makita EBH252U Petrol Brush Cutter Instruction Manual

makita EBH252U Petrol Brush Cutter

Important:
Read this instruction manual carefully before putting the Petrol Brushcutter into operation and strictly observe the safety regulations!
Preserve instruction manual carefully!

(Original instructions)

• Thank you very much for purchasing the MAKITA Petrol Brushcutter. We are pleased to recommend to you the MAKITA Petrol Brushcutter which is the result of a long development programme and many years of knowledge and experience.
• Please read this booklet which refers in detail to the various points that will demonstrate its outstanding performance. This will assist you to obtain the best possible result from your MAKITA Petrol Brushcutter.

SYMBOLS

You will note the following symbols when reading the instructions manual.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

General Instructions

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

• It is recommended only to lend the Petrol Brushcutter to people who have proven to be experienced with Petrol Brushcutters.
  Always hand over the instruction manual.

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

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

• Use Petrol Brushcutters with the utmost care and attention.

• Operate the Petrol Brushcutter only if you are in good physical condition. Perform all work calmly and carefully. The user has to accept liability for others.

• Never use the Petrol Brushcutter after consumption of alcohol or drugs, or if feeling tired or ill.

• National regulation can restrict the use of the machine.

Intended use of the machine

• The Petrol Brushcutter is only intended for cutter grass, weeds, Bushes, undergrowth it should not be used for any other purpose such as Edging or hedge cutting as this may cause injury.

Personal protective equipment

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

• In order to avoid either head-, eye-, hand-or foot injuries as well as to protect your hearing the following protective equipment and protective clothing must be used during operation of the Petrol Brushcutter.

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

• The visor (2) of the helmet (or alternatively goggles) protects the face from flying debris and stones. During operation of the Petrol Brushcutter always wear goggles, or a visor to prevent eye injuries.

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

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

• Special gloves (5) made of thick leather are part of the prescribed equipment and must always be worn during operation of the Petrol Brushcutter.

• When using the Petrol Brushcutter, always wear sturdy shoes (6) with a non-slip sole. This protects against injuries and ensures a good footing.

Starting up the Petrol Brushcutter

• Please make sure that there are no children or other people within a working range of 15 meters (50 ft), also pay attention to any animals in the working vicinity.
• Before use always check that the Petrol Brushcutter is safe for operation : Check the security of the cutting tool, the control lever for easy action and check for proper functioning of the control lever lock.
• Rotation of the cutting tool during idling speed is not allowed. Check with your dealer for adjustment if in doubt. Check for clean and dry handles and test the function of the start/stop switch.

Start the Petrol Brushcutter only in accordance with the instructions.

• Do not use any other methods for starting the engine!

• Use the Petrol Brushcutter and the tools only for such applications as specified.

• Only start the Petrol Brushcutter engine, after the entire assembly is done. Operation of the device is only permitted after all the appropriate accessories are attached!

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

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

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

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

• Operate the Petrol Brushcutter only with the shoulder strap attached which is to be suitably adjusted before putting the Petrol Brushcutter into operation. It is essential to adjust the shoulder strap according to the user size to prevent fatigue occurring during use. Never hold the cutter with one hand during use.

• During operation always hold the Petrol Brushcutter with both hands. Always ensure a safe footing.

• Operate the Petrol Brushcutter in such a manner as to avoid inhalation of the exhaust gases. Never run the engine in enclosed rooms (risk of gas poisoning). Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas.

• Switch off the engine when resting and when leaving the Petrol Brushcutter unattended, and place it in a safe location to prevent danger to others or damage to the machine.

• Never put the hot Petrol Brushcutter onto dry grass or onto any combustible materials.

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

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

• Never operate the engine with faulty exhaust muffler.

• Shut off the engine during transport.

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

• Ensure safe position of the Petrol Brushcutter during car transportation to avoid fuel leakage.

• When transporting the Petrol Brushcutter, ensure that the fuel tank is completely empty.

• When unloading the Petrol Brushcutter from the truck, never drop the Engine to the ground or this may severely damage the fuel tank.

• Except in case of emergency, never drop or cast the Petrol Brushcutter to the ground or this may severely damage the Petrol Brushcutter.

