Weed Eater 530163351 User Manual

R Trademark

Please do not return unit to retailer.
Por favor, no devuelva el aparato al lugar de compra.
Veuillez ne pas retourner l’outil au détaillant.

1-800-554-6723

www.weedeater.com

Instruction Manual

Manual de Instrucciones

Manuel d’Ins truc tions

BC2500 LE

ENGLISH ESPAÑOL

For Occasional Use Only

WARNING:

Read and follow all Safety Rules and Operating Instructions before
using this product. Failure to do so can result in serious injury .

ADVERTENCIA:

Lea el manual de instrucciones y siga todas las advertencias e
instrucciones de seguridad. El no hacerlo puede resultar en le­siones graves.

AVERTISSEMENT:

Lire le manuel d’instructions et bien respecter tous les avertisse­ments et toutes les instructions de sécurité. T out défaut de le
faire pourrait entraîner des blessures graves.

Electrolux Home Products, Inc.
250 Bobby Jones Expressway
Augusta, GA 30907

Copyright E2002 Electrolux Home Products, Inc.

530163351 11/ 20 / 02

FRANÇAIS

SAFETY RULES

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WARNING: When using gardening

appliances, basic safety precautions must al­ways be followed to reduce the risk of fire and
serious injury.

DANGER: This power tool can be

dangerous! This unit can cause serious injury
including amputation or blindness to the op­erator and others. The warnings and safety
instructions in this manual must be followed to
provide reasonable safety and efficiency in
using the unit. The operator is responsible for
following the warnings and instructions in this
manual and on the unit. Read the entire in­struction manual before assembling and us­ing the unit! Restrict the use of this unit to per­sons who read, understand, and follow the
warnings and instructions in this manual and
on the unit. Never allow children to operate
this unit.

INSTRUCTION
MANUAL

DANGER: Blade can thrust violently

away from material it does not cut. Blade
thrust can cause amputation of arms or legs.
Keep people and animals 50 feet (15 meters)
away.

WARNING: Trimmer line can throw

objects violently. You and others can be
blinded or injured. Wear safety glasses and
leg protection.

SWEAR:

Protection

Leg Guards

Boots

WARNING: Hazard zone for thrown

objects. Blade/trimmer line can throw objects
violently. Others can be blinded or injured.
Keep people and animals 50 feet (15 meters)
away.

SAFETY INFORMATION
ON THE UNIT

Eye

Thrown
Objects

Hazard Zone

50 Feet

(15 Meters)

WARNING: Do not use trimmer head

as a fastening device for the blade.

WARNING: The blade continues to

spin after the throttle is released or, engine is
turned off. The coasting blade can throw objects
or seriously cut if accidentally touched. Stop the
blade by contacting the right hand side of the
coasting blade with material already cut.

OPERATOR SAFETY

S Dress properly. Always wear safety

glasses or similar eye protection when op­erating, or performing maintenance on your
unit. (Safety glasses are available.) Eye
protection should be marked Z87.

S Always wear face or dust mask if operation

is dusty.

S Always wear heavy, long pants, long sleeves,

boots, and gloves. Wearing safety leg guards
is recommended.

S Always wear foot protection. Do not go

barefoot or wear sandals.

S Secure hair above shoulder length. Secure

or remove loose clothing and jewelry or cloth­ing with loosely hanging ties, straps, tassels,
etc. They can be caught in moving parts.

S Being fully covered also helps protect you

from debris and pieces of toxic plants
thrown by spinning line/blade.

S Stay alert. Do not operate unit when you are

tired, ill, upset or under influence of alcohol,
drugs, or medication. Watch what you are do­ing; use common sense.

S Wear hearing protection.
S Never start or run the engine inside a

closed room or building. Breathing exhaust
fumes can kill.

Stop coasting
blade by contact
with cut material.

2

S Keep handles free of oil and fuel.
S Always use the handlebar and a properly

adjusted shoulder strap with a blade (see
ASSEMBLY).

UNIT/MAINTENANCE SAFETY

WARNING: Stop unit anddisconnect

the spark plug before performing mainte­nance (except carburetor adjustments).

S Look for and replace damaged or loose

parts before each use. Look for and repair
fuel leaks before use. Keep unit in good
working condition.

S Throw away blades that are bent, warped,

cracked, broken, or damaged in any other
way. Replace trimmer head parts that are
cracked, chipped, broken, or damaged in
any other way before using the unit.

S Maintain unit according to recommended

procedures. Keep blade sharp. Keep cut­ting line at the proper length.

S Use only 0.080″ (2 mm) diameter Weed

Eater® brand replacement line. Never use
wire, rope, string, etc.

S Install required shield properly before using

the unit. Use the metal shield for all metal
blade use. Use the plastic shield for all line
trimmer use.

S Use only specified blade or trimmer head;

make sure it is properly installed and se­curely fastened.

S Never start engine with clutch shroud re-

moved. The clutch can fly off and cause se­rious injury.

S Be sure blade ortrimmer head stops turning

when engine idles.

S Make carburetor adjustments with the low-

er end supported to prevent blade or trim­mer line from contacting any object. Hold
unit by hand; do not use the shoulder strap
for support.

S Keep others away when making carburetor

adjustments.

S Use only recommended Weed Eaterr ac-

cessories and replacement parts.

S Have all maintenance and service not ex-

plained in this manual performed by your
authorized service dealer.

FUEL SAFETY

S Mix and pour fuel outdoors.
S Keep away from sparks or flames.
S Use a container approved for fuel.
S Do not smoke or allow smoking near fuel or

the unit or while using the unit.

S Avoid spilling fuel or oil. Wipe up all fuel

spills before starting engine.

S Move at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from

the fueling site before starting engine.

S Stop engine and allow it to cool before re-

moving fuel cap.

