POULAN P3500 (02) PDF MANUAL

This unit can be dangerous! Careless or improper use can cause serious injury.

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

Read the operator’s manual before use. Failure to follow instructions could result in serious injury to the operator and/or bystanders. Save operator’s manual.

Use only specified trimmer head, spool, and 0.080 inch (2 mm) recommended trimmer line. Never use blades, flailing devices, wire, rope, string, etc. This unit is designed for line trimmer use only. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury.

The trimmer line throws objects violently. You and others can be blinded/injured.

Keep children, bystanders, and animals 50 feet (15 meters) away.

Trimmer line can throw objects violently. You can be blinded or injured. Always wear hearing protection and safety glasses marked Z87.

Always wear heavy, long pants, long sleeves, boots and gloves.

Secure hair above shoulder length. Do not wear jewelry, loose clothing, or clothing with loosely hanging straps, ties, tassels, etc. They can be caught in moving parts.

Store unit indoors in a high, dry place out of the reach of children.

Always stop the unit and disconnect the spark plug before cleaning or servicing.

Fire hazard. Never mix, pour, or store gasoline or use the unit near a flame or sparks (including smoking, open flames, or work that can cause sparks).

Use unleaded gasoline and two-stroke oil mixed at a ratio of 40:1 (2.5%).

Mix and pour fuel outdoors.

Keep away from sparks or flames.

Use a container approved for fuel.

Do not smoke or allow smoking near fuel or the unit.

Avoid spilling fuel or oil. Wipe up all fuel spills.

Move at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from fueling site before starting engine.

Stop engine and allow to cool before removing fuel cap.

Always store gasoline in a container approved for flammable liquids.

Dress properly. Always wear safety glasses or similar eye protection when operating, or performing maintenance, on your unit. Eye protection should be marked Z87.

Always wear face or dust mask if operation is dusty.

Always wear heavy, long pants, long sleeves, boots, and gloves. Wearing safety leg guards is recommended.

Always wear foot protection. Do not go barefoot or wear sandals. Stay clear of spinning line.

Secure hair above shoulder length. Secure or remove loose clothing or clothing with loosely hanging ties, straps, tassels, etc. They can be caught in moving parts.

Being fully covered also helps protect you from debris and pieces of toxic plants thrown by spinning line.

Stay alert. Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill, upset or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication. Watch what you are doing; use common sense.

Wear hearing protection.

Never start or run inside a closed room or building. Breathing exhaust fumes can kill.

Keep handles free of oil and fuel.

Disconnect the spark plug before performing maintenance except carburetor adjustments.

Look for and replace damaged or loose parts before each use. Look for and repair fuel leaks before use. Keep in good working condition.

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

Maintain unit according to recommended procedures. Keep cutting line at proper length.

Use only 0.080 inch (2 mm) diameter line. Never use wire, rope, string, etc.

Install required shield properly before using the unit. Use only specified trimmer head; make sure it is properly installed and securely fastened.

Make sure unit is assembled correctly as shown in this manual.

Make carburetor adjustments with lower end supported to prevent line from contacting any object.

Keep others away when making carburetor adjustments.

Use only recommended accessories and replacement parts.

Have all maintenance and service not explained in this manual performed by an authorized service dealer.

Inspect the area before each use. Remove objects (rocks, broken glass, nails, wire, etc.) which can be thrown by or become entangled in line. Hard objects can damage the trimmer head and be thrown causing serious injury.

Keep others including children, animals, bystanders, and helpers at least 50 feet (15 meters) away. Bystanders should be encouraged to wear safety glasses. Stop engine immediately if you are approached.

Use only for trimming, scalping, mowing, edging and sweeping. Do not use for pruning or hedge trimming.

Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach.

Keep all parts of your body away from muffler and spinning line. Keep engine below waist level. A hot muffler can cause serious burns.

Cut from your right to your left. Cutting on left side of the shield will throw debris away from the operator.

Use only in daylight or good artificial light.

Use only for jobs explained in this manual.

Allow engine to cool; secure unit before storing or transporting in vehicle.

Empty the fuel tank before storing or transporting the unit. Use up fuel left in the carburetor by starting the engine and letting it run until it stops.

Store unit and fuel in area where fuel vapors cannot reach sparks or open flames from water heaters, electric motors or switches, furnaces, etc.

Store unit so line limiter blade cannot accidentally cause injury. The unit can be hung by the shaft.

Store unit out of reach of children.

1. Loosen wing nut on handle.

2. Pivot the handle to a comfortable position; retighten wing nut.

The shield must be properly installed. The shield provides partial protection from the risk of thrown objects to the operator and others 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 as shown.

