starter rope (Fig. 8).
To avoid serious injury, the operator and unit must be
in a stable position while starting.

STARTING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Mix fuel with oil. See Oil and Fuel Mixing Instructions.

2. Fill the fuel tank with fresh fuel mix. Refer to Fueling the Unit.
NOTE: There is no need to turn the unit on. The On/Off Control is in the

ON ( I ) position at all times (Fig. 6).

3. Fully press and release the primer bulb 10 times, slowly. Some
amount of fuel should be visible in the primer bulb (Fig. 7). If fuel can
not be seen in the bulb, press and release the bulb until fuel is visible.

4. Move the choke lever to Position 1 (Fig. 7).

5. Crouch in the starting position (Fig. 8). Squeeze the throttle control
lever. Pull the starter rope 5 times.

6. Move the choke lever to Position 2 (Fig. 7)

7. Squeeze the throttle control, pull the starter rope in a controlled
motion 3 to 5 times to start the engine.

8. Keep the throttle squeezed and allow the engine to warm up for 30 to
60 seconds.

9. Continue squeezing the throttle control, move the choke lever to Position 3 (Fig. 7) and continue
warming the engine for an additional 60 seconds. The unit may be used during this time.

NOTE: The unit is properly warmed up when the engine accelerates without hesitation.
IF... the engine hesitates, return the choke lever to Position 2 (Fig. 7) and continue the warm-up.
IF... the engine does not start, go back to step 3.
IF... the engine fails to start after a few attempts, move the choke lever to Position 3 and squeeze the

throttle control. Pull the starter rope out with a controlled and steady motion 3 to 8 times. The
engine should start. If not, repeat.

IF WARM... If the engine is already warm, go back to step 6

STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS

1. Release the throttle control and allow the engine to cool down by idling.

2. Press and hold the On/Off Control switch in the OFF (O) position until the unit comes to a
complete stop (Fig. 6).

OFF (O)

ON (I)

Throttle
Control

Fig. 6

Starter

Rope

Starting
Position

Fig. 8

Fig. 7

Primer Bulb

Choke Lever

Min 6 in.

(15.32 mm)

Washer

Wing

Nut

Wing Nut

Washer

Handle

Bolt

Grip

WARNING: DO NOT USE E85 FUEL IN THIS UNIT. It has been proven that fuel

containing greater than 10% ethanol will likely damage this engine and void the warranty.

WARNING: Operate this unit in a well-ventilated outdoor

area. Carbon monoxide exhaust fumes can be lethal in a
confined area.

Fig. 4

Upper shaft

Release Button

Lower shaft

Guide Recess

Fig. 5

Allen Wrench

Allen

Screw

OIL AND FUEL

TOOLS REQUIRED:

• 3/16 inch Allen wrench
(provided)