Troy-Bilt BR720 Owner's Manual

769-08487 / 00 10/12

Power Broom Attachment

BR720

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

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

Know Your Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

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

Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Cleaning and Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

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© 2012 MTD SOUTHWEST INC, All Rights Reserved.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

SERVICE

Operator’s Manual

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

For assistance regarding the assembly, controls, operation or
maintenance of the unit, please call the Customer Support Department
at 1-800-345-8746 in the United States or 1-800-668-1238 in Canada.
Additional information about the unit can be found on our website:
www.trimmerplus.com (U.S.) or www.trimmerplus.ca (Canada).

For service, please call the Customer Support Department to obtain
a list of authorized service dealers near you. Service on this unit,
both within and after the warranty period, should only be performed
by an authorized and approved service dealer. When servicing, use
only identical replacement parts.

®

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING

• Carefully read and understand the operator's manual of the unit
that powers this attachment.

• 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 must not operate the unit. Teens must be accompanied
and 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; keep them
outside a 50-foot (15 m) radius, at a minimum. Even then, they are
still at risk from thrown objects. Encourage bystanders to wear
eye protection. If you are approached, stop the unit immediately.

SAFETY WARNINGS FOR GAS UNITS

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

• Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the
tank. Never remove the fuel tank cap or add fuel when the
engine is hot. Always loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve
any pressure in the tank before fueling.

• Always mix and add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area
where there are no sparks or flames. DO NOT smoke.

• Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.

• Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Wipe up any
spilled fuel from the unit immediately, before starting the unit.
Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fueling source and
site before starting the engine. DO NOT smoke.

• 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.

• IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS •

SAFETY

SYMBOL MEANING

WARNING:

Signals a SERIOUS hazard.

Failure to obey a safety WARNING signal CAN result in
serious injury to yourself or to others.

CAUTION:

Signals a MODERATE hazard.

Failure to obey a safety CAUTION signal MAY result in
property damage or injury to yourself or to others.

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.

DANGER:

Signals an EXTREME hazard.

Failure to obey a safety DANGER signal WILL result in
serious injury or death to yourself or to others.

WARNING:

When using the unit, all safety rules must be
followed. 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:

Gasoline is highly flammable and its vapors

can explode if ignited. Take the following precautions:

2

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.

WHILE OPERATING

• Wear safety glasses or goggles that meet current 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.

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

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

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

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

• Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance. Take
extra care when working on steep slopes or inclines.

• Keep hands, face, and feet away from all moving parts. Do not
touch or try to stop moving parts.

3

SAFETY WARNINGS FOR ELECTRIC UNITS

• CORD SETS: Make sure your cord set is in good condition.
When using a cord set, be sure to use a cord that is heavy
enough to carry the current that your unit will draw. An
undersized cord set will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in
loss of power and overheating. See the operator’s manual for
the unit that will power this attachment for the recommended
cord size.

• Inspect all extension cords and the unit power connection
periodically. Look closely for deterioration, cuts or cracks in the
insulation. Also inspect the connections for damage. Replace
the cords if any defects or damage appear.

• Prevent disconnection of the power head from the extension
cord during operation by using a plug-receptacle retaining strap,
connector, or by making a knot (Fig. A).

• Avoid dangerous environments. Never operate your unit in damp
or wet conditions. Moisture is a shock hazard.

• Do not use the unit in the rain. Do not use in or around water.

• Do not handle the plug or unit with wet hands or standing on
any wet surfaces.

• Do not leave the unit plugged in when not in use, changing
attachments or while being serviced.

WARNING:

To reduce the risk of electrical shock, use
only extension cords approved for outdoor use, such as an
extension cord of cord type SW-A, SOW-A, STW-A, STOW­A, SJW-A, SJOW-A, SJTW-W or SJTOW-A. Extension
cords are available from your local retailer. Use only round­jacketed extension cords approved for outdoor use.

Fig. A

Unit Power Cord

Extension Cord

OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS

• All service, other than the maintenance procedures described in
this manual, should be performed by a authorized service dealer.

• Before inspecting, servicing, cleaning, storing, transporting or
replacing any parts on the unit:

1. Stop the unit.

2. Make sure all moving parts have stopped.

3. Allow the unit to cool.

4. For gas-powered units, disconnect the spark plug wire. For
electric-powered units, disconnect the unit from the power
source.

• Never store the unit with fuel in the tank, inside a building where
fumes may reach an open flame (pilot lights, etc.) or sparks
(switches, electrical motors, etc.).

• Be sure to secure the unit while transporting.

• Store the unit in a dry place, secured or at a height to prevent
unauthorized use or damage. Keep 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 this unit to others, also loan
them these instructions.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

• Do not operate the unit faster than the speed needed to do the job.
Do not run the unit at high speed when not in use.

• Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the unit towards you.

• Do not force the unit. It will do a better, safer job when used at
the intended rate.

• Always stop the unit when operation is delayed or when walking
from one location to another.

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

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

• Keep the unit clean. Carefully remove vegetation and other
debris that could block moving parts.

