BLACK DECKER GH900 String Trimmer Instruction Manual

: June 10, 2024
: Black Decker

BLACK DECKER GH900 String Trimmer

BLACK-DECKER-GH900-String-Trimmer-product

Please read before returning this product for any reason.

Components

BLACK-DECKER-GH900-String-Trimmer-fig-1

On/Off trigger switch
Cord retainer
Power cord plug
Main handle
Auxillary handle
Main housing
Collar
Lower pole
Motor housing
Edge guide wheel
Guard
Spool housing

WARNING

Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/ or serious injury.
To reduce the risk of injury, read the instruction manual.

Intended Use

This string trimmer is designed for household trimming and edging applications.
DO NOT use under wet conditions or in presence of flammable liquids or gases.
DO NOT let children come into contact with the tool. Supervision is required when inexperienced operators use this tool.

Definitions: Safety Alert Symbols and Words

This instruction manual uses the following safety alert symbols and words to alert you to hazardous situations and your risk of personal injury or property damage.

DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury. (Used without word) Indicates a safety related message.
NOTICE: Indicates a practice not related to personal injury which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING: Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains‑operated (corded) power tool or battery‑operated (cordless) power tool.

Work Area Safety
- Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
- Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
- Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
Electrical Safety
- Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
- Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
- Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
- Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
- When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
- If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of a GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.
Personal Safety
- Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
- Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as a dust mask, non‑skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
- Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off‑position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
- Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
- Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
- Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
- If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust‑related hazards.
- Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of tools allow you to become complacent and ignore tool safety principles. A careless action can cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.
Power Tool Use and Care
- Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
- Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
- Disconnect the plug from the power source and/ or remove the battery pack, if detachable, from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
- Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
- Maintain power tools and accessories. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
- Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
- Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
- Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and control of the tool in unexpected situations.
Service
- Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.

Important Safety Warnings

WARNING: When using electric gardening appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury, including the following.

WARNING: Do not remove guard. The guard must be attached during use. Operating this trimmer without the guard will violate the product warranty.

CAUTION: When replacing the line, use only 0.080″ (2 mm) diameter twisted nylon monofilament line. Other diameters or shapes may degrade performance or cause damage to the trimmer.