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

4. Securely tighten wing nut onto bolt.

To stop the engine, push and hold the STOP switch in the STOP position until the engine stops.

If the engine does not stop, move the choke to the FULL CHOKE position.

This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline. Before operation, gasoline must be mixed with a good quality synthetic 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil designed to be mixed at a ratio of 40:1. A 40:1 ratio is obtained by mixing 3.2 fluid ounces (95 ml) of oil with 1 gallon (4 liters) of unleaded gasoline. DO NOT USE automotive oil or marine 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.

CAUTION: Never use straight gasoline in your unit. This will cause permanent engine damage and void the limited warranty.

FUEL REQUIREMENTS: This engine requires the use of minimum 87 octane [R+M]/2 clean gasoline. Use of alcohol blended fuels (called gasohol or using ethanol or methanol) can cause major engine performance and durability problems. Alternative fuels (not gasoline) such as E-15 (15% alcohol), E-20 (20% alcohol), E-85 (85% alcohol) are NOT classified as gasoline and are NOT approved for use in 2-stroke gasoline engines.

NOTE: Make sure approximately 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) of line is extended from the cutting head before starting unit. This will allow the line to advance properly once the unit starts.

1. Set unit on a flat surface.

2. Slowly press the primer bulb 6 times.

3. Move choke lever to the FULL CHOKE position.

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

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

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

7. Pull starter rope sharply until engine runs, but no more than 6 pulls.

NOTE: If the engine doesn’t start after 6 pulls (at the HALF CHOKE position), move the choke lever to 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 6 pulls. If the engine still doesn’t start, it is probably flooded.

8. Once the engine starts, allow it to run 10 seconds, then move the choke lever to the RUN position. Allow the unit to run for 30 more seconds at RUN before releasing the throttle trigger.

NOTE: If engine dies with the choke lever in the RUN position, move the choke lever to the HALF CHOKE position and pull the rope until engine runs, but no more than 6 pulls.

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

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

3. Pull starter rope sharply until engine runs, but no more than 6 pulls.

4. Allow engine to run 15 seconds, then move the choke lever to RUN.

NOTE: If engine has not started, pull starter rope 5 more pulls. If engine still does not run, it is probably flooded.

Flooded engines can be started by placing the choke lever in the RUN 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.

The Twist and Edge feature allows for easy edging of sidewalks, patios, driveways, etc.

1. Pull the tab toward the engine.

2. Twist the shaft to the edging position; release tab.

The cutting head advances line automatically. Do not tap head on the ground to advance line. This may break parts and cause cutting head to malfunction. Upon unit start up, the line will advance automatically to the correct cutting path length. Always keep the shield in place when the tool is being operated.

Use minimum speed and do not crowd the line when cutting around hard objects (rock, gravel, fence posts, etc.), which can damage the trimmer head, become entangled in the line, or be thrown causing a serious hazard.

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 line will easily remove grass and weeds from around walls, fences, trees and flower beds, but it also can cut the tender bark of trees or shrubs and scar fences. To help avoid damage especially to delicate vegetation or trees with tender bark, shorten line to 4-5 inches (10-13 cm) and use at less than full throttle.

For trimming or scalping, use less than full throttle to increase line life and decrease head wear.

For mowing or sweeping, use full throttle for a good clean job.

Hold the bottom of the trimmer head about 3 inches (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.

The scalping technique removes unwanted vegetation down to the ground. Hold the bottom of the trimmer head about 3 inches (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.

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.

The fanning action of the rotating line can be used for a quick and easy clean up. Keep the line parallel to and above the surfaces being swept and move the tool from side to side.

Adjust trimmer to the edging position (see TWIST AND EDGE section). Allow only the tip of the line to make contact. Do not force trimmer line into work area.

CHECK FOR LOOSE FASTENERS AND PARTS:

Spark Plug Boot, Air Filter, Housing Screws, Assist Handle Screws, Debris Shield.

CHECK FOR DAMAGED OR WORN PARTS:

Contact an authorized service dealer for replacement of damaged or worn parts.

STOP Switch – Ensure STOP switch functions properly by pushing and holding the switch in the STOP position. Make sure engine stops. Restart engine and continue.

Fuel Tank – Discontinue use of unit if fuel tank shows signs of damage or leaks.

Debris Shield – Discontinue use of unit if debris shield is damaged.

INSPECT AND CLEAN UNIT AND LABELS:

After each use, inspect complete unit for loose or damaged parts. Clean the unit and labels using a damp cloth with a mild detergent.