• If the unit starts to vibrate abnormally, stop the unit immediately.
Inspect the unit for the cause of the vibration. Vibration is
generally an indicator of trouble.

• SAFETY & 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.

SYMBOL MEANING 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 current ANSI Z87.1 standards and
ear protection when operating this unit. Use a full face
shield when needed.

• THROWN OBJECTS AND ROTATING PARTS CAN
CAUSE SEVERE INJURY

WARNING: Small objects can be propelled at high

speed, causing injury. Keep away from rotating parts.

• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY

WARNING: Keep all bystanders, especially children

and pets, at least 50 feet (15 m) from the operating area.

• POWER BROOMS – ROTATING BRUSHES CAN
CAUSE SEVERE INJURY

WARNING: Stop the engine/motor and allow all

moving parts to stop before installing or removing any
parts or attachments, or before cleaning or performing
any maintenance. Keep hands and feet away from
moving parts.

4

Hanger

Shaft Housing

Brush Shield

Gear Box

Brushes

Skid Shoe

5

KNOW YOUR UNIT

APPLICATIONS

As a power brush:

• Sweeping dirt, grass, snow or other debris from sidewalks and
driveways.

SPECIFICATIONS*

* All specifications 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.

Approximate Unit Weight (attachment only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 - 10 lbs. (4.1 - 4.5 kg)

Clearing Path Width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 inches (30.5 cm)

NO ASSEMBLY TOOLS REQUIRED

ASSEMBLY

6

Fig. 2

Fig. 3

Fig. 1

Release Button

Guide Recess

90˚ Edging Hole

(Trimmer Only)

Knob

Primary Hole

Lower Shaft

Housing

Upper Shaft

Housing

OPERATING THE COUPLER

The coupler enables the use of various optional attachments.

NOTE: To make installing or removing the attachment easier, place

the unit on the ground or on a work bench.

Installing the Attachment
NOTE: Remove the protective cap and gray spacer from the upper

and lower shafts prior to assembling the attachment.

1. Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen (Fig. 1).

2. While firmly holding the attachment, push it straight into the
coupler until the release button snaps firmly into the primary
hole (Fig. 3).

NOTE: Aligning the release button with the guide recess will help

installation (Fig. 2).

3. Turn the knob clockwise to tighten (Fig. 1).

NOTE: Do not tighten the nut (Fig. 2).

For decorative edging with a string trimmer attachment, lock the
release button into the 90° edging hole (Fig. 1).

Removing the Attachment

1. Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen (Fig. 1).

2. Press and hold the release button (Fig. 2).

3. While firmly holding the upper shaft housing, pull the attachment
straight out of the coupler (Fig. 3).

WARNING:

Before using any attachment, read and
understand the manual that came with the attachment.
Follow all safety information contained within.

CAUTION:

Before operating the unit, make sure the
release button is fully snapped into the primary hole (Fig. 3)
and the knob (Fig. 1) is securely tightened.

WARNING:

To avoid serious personal injury and
damage to the unit, shut the unit off before removing or
installing an attachment.

CAUTION:

The release button should be snapped into
the primary hole only. Using the wrong hole could lead to
personal injury or damage to the unit.

Coupler

Nut

7

HOLDING THE UNIT

• Stand in the operating position (Fig. 4).

• Hold the shaft grip with the right hand. Keep the right arm
slightly bent.

• Hold the handle with the left hand. Keep the left arm straight.

• Hold the unit at waist level.

WARNING:

Always wear eye, hearing, hand, foot and
body protection to reduce the risk of injury when operating
this unit.

OPERATION

TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS

1. Move the unit to the work area prior to starting the engine/motor.

2. Start the unit.

3. Hold the unit firmly with both hands and slowly lower the unit
until the skid shoe makes contact with the ground.

4. Slowly increase the engine/motor speed to become familiar with
the handling of the unit.

5. Advance with the unit at a moderate speed to sweep debris
forward (Fig. 4). Optionally, it may be desirable to angle the
power broom slightly to the left in order to direct debris to side.

Fig. 4

CAUTION:

To prevent serious personal injury, never

pick-up or carry the unit while the engine/motor is running.

WARNING:

To prevent serious personal injury, use extreme

caution when reversing or pulling the unit towards you.

8

MAINTENANCE

WARNING:

To prevent serious injury, never perform
maintenance or repairs while the unit is running. Always
allow the unit to cool before servicing or repairing the unit.
For gas-powered units, disconnect the spark plug wire to
prevent the unit from starting accidentally. For electric­powered units, disconnect the unit from the power source
to prevent the unit from starting accidentally.

NOTE: Some maintenance procedures may require special tools or

skills. If you are unsure about these procedures, take the unit to
an authorized service dealer.

REPLACING THE BRUSH HUBS AND SKID SHOE

Both brush hubs and the skid shoe should be replaced at the same
time, as they will wear evenly through normal use.

Removing the Old Brush Hubs

1. Make sure the unit is off.

2. Tip the unit back so that it rests upon the shaft grip.
NOTE: To aid the removal process, it may be necessary to wash dirt

off the brush hubs and related hardware.

