MAKITA EM4250CA (01) PDF MANUAL

Read the instruction manual carefully before putting the Brush Cutter/String Trimmer into operation and strictly observe the safety regulations. Preserve the instruction manual carefully.

To ensure correct operation, the user has to read this instruction manual to make himself familiar with the handling of the Brush Cutter/String trimmer. Users insufficiently informed will risk danger to themselves as well as others due to improper handling.

It is recommended only to lend the Brush Cutter/String trimmer to people who have proven to be experienced with Brush Cutter/String trimmers. Always hand over the instruction manual.

First users should ask the dealer for basic instructions to familiarize oneself with the handling of an engine powered cutter.

Children and young persons aged under 18 years must not be allowed to operate the Brush Cutter/String trimmer. Persons over the age of 16 years may however use the device for the purpose of being trained only whilst under supervision of a qualified trainer.

Use Brush Cutter/String trimmers with the utmost care and attention.

Operate the Brush Cutter/String trimmer only if you are in good physical condition. Perform all work calmly and carefully. The user has to accept liability for others.

Never use the Brush Cutter/String trimmer after consumption of alcohol or drugs, or if feeling tired or ill.

The Brush Cutter/String trimmer is only intended for cutting grass, weeds, bushes, and undergrowth. It should not be used for any other purpose such as edging or hedge cutting as this may cause injury.

The clothing worn should be functional and appropriate, i.e. it should be tight-fitting but not cause hindrance. Do not wear either jewelry or clothing which could become entangled with bushes or shrubs.

In order to avoid either head, eye, hand or foot injuries as well as to protect your hearing, the following protective equipment and protective clothing must be used during operation of the Brush Cutter/String trimmer.

Always wear a helmet where there is a risk of falling objects. The protective helmet (1) is to be checked at regular intervals for damage and is to be replaced at the latest after 5 years. Use only approved protective helmets.

The visor (2) of the helmet (or alternatively goggles) protects the face from flying debris and stones. During operation of the Brush Cutter/String trimmer always wear goggles, or a visor to prevent eye injuries.

Wear adequate noise protection equipment to avoid hearing impairment (ear muffs (3), ear plugs etc.).

The work overalls (4) protect against flying stones and debris. We strongly recommend that the user wears work overalls.

Special gloves (5) made of thick leather are part of the prescribed equipment and must always be worn during operation of the Brush Cutter/String trimmer.

When using the Brush Cutter/String trimmer, always wear sturdy shoes (6) with a non-slip sole. This protects against injuries and ensures a good footing.

Please make sure that there are no children or other people within a working range of 15 meters (49ft), also pay attention to any animals in the working vicinity.

Before use always check that the Brush Cutter/String trimmer is safe for operation:

Check the security of the cutting tool, the control lever for easy action and check for proper functioning of the control lever lock.

Rotation of the cutting tool during idling speed is not allowed. Check with your dealer for adjustment if in doubt. Check for clean and dry handles and test the function of the start/stop switch.

Start the Brush Cutter/String trimmer only in accordance with the instructions. Do not use any other methods for starting the engine!

Use the Brush Cutter/String trimmer and the tools only for such applications as specified.

Only start the Brush Cutter/String trimmer engine after the entire assembly is done. Operation of the device is only permitted after all the appropriate accessories are attached!

Before starting make sure that the cutting tool has no contact with hard objects such as branches, stones etc. as the cutting tool will revolve when starting.

The engine is to be switched off immediately in case of any engine problems.

Should the cutting tool hit stones or other hard objects, immediately switch off the engine and inspect the cutting tool.

Inspect the cutting tool at short regular intervals for damage (detection of hairline cracks by means of tapping-noise test).

Operate the Brush Cutter/String trimmer only with the shoulder strap attached which is to be suitably adjusted before putting the Brush Cutter/String trimmer into operation. It is essential to adjust the shoulder strap according to the user’s size to prevent fatigue occurring during use. Never hold the cutter with one hand during use.

During operation always hold the Brush Cutter/String trimmer with both hands. Always ensure a safe footing.

Operate the Brush Cutter/String trimmer in such a manner as to avoid inhalation of the exhaust gases. Never run the engine in enclosed rooms (risk of gas poisoning). Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas.

