GartenMeister BFF 52 Petrol Wheeled Brush Cutter Instruction Manual

GartenMeister BFF 52 Petrol Wheeled Brush Cutter

Dear Customers

Please familiarize yourself with the proper usage of the garden tool by reading and following each chapter of this manual, in the order presented. Keep these operating instructions for further reference. This operating instruction contains important details for handling the machine. Please pass it on along with the unit if it is handed over to a third party!

Please read the safety instructions!

These instructions will make it easier for you to handle the machine and help prevent misunderstandings and possible damage or injury.

Overview

Safety Notes

Please note the included General Safety Notes and the following safety notes to avoid malfunctions, damage or physical injury:

• Carefully read this manual before you start operating the engine. Improper use may cause damage to persons and property.

• Persons not familiar with this manual are not permitted to operate the machine. Keep this manual at a safe location. Children and teenagers younger the age of 16 are not permitted to use the machine. Teenagers older than age of 16 and working under supervision of a trained person are permitted to use the machine.

• The machine is intended to trim lawns or grass, to cut brushwood and shrubbery in private areas. The machine is not designed for continuous professional operation.

• This machine shall not be used for any other purpose.

• Keep persons or animals clear from the working area, at a minimum distance of 15 m.

• It is not permitted to either start or use the machine in the vicinity of persons or animals.

• Only operate the machine with mounted protective hood.

• Keep body parts and clothing away from the trim head when you start the engine, or keep it running.

• Make sure you are standing in a stable and secure position during work. Avoid moving backwards with the machine due to risk of stumbling. Avoid any unnatural posture. While cutting on a slope, always work with the trim head facing uphill.

• Only work during daylight, or when the area is illuminated well using artificial lighting.

• Do not be distracted while working with the machine. You may lose control of the machine.

• Do not overload the engine, and do not use it for work the machine is not designed for.

• Always switch of the machine when work will be interrupted or the location will be changed; wait until the trim head has completely stopped before placing down the machine.

• Never leave the machine without supervision at the place of work. Store the machine at a safe place when work will be interrupted. Store the machine out of the reach of children. If necessary, remove the spark plug.

• Never use the machine during rain, in a humid or wet environment, and do not store it outdoors.

• Should the machine become wet, wait until it is completely dry before you use it again.

• When the machine has been operated for many hours, it may cause a circulatory disorder due to vibration (Raynaud’s disease). Therefore, it is recommended to wear warm protective gloves, and to take breaks at regular intervals.

• Only use the fuel recommended in the manual.

• Keep gasoline only in containers designed for it, and store it at a safe location.

• The exhaust of internal combustion engines is poisonous and can lead to suffocation. Only operate the machine outdoors.

• Fuel the gasoline tank only outdoors, or in well-ventilated areas.

• Gasoline and gasoline vapours are highly flammable. Keep away from flammable materials and sources of ignition.

• Do not smoke while refuelling or operating the machine.

• Immediately wipe away spilled gasoline.

• Start the engine only at a location far away from the place of refuelling.

• Always make sure that the fuel tank cap is well closed. Look out for possible leakage.

• When the engine is running or the engine is hot, it is not allowed to open the cap of the fuel tank or to refill gasoline.

• Open the cap of the fuel tank slowly so that gasoline vapours can escape.

• Make sure the handles are dry, clean, and free of gasoline mixed with oil, grease etc.

• Do not use the machine without exhaust pipe guard. Do not touch the exhaust pipe. There is a risk of burns.

• Always make sure that the ventilation openings are free from debris.

• Always make sure no objects or other debris is collecting in the trim head, in the protective hood, or in the engine.

• Only use the machine with an undamaged trim head.

• Never touch the trim head while the engine is running.

• Do not use any wire, or anything similar in the spool, only use original plastic thread.

• Subject the machine to a visual inspection before each use. Check, if all screws and connecting parts are tightened.

• Check the engine for damages after impact, or other damages.

• Always use both hands to hold the machine. Check the machine, its components and guards for damages, or wear and tear before each use, and have it repaired, if necessary.
  Never make the devices for protection and safety inoperable. Do not operate the machine, when damages or signs of wear are visible.

• Before starting work, it is recommended to check the objects to be cut for possible foreign objects and to remove them. When despite of this you encounter a foreign object during cutting, turn off the machine and remove this object.

• If the cutting tool is jammed by a foreign object (stones, piles of grass), turn the engine off and remove the object using a blunt item. Never use your fingers to remove jammed foreign objects, because this may cause serious injuries.