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS

ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION – Wear safety spectacles or goggles at all times when plugged in. These items are available for purchase.
GUARD – Do not use this appliance without the guard attached.
DRESS PROPERLY – Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts. Gloves and substantial rubber soled footwear are recommended when working outdoors. Don’t operate the appliance when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Wear heavy long pants to protect your legs. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
NYLON LINE – Keep face, hands and feet clear of rotating nylon line at all times.
THE ROTATING LINE PERFORMS A CUTTING FUNCTION – Use care when trimming around screens and desirable plantings.
DO NOT USE materials not recommended, such as metal wire, rope, and the like.
KEEP ALL BYSTANDERS AWAY – at a safe distance from work area, especially children.
KEEP CHILDREN, BYSTANDERS AND ANIMALS AWAY from the work area a minimum of 30 feet (10 meters) when starting or operating the unit.
TO REDUCE THE RISK of rebound (ricochet) injury, work going away from any nearby solid object such as wall, steps, large stone, tree, etc. Use great care when working close to solid objects and where necessary, do trimming by hand.
AVOID ACCIDENTALLY STARTING – Don’t carryplugged‑in trimmer with finger on trigger.
USE THE RIGHT appliance – Do not use this appliance for any job except that for which it is intended.
DON’T OVERREACH – Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
DON’T FORCE APPLIANCE – It will do the job better and with less likelihood of a risk of injury at the rate for which it was designed.
DAMAGE TO UNIT – If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop appliance immediately, unplug, check for damage and have any damage repaired before further operation is attempted. Do not operate with a broken hub or spool.
DAMAGE TO CORD – Keep power cord away from rotating line. If you damage the cord, unplug it from the power supply before moving the tool or examining the damage. A damaged cord must be replaced before further use.
SECURE EXTENSION CORD using the cord retainer shown in in this manual.
DISCONNECT TRIMMER – when not in use, when replacing line, or prior to cleaning.
AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
- Do not use electric appliances in damp or wet locations. Follow all instructions in this instruction manual for proper operation of your appliance. Don’t use the appliance in the rain.
DO NOT OPERATE portable electric appliances in gaseous or explosive atmospheres. Motors in these appliances normally spark, and the sparks might ignite fumes.
STORE IDLE APPLIANCES INDOORS – hen not in use, appliances should be stored indoors in a dry, locked‑up place out of reach of children.
STAY ALERT – Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
MAINTAIN APPLIANCES WITH CARE – Follow instructions in maintenance section. Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI) protection should be provided on the circuit(s) or outlet(s) to be used for the trimmer. Receptacles are available having built‑in GFCI protection and may be used for this measure of safety.
CHECK DAMAGED PARTS – Before further use of the appliance, a guard or other part that is damaged should be carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting, and any other condition that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service center unless otherwise indicated elsewhere in this manual.
DO NOT immerse appliance in water or squirt it with a hose. DO NOT allow any liquid to get inside it.
DO NOT store the appliance on or adjacent to fertilizers or chemicals.
DO NOT clean with a pressure washer.
Keep guards in place and in working order.
Keep hands and feet away from cutting area.
INSPECT THE AREA before using the unit. Remove all debris and hard objects such as rocks, glass, wire, etc. that can ricochet, be thrown, or otherwise cause injury or damage during operation.
DO NOT leave appliance when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
DO NOT use with damaged cord or plug. If appliance is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to a service center.
DO NOT pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
DO NOT unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
DO NOT handle plug or appliance with wet hands.
Turn off all controls before unplugging.
This appliance is provided with double insulation. Use only identical replacement parts. See instructions for Servicing of Double‑Insulated Appliances.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, use only with an extension cord intended for outdoor use, such as SJW or SJTW.
Make sure your extension cord is in good condition and is the correct size for your appliance. The Minimum Gauge for Cord Sets chart below shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gage. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord. An undersized extension cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating
Maintain Appliance With Care – Inspect extension cords periodically and replace if damaged.
To reduce the risk of disconnection of appliance cord from the extension cord during operation:
- Make a knot as shown in below; OR
- Use one of the plug‑receptacle retaining straps or connectors described in this manual; OR
- Secure the extension cord to the appliance plug as shown or described in the Operating Instructions.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of personal injury due to a loose electrical connection between the appliance’s plug and extension cord, firmly and fully attach the appliance plug to the extension cord. Periodically check the connection while operating to ensure it is fully attached. Do not use an extension cord that provides a loose connection. A loose connection may result in overheating, fire, and increases the risk of a burning.

WARNING: Do not use appliance if the switch trigger does not turn the appliance on or off. Any appliance that can not be controlled with the switch trigger is dangerous and must be repaired.

Additional Safety Warnings

WARNING: To reduce the risk of rebound (ricochet) injury, work going away from any nearby solid object such as wall, steps, large stone, tree, etc.

GUARD – Do not use this appliance without guard attached.
DRESS PROPERLY – Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts. Gloves and substantial rubber soled footwear are recommended when working outdoors. Don’t operate the appliance when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Wear heavy long pants to protect your legs. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
KEEP FACE, HANDS AND FEET CLEAR OF ROTATING NYLON LINE AT ALL TIMES. The rotating line performs a cutting function use care when trimming around screens and desirable plantings.
KEEP ALL BYSTANDERS AWAY – at a safe distance from work area, especially children. MAKE SURE that other persons and pets are at least 100 feet (30 m) away.
WHEN BEING USED AS AN EDGER – stones, pieces of metal and other objects can be thrown out at high speed by the line. The appliance and guard are designed to reduce the danger. To reduce the risk of rebound (ricochet) injury, work going away from any nearby solid object such as wall, steps, large stone, tree, etc.
USE GREAT CARE when working close to solid objects and where necessary, do trimming by hand.
DAMAGE TO UNIT – If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop appliance immediately, check for damage and have any damage repaired before further operation is attempted. Do not operate with a broken hub or spool.
STAY ALERT – Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
DO NOT immerse appliance in water or squirt it with a hose.
DO NOT allow any liquid to get inside it. If appliance does get wet, allow to dry for a minimum of 48 hours.
DO NOT clean with a pressure washer.
DO NOT store the appliance on or adjacent to fertilizers or chemicals.
DO NOT charge appliance in rain, or in wet locations.
STORE IDLE APPLIANCES INDOORS – When not in use, appliances should be stored indoors in a dry, locked‑up place out of reach of children.