Switch off the engine when resting and when leaving the Brush Cutter/String trimmer unattended, and place it in a safe location to prevent danger to others or damage to the machine.

Never put the hot Brush Cutter/String trimmer onto dry grass or onto any combustible materials.

The cutting tool has to be equipped with its appropriate guard. Never run the cutter without this guard!

All protective installations and guards supplied with the machine must be used during operation.

Never operate the engine with a faulty exhaust muffler.

Shut off the engine during transport.

During transport over long distances the tool protection included with the equipment must always be used.

Ensure safe position of the Brush Cutter/String trimmer during car transportation to avoid fuel leakage.

When transporting the Brush Cutter/String trimmer, ensure that the fuel tank is completely empty.

When unloading the Brush Cutter/String trimmer from the truck, never drop the Engine to the ground or this may severely damage the fuel tank.

Except in case of emergency, never drop or cast the Brush Cutter/String trimmer to the ground or this may severely damage the Brush Cutter/String trimmer.

Remember to lift the entire equipment from the ground when moving the equipment. Dragging the fuel tank is highly dangerous and will cause damage and leakage of fuel, possibly causing fire.

Shut off the engine during refueling, keep away from open flames and do not smoke.

Avoid skin contact with mineral oil products. Do not inhale fuel vapor. Always wear protective gloves during refueling. Change and clean protective clothing at regular intervals.

Take care not to spill either fuel or oil in order to prevent soil contamination (environmental protection). Clean the Brush Cutter/String trimmer immediately after fuel has been spilt.

Avoid any fuel contact with your clothing. Change your clothing instantly if fuel has been spilt on it (to prevent clothing catching fire).

Inspect the fuel cap at regular intervals making sure that it can be securely fastened and does not leak.

Carefully tighten the fuel tank cap. Change location to start the engine (at least 3 meters away from the place of refueling).

Never refuel in closed rooms. Fuel vapors accumulate at ground level (risk of explosions).

Only transport and store fuel in approved containers. Make sure the fuel stored is not accessible to children.

Only use the Brush cutter/String trimmer in good light and visibility. During the winter season beware of slippery or wet areas, ice and snow (risk of slipping). Always ensure a safe footing.

Never cut above waist height.

Never stand on a ladder and run the Brush cutter/String trimmer.

Never climb up into trees to perform cutting operation with the Brush cutter/String trimmer.

Never work on unstable surfaces.

Remove sand, stones, nails etc. found within the working range. Foreign particles may damage the cutting tool and can cause dangerous kick-backs.

Before commencing cutting, the cutting tool must have reached full working speed.

Kickback

When operating the brush cutter, uncontrolled kickback may occur. This is particularly the case when attempting to cut within a blade segment between 12 and 2 o’clock. Never apply the brush cutter within a segment between 12 and 2 o’clock. Never apply this segment of the brush cutter blade to solids, such as bushes and trees, etc., having a diameter in excess of 3 cm or the brush cutter will be deflected at great force with the risk of injuries.

Kickback prevention

To avoid kickbacks, observe the following:

Operation within a blade segment between 12 and 2 o’clock presents positive hazards, especially when using metal cutting tools.

Cutting operations within a blade segment between 11 and 12 o’clock, and between 2 and 5 o’clock, must only be performed by trained and experienced operators, and then only at their own risk.

Easy cutting with almost no kickback is possible within a blade segment between 8 and 11 o’clock.

Employ only the correct cutting tool for the job in hand.

For EM4250/EM4250CA and EM4251/EM4251CA models, use a cutter blade (Star Blade (4 teeth), Eddy Blade (8 teeth)) or a Nylon cutting head for cutting thick materials such as weed, high grass, bushes, shrubs, underwood, thicket etc. (max. 2 cm dia. thickness). Perform this cutting work by swinging the brush cutter evenly in half-circles from right to left (similar to using a scythe).

The condition of the cutter, in particular of the cutting tool of the protective devices and also of the shoulder strap must be checked before commencing work. Particular attention is to be paid to the cutting blades which must be correctly sharpened.