• Always keep in mind that especially during trimming of lawn edges, gravel enclosures, and similar locations stone and dirt can be hurled away from the cutting thread.

• Never cut against hard objects such as stone, etc. This way you avoid injuries, and damages to the machine and the cutting tool.

• Hold and guide the trim head as close to the ground as possible.

• Only cut grass growing on the ground. Do not cut grass in cracks or growing on rocks.

• Keep in mind that there is risk of injuries in the area of the thread cutter on the protective hood.

• When the cutting tool is damaged, it must be replaced at once.

• The machine and trim head must be properly inspected and serviced periodically. Damages must be repaired by professionals. Only use accessories recommended by the manufacturer.

• Have your machine serviced only by qualified personnel and by use of original spare parts only. This ensures that the safety of the device is maintained.

• Even if you operate the device correctly, residual risks always remain. The following hazards may occur in connection with the design and construction of the device:

  • Damage to health resulting from hand-arm vibrations if the device is used for an extended period of time, not properly guided and maintained.
  • Injuries and property damage caused by the trim head, which is unexpectedly thrown out of the machine due to sudden damage, wear or improper attachment.
  • Noise pollution from the engine is unavoidable. Only operate the machine during the times specified for this purpose. Observe rest periods and limit the duration of work to a minimum. Wear ear protection.

• Warning! The machine produces an electromagnetic field during operation! This field may under some circumstances interfere with active or passive medical implants! To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury, we recommend persons with medical implants to consult their doctor and the medical implant manufacturer before operating the machine.

Symbol Explanation

| Warning! Improper operation can lead to serious injury.
---|---
| Read and understand the manual before using the machine.
| Wear ear protection!
| Wear hand protection!
| Wear foot protection!
| Wear face protection!
| Wear protective clothing!
| Keep persons and animals at least 15 meters away from the working area!
| Warning! Do not touch the rotating cutting tool. There is risk of injury!
| Beware of objects being thrown!
| Warning of flammable and combustible materials!
| Do not use brush blades or saw blades with the machine!
| Warning of hot surfaces. Do not touch!
| The trim head used must have a rated speed of at least 10000 min-1.

Choke Position closed (OFF)
Choke Position open (ON)

Attention! Read manual before refuelling.
Do not smoke and avoid open flames while refuelling the tank.
Fuel Mixture: 1 Part Motor Oil and 40 Parts Gasoline

Preparation

Before first Use

Remove all parts of the machine and the accessory from the packaging. Keep packaging material out of reach of children. There is risk of suffocation!

Scope of Delivery

• Petrol Wheeled Brush Cutter GM BFF 52 with Biker Handle,
• Accessory and Tool Kit
  

Intended Use

• The machine is intended to trim lawns or grass, respectively to cut brushwood and shrubbery in private areas.
• The machine is not suitable for continuous professional operation.
  This machine shall not be used for any other purpose.

Mounting

1. Hold the machine by the carrying handle (8) and place it carefully on the ground.

2. Lift up the Biker handle (15) and lock the rods with the fastening screws (14).

3. Remove the protection caps from the axle mount the wheels (13). Tighten the nuts with the includes wrench. Make sure the valves of the wheels are facing outwards.

4. The cable is already fastened on the Biker handle with cable ties. If desired, use the included spare cable ties to fix the cable on the Biker handle. By doing this, the cable cannot be damaged if accidently jammed during operation.

5. Insert the self-locking nuts from the top of the protective hood (4) and hold the nuts in place with one hand. Turn over the protective hood and mount the thread cutter (3), as shown on the protective hood. Use the hex screws (M5 x 20 mm) and tighten the screws with the includes key.
   

6. Insert the gear case (5) into the opening on the protective hood (4). Place the washer (A) on the protective hood and mount the gear case with the included hex screws (M5 x 14 mm). Tighten the screws with the included key.
   A| Washer
   ---|---
   B| Cylinder Hex Screws M5x14 mm
   C| Locking Disc

7. Loosen the fastening screw on the coupling (7) as far as possible and insert the drive shaft (6) up to the end into the coupling (7). Make sure the opening in the gear shaft matches the bore.

8. Fix the drive shaft with the hex screws (M5 x 12 mm). Tighten both screws with the corresponding key.
   

9. Place the locking disc (C) on the spindle, as shown on the pictures, and lock the spindle and the locking disc by inserting the key into both holes.
   

10. Attention LEFT-HAND THREAD! Turn the trim head on the cutting spindle and turn the trim head counter clockwise. Hold the hex key tight while turning the trim head on the thread.
    