Additional Safety Information

WARNING: Never modify the power tool or any part of it. Damage or personal injury could result.

_ WARNING: _ALWAYS use safety glasses. Everyday eyeglasses are NOT safety glasses. Also use face or dust mask if operation is dusty. ALWAYS WEAR CERTIFIED SAFETY EQUIPMENT:

ANSI Z87.1 eye protection (CAN/CSA Z94.3),
ANSI S12.6 (S3.19) hearing protection,
NIOSH/OSHA/MSHA respiratory protection.

WARNING

Some dust contains chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
- compounds in fertilizers,
- compounds in insecticides, herbicides and pesticides,
- arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber.
To reduce your exposure to these chemicals, wear approved safety equipment such as dust masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.
Avoid prolonged contact with dust from power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities. Wear protective clothing and wash exposed areas with soap and water. Allowing dust to get into your mouth, eyes, or lay on the skin may promote the absorption of harmful chemicals.

WARNING: Use of this tool can generate and/or disperse dust, which may cause serious and permanent respiratory or other injury. Always use NIOSH/OSHA approved respiratory protection appropriate for the dust exposure. Direct particles away from face and body.

WARNING: Always wear proper personal hearing protection that conforms to ANSI S12.6 (S3.19) during use. Under some conditions and duration of use, noise from this product may contribute to hearing loss.

CAUTION: When not in use, place tool on its side on a stable surface where it will not cause a tripping or falling hazard. Some tools will stand upright but may be easily knocked over.

Air vents often cover moving parts and should be avoided. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
An extension cord must have adequate wire size (AWG or American Wire Gauge) for safety. The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity of the cable, that is, 16 gauge has more capacity than 18 gauge. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. When using more than one extension to make up the total length, be sure each individual extension contains at least the minimum wire size. The following table shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The lower the gauge number, the heavier the cord.

MINIMUM GAUGE FOR CORD SETS

Volts	Total length of Cord in Feet (meters)
120 V	25 (7.6)
240 V	50 (15.2)
Ampere Rating	****

American Wire gauge

More Than| not More Than
0| 6| 18| 16| 16| 14
6| 10| 18| 16| 14| 12
10| 12| 16| 16| 14| 12
12| 16| 14| 12| Not Recommended

Safety Rules and Instructions

Extension Cords

_ WARNING: _To reduce the risk of electric shock, use only with an extension cord intended for outdoor use, such as an extension cord of cord type SW‑A, SOW‑A, STW‑A, STOW‑A, SJW‑A, SJOW‑A, SJTW‑A. or SJTOW‑A.

Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry the current your product will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. The table shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord. If the extension will be used outside, the cord must be suitable for outdoor work. The letters “WA” on the cord jacket indicate that the cord is suitable for outdoor use.