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

Refueling

• Shut off the engine during refuelling, keep away from open flames and do not smoke.
• Avoid skin contact with mineral oil products. Do not inhale fuel vapor. Always wear protective gloves during refuelling. Change and clean protective clothing at regular intervals.
• Take care not to spill either fuel or oil in order to prevent soil contamination (environmental protection). Clean the Petrol Brushcutter immediately after fuel has been spilt.
• Avoid any fuel contact with your clothing. Change your clothing instantly if fuel has been spilt on it (to prevent clothing catching fire).
• Inspect the fuel cap at regular intervals making sure that it can be securely fastened and does not leak.
• Carefully tighten the fuel tank cap. Change location to start the engine (at least 3 meters away from the place of refuelling).
• Never refuel in closed rooms. Fuel vapors accumulate at ground lever (risk of explosions).
• Only transport and store fuel in approved containers. Make sure the fuel stored is not accessible to children.

Method of operation

• Only use the Petrol Brushcutter in good light and visibility. During the winter season beware of slippery or wet areas, ice and snow (risk of slipping). Always ensure a safe footing.

• Never cut above waist height.

• Never stand on a ladder and run the Petrol Brushcutter.

• Never climb up into trees to perform cutting operation with the Petrol Brushcutter.

• Never work on unstable surfaces.

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

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

Kickback

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

Kickback prevention
To avoid kickbacks, observe the following:

• Operation within a blade segment between 12 and 2 o’clock presents positive hazards, especially when using metal cutting tools.
• Cutting operations within a blade segment between 11 and 12 o’clock, and between 2 and 5 o’clock, must only be performed by trained and experienced operators, and then only at their own risk.
• Easy cutting with almost no kickback is possible within a blade segment between 8 and 11 o’clock.

Cutting Tools

• Employ only the correct cutting tool for the job in hand.
• EBH252U, EBH253U, EBH252L, EBH253L with cutter blade, Nylon cutting head
• For cutting thick materials, such as weed, high grass, bushes, shrubs, underwood, thicket etc. (max. 2 cm dia. thickness). Perform this cutting work by swinging the Petrol
• Brushcutter evenly in half-circles from right to left (similar to using a scythe).

Maintenance instructions

• The condition of the cutter, in particular of the cutting tool of the protective devices and also of the shoulder strap must be checked before commencing work. Particular attention is to be paid to the cutting blades which must be correctly sharpened.
• Turn off the engine and remove spark plug connector when replacing or sharpening cutting tools, and also when cleaning the cutter or cutting tool.

Never straighten or weld damaged cutting tools.

• Operate the Petrol Brushcutter with as little noise and contamination as possible. In particular check the correct setting of the carburetor.
• Clean the Petrol Brushcutter at regular intervals and check that all screws and nuts are well tightened.
•  Never service or store the Petrol Brushcutter in the vicinity of naked flames.
•  Always store the Petrol Brushcutter in locked rooms and with an emptied fuel tank.

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

• Do not perform any modifications on the Petrol Brushcutter as this will endanger your safety.
• The performance of maintenance or repair work by the user is limited to those activities as described in the instruction manual. All other work is to be done by an Authorized
• Service Agent. Use only genuine spare parts and accessories released and supplied by MAKITA.
• Use of non-approved accessories and tools means increased risk of accidents.
• MAKITA will not accept any liability for accidents or damage caused by the use of non-approved cutting tools and fixing devices of cutting tools, or accessories.

First Aid

• In case of accident make sure that a first-aid box is available in the vicinity of  the cutting operations. Immediately replace any item taken from the first aid box.
• When asking for help, please give the following information:
  • Place of accident
  • What happened
  •  Number of injured persons
  •  Kind of injuries
  •  Your name
• Packaging
  The MAKITA Petrol Brushcutter will be delivered in two protective cardboard boxes to prevent transport damage. Cardboard is a basic raw material and is therefore consequently reusable or suitable for recycling (waste paper recycling).

TECHNICAL DATA EBH252U, EBH252L

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

Cutting tools (cutter blade dia.)| mm| 230
Gear ratio| 14/19

(For Canada)
NOTE: This spark ignition system complies with the Canadian standard ICES-002.

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

Cutting tools (cutter blade dia.)| mm| 230
Gear ratio| 14/19

(For Canada)
NOTE : This spark ignition system complies with the Canadian standard ICES-002.