Turn off the engine and remove spark plug connector when replacing or sharpening cutting tools, and also when cleaning the cutter or cutting tool.

Never straighten or weld damaged cutting tools.

Operate the Brush cutter/String trimmer with as little noise and contamination as possible. In particular check the correct setting of the carburetor.

Clean the Brush cutter/String trimmer at regular intervals and check that all screws and nuts are well tightened.

Never service or store the Brush cutter/String trimmer in the vicinity of naked flames.

Always store the Brush cutter/String trimmer in locked rooms and with an emptied fuel tank.

Observe the relevant accident prevention instructions issued by the relevant trade associations and by the insurance companies.

Do not perform any modifications on the Brush cutter/String trimmer as this will endanger your safety.

The performance of maintenance or repair work by the user is limited to those activities as described in the instruction manual. All other work is to be done by an Authorized Service Agent. Use only genuine spare parts and accessories released and supplied by MAKITA.

Use of non-approved accessories and tools means increased risk of accidents.

In case of accident make sure that a first-aid box is available in the vicinity of the cutting operations. Immediately replace any item taken from the first aid box.

When asking for help, please give the following information:

Place of accident

What happened

Number of injured persons

Kind of injuries

Your name

1. Fuel Tank

2. Rewind Starter

3. Air Cleaner

4. I-O Switch (on/off)

5. Spark Plug

6. Exhaust Muffler

7. Clutch Case

8. Rear Grip

9. Hanger

10. Handle

11. Control Lever

12. Control Cable

13. Shaft

14. Protector

15. Gear Case/Head Case

16. Handle Holder

17. Cutter Blade

18. Nylon Cutting Head

20. Fuel Filler Cap

21. Starter Knob

24. Exhaust Pipe

25. Oil Gauge

CAUTION: Before doing any work on the brush cutter, always stop the engine and pull the spark plug connector off the spark plug. Always wear protective gloves. Start the brush cutter only after having assembled it completely.

For machines with U Handle models:

– Insert the handle bar into the handle holder, making sure that the boss in the handle holder fits into the hole in the handle.

– After the handle bar is in place, tighten the four bolts (M5 x 25). Be sure the bolts are tight, but do not overtighten.

– Fit the control cable (together with the earth cord) to the handle with two clips (3).

– Avoid any tendency of the control cable to loop at the handle bar.

For machines with Loop Handle models:

– Fix a barrier to the left side of the machine together with the handle for operator’s protection.

– Do not adjust position of the loop handle too close to the control grip. Keep not less than 25cm distance between the handle and the grip. (A distance collar is provided for this purpose.)

To meet the applicable safety provisions, only the tool/protector combinations as indicated in the table must be used. Be sure to use genuine MAKITA cutter blades or nylon cutting head. The appropriate protector must always be installed, for your own safety and in order to comply with accident-prevention regulations. Operation of the equipment without the guard being in place is not permitted.

For EM4250/EM4250CA, EM4251/EM4251CA:

– Install the clamp (3) on the shaft so that the projection of the clamp (3) is inserted into the opening between the gear case (1) and the shaft.

– Secure the protector (4) with the installation bolts M6 x 30 (2) and screw M5 x 8 (5).

Use of protector for metal blade / cord cutter:

– In use of the metal blade, fasten the protector (4) to the clamp (3) with two bolts M6 x 30 (2). Tighten the right and left bolts evenly so that the gap between the clamp (3) and the protector (4) will be constant. Otherwise, the protector sometimes may not function as specified.

– In use of the cord cutter, insert the protector (2) into the protector (1), and fasten them with two screw (4) and two nuts (3).

For EM4250/EM4250CA:

– The outside diameter of the cutter blade must be 230mm (9-1/16″). Never use any blades surpassing 230mm (9-1/16″) in outside diameter.

Turn the machine upside down, and you can replace the cutter blade easily. Always wear gloves when handling the cutter blade.

Mounting the cutter blade (For EM4250/EM4250CA, EM4251/EM4251CA):

1. Insert the hex wrench through the hole in the gear case and rotate the receiver washer (3) until it is locked with the hex wrench.