The label on your tool may include the following symbols. The symbols and their definitions are as follows:

V…………………….. volts
Hz…………………… hertz
min…………………. minutes
or DC……. direct current
………………….. Class I Construction (grounded)
…/min…………… per minute
BPM………………… beats per minute
IPM…………………. impacts per minute
OPM………………… oscillations per minute
RPM………………… revolutions per minute
sfpm……………….. surface feet perminute
SPM………………… strokes per minute
A…………………….. amperes
W……………………. watts
Wh………………….. watt hours
Ah…………………… amp hours
or AC………… alternating current
or AC/DC….. alternating or direct current
………………….. Class II Construction
no…………………… no load speed
n…………………….. rated speed
PSI………………….. pounds per square inch
………………….. earthing terminal
…………………. safety alert symbol
…………………. visible radiation do not stare into the light
…………………. wear respiratory protection
…………………. wear eye protection
…………………. wear hearing protection
…………………. read all documentation
…………………. do not expose to rain

Servicing of Double Insulated Appliances

Your appliance is double‑insulated to give you added safety. In a double insulated appliance, two systems of insulation are provided instead of grounding. No grounding means is provided on a double insulated appliance, nor should a means for grounding be added to the appliance. Servicing a double insulated appliance requires extreme care and knowledge of the system and should be done only by qualified service personnel.

Replacement parts for a double insulated appliance must be identical to the parts they replace. A double insulated appliance is marked with the words double insulated or “double insulation”. The symbol (square within a square) may also be marked on the appliance.

Safety Rules and Instructions: Extension Cords

Double insulated appliances have 2‑wire cords and can be used with 2‑wire or 3‑wire extension cords. Only round jacketed extension cords should be used, and we recommend that they be listed by Underwriters Laboratories (U.L.) (C.S.A. in Canada). If the extension will be used outside, the cord must be suitable for outdoor use. Any cord marked as outdoor can also be used for indoor work. Before using an extension cord, inspect it for loose or exposed wires, damaged insulation, and defective fittings. Make any needed repairs or replace the cord if necessary.

Safety Rules and Instructions: Polarized Plug

To reduce the risk of electric shock, this appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). This equipment must be used with a suitable polarized 2 wire or 3 wire extension cord. Polarized connections will fit together only one way. Make sure that the receptacle end of the extension cord has large and small blade slot widths. If the plug does not fit fully into the extension cord, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, obtain a suitable extension cord. If the extension cord does not fit fully into the outlet, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet. Do not change the appliance plug or extension cord in any way.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Motor

Be sure your power supply agrees with the nameplate marking. Voltage decrease of more than 10% will cause loss of power and overheating. These tools are factory tested; if this tool does not operate, check power supply.

ASSEMBLY AND ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn unit off and disconnect it from power source before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories, when replacing line, or prior to cleaning. An accidental start‑up can cause injury.

Attaching the Auxiliary Handle

For some models the auxiliary handle 5 may need to be attached. If the model needs the auxiliary handle attached, please refer to these instructions.

To attach the auxiliary handle, press in on the auxiliary handle adjustment buttons 13 on both sides of the upper housing.
Position the auxiliary handle as shown in Fig. B—D . Partially push the auxiliary handle on so it will hold the buttons in when you release them with your hand.
Push the auxiliary handle completely onto the housing and position it slightly until it “snaps” into place.

NOTE

To adjust the auxiliary handle up or down, press in on the buttons and raise or lower the handle.
The handle should be adjusted so that your front arm is straight when the edger is in the working position.

Installing the Guard

WARNING

Never remove the guard.
Damage or personal injury could result.
NEVER OPERATE APPLIANCE WITHOUT GUARD FIRMLY IN PLACE.

The guard must always be properly attached on the appliance to protect the user.

Remove the guard screw 15 .
Slide the guard 11 fully onto the motor housing 9 . Make sure the tabs 18 on the guard engage the ribs 14 on the trimmer head.
Continue to slide the guard on until it “snaps”into place. The locking tab 17 should snap into the housing slot 16 .
Using a crosshead screwdriver, insert the guard screw 15 and tighten securely.
Once the guard is installed, remove the covering from the line cut‑off blade, located on the edge of the guard.

Height Adjustment

_ CAUTION: _Adjust the length of the trimmer to obtain proper working positions.