DESIGNATION OF PARTS

MOUNTING OF HANDLE

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

For machines with bike handle models

• Loosen knob (1).
• Place handle (4) between handle clamp (2) and handle holder (3).
• Adjust handle (4) to an angle that provides a comfortable working position and then secure by firmly hand-tightening knob (1).
• CAUTION: Do not forget to mount spring (5).

For machines with loop handle

• Fix a barrier to the left side of the machine together with the handle for operator protection.
• Do not adjust position of the loop handle too close to the control grip. Keep not less than 250 mm distance between the handle and the grip. (a distance collar is provided for this purpose.)

MOUNTING OF PROTECTOR

• WARNING :
  • Always use the tool with the approved combination of the safety equipments. Otherwise contact with a cutting tool may cause serious injury.
• CAUTION:
  • Tighten the right and left bolts evenly so that the gap between the clamp and the protector is constant. Otherwise the protector may not function as expected.
  • To meet the applicable safety provisions, only the tool / protector combinations as indicated in the table must be used.
  • Use of metal blade

Use of nylon cutting head

For metal blade
Fix the protector type A (1) to the clamp (2) with two bolts M6 x 25 (3) with hex wrench 5 (4). For nylon cutting head (for type A protector)

• CAUTION:
  Be sure to push in the protector extension (1) until it is fully inserted. Otherwise the protector extension may fall and result in personal injury.

CAUTION:
Take care not to injure yourself on the cutter for cutting the nylon cord.

1. Fix the protector to the clamp with two bolts M6 x 25.
2. Mount the protector extension (1) by sliding it into place from the flank of the metal blade protector (2).
3. Remove tape adhered to cutter, which cuts nylon cord, on the protector extension.
4. To remove the protector extension, apply a hex wrench 4 into the notch on  the protector, push it in and meanwhile slide the protector extension.

For nylon cutting head (for type B protector)
CAUTION:

• Take care not to injure yourself on the cutter for cutting the nylon cord.
• Fix the protector (1) to the clamp (2) with two bolts M6 x 25 (3) with hex wrench 5 (4).

MOUNTING OF CUTTER BLADE OR NYLON CUTTING HEAD

CAUTION:
Be sure to use genuine MAKITA cutter blades or nylon cutting head.

• The cutter blade must be well polished, free of cracks or breakage. If the cutter blade hits against a stone during operation, stop the engine and check the blade immediately.
• Polish or replace the cutter blade every three hours of operation.
• If the nylon cutting head hits against a stone during operation, stop the engine and check the nylon cutting head immediately.

CAUTION:
The outside diameter of the cutter blade must be 230 mm (9 – 1/16”). Never use any blades surpassing 230 mm (9 – 1/16”) in outside diameter. Turn the machine upside down, and you can replace the cutter blade or nylon cutting head easily.

Installing the metal blade

CAUTION :
Always wear gloves, and put the blade cover on the metal blade when handling the cutter blade.

1. Install the receiver washer (1) onto the axle.
2. Insert the hex wrench 4 (2) through the hole in the gear case and rotate the receiver washer (1) until it is locked with the hex wrench.
3. Mount the metal blade (3) onto the shaft so that the guide of the receive washer (1) fits in the arbor hole in the metal blade.
4. Install the clamp washer (4), cup (5), and secure the cutter blade by turning the nut (6) counterclockwise. [Tightening torque: 13 – 23 N-m]
5. After installing the metal blade, remove the hex wrench.

To remove the metal blade, perform as follows:

1. Insert the hex wrench through the hole in the gear case and rotate the receiver washer until it is locked with the hex wrench.
2. Loosen the nut clockwise with the socket wrench, and remove the nut, cup, clamp washer and hex wrench.

NOTE:
The cutter blade-fastening nut (with spring washer) wears out in course of time. Replace the nut if there appears any wear or deformation on the spring washer.

Make sure that the blade is the left way up.

Installing the nylon cutting head

1. Install the receiver washer (1) onto the axle.
2. Insert the hex wrench (2) through the hole in the gear case and rotate the receiver washer (1) until it is locked with the hex wrench.
3. Screw the nylon cutting head onto the shaft by turning it counterclockwise.
4. After installing nylon cutting head, remove the hex wrench.