2. Loosen the nut (1) (left-hand thread) with the socket wrench and remove the nut (1), and clamp washer (2).

3. With the hex wrench still in place, mount the cutter blade onto the shaft so that the guide of the receiver washer (3) fits in the arbor hole in the cutter blade. Make sure that the blade is the left way up.

4. Install the clamp washer (2) and secure the cutter blade with the nut (1). [Tightening torque: 13-23 N-m]

Note: The cutter blade-fastening nut (with spring washer) is a consumable part. If there appears any wear or deformation on the spring washer, replace the nut.

Mounting of nylon cutting head (For EM4251/EM4251CA):

1. To install the nylon cutting head (7), remove the tightening nut (8).

2. Insert the socket-head wrench (11) through the hole in the gear case and turn the support washer until it will be locked with its notch (12) (or the shaft will be locked).

3. Then screw the nylon cutting head onto the shaft by turning it counter-clockwise.

4. Remove the socket-head wrench.

Perform the following procedure with the engine cooled down.

Inspection:

1. While keeping the engine level, remove the oil gauge, and confirm that the oil is filled within the upper and lower limit marks.

2. When the oil is in short in such a way that the oil gauge touches the oil only by its tip (with the oil gauge remaining inserted in the crankcase without screwing-in), refill new oil near the port.

3. If the oil changes in color or mixes with dirt, replace it with new one.

Refill:

1. Keep the engine level, and detach the oil gauge. Keep the detached oil gauge free of sand or dust.

2. Fill oil up to the edge of the oil refill port. Feed oil with the lubricant refill container.

3. Securely tighten the oil gauge. Insufficient tightening may cause oil leakage.

Recommended oil: SAE 10W-30 oil of API Classification, Class SF or higher (4-stroke engine for automobile)

Oil volume: Approx. 0.08L

Note: If the engine is not kept upright, oil may go into around the engine, and may be refilled excessively. If the oil is filled above the limit, the oil may be contaminated or may catch fire with white smoke. If oil spills out between the fuel tank and engine main unit, be sure to wipe out spilt oil before start of operation.

Handling of Fuel:

It is necessary to handle fuel with utmost care. Fuel may contain substances similar to solvents. Refueling must be performed in a sufficiently ventilated room or in the open air. Never inhale fuel vapor, and keep fuel away from you. If you touch fuel repeatedly or for a long time, the skin becomes dry, which may cause skin disease or allergy. If fuel enters into the eye, clean the eye with fresh water. If your eye remains still irritated, consult your doctor.

Storage Period of Fuel:

Fuel should be used up within a period of 4 weeks, even if it is kept in a special container in a well-ventilated shade. If a special container is not used or if the container is not covered, fuel may deteriorate in one day.

Storage of Machine and Refill Tank:

Keep the machine and tank at a cool place free from direct sunshine. Never keep the fuel in the cabin or trunk.

Fuel Type:

The engine is a four-stroke engine. Be sure to use an automobile gasoline (regular gasoline or premium gasoline). Never use a gasoline mixture which contains engine oil, as it will cause excessive carbon accumulation or mechanical troubles. Use of deteriorated oil will cause irregular startup.

Refueling Procedure (WARNING: INFLAMMABLES STRICTLY PROHIBITED):

1. Loosen the tank cap a little so that there will be no difference in atmospheric pressure.

2. Detach the tank cap, and refuel, discharging air by tilting the fuel tank so that the refuel port will be oriented upward. Never refill fuel full to the oil refill port.

3. Wipe well the periphery of the tank cap to prevent foreign matter from entering into the fuel tank.

4. After refueling, securely tighten the tank cap.

If there is any flaw or damage on the tank cap, replace it. The tank cap is consumable, and therefore should be renewed every two to three years.

Attachment of shoulder strap:

Adjust the strap length so that the cutter blade will be kept parallel with the ground.

Detachment:

In an emergency, push the notches (1) at both sides, and you can detach the machine from you. Be extremely careful to maintain control of the machine at this time. Do not allow the machine to be deflected toward you or anyone in the work vicinity. WARNING: Failure to maintain complete control of the machine at all could result in serious bodily injury or DEATH.