The overall height of the trimmer can be adjusted by loosening the height‑adjust collar 7 by rotating it in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure A, G.
Move the upper housing straight up or down. When the desired height is achieved, tighten the collar by rotating it opposite of the direction shown in Figure A, G.

Attaching Extension Cord

An extension cord retainer 2 is built into the main handle that prevents the cord from coming unplugged.

To use this feature, simply double the extension cord about 8″ (203 mm) from the end, and insert it into the slot 18 in the end of the handle area as shown in Fig. H.
Hook the loop formed by doubling the cord over the extension cord retainer 2 . Gently tug on the cord to insure that it is firmly retained in the main handle.
Plug the receptacle end of the extension cord into the power cord plug 3 in the main handle.

Releasing the Cutting Line

In transit, the cutting line is taped to the spool housing 12 .
Remove the tape holding the cutting line to the spool housing.

OPERATION

WARNING

To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn unit off and disconnect it from power source before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories, when replacing line, or prior to cleaning. An accidental start‑up can cause injury.
Always use proper eye protection that conforms to ANSI Z87.1 (CAN/CSA Z94.3) while operating this appliance.

CAUTION

Before you begin trimming, only use the appropriate type of cutting line.
Inspect area to be trimmed and remove any wire, cord, or string-like objects which could become entangled in the rotating line or spool.
Be particularly careful to avoid any wire which might be bent outwardly into the path of the appliance, such as barbs at the base of a chain link fence.

Proper Hand Position

WARNING

To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, ALWAYS use proper hand position as shown.
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, ALWAYS hold securely in anticipation of a sudden reaction.
Proper hand position requires one hand on the main handle 4 and one hand on the auxiliary handle 5 .

Switching Trimmer On and Off

_ WARNING: _Never attempt to lock the trigger in the on position.

To turn the appliance on, squeeze the trigger 1 .
To turn the appliance off, release the trigger.

Trimming

With the trimmer on, angle it and swing side to side as shown in Fig. K.
Maintain a cutting angle of 5 ° to 10 °. Do not exceed 10 °.
Cut with the tip of the line.
Maintain a minimum distance of 24″ (610 mm) between the guard and your feet as shown in Fig. L.

Convert to Edging Mode

_ WARNING: _Disconnect the plug from the power source before making any adjustments. The trimmer can be used in trimming mode or edging mode to trim overhanging grass along lawn edges and flower beds.

To operate in edge mode, loosen the collar 7 by twisting it counterclockwise.
Rotate the motor housing 9 180 ° counterclockwise, until the motor housing snaps into edge position.
Twist the collar 7 clockwise until tight to secure it into position.
To return to the trimming position, loosen the lock collar and rotate the motor housing 9 180 ° clockwise back to its original position and tighten the collar 5 to secure it into position.

NOTE: You will experience faster than normal cutting line wear if the trimmer line is positioned directly over the sidewalk or abrasive surface.

Edging Mode Operation

WARNING: When being used as an edger, stones, pieces of metal and other objects can be thrown out at high speed by the line. The trimmer and guard are designed to reduce the danger. However, MAKE SURE that other persons and pets are at least 100′ (30 m) away. Optimum cutting results are achieved on edges deeper than 2″ (50 mm).

Do not use this trimmer to create trenches.
Using the edge guide 10 , guide the trimmer.
Position the edging guide on the edge of the sidewalk or abrasive surface so the cutting line is over the grass or dirt area to be edged.
To make a closer cut, slightly tilt the trimmer.

Helpful Cutting Tips

Use the tip of the string to do the cutting; do not force string head into uncut grass. Use edge guide along such things as fences, houses and flower beds for best practices.
Wire and picket fences cause extra string wear, even breakage. Stone and brick walls, curbs, and wood may wear string rapidly.
Do not allow spool cap 19 to drag on ground or other surfaces.
In long growth, cut from the top down and do not exceed 13″ (330 mm) high.
Keep trimmer tilted toward the area being cut; this is the best cutting area.
The trimmer cuts when passing the unit from the left to right. This will avoid throwing debris at the operator.
Avoid trees and shrubs. Tree bark, wood moldings, siding, and fence posts can easily be damaged by the string.