BEFORE START OF OPERATION

Inspection and refill of engine oil

• – Perform the following procedure, with the engine cooled down.
• While keeping the engine level, remove the oil gauge, and confirm that the oil is filled within the upper and lower limit marks. When the oil is in short in such a way that the oil gauge touches the oil only by its tip, in particular with the oil gauge remaining inserted in the crankcase without screwing-in (Fig. 1), refill new oil near the port (Fig. 2). or reference, the oil refill time is about 10h (10 times or 10 tanks of oil refill).
• If the oil changes in color or mixes with dirt, replace it with new one. (For the interval and method of replacement, refer to P 19)

Recommended oi l: SAE 10W-30 oil of API Classification, Class SF or higher (4-stroke engine for automobile) Oil volume: Approx. 0.08L
Note: If the engine is not kept upright, oil may go into around the engine, and may be refilled excessively.
If the oil is filled above the limit, the oil may be contaminated or may catch fire with white smoke.

Point 1 in Replacement of oil: “Oil gauge”

• Remove dust or dirt near the oil refill port, and detach the oil gauge.
• Keep the detached oil gauge free of sand or dust. Otherwise, any sand or dust adhering to the oil gauge may cause irregular oil circulation or wear on the engine parts, which will result in troubles.
• As an example to keep the oil gauge clean, it is recommended to insert the oil gauge on its knob side into the engine cover, as shown in Fig. 3.

1. Keep the engine level, and detach the oil gauge.

2. Fill oil up to the edge of the oil refill port. (Refer to Fig. 2 of the preceding  page).
   Feed oil with the lubricant refill container.

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

Point 2 in Replacement of oil: “If oil spills out”
If oil spills out between the fuel tank and engine main unit, the oil is sucked into through the cooling air intake port, which will  contaminate the engine. Be sure to wipe out spilt oil before start of operation.

REFUELING

Handling of fuel

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

Storage period of fuel

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

STORAGE OF MACHINE AND REFILL TANK

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

Fuel
The engine is a four-stroke engine. Be sure to use an automobile gasoline (regular gasoline or premium gasoline).

Points for fuel

• Never use a gasoline mixture which contains engine oil. Otherwise, it will cause excessive carbon accumulation or mechanical troubles.
• Use of deteriorated oil will cause irregular startup.

Refueling
WARNING: INFLAMMABLES STRICTLY PROHIBITED
Gasoline used: Automobile gasoline (unleaded gasoline)

•  Loosen the tank cap a little so that there will be no difference in atmospheric pressure.
• Detach the tank cap, and refuel, discharging air by tilting the fuel tank so that the refuel port will be oriented upward. (Never refill fuel full to the oil refill port.)
• Wipe well the periphery of the tank cap to prevent foreign matter from entering into the fuel tank.
• After refueling, securely tighten the tank cap.
• If there is any flaw or damage on the tank cap, replace it.
• The tank cap is consumable, and therefore should be renewed every two to three years.

CORRECT HANDLING OF MACHINE

Attachment of shoulder strap

• Adjust the strap length so that the cutter blade will be kept parallel with the ground.
• For EBH252U, EBH253U
  NOTE : Be careful not to trap clothing, etc., in the buckle.

Detachment

For EBH252L, EBH253L

•  In an emergency, push the notches (1) at both sides, and you can detach the

machine from you.

• Be extremely careful to maintain control of the machine at this time. Do not allow the machine to be deflected toward you or anyone in the work vicinity.

• WARNING: Failure to maintain complete control of the machine at all could  result in serious bodily injury or DEATH.

For EBH252U, EBH253U

• In an emergency, push the notches (2) at both sides, and  you can detach the machine from you.

• Be extremely careful to maintain control of the machine at this time. Do not allow the machine to be deflected toward you or anyone in the work vicinity.

• WARNING: Failure to maintain complete control of the **** machine at all could result in serious bodily injury or DEATH.

• WARNING:

  • Always position the tool on your right-hand side. Correct positioning of the tool allows for maximum control and will reduce the risk of serious personal injury caused by kickback.

• WARNING:

  • Be extremely careful to maintain control of the tool at all times. Do not allow the tool to be defl ected toward you or anyone in the work vicinity. Failure to keep control of the tool  could result in serious injury to the bystander and the operator.