3. While holding a brush bolt in place with a 1/2 inch wrench, use
another 1/2 inch wrench to loosen the corresponding brush nut
(Fig. 5).

4. Remove the brush bolt and brush nut. Slide the brush hub off
the output shaft (Fig. 6).

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the opposite side.

Removing the Old Skid Shoe

1. Use a 3/8 inch wrench to remove the two skid shoe nuts.
Remove the skid shoe from the gear box (Fig. 7).

Installing the New Skid Shoe

1. Clean the gear box and output shafts.

2. Place the new skid shoe onto the two mounting screws on the
gear box (Fig. 7).

3. Place the two skid shoe nuts onto the mounting screws. Use a
3/8 inch wrench to tighten the skid shoe nuts securely (Fig. 7).

Installing the New Brush Hubs

1. Apply a light machine oil to the output shafts.

2. Slide a new brush hub onto an output shaft (Fig. 6).

3. Rotate the brush hub to align the hole in the brush hub with the
hole in the output shaft (Fig. 6).

4. Insert a brush bolt through the aligned holes. Place a brush nut
onto the brush bolt (Fig. 6).

5. While holding the brush bolt in place with a 1/2 inch wrench, use
another 1/2 inch wrench to tighten the corresponding brush nut
securely (Fig. 5).

6. Repeat steps 2 through 5 for the opposite side.

WARNING:

To prevent serious personal injury, always

wear heavy gloves when handling the brushes.

Fig. 5

Brush Hub

Brush Bolt

Fig. 6

Brush Nut

Brush Hub

Output Shaft

Brush Bolt

Fig. 7

Gear Box

Skid Shoe

Skid Shoe

Nuts (2)

Brush Nut

Mounting

Screws (2)

9

CLEANING AND STORAGE

CLEANING

Use a small brush to clean the outside of the unit. Do not use strong
detergents. Household cleaners that contain aromatic oils such as
pine and lemon, and solvents such as kerosene, can damage plastic.
Wipe off any moisture with a soft cloth.

WARNING:

To avoid serious personal injury, always stop
the unit and allow it to cool before cleaning or maintaining
the unit.

STORAGE

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

• Allow the engine to cool before storing.

• Lock up the unit to prevent unauthorized use or damage.

• Store the unit in a dry, well-ventilated area.

• Store the unit out of the reach of children.

Long-term Storage

• Thoroughly clean the unit and inspect it for any loose or
damaged parts. Repair or replace damaged parts and tighten
loose screws, nuts or bolts.

10

The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC (MTD) with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States,
its possessions and territories.

MTD warrants this product against defects in material and workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date of original
purchase and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in material or workmanship. This limited
warranty shall only apply if this product has been operated and maintained in accordance with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the
product, and has not been subject to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance, alteration, vandalism, theft,
fire, water or damage because of other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the installation or use of any accessory or attachment
not approved by MTD for use with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any resulting damage. This warranty is
limited to ninety (90) days from the date of original retail purchase for any MTD product that is used for rental or commercial purposes, or
any other income-producing purpose.

HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE THROUGH YOUR LOCAL AUTHORIZED SERVICE
DEALER. To locate the dealer in your area, visit our website at www.trimmerplus.com or www.trimmerplus.ca, check for a listing in the Yellow
Pages, call 1-800-345-8746 or 1-800-668-1238 in Canada, or write to P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, OH 44136-0019. No product returned directly
to the factory will be accepted unless prior written permission has been extended by the Customer Service Department of MTD.

This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases:

A. Tune-ups - Spark Plugs, Carburetor Adjustments, Filters
B. Wear items - Bump Knobs, Outer Spools, Cutting Line, Inner Reels, Starter Pulley, Starter Ropes, Drive Belts, Saw Chains, Guide Bars,

Cultivator Tines, Blades.

C. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported outside of the United States of America, its possessions and territories,

except those sold through MTD’s authorized channels of export distribution.

MTD reserves the right to change or improve the design of any MTD Product without assuming any obligation to modify any product
previously manufactured.

No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, applies after the
applicable period of express written warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other express warranty or guaranty, whether
written or oral, except as mentioned above, given by any person or entity, including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product
shall bind MTD. During the period of the Warranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the product as set forth above.

(Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.)

The provisions as set forth in this Warranty provide the sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sales. MTD shall not be liable for
incidental or consequential loss or damages including, without limitation, expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn
care services, for transportation or for related expenses, or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted product. (Some

states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.)
In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the amount of the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration of the safety features

of the product shall void this Warranty. You assume the risk and liability for loss, damage, or injury to you and your property and/or to others
and their property arising out of the use or misuse or inability to use the product.

This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser, original lessee or the person for whom it was purchased
as a gift.

How State Law Relates to this Warranty: This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.

To locate your nearest service dealer, dial 1-800-345-8746 in the United States or 1-800-668-1238 in Canada.

MTD LLC

P.O. Box 361131

Cleveland, OH 44136-0019

MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:

®