Cutting Line / Line Feeding

Your trimmer uses .065″ (1.65 mm) diameter, round nylon line. During use, the tips of the nylon lines will become frayed and worn. Cutting line will wear faster and require more feeding if the cutting or edging is done along sidewalks or other abrasive surfaces or heavier weeds are being cut.

Clearing Jams and Tangled Line

WARNING: Disconnect the plug from the power source before making any assembly, adjustments or changing accessories. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the appliance accidentally.

From time to time, especially when cutting thick or stalky weeds, the line feeding hub may become clogged with sap or other material and the line will become jammed as a result. To clear the jam, follow the steps listed below.

CAUTION: To avoid appliance damage, if the cutting line protrudes beyond the trimming blade, cut it off so that it just reaches the blade.

Disconnect the plug from the power source
Press the release tabs 20 on the spool cap 19 , and remove the spool cap from the spool housing 12 .
Pull the nylon line spool out and clear any broken line or cutting debris from the spool area.
Fit the spool onto the appliance as described in Replacing Spool Assembly.

Replacing Spool Assembly

BLACK-DECKER-GH900-String-Trimmer-fig-16

WARNING

The use of any accessory not recommended by BLACK+DECKER for use with this appliance could be hazardous.
Do not use any blades, or any accessory or attachment other than those recommended by BLACK+DECKER on this trimmer/ edger. Serious injury or product damage may result. Reload nylon line (either bulk or pre-wound replacement spool) as shown in this manual.

USE ONLY .065″ (1.65 mm) DIAMETER ROUND NYLON MONOFILAMENT LINE. Do not use serrated or heavier gauge line, as they will overload the motor and cause overheating. This line is available at your local dealer or authorized service center.

Disconnect the plug from the power source.
Press the release tabs 20 on the spool cap 19 , and remove the spool cap from the spool housing 12 .
For best results, replace spool with BLACK+DECKER Model AF-100.
If lever 22 in base of housing becomes dislodged, replace in correct position before inserting new spool into housing.
Remove any dirt and grass from the spool cap and spool housing.
Unfasten the end of the cutting line 25 and guide the line into the eyelet 29 .
Take the new spool 27 and push it onto the boss 23 in the housing. Rotate the spool slightly until it is seated.
The line should protrude approximately 5‑3/8″ (136 mm) from the housing.
Align the release tabs on the spool cap with the slots 28 in the spool housing.
Snap the spool cap 19 back on by depressing release tabs 20 and pressing it into spool housing 12 until it snaps securely into place.

NOTE

Make sure that cover is fully positioned, listen for two audible clicks to ensure both release tabs are correctly located. Power the appliance on. In a few seconds or less you’ll hear the nylon line being cut automatically to the proper length.
Other replacement parts (guards, spool caps, etc.) are available through authorized service centers. To find your local service location call: 1-800-544-6986 or visit www.blackanddecker.com.

Rewinding Spool from Bulk Line

Use Only .065″ (1.65 mm) Round Diameter Line

Bulk line is also available for purchase from your local retailer.

NOTE: Hand-wound spools from bulk line are likely to become tangled more frequently than BLACK+DECKER factory wound spools. For best results, factory wound spools are recommended.

Disconnect the plug from the power source.
Remove the empty spool from the appliance as described in Replacing Spool Assembly.
Remove any remaining cutting line from the spool.
Make a fold at the end of the cutting line 25 at about 3/4″ (19 mm). Feed the cutting line into one of the line anchoring slots 28.
Insert the 3/4″ (19 mm) end of the bulk line into the hole 29 in the spool adjacent to the slot. Make sure the line is pulled tight against the spool.
Wind the cutting line onto the spool in the direction of the arrow on the spool. Make sure to wind the line on neatly and in layers. Do not crisscross.
When the wound cutting line reaches recesses 30 , cut the line.
Fit the spool onto the appliance as described in Replacing Spool Assembly.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn unit off and disconnect it from power source before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories, when replacing line, or prior to cleaning. An accidental start‑up can cause injury.