• Nylon cutting head operation

  • The nylon cutting head is a dual string trimmer head provided with a bump & feed mechanism.
  • To cause the nylon cord to feed out, tap the cutting head against the ground while rotating.
  • The most effective cutting area is shown by the shaded area.

• NOTE:

  • If the nylon cord does not feed out while tapping the head, rewind/replace the nylon cord by following the procedures described under “SERVICING INSTRUCTIONS”.

POINTS IN OPERATION AND HOW TO STOP

• Observe the applicable accident prevention regulations!
• STARTING
  • Move at least 3 m away from the place of refuelling. Place the Petrol Brushcutter on a clean piece of ground taking care that the cutting tool does not come into contact with the ground or any other objects.

A : Cold start

1. 1. Set this machine on a flat space.

2. Set the I-O switch (1) to OPERATION.

3. Choke lever
   Close the choke lever.
   Choke opening:

4. Primer pump
   Continue to push the primer pump until fuel enters into the primer pump. (In general, fuel enters into the primer pump by 7 to 10 pushes.)
   If the primer pump is pushed excessively, an excess of gasoline returns to the fuel tank.

5. Recoil starter

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

6. Choke lever
   When the engine starts, open the choke lever.

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

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

Note:

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

Caution during operation:
If the throttle lever is opened fully in a no-load operation, the engine rotation is increased to 10,000 min-1 or more. Never operate the engine at a higher speed than required and at an approximate speed of 6,000 – 8,500 min-1.
B: Startup after warm-up operation

1. Push the primer pump repeatedly.
2. Keep the throttle lever at the idling position.
3. Pull the recoil starter strongly.
4. If it is difficult to start the engine, open the throttle by about 1/3. Pay attention to the cutter blade which may rotate.

Attention in Operation
When the engine is operated upside down, white smoke may come out from the muffler.

STOPPING

1. Release the throttle lever (2) fully, and when the engine rpm has lowered, set the I-O switch to STOP the engine will now stop.
2. Be aware that the cutting head may not stop immediately and allow it to slow down fully.

ADJUSTMENT OF LOW-SPEED ROTATION (IDLING)
When it is necessary to adjust the low-speed rotation (idling), perform it by the carburetor adjusting screw.

CHECKUP OF LOW-SPEED ROTATION

• CAUTION:
  The cutting attachment may be spinning during carburetor adjustments. Wear your protective equipment and observe all safety instructions. Be sure the cutting attachment stops turning when the engine idles.

• CAUTION:
  When the unit is turned off, make sure the cutting attachment has stopped before the unit is set down.

• Set the low-speed rotation to 3,000 min-1.
  If it is necessary to change the rotation speed, regulate the adjusting screw (illustrated on the right), with Phillips screwdriver.

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

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

SERVICING INSTRUCTIONS

• CAUTION: Before doing any work on the Petrol Brushcutter, always stop the engine and pull the plug cap off the spark plug (see “checking the spark plug”).
• Always wear protective gloves!
• To ensure a long service life and to avoid any damage to the equipment, the following servicing operations should be performed at regular intervals.

Daily checkup and maintenance

• Before operation, check the machine for loose screws or missing parts. Pay particular attention to the tightness of the cutter blade or nylon cutting head.
• Before operation, always check for clogging of the cooling air passage and the cylinder fins.

Clean them if necessary.

• Perform the following work daily after use:
• Clean the Petrol Brushcutter externally and inspect for damage.
• Clean the air filter. When working under extremely dusty conditions, clean the filter the severally times a day.
• Check the blade or the nylon cutting head for damage and make sure it is firmly mounted.
• Check that there is sufficient difference between idling and engagement speed to ensure that the cutting tool is at a standstill while the engine is idling (if necessary reduce idling speed).
• If under idling conditions the tool should still continue to run, consult your nearest Authorized Service Agent.
•  Check the functioning of the I-O switch, the lock-off lever, the control lever, and the look button.

Metal blade resharpening

• CAUTION:
  The metal blades must only be resharpened by an authorized facility. Manual resharpening may result in imbalances of the cutting tool causing vibrations and damage to the equipment.