11. Remove the hey key.
    The brush cutter is mounted.

Fuels and Refuelling

• Stop the engine before refuelling the tank.
• Let the machine cool down before refuelling again.
• Fuels can contain substances similar to solvents.
• Eyes and skin should not come in contact with fuels. Always wear protective gloves when refuelling. Mineral oil products degrease your skin, if your skin comes in contact with these substances repeatedly and for an extended period of time. Various skin diseases and allergic reactions may result.
• Eyes can be irritated by contact with oil. If oil comes into your eyes, immediately wash them with clear water.
• If your eyes are still irritated, see a doctor immediately!
• Do not breathe in fuel vapours. Inhalation of fuel vapours can be hazardous to your health.
• Do not spill fuels. When you have spilt fuel or oil, immediately clean the soiled surfaces.
• If your clothes have come in contact with fuel, change them at once.
• To protect the environment, make sure that no fuel get into the soil. Use an appropriate and absorbent base.
• Refuelling is not allowed in closed rooms. Fuel vapours will accumulate near the ground, there is a risk of explosion.
• Start the engine at least 3 m from the place of refuelling.
• Use only approved and marked containers for the transport and storage of fuel. Keep the containers out of reach of children. Store the containers in a dry and cool location.
• Fuels cannot be stored for an unlimited period of time. Mix as much as you intend to consume in the near future.
• Fuel and fuel mixtures age through evaporation, especially at high temperatures. Aged fuel and fuel mixtures can cause starting problems and damage the engine. Purchase only that amount of fuel, which will be consumed over the next few months. At high temperatures (e.g. in summer), once fuel has been mixed it should be used up in 6 – 8 weeks.
• Failure in mixing the correct fuel will cause severe damage to the engine inner parts. Never use oil for 4-stroke engines. Do not mix the gasoline and the oil directly in the fuel tank.

Mixing Bottle

For mixing the fuel and the two stroke oil only use the provided mixing bottle. First fill the fuel into the bottle and then the oil. Thoroughly shake the mixture.

Refuelling

The engine may only be operated with a mixture of gasoline (unleaded gasoline with minimum 89 Octane) and high quality oil for air-cooled two-stroke engines. Only use oil without anti oxidant additive that is especially formulated for air-cooled two stroke engines.

Mixing Ratio: Oil 1 : Gasoline 40.

1. Open the cap of the fuel tank (12) and wait some seconds for the tank pressure to be equalized. Remove the fuel tank cap.
2. Pour in the mixture into the tank and tighten the cap only hand tight. Preferably, use a funnel. Make sure not to spill fuel and not to overfill the tank.

Operation

Starting the Engine – Cold Start

1. Place the Start/Stop switch (19) to the position “I” (Start).

2. Move the choke downwards (to the position “ON”).

3. Grasp the control handle with the right hand. This way the throttle lock (17) will be pressed. Push the throttle (16) and the half-throttle lock button (18) simultaneously.
   

4. Press the primer several times, until the transparent bubble fills with fuel. The primer is situated beneath the air filter cover (10).
   

5. Hold the half-throttle lock button (18) pressed and release the throttle (16) and the throttle lock (17). The half-throttle lock button (18) will automatically remain in the depressed position.

6. Release the control handle.

7. Hold the machine with the left hand on the carrying handle (8) and pull the starter handle with the right hand (11) quickly and vigorously 4 to 5 times up to the cable end, until the engine starts.
   Please note that the engine will start at half acceleration and with rotating trim head.

8. Let the engine run at idle speed for some seconds to warm up.

9. Press the throttle (16) shortly and the half-throttle lock button (18) will switch off automatically. Move the choke up the half back to the position OFF. Press the throttle again. Afterwards move the choke back to the position OFF. The engine returns to idle speed again. The spindle with the mounted trim head stops after some seconds.

Turning Off the Engine

1. Release the throttle. The engine is now at idle speed.
2. Place the Start/Stop switch (19) to the position “O” (Stop). ATTENTION: The spindle will still rotate for some seconds after turning off the engine.

Starting the Engine – Warm Start

For starting a warm engine, observe the chapter Starting the Engine – Cold Start but please note that in this case the choke lever will remain in the position “OFF”.

Hints for safe Operation

• Always wear person protection when working with the machine and hold the machine securely with both hands on the Biker handle.
• Always keep in mind that the trim head keeps rotating for a short while after the throttle is released.
• Always ensure a proper idle running of the engine so that the trim head will no longer rotate, when the throttle is pressed.
• Always use the highest speed for work, this way you will achieve the best cutting result.
• Always keep distance to cans, bottles, rocks, etc. Thrown objects can cause serious injury to uninvolved persons and damage the machine. If the machine touches a stone or a tree during work, switch off the engine and remove the spark plug cap. Inspect the trim head for damage. Never use a damaged trim head!
• Avoid touching wood plants with the cutting thread. Any damage of the bark can lead to the death of the plant.
• Do not use the machine for other purposes then for trimming grass. Never lift up the trim head above knee level during operation.