S Empty the fuel tank before storing or trans-

porting the unit. Use up fuel left in the car­buretor by starting the engine and letting it
run until it stops.

S Store unit and fuel in area where fuelvapors

cannot reach sparks or open flames from
water heaters, electric motors or switches,
furnaces, etc.

S Always store gasoline in a container ap-

proved for flammable liquids.

CUTTING SAFETY

WARNING: Inspect the area to be

cut before each use. Remove objects (rocks,
broken glass, nails, wire, string, etc.) which
can be thrown or become entangled in the
blade or trimmer head.
S Keep others including children, animals,

bystanders, and helpers at least 50 feet (15
meters) away. Stop engine immediately if
you are approached.

S Always keep engine on the right--hand side

of your body.

S Hold the unit firmly with both hands.
S Keep firm footing and balance. Do not

overreach.

S Keep blade or trimmer head below waist level.

Do not raise engine above your waist.

S Keep all parts of your body away from

blade, trimmer head, and muffler when en­gine is running. Keep all of your body away
from the muffler when it is hot. A hot muffler
can cause serious burns.

S Cut from your left to your right. Cutting on

right side of the shield will throw debris
away from the operator.

S Use only in daylight or good artificial light.
S Use only for jobs explained in this manual.

TRANSPORTING AND STORAGE

S Stop the unit before carrying.
S Keep muffer away from your body.
S Allow the engine to cool and secure the unit

before storing or transporting it in a vehicle.

S Empty the fuel tank before storing or trans-

porting the unit. Use up fuel left in the carbu­retor by starting the engine and letting it run
until it stops.

S Store unit so the blade or line limiter blade

cannot accidentally cause injury. The unit
can be hung by the tube.

S Store unit out of reach of children.

SAFETY NOTICE: Exposure to vibrations

through prolonged use of gasoline powered
hand tools could cause blood vessel or nerve
damage in the fingers, hands, and joints of
people prone to circulation disorders or abnor­mal swellings. Prolonged use in cold weather
has been linked to blood vessel damage in
otherwise healthy people. If symptoms occur
such as numbness, pain, loss of strength,
change in skin color or texture, or loss of feeling
in the fingers, hands, or joints, discontinue the
use of this tool and seek medical attention. An
anti- -vibration system does not guarantee the
avoidance of these problems. Users who oper­ate power tools on a continual and regular basis
must monitor closely their physical condition
and the condition of this tool.

SPECIAL NOTICE: This unit is equipped

with a temperature limiting muffler and spark
arresting screen which meets the require­ments of California Codes 4442 and 4443. All
U.S. forest land and the states of California,
Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, New Jersey, Ore­gon, and Washington require by law that
many internal combustion engines be
equipped with a spark arresting screen. If you

3

operate in a locale where such regulations ex­ist, you are legally responsible for maintaining
the operating condition of these parts. Failure
to do so is a violation of the law. For normal
homeowner use, the muffler and spark arrest­ing screen will not require any service.

ASSEMBLY

CARTON CONTENTS

Check carton contents against the following
list:

S Brushcutter
S Handlebar screws (2)
S Blade shield screws (4)
S Cupped washer
S Large nut for installing blade
S Long hex wrench
S Short hex wrench
S Bracket cover
S Metal shield
S Plastic shield
S Shoulder strap with warning
S 4--point weed blade
S Trimmer head (assembled on unit)
S Handlebar
S Wing nut (screwed onto shield)
S Container of oil

WARNING: Always stop unit and dis-

connect spark plug before performing any as­sembly procedures.

WARNING: If received assembled,

repeat all steps to ensure your unit is properly
assembled and all fasteners are secure.

Examine parts for damage. Do not use dam­aged parts.

NOTE: If you need assistance or find parts

missing or damaged, call 1-800-554-6723.
It is normal for the fuel filter to rattle in the

empty fuel tank.
Finding fuel or oil residue on muffler is normal
due to carburetor adjustments and testing
done by the manufacturer.

TOOLS REQUIRED

S 2 Hex wrenches (provided)
S Adjustable wrench or large pliers
S Phillips screwdriver

ATTACHING THE HANDLEBAR

WARNING: During blade usage, the

barrier portion of the handlebar must be
installed as shown to provide a barrier be­tween operator and the spinning blade.

1. Locate the decal on the handlebar. This
decal includes two arrows. Position the
handlebar with the mounting bracket be­tween these arrows.

2. Position the bracket cover over the han­dlebar. Again make sure the handlebar is
between the arrows.

3. Insert screws and hand tighten only. Be
sure the handlebar is installed correctly;
then, tighten each screw securely with
the short hex wrench.

After 50 hours of use, we recommend that
your muffler be serviced or replaced by your
authorized service dealer.

WARNING: The muffler on this prod-

uct contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer.

Screw

Handlebar

Bracket Cover

Mounting
Bracket

ASSEMBLY OF SHOULDER STRAP

WARNING: Proper shoulder strap

and handlebar adjustments must be made with
the engine completely stopped before using
unit.

1. Insert your right arm and head through
the shoulder strap and allow it to rest on
your left shoulder. Make sure the danger
sign is on your back and the hook is to the
right side of your waist.

NOTE: A one-half twist is built in the shoul-

der strap to allow the strap to rest flat on the
shoulder.

2. Adjust the strap, allowing the hook to be
about 6 inches below the waist.

3. Fasten the strap hook to the clamp located
between the trigger handle and the handle­bar clamp base and lift the tool to the oper ­ating position.

4. Try on shoulder strap and adjust for fit
and balance before starting the engine or
beginning a cutting operation.

NOTE: It may be necessary to relocate the

shoulder strap clamp on the shaft for proper
balancing of unit.