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

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

  • ATTENTION: In general, the engine main unit and engine oil still remain hot just after the engine is stopped. In replacement of oil,  ATTENTION: In general, the engine main unit and engine oil still remain hot just after the engine is stopped. In replacement of oil,
  • Note: If the oil filled above the limit, it may be contaminated or may catch fire with white smoke. Interval of replacement: Initially, every 20 operating hours, and subsequently every 50 operating hours

• Recommended oil:

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

In replacement, perform the following procedure.

1. Confirm that the tank cap is tightened securely.

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

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

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

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

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

POINTS ON OIL

• Never discard replaced engine oil in garbage, earth or sewage ditch. Disposal of oil is regulated by law. In disposal, always follow the relevant laws and regulations. For any points  remaining unknown, contact Authorized Service Agent.
• Oil will deteriorate even when it is kept unused. Perform inspection and replacement at regular intervals (replace with new oil every 6 months).

CLEANING OF AIR CLEANER

DANGER: INFLAMMABLES STRICTLY PROHIBITED
Interval of Cleaning and Inspection: Daily (every 10 operating hours)

• Turn the choke lever to the full close side, and keep the carburetor off from dust or dirt.
• Remove the air cleaner cover-fixing bolts.
• Pull the cover lower side and detach the air cleaner cover.
• If oil adheres to the element (sponge), squeeze it firmly.

For heavy contamination:

1. Remove the element (sponge), immerse it in warm water or in water-diluted neutral detergent, and dry it completely.
2. Clean the element (felt) with gasoline, and dry it completely.

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

• Wipe out with waste cloth, oil adhering around the air cleaner cover and plate breather.
• Immediately after cleaning is finished, attach the cleaner cover and tighten it with fixing bolts. (In remounting, first place the upper claw, and then the lower claw.)

Points in Handling Air Cleaner Element

• Clean the element several times a day, if excessive dust adheres to it.
• If operation continues with the element remaining not cleared of oil, oil in the air cleaner may fall outside, resulting in oil contamination.

CHECKING THE SPARK PLUG

• Only use the supplied universal wrench to remove or to install the spark plug.
• The gap between the two electrodes of the spark plug should be 0.7 – 0.8 mm (0.028” – 0.032”). If the gap is too wide or too narrow, adjust it. If the spark plug is clogged or contaminated, clean it thoroughly or replace it.
  CAUTION: Never touch the spark plug connector while the engine is running (danger of high voltage electric shock).

SUPPLY OF GREASE TO GEAR CASE

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

CLEANING OF FUEL FILTER
WARNING: INFLAMMABLES STRICTLY PROHIBITED
Interval of Cleaning and Inspection: Monthly (every 50 operating hours)
Suction head in the fuel tank

• The fuel filter (1) of the suction head is used to filter the fuel required by the carburetor.
• A periodical visual inspection of the fuel filter is to be conducted. For that purpose open the tank cap, use a wire hook and pull out the suction head through the tank opening. Filters found to have hardened, been polluted or clogged up are to be replaced.
• Insufficient fuel supply can result in the admissible maximum speed being exceeded. It is therefore important to replace the fuel filter at least quarterly to ensure satisfactory fuel supply to the carburetor.

REPLACEMENT OF FUEL PIPE

• CAUTION: INFLAMMABLES STRICTLY PROHIBITED
• Interval of Cleaning and Inspection: Daily (every 10 operating hours) Replacement: Annually (every 200 operating hours)
• Replace the fuel pipe every year, regardless of operating frequency. Fuel leakage may lead to fire.
• If any leakage is detected during inspection, replace the oil pipe immediately.

INSPECTION OF BOLTS, NUTS AND SCREWS

• Retighten loose bolts, nuts, etc.
• Check for fuel and oil leakage.
• Replace damaged parts with new ones for safety operation.

CLEANING OF PARTS

• Keep the engine always clean.
• Keep the cylinder fins free of dust or dirt. Dust or dirt adhering to the fins will cause piston seizure.

REPLACEMENT OF GASKETS AND PACKINGS

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

Replacing the nylon cord (For ultra auto 4)

• First, stop the engine.

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

• Hook the center of new nylon cord into the notch in the center of the spool, with one end of the cord extending about 80 mm (3 – 1/8”) more than the other. Then wind both ends firmly around the spool in the direction of the head rotation (left-hand direction indicated by LH and right-hand direction by RH on the side of the spool).