Maintenance

Mounting the Trim Head

Before mounting the trim head, remove the spark plug cap!

1. Strongly grasp and pull the thread (see arrow direction on the housing) in order to pull out the trim thread completely.

2. Iinsert two new trim thread through the appropriate openings in the trim head until the trim threads protrude on the other side. Please observe the directions of the arrows on the housing!
   

3. The trim threads should protrude approx. 22 cm on the long side (measured from the centre of the housing up to the end of the thread).

Sharpening the Thread Cutter

1. Remove the thread cutter (3) from the protection cover (4).
2. Fasten the cutter in a vice. Sharpen the cutter with a flat file. Make sure that the angle of the blade is maintained. Only move the file in one direction during sharpening.

Maintenance Hints

• Only use original replacement parts and original accessory. The use of unapproved accessories and cutting tools increases the risk of accidents.
• Incorrect repair and poor maintenance can shorten the life of the machine and increase the risk of accidents. Do not perform any modifications to the machine as this will endanger your safety.
• The condition of the trim head and the protective hood must be checked before starting work.
• Turn off the engine and remove the spark plug cap when replacing and cleaning the trim head.
• Clean the machine at regular intervals and check all screws and nuts are well tightened.
• Never service or store the machine in the vicinity of open flames.

Maintenance after each Operation

ATTENTION! Before cleaning, inspecting or maintaining the engine, make sure that engine is stopped and has cooled down. The engine will heat up during operation. Do not touch the exhaust system. There is risk of burns!

Before working on the machine (transport, mounting, dismounting, cleaning and servicing) and if not in use, remove the spark plug cap.

Frequent Inspections

• Before starting work and after refuelling the tank, check if the trim head is seated securely.

• Even when used in the intended way, some components are subject to normal wear. They have to be checked frequently. These parts include, among others, the protective hood and the trim head.
  These parts have to be replaced depending on the kind of duration or usage.

• Check the gear lubrication, especially during longer periods of work, and severe dust exposure. So you will avoid excessive wear and damage to the machine.

Gear Lubrication

• The gear case must be lubricated regularly.
  It is advisable to lubricate the gear case every 20 hours of operation. Use Lithium machine grease.
  

• Use a grease gun and lubricate the gear case via the hydraulic grease nipple.

Maintaining the Engine

Air Filter

When working with the machine for long period of time, clean the air filter. Dust and pollen will clog the pores of the foam filter. A damaged air filter must be replaced immediately, in order not to shorten the life of the engine.

1. Unscrew the locking screw for the air filter cover (10) and take of the cover. Behind the cover you will find the foam filter.
2. When the filter is clogged, wash the filter in mild soapy water.
   Attention: Do not use gasoline or solvents for cleaning the filter.
   Thoroughly dry the filter before re-attaching. Place the cover on the motor housing and re-tighten the locking screw.

Spark Plug

1. Wait for the engine to cool down completely.

2. Remove the spark plug cap from the spark plug and unscrew the spark plug with the included spark plug wrench.
   

3. Use a new one of the same type and dimensions. Turn the spark plug completely into the thread by hand. Avoid tilting the spark plug.

4. Tighten the spark plug with the supplied spark plug wrench.

When using a torque wrench, the tightening torque is 12 – 15 Nm. Insert the spark plug cap correctly onto the spark plug.
If excessive wear occurs on the electrode or if the deposit is very hard, replace the spark plug with the same type and size. A wrong carburettor, wrong oil/fuel mixture, bad oil quality, old petrol mixture or a dirty air filter can cause deposits on the spark plug, which can lead to starting problems or malfunctions.

Clean the electrodes with a wire brush and reset the gap to approx. 0.65 mm as necessary.
Always use the correct spark plug type. The use of wrong spark plugs can damage the piston and the cylinder.

Adjusting the Carburettor

The carburettor is factory set. Should a re-adjustment be necessary due to changed operating conditions, have this adjustment carried out by a specialist workshop, as an incorrect setting can lead to defects on the machine.

Cleaning, Transport and Storing

Cleaning

• Clean the housing of the machine carefully with a cloth and a brush.
  Do not use abrasives or aggressive chemicals to clean the unit.

