m _ _ _iiN w v
Operator's Manual
4-Cycle Gasoline Trimmer
TB575SS &
TB525CS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
For service call 1-800-520-5520 to obtain a list of authorized
service dealers near you. For more details about your unit, visit
our website at www.troybilt.com.
DO NOT RETURN THE UNIT TO THE RETAILER. PROOF OF
PURCHASE WILL BE REQUIRED FOR WARRANTY
SERVICE.
THIS PRODUCT IS COVERED BY ONE OR MORE U.S.
PATENTS. OTHER PATENTS PENDING.
Service on this unit both within and after the warranty period
should be performed only by an authorized and approved
service dealer.
®
SPARK ARRESTOR NOTE
NOTE: For users on U.S. Forest Land and in the states of
California, Maine, Oregon and Washington. All U.S. Forest
Land and the state of California (Public Resources Codes 4442
and 4443), Oregon and Washington require, by law that certain
internal combustion engines operated on forest brush and/or
grass-covered areas be equipped with a spark arrestor,
maintained in effective working order, or the engine be
constructed, equipped and maintained for the prevention of
fire. Check with your state or local authorities for regulations
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Service Information .............................. 1
Rules for Safe Operation .......................... 2
Know Your Unit ................................. 3
Assembly Instructions ............................ 3
Oil and Fuel Information ........................... 4
Starting/Stopping Instructions ...................... 5
Operating Instructions ............................ 6
Maintenance and Repair Instructions ................ 8
Cleaning and Storage ........................... 13
Troubleshooting Chart ........................... 14
Specifications ................................. 15
Warranty Information ............................ 17
Parts List .................................... E18
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.
P/N 769-01920 (11/05)
pertaining to these requirements. Failure to follow these
requirements could subject you to liability or a fine. This unit is
factory equipped with a spark arrestor. If it requires
replacement, ask your LOCAL SERVICE DEALER to install the
Accessory Part #753-05297 Spark Arrestor Kit.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING
THE ENGINE EXHAUST FROM THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS
CHEMICALS KNOWN TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA TO
CAUSE CANCER, BIRTH DEFECTS OR OTHER
REPRODUCTIVEHARM.
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@ 2005 MTD SOUTHWEST INC, All Rights Reserved.
• IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS °
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 feet (15
m.) 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.
• Useonly 0.095 inch,2.41 mm diameteroriginalequipment
manufacturer replace-ment line. Never use metal-reinforced line,wire
or rope. Thesecan breakoff 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 GAS UNITS
vapors can explode if ignited. Take the following
WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable, and its
precautions:
• 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 fuel 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.
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 30 feet (9.1 m) 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.
• This unit has 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.
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 dw 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 THESEINSTRUCTIONS
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.
SYMBOL MEANING
'SAFETyALERTSyMBOL
Indicates danger, warning or cautio n . MaY be used
n con unct on wth other symb0 s or p ctographs.
• WARNING ,READ OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Read the Operator's manual(s ) and follow all warning s
and safety instructions. Failure to de SOcan result in
serious injury to the operate[ 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 standards and ear
protection when operating th! s unit. Use a fuHface
HOTSU,FAOEWA,N,,G
De not touch a hot muffler, gear housing or cylinder.
_1_1, from operation. They remain hot for a short time after
N%' UNLEADED FUEL
_ Always use clean fresh unleaded fuel
you may get burned. These parts get extremely hot
the unit is turned 0ff.
SYMBOL
A
H lq I 'l
MEANING
• KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY
WARNING: Keep all bystaneers, espectaHy
childrer and Pets. at least 50 feet (15 m) from the
operating area.
• CHOKE CONTROL
1. • FULL choke oosition
2. • PARTIAL choke position
3. • RUN choke position
• THROWN OBJECTS AND ROTATING CUTTER
CAN CAUSE SEVERE INJURY
WARNING: Do not operate without the cutting
attachment shield n elace. Keep away from me
Lting cutting attachmen]
• SHARP BLADE
cutting attachment
To prevent serious tnjury do not touch the
ne cutnng blade.