TO RELOCATE SHOULDER STRAP
CLAMP:

1. Loosen and remove both clamp screws.

2. Place the upper shoulder strap clamp
over the tube.

3. Position the lower shoulder strap clamp
under the tube and align the upper and
lower clamp screw holes.

Upper Shoulder
Strap Clamp

Lower Shoulder
Strap Clamp

Screws

4

4. Insert two screws into the screw holes.

5. Secure shoulder strap clamp by tighten­ing screws with a hex wrench.

HARNESS

ADJUSTMENT

FOR BALANCE

6 inches
below
waist

30 inches

30 inches

4--12
inches
above
ground

blade nut by turning clockwise. Remove the
screwdriver. Remove both washers and blade.
T o remove metal shield, loosen and remove the
four mounting screws. See ATT ACHING THE
METAL SHIELD and INSTALLA TION OF THE
METALBLADE for illustrations. Be sure to store
all parts and instructions for future use.

ATTACHING THE PLASTIC SHIELD
AND TRIMMER HEAD

WARNING: The shield must be prop-

erly installed. The shield provides partial
protection to the operator and others from the
risk of thrown objects, and is equipped with a
line limiter blade which cuts excess line to the
proper length. The line limiter blade (on un­derside of shield) is sharp and can cut you.

1. Remove wing nut from shield.

2. Insert bracket into slot on shield.

3. Pivot shield until bolt passes through hole
in bracket.

4. Tighten the wing nut securely.

NOTE: If your unit has a plastic cover over the

threads on the threaded shaft, remove the cov ­ering to expose the threads. Before installing
the trimmer head, make sure the dust cup and
retaining washer are positioned on the gearbox
as shown below.

Bracket

Slot

Wing Nut

CONFIGURING YOUR UNIT

You can configure your unit using a cutting
head for grass and light weeds, or a weed
blade for cutting grass, weeds, and brush up
to 1/2 inch in diameter. To assemble your unit,
go to the section for the desired configuration
and follow the instructions.

ASSEMBLY INFORMATION -­TRIMMER HEAD

TRIMMER
HEAD

NOTE: Remove the blade and metal shield

before attaching the plastic shield and trimmer
head. To rem ove blade, align hole in the dust
cup with the hole in the side of the gearbox by
rotating the blade. Insert a small screwdriver
into aligned holes. This will keep the shaft from
turning while loosening the blade nut. Remove

Shield

NOTE: Make sure all parts are properly

installed as shown in the illustration before
installing the trimmer head.

5. Align hole in the dust cup with the hole in

6. Insert a small screwdriver into aligned

Screwdriver

7. While holding the screwdriver in position,

NOTE: The retaining washer must be posi-

tioned with the raised section facing toward the
gearbox.

Gearbox

Dust Cup

Retaining Washer

the side of the gearbox by rotating the
dust cup.

holes. This will keep the shaft from turn­ing while tightening trimmer head.

thread trimmer head onto the shaft in the
direction shown on the decal (counter­clockwise). Tighten until secure.

5

ASSEMBLY INFORMATION -- WEED
BLADE

WEED
BLADE

NOTE: Remove the trimmer head and plastic

shield before attaching the metal shield and
installing the weed blade. To remove the trim­mer head, align hole in the dust cup with the hole
in the side of the gearbox by rotating the dust
cup. Insert a small screwdriver into aligned
holes. This will keep the shaft from turning while
loosening the trimmer head. Remove the trim­mer head by turning clockwise. Remove the
screwdriver. To remove the plastic shi eld, loos­en and remove wing nut. Pivot shield to release
bracket from slot. See I NSTALLATION O F
THECUTTINGHEADand ATTACHINGTHE
PLASTIC SHIELD for illustrations. Be sure to
store all parts and instructions for future use.
Never use the trimmer head with the metal
blade installed.

ATTACHING THE METAL SHIELD

WARNING: The metal shield must

be properly installed on the tool anytime the
tool is used with a blade. The forward tip of the
metal shield helps to reduce the occurrence
of blade thrust which can cause serious injury
such as amputation to the operator or by­standers. Failure to install the shield in the
position shown can result in serious injury to
the operator. The length of the shield must be
aligned with the length of the tube.

1. Place the metal shield under the gearbox,
and align the screw holes.

INSTALLATION OF THE METAL
BLADE

WARNING: Wear protective gloves

when handling or performing maintenance on
the blade to avoid injury. The blade is sharp and
can cut you even when it is not moving.

WARNING: Do not use any blades, or

fastening hardware other than the washers and
nuts shown in the following illustrations. These
parts must be provided by Poulan/Weed Eater
and installed as shown below. Failure to use
proper parts can cause the blade to fly off and
seriously hurt you or others.

NOTE: The dust cup and retaining washer are

located on the gearbox shaft and not in the parts
bag. All other fasteners mentioned in the follow­ing assembly steps are in the parts bag.

1. Remove the retaining washer from the
threaded shaft of the gearbox. Leave the
dust cup on the shaft.

2. Install the blade and the retaining washer
over the threaded shaft.

3. Make sure the raised part of the retaining
washer is facing the gearbox and the
raised area fits into the hole in the center
of the blade.

4. Slide the blade and retaining washer onto
the shaft of the gearbox.

5. Place the cupped washer onto the shaft.
Make sure the cupped side of the washer
is toward the blade.

6. Install the blade nut by threading onto the
shaft counterclockwise.

Gearbox

Shield

Dust Cup

Threaded Shaft

Gearbox

Shield

2. Insert and thread the 4 mounting screws
through the holes of the gearbox and the
metal shield. Tighten evenly and secure­ly with the hex wrench provided.

Retaining
Washer

Cupped
Washer

NOTE: Make sure all parts are in place as il-

lustrated, and the blade is sandwiched between
the dust cup and the retaining washer. There
should be no space between the blade and the
dust cup or the retaining washer.