• Remove grass and residue from the spindle and the protective hood. Remove grass residue immediately, otherwise the engine will overheat due to excessive friction. Grass residue inside the protective hood may be very compact; use a suitable piece of wood or plastic to remove them.

• Do not use cleaning agents, solvents or spiky objects to clean the machine.

Transport

• Always turn the machine off when carrying or transporting it. Do not carry or transport the machine with running engine!
• Hint: For space-saving transport and storing, loosen the fastening screws (14) and fold down the handle. If necessary, remove the gear shaft (6) from the coupling (7).
• Always carry the machine by the carrying handle (8).

Storing

• Clean the machine carefully before storing and use oil to preserve it against corrosion.
• Store the machine in a dry place away from sunlight.
• Before storing the machine for longer periods of time, empty the fuel tank. Store fuel in a suitable container.

1. Pull the starter handle (11) in order to run fuel out of the carburettor. Start the engine and run it until the engine comes to a standstill.
2. Push the Start/Stop switch (19) to the position “ O ”.
3. Wait until the engine has cooled down completely. Remove the spark plug and pour a teaspoon of fresh and clean two-stroke oil into the cylinder. Place a clean cloth over the spark plug hole and pull the starter handle (11) several times in order to evenly distribute the oil.
4. Determine the position of the piston through the spark plug hole. Slowly pull the starter handle until the piston is lifted up. Leave the piston in this position.
5. Re-attach the spark plug but do not connect the spark plug cap. Store the machine indoors in a dry and dust-free place. Protect the machine from dirt and extreme temperature.

Technical Data

Hand Arm Vibration
Uncertainty K| 6.822 m/s²
1.5 m/s²

The specified vibration value was established in accordance with a standardized testing method. It may change according to how the electric equipment is used and may exceed the specified value in exceptional circumstances. The specified vibration value can be used to compare the equipment with other electric power tools. The specified vibration value can be used for initial assessment of a harmful effect.

Keep the noise emissions and vibrations to a minimum!

• Only use appliances which are in perfect working order.
• Service and clean the appliance regularly.
• Adapt your working style to suit the appliance.
• Do not overload the appliance.
• Switch the appliance off when it is not in use.
• Wear protective gloves.

Residual Risks

Even if you use this electric power tool in accordance with instructions, certain residual risks cannot be rules out. The following hazards may arise in connection with the equipment’s construction and layout

• Damage to hearing if no suitable ear protection is used.
• Health damage caused by hand-arm vibrations if the equipment is used over a prolonged period or is not properly guided and maintained.

EU-Declaration of Conformity

We, the Westfalia Werkzeugcompany, Werkzeugstraße 1, D-58093 Hagen, declare by our own responsibility that the product

Petrol Wheeled Brush Cutter GM BFF 52 with Biker Handle Article No. 93 78 15

is according to the basic requirements, which are defined in the European Directives/Regulations

2014/30/EU Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) EN ISO 14982:2009

2006/42/EC Machinery EN ISO 14910:2007+A1

2000/14/EC Outdoor Directive (113 dB LWA)

(EU) 2016/1628 Emission Directive e242016/16282018/989SHB1/P013801 (V) and their amendments.

The technical documentations are on file at the QA department of the Westfalia Werkzeugcompany.

Hagen, 7 th of November 2022

Customer Services

Deutschland

Westfalia
Werkzeugstraße 1
D-58093 Hagen
Telefon: (0180) 5 30 31 32
Telefax: (0180) 5 30 31 30
Internet: www.westfalia.de

Österreich

Westfalia
Moosham 31
A-4943 Geinberg OÖ
Telefon: (07723) 4 27 59 54
Telefax: (07723) 4 27 59 23
Internet: www.westfalia-versand.at

Schweiz

Westfalia
Wydenhof 3a
CH-3422 Kirchberg (BE)
Telefon: (034) 4 13 80 00
Telefax: (034) 4 13 80 01
Internet: www.westfalia-versand.ch

Disposal

Dear Customer,

Please help avoid waste materials.

If you at some point intend to dispose of this article, then please keep in mind that many of its components consist of valuable materials, which can be recycled.

Please do not discharge it in the rubbish bin, but check with your local council for recycling facilities in your area.

References

• Westfalia Versand Österreich | Werkzeug ✓ Garten ✓ Technik ✓ & mehr
• Westfalia Versand Schweiz | Werkzeug ✓ Garten ✓ Technik ✓ & mehr
• Westfalia Versand Deutschland | Werkzeug ✓ Garten ✓ Technik ✓ & mehr

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