WEED EATER FL1500 Lightweight String Trimmer Instruction Manual

WEED EATER FL1500 Lightweight String Trimmer

Please do not return the unit to the retailer.
1-800-554-6723
www.weedeater.com

For Household Use Only

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

SAFETY RULES

WARNING : Failure to follow all Safety Rules and Precautions can result in serious injury.

KNOW YOUR UNIT

• Read your Manual carefully until you completely understand and can follow all warnings and safety rules before operating the unit.
• Restrict unit to users who understand and will follow all warnings and safety rules in this manual.

PLAN AHEAD

• Always wear eye protection when operating, servicing, or performing maintenance on the unit. Wearing eye protection will help to prevent rocks or debris from being blown or ricocheting into eyes and face which can result in blindness and/or serious injury. Eye protection should meet the requirements of ANSI Z87.1
• Always wear foot protection. Do not go barefoot or wear sandals.
• Always wear a respirator or face mask when working with the unit in dusty environments.
• Secure hair above shoulder length. Secure or remove jewelry, loose clothing, or clothing with loosely hanging straps, ties, tassels, etc. They can be caught in moving parts.
• Do not operate the unit when you are tired, ill, upset, or if you are under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
• Keep children, bystanders, and animals away from the work area a minimum of 30 feet (10 meters) when starting or operating the unit. Do not point the blower nozzle in the direction of people or pets.
• Inspect the area before starting 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.

HANDLE FUELWITH CAUTION, IT IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE

• Eliminate all sources of sparks or flame (including smoking, open flames, or work that can cause sparks) in the areas where fuel is mixed, poured, or stored.
• Mix and pour fuel in an outdoor area; store fuel in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place; use an approved, marked container for all fuel purposes.
• Do not smoke while handling fuel or while operating the unit.
• Make sure the unit is properly assembled and in good operating condition.
• Do not fill the fuel tank while the engine is running.
• Avoid spilling fuel or oil. Wipe up fuel spills before starting the engine.
• Move at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from the fuel and fueling site before starting the engine.
• Always store gasoline in a container approved for flammable liquids.

OPERATE YOUR UNIT SAFELY

• Inspect the unit before each use for worn, loose, missing, or damaged parts. Do not use it until the unit is in proper working order.
• Keep outside surfaces free from oil and fuel.
• Never start or run engine inside a closed room, building, or other unventilated area. Breathing exhaust fumes can kill.
• To avoid static electricity shock, do not wear rubber gloves or any other insulated gloves while operating the unit.
• Do not set the unit on any surface except a clean, hard area while the engine is running. Debris such as gravel, sand, dust, grass, etc. could be picked up by the air intake and thrown out through the discharge opening, damaging unit, or property, or causing serious injury to bystanders or operators.
• Avoid dangerous environments. Do not use in unventilated areas or where explosive vapors or carbon monoxide buildup could be present.
• Do not overreach or use unstable surfaces such as ladders, trees, steep slopes, rooftops, etc. Keep firm footing and balance at all times.
• Never place objects inside the blower tubes; always direct the blowing debris away from people, animals, glass, and solid objects such as trees, automobiles, walls, etc. The force of air can cause rocks, dirt, or sticks to be thrown or to ricochet which can hurt people or animals, break glass, or cause other damage.
• Never run a unit without the proper equipment attached. When using your unit as a blower, always install blower tubes.
• Check air intake opening and blower tubes, frequently, always with the engine stopped and the spark plug disconnected. Keep vents and discharge tubes free from debris which can accumulate restrict proper air flow and cause damage to the unit.
• Never use for spreading chemicals, fertilizers, or other substances which may contain toxic materials.
• To avoid spreading fire, do not use near-leaf or brush fires, fireplaces, barbecue pits, ashtrays, etc.
• To reduce the risk of hearing loss associated with sound level(s), hearing protection is required.
• To reduce the risk of injury associated with contacting rotating parts, stop the engine before installing or removing attachments. Do not operate without guard(s) in place.
• Use only for jobs explained in this manual.