• ON/OFF STOP CONTROL
OK START / RUN
_7 _ Refer to Operator s manual for the propel type o!
' O!L ;
oil.
TB525CS & Muffler Spark Oil Fill Plug
TB575SS Plug
Fuel
Shaft Grip
On/Off Stop
Control _ Starter
D-Handle Rope
Click Link
Shaft
•X4 Line
Cutting
Blade
Grip
Control
Choke
Air Filter Primer
Cover Bulb
Cutting
• ON/OFF STOP CONTROL
OFF or STOP
INSTALLING AND ADJUSTING THE D-HANDLE
If your unit has the D-Handle pre-installed, please follow the
"To Adjust" instructions only.
To Install (4)Screws D-Handle
1. Removethe screws and f
bottom clamp piece that
were installed on the D-
handle for shipping.
2. Place the D-handle over Minimum
the shaft housing and 6 inches _ _
onto the bottom clamp (15.24 cm) -_.
(Fig. 1). Place it a Bottom
minimum of 15.24 cm (6 Clamp
in) from the end of the Fig. 1
shaft grip.
3. Start screws with a large Flat-head or T-25 Torx
screwdriver. Do not tighten until you make the handle
adjustment.
To Adjust
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, manuever
the D-handle to the location that provides you the best grip
(Fig. 12).
6. Tighten the clamp screws evenly, until the D-handle is
secure.
Cutting
Attachment
WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury, the
cutting attachment shield MUST be in place at all
times while operating the unit as a trimmer.
WARNING: OVERFILLING OIL CRANKCASE MAY
CAUSE SERIOUS PERSONAL INJURY. Check and
maintain the proper oil level in the crank case; it is
important and cannot be overemphasized. Check
the oil before each use and change it as needed.
See Chanqinq the Oil.
RECOMMENDED OIL TYPE
Using the proper type and weight of oil in the crankcase is
extremely important. Check the oil before each use and change
the oil regularly. Failure to use the correct oil, or using dirty oil,
can cause premature engine wear and failure.
Use a high-quality SAE 30 weight oil of API (American Petroleum
Institute) service class SF, SG, SH.
ADDING OIL TO CRANKCASE: INITIAL USE
NOTE: This unit is shipped
without oil. In order to avoid
damage to the unit, put oil in
the crankcase before you
attempt to start the unit. Funnel
Your unit is supplied with one 3.04 Spout
fluid oz. (90 ml.) bottle of SAE 30
SF, SG, SH oil (Fig. 2).
NOTE: Save the bottle of oil. It can
be used to measure the correct amount during future oil
changes. See Changing the Oil.
1. Unscrew the top of the Oil Fill Plug __
bottle of oil and remove the _ _y._\__
paper seal covering the
opening. Replace the top. O-Ring _-_'_t_/_. _
Next, cut the tip off the
funnel spout (Fig. 2). Oil Fill Hole
2. Tip unit so that the back of
the engine is facing up in a Fig.3
vertical position.
3.
Remove the oil fill plug from the crankcase (Fig. 3).
4.
Pour the entire bottle of oil
into the oil fill hole (Fig. 4).
NOTE:
5. Wipe up any oil that may
Check oil before each use and
change as needed. Refer to
Checking the Oil Level.
Never add oil to the fuel
or fuel tank.
have spilled and reinstall the
oil fill plug.
Fig. 2
Fig. 4
RECOMMENDED FUEL TYPE
Old fuel is the primary reason for improper unit performance.
Be sure to use fresh, clean, unleaded gasoline.
NOTE: This is a four cycle engine. In order to avoid damage to
the unit, do not mix oil with gasoline.
Definition of Blended Fuels
Today's fuels are often a blend of gasoline 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 or form acids when stored. Use fresh fuel
(less than 60 days old), when using alcohol-blended fuel.
Using Blended Fuels
If you choose to use a blended fuel, or its use is unavoidable,
follow recommended precautions:
• Always use fresh unleaded gasoline
• Use the fuel additive STA-BIL® or an equivalent
• Drain tank and run the engine dry before storing unit
Using Fuel Additives
outdoor area. Wipe up any spilled fuel immediately.
l_ WARNING: Add fuel in a clean, well ventilated
M Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilt fuel. Do
not start the engine until fuel vapors dissipate.