7. Align hole in dust cup with hole in side of
gearbox by rotating the blade.

Blade

Nut

6

8. Insert a small screwdriver into aligned
holes. This will keep the shaft from turn­ing while tightening the blade nut.

Screwdriver

9. TIghten blade nut firmly with a wrench while
holding screwdriver in position.

10. Remove the screwdriver.

11. Turn blade by hand. If the blade binds
against the shield, or appears to be uneven,
the blade is not centered, and you must re­install.

NOTE: T o remove blade, insert screwdriver

into aligned holes. Unthread the nut and re­move parts. Be sure to store parts and instruc­tions for future use.

OPERATION

KNOW YOUR BRUSHWACKER

READ THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING YOUR UNIT.

Compare the illustrations with your unit to familiarize yourself with the location of the various controls

and adjustments. Save this manual for future reference.

Trigger Handle

Handlebar

Trimmer head

Shield

ON/OFF SWITCH

TheON/OFFswitchisusedtostoptheengine.
T ostop the engine, move the ON/OFF switch to
the OFF position.

ON/OFF

Switch

PRIMER BULB

The PRIMER BULB removes air from the car­buretor and fuel lines and fills them with fuel.
This allows you to start the engine with fewer
pulls on the starter rope. Activate the primer
bulb by pressing it and allowing it to return to
its original form.

BEFORE STARTING ENGINE

WARNING: Be sure to read the fuel

information in the safety rules before you be­gin. If you do not understand the safety rules,
do not attempt to fuel your unit. Call
1-800-554-6723.

FUELING ENGINE

WARNING: Remove fuel cap slowly

when refueling.
This engine is certified to operate on un-

leaded gasoline. Before operation, gasoline
must be mixed with a good quality synthetic
2-cycle air-cooled engine oil. We recommend

Poulan/Weed Eater brand synthetic oil. Mix

gasoline and oil at a ratio of 40:1 . A 40:1 ratio

Starter Handle

Choke
Lever

Muffler

Primer Bulb

CHOKE

The CHOKE helps to supply fuel to the engine
toaidincoldstarting.Activatethechokeby
moving the choke lever to the FULL CHOKE
position. After the engine attempts to start, move
the choke lever to the HALF CHOKE position.
Once engine has started, move the choke lever
to the OFF CHOKE position.

is obtained by mixing 3.2 ounces (95 ml) of oil
with 1 gallon (4 liters) of unleaded gasoline.

DO NOT USE automotive oil or boat oil.
These oils will cause engine damage. When
mixing fuel, follow instructions printed on con­tainer. Once oil is added to gasoline, shake
container momentarily to assure that the fuel
is thoroughly mixed. Always read and follow
the safety rules relating to fuel before fueling
your unit.

IMPORTANT

Experience indicates that alcohol blended
fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or
methanol) can attract moisture which leads to
separation and formation of acids during stor­age. Acidic gas can damage the fuel system
of an engine while in storage.

7

To avoid engine problems, empty the fuel sys-

A

LWA

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tem before storage for 30 days or longer.
Drain the gas tank, start the engine and let it
run until the fuel lines and carburetor are
empty. Use fresh fuel next season.
Never use engine or carburetor cleaner prod­ucts in the fuel tank or permanent damage
may occur.
See the STORAGE section for additional in­formation.

HOW TO STOP YOUR UNIT

S To stop the engine, move the ON/OFF

switch to the OFF position.

S If engine does not stop, move choke lever

to FULL CHOKE position.

ON/OFF Switch

Throttle Trigger

HOW TO START YOUR UNIT

WARNING: The trimmer head will

turn while starting the engine. Avoid any con­tact with the muffler. A hot muffler can cause
serious burns.

STARTING A COLD ENGINE (or a
warm engine after running out of
fuel)

Starting Position

Starter Handle

Choke
Lever

Primer Bulb

1. Set unit on a flat surface.

2. Move the ON/OFF switch to the ON posi­tion.

3. Slowly press the primer bulb 6 times.

4. Move choke lever to the FULL CHOKE
position.

5. Squeeze the throttle trigger fully and hold
through all remaining steps.

6. Pull starter rope handle sharply until en­gine sounds as if it is trying to start, but do
not pull rope more than 6 times.

7. As soon as engine sounds as if it is trying
to start, move choke lever to the HALF
CHOKE position.

8. Pull starter rope sharply until engine runs,
but no more than 6 pulls. If the engine
doesn’t start after 6 pulls (at the HALF
CHOKE position), move the choke lever to

Muffler

the FULL CHOKE position and press the
primer bulb 6 times. Squeeze and hold the
throttle trigger and pull the starter rope 2
more times. Move the choke lever to the
HALF CHOKE position and pull the starter
rope until the engine runs, but no more than

NOTE: If engine still doesn’t start,

6 pulls.
it is probably flooded. Proceed to START­ING A FLOODED ENGINE.

9. Once the engine starts, allow it to run 10 se­conds, then move the choke lever to the
OFF CHOKE position. Allow the unit to run
for 30 more seconds at OFF CHOKE be­fore releasing the throttle trigger.
engine dies with the choke lever in the OFF
CHOKE position, move the choke lever to
the HALF CHOKE position and pull the
rope until engine runs, but no more than 6
pulls.

STARTING A WARM ENGINE

1. Move ON/OFF switch to the ON position.

2. Move the choke lever to the HALF
CHOKE position.

3. Squeeze and hold the throttle trigger.
Keep throttle trigger fully squeezed until
the engine runs smoothly.

4. Pull starter rope sharply until engine runs,
but no more than 5 pulls.

5. Allow engine to run 15 seconds, then
move the choke lever to the OFF CHOKE
position.

NOTE: If engine has not started, pull starter

rope 5more pulls. If engine still does not run, it
is probably flooded.