For EM4250/EM4250CA:

In case of emergency, remove the emergency detachment lever (2) by pulling strongly with a finger. The machine will detach from body. Be extremely careful to maintain control of the machine at this time. Do not allow the machine to be deflected toward you or anyone in the work vicinity. WARNING: Failure to maintain complete control of the machine at all could result in serious bodily injury or DEATH.

Starting (Cold Start)

Move at least 3m away from the place of refuelling. Place the brush cutter on a clean piece of ground taking care that the cutting tool does not come into contact with the ground or any other objects.

1. Set this machine on a flat space.

2. Set the I-O switch to OPERATION.

3. Close the choke lever. Choke opening should be full closing in cold or when the engine is cold, and full or half opening in restart just after stop of operation.

4. Continue to push the primer pump until fuel enters into it (generally 7 to 10 pushes).

5. Pull the start knob gently until it is hard to pull (compression point). Then, return the start knob, and pull it strongly. Never pull the rope to the full. Once the start knob is pulled, never release your hand immediately. Hold the start knob until it returns to its original point.

6. When the engine starts, open the choke lever progressively while checking the engine operation. Be sure to open the choke lever to the full in the end. In cold or when the engine is cooled down, never open the choke lever suddenly. Otherwise, the engine may stop.

7. Continue warm-up operation for 2 to 3 minutes.

Note: If the starter handle is pulled repeatedly when the choke lever remains at “START” position, the engine will not start easily due to excessive fuel intake. In case of excessive fuel intake, remove the spark plug and pull the starter handle slowly to remove excess fuel. Also, dry the electrode section of the spark plug.

Startup after warm-up operation

1. Push the primer pump repeatedly.

2. Keep the throttle lever at the idling position.

3. Pull the recoil starter strongly.

4. If it is difficult to start the engine, open the throttle by about 1/3. Pay attention to the cutter blade which may rotate.

Stopping

1. Release the throttle lever (6) fully, and when the engine rpm has lowered, set the I-O switch to STOP the engine will now stop.

2. Be aware that the cutting head may not stop immediately and allow it to slow down fully.

Caution during operation: If the throttle lever is opened fully in a no-load operation, the engine rotation is increased to 10,000/min or more. Never operate the engine at a higher speed than required and at an approximate speed of 6,000 – 8,500/min.

When it is necessary to adjust the low-speed rotation (idling), perform it by the carburetor adjusting screw.

Checkup of Low-Speed Rotation:

Set the low-speed rotation to 3000/min. If it is necessary to change the rotation speed, regulate the adjusting screw with a Phillips screwdriver.

Turn the adjusting screw to the right, and the engine rotation will increase. Turn the adjusting screw to the left, and the engine rotation will drop.

The carburetor is generally adjusted before shipment. If it is necessary to readjust it, please contact an Authorized Service Agent.

CAUTION: The cutting tools mentioned below must only be resharpened by an authorized facility. Manual resharpening will result in imbalances of the cutting tool causing vibrations and damage to the equipment.

For the cutter blade (star blade (4 teeth), eddy blade (8 teeth)), an expert resharpening and balancing service is provided by Authorized Service Agents.

NOTE: To increase the service life of the cutter blade (star blade, eddy blade) it may be turned over once, until both cutting edges have become blunt.

Operation:

– Increase the nylon cutting head speed to approx. 6,000/min. Low speed (under 4,800/min) is not suitable, the nylon cord will not feed out properly at low speed.

– The most effective cutting area is shown by the shaded area.

If the nylon cord does not feed out automatically proceed as follows:

1. Release the throttle lever to run the engine idle and then squeeze the throttle lever fully. Repeat this procedure until the nylon cord feeds out to the proper length.

2. If the nylon cord is too short to feed out automatically with the above procedure, bump the knob of the nylon cutting head against the ground to feed out the nylon cord.

3. If the nylon cord does not feed out with procedure 2, rewind/replace the nylon cord.

Replacing the nylon cord:

1. First, stop the engine.

2. Press on the housing latches inward to lift off the cover, then remove the spool.

3. Hook the center of new nylon cord into the notch in the center of the spool, with one end of the cord extending about 80mm (3-1/8″) more than the other.