Wipe off unit with a clean dry cloth.

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 air filter cover and the area around it to keep dirt from falling into the carburetor chamber when the cover is opened.

2. Open air filter cover by pushing button. Remove air filter.

NOTE: To avoid creating a fire hazard or producing harmful evaporative emissions, do not clean filter in gasoline or other flammable solvent.

3. Wash the filter in soap and water.

4. Allow filter to dry.

5. Replace air filter and close cover.

Replace the spark plug each year to ensure the engine starts easier and runs better. Set spark plug gap at 0.025 inch (0.6 mm). 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 inch (19 mm) socket wrench.

4. Reinstall the spark plug boot.

Hold the spool and unscrew the cap by turning in the direction shown on top of the cap.

Remove the line guide ring and spool.

NOTE: When removing and/or installing the spool, ensure the dust cup remains installed over the shaft.

Use only 0.080 inch (2 mm) diameter round line. Other sizes and shapes of line will not advance properly and will result in improper cutting head function or can cause serious injury.

1. Cut a length of 25 feet (8 meters) of 0.080 inch (2 mm) diameter round line.

2. Insert one end of line into the center cavity of the empty spool. Ensure the line will feed into the spool in the direction shown on the spool (counterclockwise).

3. Continue feeding line into the spool, leaving 4 – 6 inches (10 – 15 cm) unwound from the center of the spool.

1. Install replacement spool.

2. Thread line through line guide ring.

3. Rest guide ring on spool and place line through slot. Allow line to extend 4 – 6 inches (10 – 15 cm) from center of spool.

4. Ensure line remains in slot while screwing cap on to the shaft. Only tighten cap hand tight!

The trimmer head will be spinning during this procedure. Wear your protective equipment and observe all safety precautions. 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.

To adjust idle speed:

Allow engine to idle. Adjust speed until engine runs without stalling (idle speed too slow).

Turn idle speed screw clockwise to increase engine speed if engine stalls or dies.

Turn idle speed screw counterclockwise to decrease engine speed.

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

Clean the entire unit before lengthy storage.

Store in a clean dry area.

Lightly oil external metal surfaces.

FUEL SYSTEM: 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 the stabilizer container. Run engine at least 5 minutes after adding stabilizer.

ENGINE: 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. Replace spark plug with a new one of the recommended type and heat range. Clean the air filter. Check entire unit for loose screws, nuts, and bolts. Replace any damaged, broken, or worn parts. At the beginning of the next season, use only fresh fuel having the proper gasoline to oil ratio.

OTHER: Do not store gasoline from one season to another. Replace your gasoline can if it starts to rust.

Possible causes and remedies include:

1. Cause: Engine flooded.

Remedy: See “Starting a Flooded Engine” in the Operation Section.

2. Cause: Fuel tank empty.

Remedy: Fill tank with correct fuel mixture.

3. Cause: Spark plug not firing.

Remedy: Install new spark plug.

4. Cause: Fuel not reaching carburetor.

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

5. Cause: Carburetor requires adjustment.

Remedy: Contact an authorized service dealer.

Possible causes and remedies include:

1. Cause: Carburetor requires adjustment.

Remedy: See “Carburetor Idle Speed Adjustment” in the Service and Adjustments Section.

2. Cause: Crankshaft seals worn.

Remedy: Contact an authorized service dealer.

3. Cause: Compression low.

Remedy: Contact an authorized service dealer.

Possible causes and remedies include:

1. Cause: Air filter dirty.

Remedy: Clean or replace air filter.

2. Cause: Spark plug fouled.

Remedy: Clean or replace plug and regap.

3. Cause: Carburetor requires adjustment.

Remedy: Contact an authorized service dealer.

4. Cause: Carbon build-up on muffler outlet screen.

Remedy: Contact an authorized service dealer.

5. Cause: Compression low.

Remedy: Contact an authorized service dealer.

Possible causes and remedies include:

1. Cause: Fuel mixture incorrect.

Remedy: Empty fuel tank and refill with correct fuel mixture.

2. Cause: Air filter dirty.

Remedy: Clean or replace air filter.

3. Cause: Carburetor requires adjustment.

Remedy: Contact an authorized service dealer.

Possible causes and remedies include:

1. Cause: Fuel mixture incorrect.

Remedy: See “Fueling Engine” in the Operation section.

2. Cause: Spark plug incorrect.

Remedy: Replace with correct spark plug.

3. Cause: Carburetor requires adjustment.

Remedy: Contact an authorized service dealer.

4. Cause: Carbon build-up on muffler outlet screen.

Remedy: Contact an authorized service dealer.