Your BLACK+DECKER power tool has been designed to operate over a long period of time with a minimum of maintenance. Continuous satisfactory operation depends upon proper tool care and regular cleaning.

Cleaning

WARNING

Blow dirt and dust out of all air vents with clean, dry air at least once a week.
To minimize the risk of eye injury, always wear ANSI Z87.1 approved eye protection when performing this procedure.
Never use solvents or other harsh chemicals for cleaning the non‑metallic parts of the tool. These chemicals may weaken the plastic materials used in these parts.
Use a cloth dampened only with water and mild soap. Never let any liquid get inside the tool; never immerse any part of the tool into a liquid.

Accessories

WARNING: Since accessories, other than those offered by BLACK+DECKER, have not been tested with this product, use of such accessories with this product could be hazardous. To reduce the risk of injury, only BLACK+DECKER- recommended accessories should be used with this product.

Recommended accessories for use with your product are available at extra cost from your local dealer or authorized service center. If you need assistance in locating any accessory, please contact BLACK+DECKER call 1‑800‑544‑6986

Replacing Guard

_ WARNING: _Never operate appliance without guard firmly in place. Damage or personal injury could result.

Remove Current Guard

Remove the guard screw 15 shown in Fig. F.
Slide the guard 11 off.

Assembling the New Guard

Slide the guard into place as shown in Fig. E.
Replace and securely tighten the guard screw 15 .

Repairs

WARNING: To assure product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, maintenance and adjustment (including power cord repairs, and brush inspection and replacement, when applicable) should be performed by a BLACK+DECKER factory service center or a BLACK+DECKER authorized service center. Always use identical replacement parts.

Register Online

Thank you for your purchase. Register your product now for:

WARRANTY SERVICE: Registering your product will help you obtain more efficient warranty service in case there is a problem with your product.
CONFIRMATION OF OWNERSHIP: In case of an insurance loss, such as fire, flood or theft, your registration of ownership will serve as your proof of purchase.
FOR YOUR SAFETY: Registering your product will allow us to contact you in the unlikely event a safety notification is required under the Federal Consumer Safety Act.
Register online at: www.BlackandDecker.com/NewOwner

WARRANTY

TWO‑YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY

Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc. warranties this product to be free from defects in material or workmanship for a period of two (2) years following the date of purchase, provided that the product is used in a home environment. This limited warranty does not cover failures due to abuse, accidental damage or when repairs have been made or attempted by anyone other than BLACK+DECKER and its Authorized Service Centers. A defective product meeting the warranty conditions set forth herein will be replaced or repaired at no charge in either of two ways: The first, which will result in exchanges only, is to return the product to the retailer from whom it was purchased (provided that the store is a participating retailer).

Returns should be made within the time period of the retailer’s policy for exchanges. Proof of purchase may be required. Please check with the retailer for its specific return policy regarding time limits for returns or exchanges. The second option is to take or send the product (prepaid) to a BLACK+DECKER owned or authorized Service Center for repair or replacement at BLACK+DECKER’s option. Proof of purchase may be required. BLACK+DECKER-owned and authorized service centers are listed online at ww.blackanddecker.com. This warranty does not apply to accessories.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights which vary from state to state or province to province. Should you have any questions, contact the manager of your nearest BLACK+DECKER Service Center. This product is not intended for commercial use, and accordingly, such commercial use of this product will void this warranty. All other guarantees, express or implied, are hereby disclaimed.

LATIN AMERICA: This warranty does not apply to products sold in Latin America. For products sold in Latin America, check country-specific warranty information contained in the packaging, call the local company or see the website for such information.

Imported by.Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc.,