MAINTAIN YOUR UNIT PROPERLY

• Have all maintenance other than the recommended procedures described in the Operator’s Manual performed by an Authorized Service Dealer.
• Disconnect the spark plug before performing maintenance except for carburetor adjustments.
• Use only recommended Weed Eater parts; use of any other parts may void your warranty and cause damage to your unit.
• Empty the fuel tank before storing the unit. Use up fuel left in the carburetor by starting the engine and letting it run until it stops.
• Do not use any accessory or attachment other than those recommended by the manufacturer for use with your unit.
• Do not store the unit or fuel in a closed area where fuel vapors can reach sparks or an open flame from hot water heaters, electric motors or switches, furnaces, etc.
• Store in a dry area out of reach of children.

SPECIAL NOTICE: For users on U.S. Forest Land and in some states, including California( Public Resources Codes 4442 and 4443), Idaho, Maine, Minnesota, NewJersey, Oregon, and Washington: Certain internal combustion engines operated on forest, brush, and/or grass covered land in the above areas are required to be equipped with a spark arrestor, maintained in effective working order, or the engine must be constructed, equipped, and maintained for the prevention of fire. Check with your state or local authorities for regulations pertaining to these requirements. Failure to follow these requirements is a violation of the law. This unit is not factory equipped with a spark arrestor; however, a spark arrestor is available as an optional part. If a spark arrestor is required in your area, contact an Authorized Service Dealer for the correct kit. The spark arrestor, blower tubes, and nozzles must be assembled to unit to be in full compliance with regulations.

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

ASSEMBLY
NOTE : It is normal for the fuel filter to rattle in the empty fuel tank.

ASSEMBLY
WARNING : If received assembled, repeat all steps to ensure your unit is properly assembled and all fasteners are secure. No tools are required for assembly.

BLOWER TUBE
Push the blower tube into the blower outlet until it snaps into place

USING YOUR UNIT

You MUST make sure the tube is secure before using the unit

OPERATING TIPS

• Operate power equipment only at reasonable hours–not early in the morning or late at night when peoplemight be disturbed. Comply with times listed in local ordinances. Usual recommendations are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday though Saturday.
• To reduce noise levels, limit the number of pieces of equipment used at any one time.
• Use rakes and brooms to loosen debris before blowing.
• In dusty conditions, slightly dampen surfaces when water is available.
• Conserve water by using power blowers instead of hoses for many lawn and garden applications, including areas such as gutters, screens, patios, grills, porches, and gardens.
• Watch out for children, pets, open windows, or freshly washed cars. Blow debris away safely.
• Use the full blower nozzle extension so the air stream can work close to the ground.
• After using blowers and other equipment, CLEAN UP! Dispose of debris in trash receptacles.

FUELING

This engine is certified to operate on unleaded gasoline. Gasoline must be mixed with a good quality 2-cycle air-cooled engine oil designed to be mixed at a ratio of 40:1. Poulan/Weed Eater brand oil is recommended. (A 40:1 ratio is obtained bymixing 3.2 ounces of oil with 1 gallon of unleaded gasoline).When mixing fuel follow the instructions printed on the container. Always read and follow the safety rules under FUEL SAFETY.

STARTING

STOPPING YOUR ENGINE

• Move the choke lever to the START/ STOP position.
  STARTING YOUR ENGINE

• Fuel engine. Move at least 10 feet (3 meters) away from the fueling site.

• Hold the unit in the starting position as shown. Make sure the blower end is directed away from people, animals, glass, and solid objects.

WARNING: When starting the engine, hold the unit as illustrated. Do not set unit on any surface except a clean, hard area when starting the engine or while the engine is running. Debris such as gravel, sand, dust, grass, etc. could be picked up by the air intake and thrown out through the discharge opening, damaging the unit or property, or causing serious injury to bystanders or the operator.

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

• Move the choke lever to START/STOP.

• Slowly press the primer bulb 6 times.

• Sharply pull the starter handle until the engine attempts to run. NO MORE THAN 5 PULLS.

• Move the choke lever to 1/2 CHOKE. Pull the starter rope sharply until the engine runs.
  NOTE : If the engine has not started after 5 pulls, repeat all of the above steps.

• After a 10-second warm-up, move the choke lever to RUN.

• To stop the engine, move the choke lever to the START/STOP position.

STARTING A WARM ENGINE

• Move the choke lever to the RUN position.
• Pull the starter handle sharply until engine runs.