STARTING A FLOODED ENGINE

Flooded engines can be started by placing
the choke lever in the OFF CHOKE position;
then, pull the rope to clear the engine of ex­cess fuel. This could require pulling the starter
handle many times depending on how badly
the unit is flooded.
If the unit still doesn’t start, refer to
TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE or call
1-800-554-6723.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

It is recommended that the engine not be
operated for longer than 1 minute at full
throttle.

NOTE: If

OPERATING POSITION

SWEAR:

Eye Protection

Long Pants

Boots

Cut from your left to your right.

8

When operating unit, clip shoulder strap onto
clamp, stand as shown and check for the fol­lowing:

S Wear eye protection and heavy clothing.
S Extend your left arm and hold handlebar

grip with your left hand.

S Hold throttle grip with your right hand with

finger on throttle trigger.

S Keep unit below waist level.
S Keep shoulder strap pad centered on your

left shoulder and danger sign centered on
your back.

S Maintain full weight of tool on your left

shoulder.

S Without bending over, keep the blade or

trimmer head near and parallel to the ground
and not crowded into material being cut.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR
USE WITH TRIMMER HEAD

WARNING: Always wear eye protec-

tion. Never lean over the trimmer head. Rocks
or debris can ricochet or be thrown into eyes
and face and cause blindness or other serious
injury.

Before trimming, bring engine toa speed suffi­cient to cut material to be trimmed.
Do not run the engine at a higher speed than
necessary. The cutting line will cut efficiently
when the engine is run at less than full throttle.
At lower speeds, there is less engine noise and
vibration. The cutting line will last longer and will
be less likely to “weld” onto the spool.
Always release the throttle trigger and allow
the engine to return to idle speed when not
cutting.
To stop engine:

S Release the throttle trigger.
S Move the ON/OFF switch to the ON posi-

tion.

TRIMMER LINE ADVANCE

The trimmer line will advance approximately 2
in. (5 cm) each time the bottom of the trimmer
head is tapped on the ground with the engine
running at full throttle.
The most efficient line length is the maximum
length allowed by the line limiter.Always keep
the shield in place when the tool is being oper­ated.
To advance line:

S Operate the engine at full throttle.
S Hold the trimmer head parallel to and above

the grassy area.

S Tap the bottom of the trimmer head lightly on

the ground one time. Approximately 2 in. (5

cm) of line will be advanced with each tap.
Always tap the trimmer head on a grassy
area. Tapping on surfaces such as concrete
or asphalt can cause excessive wear to the
trimmer head.If the line is worn down to 2
inches (5 cm) or less, more than one tap will
be required to obtain the most efficient line
length.

WARNING: Use only 0.080″ (2 mm)

diameter line. Other sizes of line will not ad­vance properly and can cause serious injury.
Do not use other materials such as wire,
string, rope, etc. Wire can break off during
cutting and become a dangerous missile that
can cause serious injury.

CUTTING METHODS

WARNING: Use minimum speed

and do not crowd the line when cutting around
hard objects (rock, gravel, fence posts, etc.),
which can damage thetrimmer head, become
entangled in the line, or be thrown causing a
serious hazard.
S The tip of the line does the cutting. You will

achieve the best performance and mini­mum line wear by not crowding the line into
the cutting area. The right and wrong ways
are shown below.

S The line will easily remove grass and

weeds fromaround walls, fences, trees and
flower beds, but it also can cut the tender
bark of trees or shrubs and scar fences.

S For trimming or scalping, use less than full

throttle to increase line life and decrease
head wear, especially:

S During light duty cutting.
S Near objects around which the line can

wrap such as small posts, trees or fence
wire.

S For mowing or sweeping, use full throttle for

a good clean job.

TRIMMING -- Hold the bottom of the trimmer
head about 3 in. (8 cm) above the ground and
at an angle. Allow only the tip of the line to
make contact. Do not force trimmer line into
work area.

Trimming

SCALPING -- The scalping technique removes

unwanted vegetation down to the ground. Hold
the bottom of the trimmer head about 3 in. (8
cm) above the ground and at an angle. Allow the
tip of the line to strike the ground around trees,
posts, monuments, etc. This technique in­creases line wear.

9

MOWING -- Your trimmer is ideal for mowing
in places conventional lawn mowers cannot
reach. In the mowing position, keep the line
parallel to the ground. Avoid pressing the
head into the ground as this can scalp the
ground and damage the tool.

SWEEPING -- The fanning action of the rotating
line can be used to blow away loose debris from
an area. Keep the line parallel to and above the
area surface and swing the tool from side to
side.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR
USE WITH WEED BLADE

S Blade Thrust is a reaction that only occurs

when using a bladed unit. This reaction can

cause serious injury such as amputation.

Carefully study this section. It is important that

you understand what causes blade thrust,

how you can reduce the chance of its

occurring, and how you can remain in control

of unit if blade thrust occurs.

S WHAT CAUSES BLADE THRUST -- Blade

Thrust can occur when the spinning blade

contacts an object that it does not cut. This

contact causes the blade to stop for an instant

and then suddenly move or “thrust” away

from the object that was hit. The “thrusting”

reaction can be violent enough to cause the

operator to be propelled in any direction and

lose control of the unit. The uncontrolled unit

can cause serious injury if the blade contacts

the operator or others.

S WHEN BLADE THRUST OCCURS --

Blade Thrust can occur without warning if

the blade snags, stalls, or binds. This is
more likely to occur in areas where it is
difficult to see the material being cut. By
using the unit properly, the occurrence of
blade thrust will be reduced and the
operator will be less likely to lose control.

S Cut only grass, weeds, and woody brush up

to 1/2 inch in diameter with the weed blade.
Do not let the blade contact material it
cannot cut such as stumps, rocks, fences,
metal, etc., or clusters of hard, woody brush
having a diameter greater than 1/2 inch.

S Keep the blade sharp. A dull blade is more

likely to snag and thrust.

S Cut only at full throttle. The blade will have

maximum cutting power and is less likely to
bind or stall.