4. Then wind both ends firmly around the spool in the direction of the head rotation (left-hand direction indicated by LH and right-hand direction by RH on the side of the spool).

5. Wind all but about 100mm (3-15/16″) of the cords, leaving the ends temporarily hooked through a notch on the side of the spool.

6. Mount the spool in the housing so that the grooves and protrusions on the spool match up with those in the housing. Keep the side with letters on the spool visible on the top. Now, unhook the ends of the cord from their temporary position and feed the cords through the eyelets to come out of the housing.

7. Align the protrusion on the underside of the cover with the slots of the eyelets. Then push cover firmly onto the housing to secure it.

CAUTION: Before doing any work on the Brush cutter/Grass trimmer, always stop the engine and pull the plug cap off the spark plug. Always wear protective gloves!

Daily Checkup and Maintenance:

– Before operation, check the machine for loose screws or missing parts. Pay particular attention to the tightness of the cutter blade or nylon cutting head.

– Before operation, always check for clogging of the cooling air passage and the cylinder fins. Clean them if necessary.

– Perform the following work daily after use:

• Clean the Brush cutter/Grass trimmer externally and inspect for damage.

• Clean the air filter. When working under extremely dusty conditions, clean the filter several times a day.

• Check the blade or the nylon cutting head for damage and make sure it is firmly mounted.

• Check that there is sufficient difference between idling and engagement speed to ensure that the cutting tool is at a standstill while the engine is idling (if necessary reduce idling speed). If under idling conditions the tool should still continue to run, consult your nearest Authorized Service Agent.

– Check the functioning of the I-O switch, the lock-off lever, the control lever, and the lock button.

Deteriorated engine oil will shorten the life of the sliding and rotating parts to a great extent. Be sure to check the period and quantity of replacement.

ATTENTION: In general, the engine main unit and engine oil still remain hot just after the engine is stopped. In replacement of oil, confirm that the engine main unit and engine oil are sufficiently cooled down. Otherwise, there may remain a risk of scald.

Interval of replacement: Initially, every 20 operating hours, and subsequently every 50 operating hours.

Recommended oil: SAE10W-30 oil of API Classification SF Class or higher (4-stroke engine oil for automobile).

Procedure:

1. Confirm that the tank cap is tightened securely.

2. Detach the oil gauge. Keep the oil gauge free from dust or dirt.

3. Place waste or paper near the oil refill port.

4. Detach the oil gauge, and drain oil, tilting the main unit toward the oil refill port. Drain oil in a container.

5. Keep the engine level, and feed new oil up to the edge of the oil refill port. In refill, use a lubricant refill container.

6. After refill, securely tighten the oil gauge. Insufficient tightening of the oil gauge will lead to oil leakage.

Points on Oil:

Never discard replaced engine oil in garbage, earth or sewage ditch. Disposal of oil is regulated by law. In disposal, always follow the relevant laws and regulations. For any points remaining unknown, contact an Authorized Service Agent.

Oil will deteriorate even when it is kept unused. Perform inspection and replacement at regular intervals (replace with new oil every 6 months).

DANGER: INFLAMMABLES STRICTLY PROHIBITED

Interval of Cleaning and Inspection: Daily (every 10 operating hours)

1. Turn the choke lever to the full close side, and keep the carburetor off from dust or dirt.

2. Remove the air cleaner cover-fixing bolts.

3. Pull the cover lower side and detach the air cleaner cover.

4. If oil adheres to the element (sponge), squeeze it firmly.

5. For heavy contamination:

– Remove the element (sponge), immerse it in warm water or in water-diluted neutral detergent, and dry it completely.

– Clean the element (felt) with gasoline, and dry it completely.

6. Before attaching the element, be sure to dry it completely. Insufficient drying of the element may lead to difficult startup.

7. Wipe out with waste cloth, oil adhering around the air cleaner cover and plate breather.

8. Immediately after cleaning is finished, attach the cleaner cover and tighten it with fixing bolts. (In remounting, first place the upper claw, and then the lower claw.)

Points in Handling Air Cleaner Element:

– Clean the element several times a day, if excessive dust adheres to it.