,_m _ WARNING: Gasoline is extremely flammable.
The use of fuel additives, such as STA-BIL® Gas Stabilizer or
an equivalent, will inhibit corrosion and minimize the formation
of gum deposits. Using a fuel additive can keep fuel from
forming harmful deposits in the carburetor for up to six (6)
months. 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 gas tank.
FUELING THE UNIT
1. Remove the fuel cap (Fig. 5).
2. Place the gas container's spout into the fill hole on the fuel
tank (Fig. 5) and fill the tank.
NOTE: Do not overfill the tank.
3. Wipe up any gasoline 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.
NOTE: Dispose of the old gasoline in accordance to Federal,
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 I
from fuel spray. Never operate the unit without the
fuel cap securely in place.
State and Local regulations.
I
Gas Can Spout
FuelTank
Fuel Cap
Fig. 5
ventilated outdoor area. Carbon monoxide exhaust
WARNING: Operate this unit only in a well-
fumes can be lethal in a confined area.
WARNING: Avoid accidental starting. Make sure
you are inthe starting position when pulling the
starter rope (Fig. 8). To avoid serious injuw, the
operator and unit must be in a stable position while
starting.
To avoid serious personal injuw, ensure any Add-
On being used is installed correctly and secure
before starting the unit.
STARTING INSTRUCTIONS
1, Check the oil level in the crankcase. Refer to
Checking the Oil Level.
2, Fill the fuel tank with fresh, clean unleaded gasoline.
Refer to Fueling the Unit,
3, Make sure the On/Off Stop Control in the ON ( I )
position (Fig. 6).
4, Fully press and release the primer bulb 10 times,
slowly. Some amount of fuel should be visible in
the primer bulb and fuel lines (Fig. 7). If you can't
see fuel in the bulb, press and release the bulb as
many times as it takes before you can see fuel in it.
5. Place the choke lever in Position 1 (Fig. 7).
6. Crouch in the starting position (Fig. 8). Squeeze the
throttle control lever. Pull the starter rope briskly 5
times.
7. Place the choke lever in Position 2 (Fig. 7).
8. While squeezing the throttle control, pull the starter
rope briskly 1 to 4 times to start the engine.
9. Keep the throttle squeezed and allow the engine to
warm up for 15 to 30 seconds.
10. Place the choke lever in Position 3 (Fig. 7). The unit
is ready for use.
...............IF...The engine does not start, go back to step 4.
IF...The engine fails to start after a few attempts, place
the choke lever in Position 3 and squeeze the
throttle control. Pull the starter rope briskly 3 to 8
times. The engine should start. If not, repeat.
Stop/Off (O)
Throttle Control
Starter Rope
Choke Lever
Start/On (I)
Fig. 6
Primer Bulb
Fig. 7
STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Release your hand from the throttle control. Allow the
engine to cool down by idling.
2. Press the On/Off Stop Control switch in the OFF (O)
position.
APPLICATIONS
As a trimmer:
• Cutting grass and light weeds
• Edging
• Decorative trimming around trees, fences, etc.
Throttle Control
Fig. 8
OPERATING THE EZ-LINK TM SYSTEM
The EZ-Link TM system enables the use of these optional Add-
Ons:
Cultivator ..................................... TBGC
Edger ........................................ TBLE
Hedge Trimmer ................................ TBAH
Straight Shaft Trimmer ........................... TBSS
Turbo Blower .................................. TBTB
Pole Saw ..................................... TBPS
Brushcutter ................................... TBBC*
*Do NOT use this attachment with an electric powered unit.
WARNING: Before you begin using any
attachment, read and understand the manual that
came with the attachment. Follow all safety
information contained within.
Removing the Cutting Attachment or Add-On
1. Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen (Fig. 9).
2. Press and hold the release button (Fig. 9).
3. While firmly holding the upper shaft housing, pull the
cutting attachment or add-on straight out of the EZ-Link TM
coupler (Fig. 10).
2. While firmly holding the add-on, push it straight into the
EZ-Link TM coupler (Fig. 10).