S “Feed” the blade deliberately and not too

rapidly. The blade can thrust away if it is fed
too rapidly.

S Cut only from your left to your right. Cutting on

right side of the shield will throw debris away
from the operator.

S Use the shoulder strap and keep a firm grip

on the unit with both hands. A properly
adjusted shoulder strap will support the
weight of the unit, freeing your arms and
hands to control and guide the cutting motion.

S Keep feet comfortably spread apart and

braced for a possible sudden, rapid thrust of
unit. Do not overreach. Keep firm footing and
balance.

S Keep blade below waist level; it will be

easier to maintain control of unit.

S Do not raise theengine above your waist as

the blade can come dangerously close to
your body.

S Do not swing unit with such force that you

are in danger of losing your balance.

Bring the engine to cutting speed before en­tering the material to be cut.If the blade does
not turn when you squeeze the throttle trigger,
make sure tube is fully inserted into the en­gine.

Always release the throttle trigger and allow
engine to return to idle speed when not cut­ting. The blade should not turn while the en­gine is running at idle. If the blade turns atidle,
do not use your unit. Refer to the CARBURE­TOR ADJUSTMENT section or contact your
authorized service dealer.
S Maintain good firm footing while using the

unit. Do this by planting feet firmly in a
comfortable apart position.

S Cut while swinging the upper part of your

body from left to right.

S As you move forward to the next area to cut,

be sure to maintain your balance and
footing.

10

RECOMMENDED CUTTING POSITION

Cut using the 2
o’clock to 4 o’clock
position of the
blade

2 o’clock

4 o’clock

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: Disconnect the spark

plug before performing maintenance except
for carburetor adjustments.

CHECK FOR L OOSE
FASTENERS AND PARTS

S Spark Plug Boot
S Air Filter
S Housing Screws
S Assist Handle Screw
S Debris Shield

CHECK FOR DAMAGED OR
WORN PARTS

Contact an authorized service dealer for re­placement of damaged or worn parts.
S ON/OFF Switch -- Ensure ON/OFF switch

functions properly by moving the switch to

the OFF position. Make sure engine stops;

then restart engine and continue.
S Fuel Tank -- Discontinue use of unit if fuel

tank shows signs of damage or leaks.
S Debris Shield -- Discontinue use of unit if

debris shield is damaged.

INSPECT ANDCLEAN UNIT ANDDE­CALS

S After each use, inspect complete unit for

loose or damaged parts. Clean the unit and

decals using a damp cloth with a mild deter-

gent.
S Wipe off unit with a clean dry cloth.

CLEAN AIR FILTER

A dirty air filter decreases engine perform­ance and increases fuel consumption and
harmful emissions. Always clean after every
5 hours of operation.

1. Clean the cover and the area around it to

keep dirt from falling into the carburetor
chamber when the cover is removed.

2. Remove parts as illustrated.

NOTE: To avoid creating a fire hazard or

producing harmful evaporative emissions, do
not clean filter in gasoline or other flammable
solvent.

WARNING: The operator or others

must not try to clear away cut material with the
engine running or the blade turning to avoid
serious injury. Stop engine and blade before
removing materials wrapped around blade or
tube.

3. Wash the filter in soap and water.

4. Allow filter to dry.

5. Add a few drops of oil to the filter;
squeeze the filter to distribute oil.

6. Replace parts.

Air filter

Screws

Air filter cover

INSPECT MUFFLER AND SPARK
ARRESTING SCREEN

WARNING: The muffler on this prod-

uct contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer.

WARNING: Muffler is very hot during

and after use. Do not touch the muffler or al­low combustible materialsuch as dry grass or
fuel to do so.

As your unit is used, carbon deposits build up
on the muffler and spark arresting screen.
For normal homeowner use, however, the
muffler and spark arresting screen will not re­quire any service.
After 50 hours of use, we recommend that
your muffler be serviced or replaced by your
authorized service dealer.

REPLACE SPARK PLUG

Replace the spark plug each year to ensure
the engine starts easier and runs better. Set
spark plug gap at 0.025 inch. Ignition timing is
fixed and nonadjustable.

1. Twist, then pull off spark plug boot.

2. Remove spark plug from cylinder and
discard.

3. Replace with Champion RCJ-6Y spark
plug and tighten securely with a 3/4 in.
socket wrench.

4. Reinstall the spark plug boot.

11

SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS

REPLACING THE LINE

1. Remove spool by firmly pulling on tap
button.

2. Clean entire surface of hub and spool.

3. Replace with a pre-wound spool, or cut two
lengths of
meter Weed Eaterr brand line.

WARNING: Never use wire, rope,

string, etc., which can break off and become a
dangerous missile.

4. Insert ends of the lines about 1/2 inch (1
cm) into the small holes on the inside of
spool.

Spool

Line exit holes

5. Wind the line evenly and tightly onto the
spool. Wind in the direction of the arrows
found on the spool.

6. Push the lines into the notches, leaving 3
to 5 inches (7 -- 12 cm) unwound.

7. Insert the lines into the the exit holes in
the hub as shown in the illustration.

8. Align the notches with the line exit holes.

9. Push spool into hub until it snaps into
place.

10. Pull the lines extending outside of the hub
to release the lines from the notches.

BLADE REPLACEMENT

Refer to the ASSEMBLY section for blade re­placement instructions and illustrations.

12-1/2 feet of 0.080″ (2 mm) dia-

Small
Holes

Line in Notch

Line in Notch

Hub

CARBURETOR ADJUST MEN T

WARNING: Keep others away when

making idle speed adjustments. The trimmer
head or blade will be spinning during most of
this procedure. Wear your protective equip­ment and observe all safety precautions. Af­ter making adjustments, the trimmer head or
blade must not move/spin at idle speed.

The carburetor has been carefully set at the
factory. Adjustments may be necessary if you
notice any of the following conditions:
S Engine will not idle when the throttle is

released.