NOTE : If the engine does not run after 5 pulls, follow the information provided under STARTING A COLD ENGINE.

DIFFICULT STARTING (or starting a flooded engine)
Flooded engines can be started by placing the choke lever in the RUN position; then, pull the starter handle sharply to clear the engine of excess fuel. This could require pulling the starter handlemany times depending on how badly the unit is flooded. If the unit still does not start, refer to TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE or call 1-800-554-6723.

SERVICE

We recommend all service and adjustments not listed in this manual be performed by an Authorized Service Dealer.

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS
Your carburetor is equipped with limiter caps. Damage will occur if you turn the needles beyond the limiter caps. Carburetor adjustment is a complicated task. We recommend that you take your unit to an Authorized Service Dealer.

IGNITION TIMING
Ignition timing is fixed, and non-adjustable.

SPARK PLUG
Replace spark plug yearly with a Champion RCJ-8Y plug. Spark plug gap is .025 inches.

TROUBLESHOOTING TABLE

WARNING : Always stop unit and disconnect spark plug before performing any of the recommended remedies below other than remedies that require operation of the unit.

S Fuel tank empty.

S Spark plug not firing.

S Fuel not reaching carburetor.

S Compression low.

| S See “Starting Instructions.”

S Fill tank with correct fuel mixture.

S Install new spark plug.

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

S Contact Authorized Service Dealer.

Engine will not idle properly.| S Carburetor requires adjustment

S Crankshaft seals worn.

S Compression low.

| . S See “Carburetor Adjustments.”

S Contact Authorized Service Dealer.

S Contact Authorized Service Dealer.

Engine will not accelerate, lacks power, or

dies under a load.

| S Air filter dirty.

S Spark plug fouled.

S Carburetor requires adjustment

S Carbon build up.

S Compression low.

| S Clean or replace air filter.

S Clean or replace spark plug; re-gap

. S See “Carburetor Adjustments.”

S Contact Authorized Service Dealer.

S Contact Authorized Service Dealer.

Engine smokes excessively.| S Choke partially on.

S Fuel mixture incorrect.

S Air filter dirty.

S Carburetor requires adjustment

| S Adjust choke.

S Empty fuel tank and refill with correct fuel mixture.

S Clean or replace air filter.

. S See “Carburetor Adjustments.”

Engine runs hot.| S Fuel mixture incorrect.

S Spark plug incorrect.

S Carburetor requires adjustment

S Carbon build up.

| S See “Fueling Your Unit.”

S Replace with correct spark plug.

. S See “Carburetor Adjustments.”

S Contact Authorized Service Dealer.

NEED ASSISTANCE?|

NEED ASSISTANCE?
Call 1-800-554-6723 for assistance.
NEED SERVICE PART? Contact your dealer or call 1-800-554-6723.

LIMITED WARRANTY

• Electrolux Home Products, Division WCI Outdoor Products, Inc., warrants to the original purchaser that each new Weed Eater brand gasoline tool or attachment is free from defects in material and workmanship and agrees to repair or replace under thiswarranty any defective gasoline product or attachment as follows from the original date of purchase.
• 2 YEARS–Parts and Labor, when used for household purposes.
• 90 DAYS–Parts and Labor, when used for commercial, professional, or income-producing purposes.
• 30 DAYS–Parts and Labor, if used for rental purposes.
• This warranty is not transferable and does not cover damage or liability caused by improper handling, improper maintenance, or the use of accessories and/or attachments not specifically recommended by Electrolux Home Products for this tool. Additionally, this warranty does not cover tune-ups, spark plugs, filters, etc., that will wear and require replacement with reasonable use during the warranty period. This warranty does not cover predelivery setup or normal adjustments explained in the operator’s manual.
• THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY HAVE OTHER RIGHTS THAT VARY FROM STATE TO STATE. NO CLAIMS FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES WILL BE ALLOWED, AND THERE ARE NO OTHER EXPRESS WARRANTIES EXCEPT THOSE EXPRESSLY STIPULATED HEREIN. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS OR THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATIONS OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
• Electrolux Home Products’ policy is to continuously improve its products. Therefore, Electrolux Home Products reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue models, designs, specifications, and accessories of all products at any time without notice or obligation to any purchaser.