NOTE: Aligning the release button with the guide recess will
help installation (Fig. 9).
Release Button
EZ-Link TM Coupler
Upper Shaft Housing
3. Turn the knob clockwise to tighten (Fig. 11).
CAUTION: Lock the release button in the primary I
hole and securely tighten the knob before operating
this unit.
Primary Hole
Lower Shaft Housing
Fig.10
WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury and
damage to the unit, shut the unit off before
removtng or installing add-ons.
Installing the Cutting Attachment or Add-On
NOTE: Place the unit on the ground or on a work bench to
make add-on installation or removal easier.
1. Turn knob counterclockwise to loosen (Fig. 9).
EZ-LinkTM Coupler Release Button
Guide Recess
Fig. g
90° Edging Hole
(Trimmer Only)
Knob
Fig. 11
hole only. Using the wrong hole could lead to
CAUTION: Add-ons are to be used in the primary I
personal injury or damage to the unit.
For edging (when using the line head cutting attachment with
EZ-Link TM models), lock the release button of the cutting
attachment into the 90° edging hole (Fig. 11).
I
I
HOLDING THE TRIMMER
WARNING: Always wear eye, hearing, foot and
body protection to reduce the risk of injury when
operating this unit.
Before operating the unit, stand in
the operating position (Fig. 12).
Check for the following:
• The operator is wearing eye
protection and proper clothing
• With a slightly-bent right arm, the
operator's right hand is holding the
shaft grip
• The operator's left arm is straight,
the left hand holding the assist
handle
• The unit is at waist level
• The cutting attachment is parallel to
the ground and easily contacts the
grass without the need to bend over
Fig. 12
WARNING: Do not remove or alter the line cutting
blade assembly. Excessive line length will make the
clutch overheat, This may lead to serious personal
injury or damage to the unit.
ADJUSTING TRIMMING LINE LENGTH
The Bump Head TM cutting attachment allows you to release
trimming line without stopping the engine. To release more line,
lightly tap the cutting attachment on the ground (Fig. 13) while
operating the trimmer at high speed.
NOTE: Always keep the trimming line fully extended. Line release
becomes more
difficult as the cutting
linebecomes shorter.
Each time the head is
bumped, about 1 inch
(25.4 mm) of trimming
line is released. A blade .,_+
in the cutting attachment
shield will cut the line to
the proper length if Fig. 13
excess line is released.
For best results, tap the Bump Head TM on bare ground or hard
soil. If line release is attempted in tall grass, the engine may
stall. Always keep the trimming line fully extended. Line release
becomes more difficult as the cutting line becomes shorter.
NOTE: Do not rest the Bump Head TM on the ground while the
unit is running.
Some line breakage will occur from:
• Entanglement with foreign matter
• Normal line fatigue
• Attempting to cut thick, stalky weeds
• Forcing the line into objects such as walls or fence posts
TIPS FOR BEST TRIMMING RESULTS
• For best trimming results, operate unit at full throttle.
• Keep the cutting attachment parallel to the ground.
• Do not force the cutting attachment. Allow the tip of the line to do
the cutting, especially along walls. Cutting with more than the tip
will reduce cutting efficiency and may overload the engine.
• Cut grass over 8 inches (200 mm) by working from top to bottom
in small increments to avoid premature linewear or engine drag.
• Cutting from right to left improves the unit's cutting efficiency.
Clippings are thrown away from the operator.
• Slowly move the trimmer into and out of the cutting area at the
desired height. Move either in a forward-backward or side-to-
side motion. Cutting shorter lengths produces the best results.
• Trim only when grass and weeds are dry.
• The life of your cutting line is dependent upon proper
adherence of explained trimming techniques, what
vegetation is cut, and where vegetation is cut.
For example, the line will wear faster when trimming against a
foundation wall as opposed to trimming around a tree.
DECORATIVE TRIMMING
Decorative trimming is
accomplished by removing all
vegetation around trees, posts, x
fences and more.
Rotate the whole unit so that the
cutting attachment is at a 30+
angle to the ground (Fig. 14).
Fig. 14