S The trimmer head or blade moves/spins at

idle.

Make adjustments with the unit supported so
the cutting attachment is off the ground and
will not make contact with any object. Hold
the unit by hand while running and making ad­justments. Keep all parts of your body away
from the cutting attachment and muffler.

Idle Speed Adjustment

Allow engine to idle. Adjust speed until engine
runs without trimmer head or blade moving or
spinning (idle too fast) or stalling (idle speed
too slow).
S Turn idle speed screw clockwise to

increase engine speed if engine stalls or
dies.

S Turn idle speed screw counterclockwise to

decrease engine speed if trimmer head or
blade moves or spins at idle.

WARNING: Recheck the idle speed

after each adjustment. The trimmer head or
blade must not move or spin at idle speed to
avoid serious injury to the operator or others.

Idle Speed

Screw

Air Filter
Cover

If you require further assistance or are unsure
about performing this procedure, contact an
authorized service dealer or call
1--800--554--6723.

STORAGE

WARNING: Perform the following

steps after each use:
S Allow engine to cool before storing or trans-

porting.

S Store unit and fuel in a well ventilated area

where fuel vapors cannot reach sparks or
open flames from water heaters, electric
motors or switches, furnaces, etc.

S Store unit with all guards in place. Position

unit so that any sharp object cannot acci­dentally cause injury.

S Store unit and fuel well out of the reach of

children.

SEASONAL STORAGE

Prepare unit for storage at end of season or if
it will not be used for 30 days or more.

12

If your unit is to be stored for a period of time:
S Clean the entire unit before lengthy

storage.

S Store in a clean dry area.
S Lightly oil external metal surfaces.

FUEL SYSTEM

Under FUELING ENGINE in the OPERA­TION section of this manual, see message la­beled IMPORTANT regarding the use of ga­sohol in your engine.
Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable alternative in
minimizing the formation of fuel gum deposits
during storage. Add stabilizer to the gasoline
in the fuel tank or fuel storage container. Fol­low the mix instructions found on stabilizer
container. Run engine at least 5 minutes after
adding stabilizer.

ENGINE

S Remove spark plug and pour 1 teaspoon of

40:1, 2-cycle engine oil (air cooled) through
the spark plug opening. Slowly pull the
starter rope 8 to 10 times to distribute oil.

S Replace spark plug with new one of recom-

mended type and heat range.

S Clean air filter.
S Check entire unit for loose screws, nuts,

and bolts. Replace any damaged, broken,
or worn parts.

S At the beginning of the next season, use

only fresh fuel having the proper gasoline to
oil ratio.

OTHER

S Do not store gasoline from one season to

another.

S Replace your gasoline can if it starts to rust.

TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE

WARNING: Always stop unitand disconnect spark plugbefore performing all ofthe

recommended remedies below except remedies that require operation of the unit.

TROUBLE CAUSE REMEDY

Engine will not
start.

Engine will
not idle
properly.

Engine will not
accelerate,
lacks power,
or dies under
a load.

Engine
smokes
excessively.

Engine runs
hot.

1. Engine flooded.

2. Fuel tank empty.

3. Spark plug not firing.

4. Fuel not reaching
carburetor.

5. Carburetor requires
adjustment.

1. Carburetor requires
adjustment.

2. Crankshaft seals worn.

3. Compression low.

1. Air filter dirty.

2. Spark plug fouled.

3. Carburetor requires
adjustment.

4. Carbon build-up on
muffler outlet screen.

5. Compression low.

1. Choke partially on.

2. Fuel mixture incorrect.

3. Air filter dirty.

4. Carburetor requires
adjustment.

1. Fuel mixture incorrect.

2. Spark plug incorrect.

3. Carburetor requires
adjustment.

4. Carbon build-up on
muffler outlet screen.

1. See “Starting a Flooded Engine” in
Operation Section.

2. Fill tank with correct fuel mixture.

3. Install new spark plug.

4. Check for dirty fuel filter; replace.
Check for kinked or split fuel line;
repair or replace.

5. Contact an authorized service dealer.

1. See “Carburetor Adjustment” in
Service and Adjustments Section.

2. Contact an authorized service dealer.

3. Contact an authorized service dealer.

1. Clean or replace air filter.

2. Clean or replace plug
and regap.

3. Contact an authorized service dealer.

4. Contact an authorized service dealer.

5. Contact an authorized service dealer.

1. Adjust choke.

2. Empty fuel tank and refill with
correct fuel mixture.

3. Clean or replace air filter.

4. Contact an authorized service dealer.

1. See “Fueling Engine” in Operation
section.

2. Replace with correct spark plug.

3. Contact an authorized service dealer

.

4. Contact an authorized service dealer.

13

LIMITED WARRANTY

ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.,

warrants to the original purchaser that each
new WeedEaterr brand gasoline tool or at­tachment is free from defects in material and
workmanship and agrees to repair or replace
under this warranty any defective gasoline
product or attachment as follows from the
original date of purchase.
2 YEARS-- Parts and Labor, when used for
household purposes.
90 DAYS -- Parts and Labor, when used for
commercial, professional, or income produc­ing purposes.
30 DAYS -- Parts and Labor, if used for rental
purposes.
This warranty is not transferable and does not
cover damage or liability caused by improper
handling, improper maintenance, or the use
of accessories and/or attachments not spe­cifically recommended by ELECTROLUX
HOME PRODUCTS, INC., for this tool. Addi­tionally, this warranty does not cover tune­ups, spark plugs, filters, cutting line, or rotat­ing head parts that will wear and require
replacement with reasonable use during the
warranty period. This warranty does not cov-

U.S. EPA/CALIFORNIA EMISSION CONTROL

WARRANTY STATEMENT

YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OB­LIGATIONS: The U.S. Environmental