– If operation continues with the element remaining not cleared of oil, oil in the air cleaner may fall outside, resulting in oil contamination.

Only use the supplied universal wrench to remove or to install the spark plug.

The gap between the two electrodes of the spark plug should be 0.7-0.8mm (0.028″-0.032″). If the gap is too wide or too narrow, adjust it. If the spark plug is clogged with carbon or fouled, clean it thoroughly or replace it.

CAUTION: Never touch the spark plug connector while the engine is running (danger of high voltage electric shock).

Supply grease (Shell Alvania 2 or equivalent) to the gear case through the grease hole every 30 hours. (Genuine MAKITA grease may be purchased from your MAKITA dealer.)

WARNING: INFLAMMABLES STRICTLY PROHIBITED

Interval of Cleaning and Inspection: Monthly (every 50 operating hours)

The fuel filter (1) of the suction head is used to filter the fuel required by the carburetor. A periodical visual inspection of the fuel filter is to be conducted. For that purpose open the tank cap, use a wire hook and pull out the suction head through the tank opening. Filters found to have hardened, been polluted or clogged up are to be replaced.

Insufficient fuel supply can result in the admissible maximum speed being exceeded. It is therefore important to replace the fuel filter at least quarterly to ensure satisfactory fuel supply to the carburetor.

CAUTION: INFLAMMABLES STRICTLY PROHIBITED

Interval of Cleaning and Inspection: Daily (every 10 operating hours)

Replacement: Annually (every 200 operating hours)

Replace the fuel pipe every year, regardless of operating frequency. Fuel leakage may lead to fire. If any leakage is detected during inspection, replace the oil pipe immediately.

Inspection of Bolts, Nuts and Screws:

– Retighten loose bolts, nuts, etc.

– Check for fuel and oil leakage.

– Replace damaged parts with new ones for safety operation.

Cleaning of Parts:

– Keep the engine always clean.

– Keep the cylinder fins free of dust or dirt. Dust or dirt adhering to the fins will cause seizure.

Replacement of Gaskets and Packings:

In reassembling after the engine is dismounted, be sure to replace the gaskets and packings with new ones. Any maintenance of adjustment work that is not included and described in this manual is only to be performed by Authorized Service Agents.

WARNING: When draining the fuel, be sure to stop the engine and confirm that the engine cools down. Just after stopping the engine, it may still be hot with possibility of burns, inflammability and fire.

ATTENTION: When the machine is kept out of operation for a long time, drain up all fuel from the fuel tank and carburetor, and keep it at a dry and clean place.

Drain up fuel from the fuel tank and carburetor according to the following procedure:

1. Remove the fuel tank cap, and drain fuel completely. If there is any foreign matter remaining in the fuel tank, remove it completely.

2. Pull out the fuel filter from the refill port using a wire.

3. Push the primer pump until fuel is drained from there, and drain fuel coming into the fuel tank.

4. Reset the filter to the fuel tank, and securely tighten the fuel tank cap.

5. Then, continue to operate the engine until it stops.

After draining the fuel:

– Remove the spark plug, and drip several drops of engine oil through the spark plug hole.

– Gently pull the starter handle so that engine oil will spread over the engine, and attach the spark plug.

– Attach the cover to the cutter blade.

– During storage, keep the rod horizontal or keep the machine upright with the blade edge oriented upward. (In this case, pay full attention to prevent the machine from falling.) Never store the machine with the cutter blade edge oriented downward. Lubricating oil may spill out.

– Keep the drained fuel in a special container in a well-ventilated shade.

Attention after long-time storage: Before startup after long-time shutdown, be sure to replace oil. Oil will deteriorate while the machine is kept out of operation.

*1 Perform initial replacement after 20h operation.

*2 For the 200 operating hour inspection, request Authorized Service Agent or a machine shop.

*3 After emptying the fuel tank, continue to run the engine and drain fuel in the carburetor.

Before making a request for repairs, check a trouble for yourself. If any abnormality is found, control your machine according to the description of this manual. Never tamper or dismount any part contrary to the description.

When the engine does not start after warm-up operation: If there is no abnormality found for the check items, open the throttle by about 1/3 and start the engine.