U.S. EPAEMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY STATEMENT

• YOUR WARRANTY RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS:
• The U. S. Environmental Protection
• Agency and POULAN/WEED EATER, DIVISION OF WCI OUTDOOR PRODUCTS are pleased to explain the emissions control system warranty on your lawn and garden equipment engine. All new utility and lawn and garden equipment engines must be designed, built, and equipped to meet the stringent anti–smog standards.
• POULAN/WEED EATER must warrant the emission control system on your lawn and garden equipment engine for the periods of time listed below provided there has been no abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance of your lawn and garden equipment engine. Your emission control system includes parts such as the carburetor and the ignition system. Where a warrantable condition exits, POULAN/WEED EATER will repair your lawn and garden equipment engine at no cost to you. Expenses covered under warranty include diagnosis, parts and labor.

MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY COVERAGE:

• If any emissions-related part on your engine (as listed underEmissions ControlWarranty Parts List) is defective or a defect in the materials or workmanship of the engine causes the failure of such an emission-related part, the part will be repaired or replaced byPOULAN/WEED

EATER. OWNER’S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• As the lawn and garden equipment engine owner, you are responsible for the performance of the required maintenance listed in your Owner’s Manual. POULAN/WEED EATERrecommends that you retain all receipts covering maintenance on your lawn and garden equipment engine, but POULAN/WEED EATER cannot deny warranty solely for the lack of receipts or for your failure to ensure the performance of all scheduled maintenance. As the lawn and garden equipment engine owner, you should be aware that POULAN/WEED EATER may deny you warranty coverage if your lawn and garden equipment engine or a part of it has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper maintenance, unapproved modifications, or the use of parts not made or approved by the original equipment manufacturer. You are responsible for presenting your lawn and garden equipment engine to a POULAN/WEED EATER authorized repair center as soon as a problem exists.
• Warranty repairs should be completed in a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.
• If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you should contact your nearest authorized service center or call POULAN/WEED EATER at 1–800–554–6723.

WARRANTY COMMENCEMENT
DATE : The warranty period begins on the date the lawn and garden equipment engine is purchased. LENGTH OF COVERAGE:

• This warranty shall be for two years from the initial date of purchase. WHAT IS COVERED: REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF PARTS. Repair or replacement of any warranted part will be performed at no charge to the owner at an approved POULAN/WEED EATER servicing center. If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you should contact your nearest authorized service center or call POULAN/WEED EATER at 1–800–554–6723 WARRANTY PERIOD:
• Any warranted part which is not scheduled for replacement as required maintenance, or which is scheduled only for regular inspection to the effect of “repair or replace as necessary” shall be warranted for 2 years. Any warranted part which is scheduled for replacement as required maintenance shall be warranted for the period up to the first scheduled replacement point for that part. DIAGNOSIS: The owner shall not be charged for diagnostic labor which leads to the determination that a warranted part is defective if the diagnostic work is performed at an approved POULAN/ WEEDEATER servicing center.
• CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES: POULAN/ WEED EATER may be liable for damages to other engine components caused by the failure of a warranted part still under warranty.
• WHAT IS NOT COVERED: All failures caused by abuse, neglect, or improper maintenance are not covered. ADD–ON OR MODIFIED PARTS: The use of add–on or modified parts can be grounds for disallowing a warranty claim.
• POULAN/WEED EATER is not liable to cover failures of warranted parts caused by the use of add-on or modified parts. HOW TO FILE A CLAIM: If you have any questions regarding your warranty rights and responsibilities, you should contact your nearest authorized service center or call POULAN/WEED EATER at 1–800–554–6723. WHERE TO GET WARRANTY SERVICE: Warranty services or repairs shall be provided at all POULAN/WEED EATER service centers. call: 1–800–554–6723 MAINTENANCE, REPLACEMENT AND REPAIR OF EMISSION-RELATED PARTS: Any POULAN/WEED EATER approved replacement part used in the performance of any warranty maintenance or repair on emission-related parts will be provided without charge to the owner if the part is under warranty. EMISSION CONTROL WARRANTY PARTS LIST: Carburetor, Ignition System: Spark Plug (covered up to maintenance schedule), Ignition Module.
• MAINTENANCE STATEMENT: The owner is responsible for the performance of all required maintenance as defined in the owner’s manual

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