Protection Agency/California Air Resources
Board and ELECTROLUX HOME PROD­UCTS, INC., are pleased to explain the emis­sions control system warranty on your year
2002-- 2004 small off--road engine. In Califor­nia, all new small off--road engines must be
designed, built, and equipped to meet the
State’s stringent anti--smog standards.
ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.,
must warrant the emission control system on
your small off--road engine for the periods of
time listed below provided there has been no
abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance of
your small off--road engine engine. Your emis­sion control system includes parts such as
the carburetor and the ignition system.Where
a warrantable condition exists, ELECTRO­LUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC., will repair
your small off--road engine engine at no cost
to you. Expenses covered under warranty in­clude diagnosis, parts and labor. MANUFAC-
TURER’S WARRANTY COVERAGE: If any
emissions related part on your engine (as
listed under Emissions Control Warranty
Parts List) is defective or a defect in the mate­rials or workmanship of the engine causes the
failure of such an emission related part, the
part will be repaired or replaced by ELEC­TROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC. OWN-

ER’S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:

As the small off-- road engine engine owner,
you are responsible for the performance of
the required maintenance listed in your in­struction manual. ELECTROLUX HOME

er predelivery setup or normal adjustments
explained in the instruction manual.

THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC
LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY HAVE
OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM
STATETOSTATE.NOCLAIMSFORCON­SEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES WILL
BE ALLOWED, AND THERE ARE NO
OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTIES EX­CEPT THOSE EXPRESSLY STIPULATED
HEREIN.
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITA­TIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WAR­RANTY LASTS OR THE EXCLUSION OR
LIMI TATIO NS O F IN CID EN TA L OR C ON­SEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE
LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT
APPLY TO YOU.
The policy of ELECTROLUX HOME PROD-
UCTS, INC., is to continuously improve its
products. Therefore, ELECTROLUX HOME
PRODUCTS, INC., reserves the right to
change, modify, or discontinue models, de­signs, specifications, and accessories of all
products at any time without notice or obliga­tion to any purchaser.

PRODUCTS, INC., recommends that you re­tain all receipts covering maintenance on
your small off-- road engine, but ELECTRO­LUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC., cannot deny
warranty solely for the lack of receipts or for
your failure to ensure the performance of all
scheduled maintenance. As the small off-­road engine engine owner, you should be
aware that ELECTROLUX HOME PROD­UCTS, INC., may deny you warranty cover­age if your small off--road engine engine or a
part of it has failed due to abuse, neglect, im­proper maintenance, unapproved modifica­tions, or the use of parts not made or ap­proved by the original equipment
manufacturer. You are responsible for pres­enting your small off--road engine to an
ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC.,
authorized repair center as soon as aproblem
exists. Warranty repairs should be completed
in a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed
30 days. If you have any questions regarding
your warranty rights and responsibilities, you
should contact your nearest authorized ser­vice center or call ELECTROLUX HOME
PRODUCTS, INC., at 1--800--554--6723.

WARRANTY COMMENCEMENT DATE:

The warranty period begins on the date the
small off-- road engine is purchased.
LENGTH OF COVERAGE: This warranty
shall be for a period of two years from the ini­tial date of purchase. WHAT IS COVERED:

REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF PARTS.

Repair or replacement of any warranted part
will be performed at no charge to the owner at
an approved ELECTROLUX HOME PROD-

14

UCTS, INC., servicing center. If you have any
questions regarding your warranty rights and
responsibilities, you should contact your
nearest authorized service center or call
ELECTROLUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC., at
1--800--554--6723 WARRANTY PERIOD:
Any warranted part which is not scheduled for
replacement as required maintenance, or
which is scheduled only for regular inspection
to the effect of “repair or replace as neces­sary” shall be warranted for 2 years. Any war­ranted part which is scheduled for replace­ment as required maintenance shall be
warranted for the period of time up to the first
scheduled replacement point for that part.
DIAGNOSIS: The owner shall not be
charged for diagnostic labor which leads to
the determination that a warranted part is de­fective if the diagnostic work is performed at
an approved ELECTROLUX HOME PROD­UCTS, INC., servicing center. CONSE-
QUENTIAL DAMAGES: ELECTROLUX
HOME PRODUCTS, INC., may be liable for
damages to other engine components
caused by the failure of a warranted part still
under warranty. WHAT IS NOT COVERED:
All failures caused by abuse, neglect, or im­proper maintenance are not covered. ADD --
ON OR MODIFIED PARTS: The use of add-­on or modified parts can be grounds for

This engine is certified to be emissions compliant for the following use:

Moderate (50 hours)

Intermediate (125 hours)

Extended (300 hours)

disallowing a warranty claim. ELECTROLUX
HOME PRODUCTS, INC., is not liable to
cover failures of warranted parts caused by
the use of add--on or modifiedparts. HOWTO
FILE A CLAIM: If you have any questions re­garding your warranty rights and responsibili­ties, you should contact your nearest autho­rized service center or call ELECTROLUX
HOME PRODUCTS, INC., at
1--800--554--6723. WHERE TO GET WAR-
RANTY SERVICE: Warranty services or re­pairs shall be provided at all ELECTROLUX
HOME PRODUCTS, INC., service centers.
Call: 1--800--554-- 6723 MAINTENANCE,

REPLACEMENT AND REPAIR OF EMIS­SION RELATED PARTS:AnyELECTRO-

LUX HOME PRODUCTS, INC., approved re­placement part used in the performance of
any warranty maintenance or repair on emis­sion related parts will be provided without
charge to the owner if the part is under war­ranty. EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY
PARTS LIST: Carburetor, Ignition System:
Spark Plug (covered up to maintenance
schedule), Ignition Module, Muffler including
catalyst. MAINTENANCE STATEMENT:
The owner is responsible for the performance
of all required maintenance as defined in the
instruction manual.

15