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

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

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

(For Proulx)

• First, stop the engine.
• Hold the housing securely and turn the spool clockwise until the remaining nylon cord retracts into the housing, and turn back and forth to relieve the cord stress.
• Grasp the loop on top of the spool and pull it from the spool.

Prepare a nylon cord with the following specifications.

• 4.5 m (15 ft) length

• 2.4 mm (0.095”) diameter round cord or 2.0 mm (0.08”) diagonal square cord. Align the arrow on the spool with the eyelets on the housing.

• Insert one end of the nylon cord into eyelet on the side of the housing, feed through hole on top of the spool and then re-insert into the second hole on top of the spool. Push the nylon cord into holes until the cord feeds through eyelets on side of the housing.

• Push the nylon cord into holes feeding through eyelets on side of the housing until equal length on both sides.

• Hold the housing securely and turn the spool clockwise to wind the nylon cord into the spool.

• (For B & F4/Z5)

• WARNING : Make sure that the cover of the nylon cutting head is secured to the housing properly as described below. Failure to properly secure the cover may cause the nylon cutting head to fly apart resulting in serious personal injury.

• Press inward on the housing latches and lift upward to remove the cover. Discard any of the remaining nylon cord.

• Hook the middle of the new nylon cord to the notch located at the center of the spool between the 2 channels provided for the nylon cord. One side of the cord should be about 80 mm longer than the other side.

• Wind both ends firmly around the spool in the direction marked on the head for left hand direction indicated by LH.

• Wind all but about 100 mm of the cords, leaving the ends temporarily hooked through a notch on the side of the spool.

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

• Align the protrusion on the underside of the cover with the slots of the eyelets. Then push cover firmly onto the housing to secure it. Make sure the latches fully spread in the cover.

• (For Bump & Feed type)
  First, stop the engine.
  Press on the housing latches (1) inward to lift off the cover (2), then remove the spool.

• Hook the center of new nylon cord into the notch in the center of the spool (1), with one end of the cord extending about 80 mm (3 – 1/8”) more than the other. Then wind both ends firmly around the spool in the direction of the head rotation (left-hand direction indicated by LH on the side of the spool).

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

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

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

STORAGE

• WARNING : When draining the fuel, be sure to stop the engine and confirm that the engine cools  down.

• Just after stopping the engine, it may still hot with possibility of burns, inflammability and fire.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

   • Remove the spark plug, and drip several drops of engine oil through the spark plug hole.
   • Gently pull the starter handle so that engine oil will spread over the engine, and attach the spark plug.
   • Attach the cover to the cutter blade.
   • During storage, keep the rod horizontal or keep the machine upright with the blade edge oriented upward. (In this case, pay full attention to prevent the machine from falling.)
   • Never store the machine with the cutter blade edge oriented downward. Lubricating oil may spill out.
   • Keep the drained fuel in a special container in a well-ventilated shade.

Attention after long-time storage
Before startup after long-time shutdown, be sure to replace oil (refer to P 19). Oil will deteriorate while the machine is kept out of  operation.

Fault location

Fault in fuel supply or compression system, mechanical defect
| | No ignition spark| STOP-switch operated, wiring fault or short circuit, spark plug or connector defective, ignition module faulty
| Fuel supply| Fuel tank filled| Incorrect choke position, carburetor defective, fuel supply line bent or blocked, fuel dirty
| Compression| No compression when pulled over| Cylinder bottom gasket defective, crankshaft seals damaged, cylinder or piston rings defective or improper sealing of spark plug
| Mechanical fault| Starter not engaging| Broken starter spring, broken parts inside of the engine
Warm start problems| | Tank filled ignition spark existing| Carburetor contaminated, have it cleaned
Engine starts but dies| Fuel supply| Tank filled| Incorrect idling adjustment, carburetor contaminated
| | | Fuel tank vent defective, fuel supply line interrupted, cable or STOP- switch faulty
Insufficient performance| Several systems may simultaneously be affected| Engine idling poor| Air filter contaminated, carburetor contaminated, muffler clogged, exhaust duct in the cylinder clogged

1. Perform initial replacement after 20h operation.
2. For the 200 operating hour inspection, request Authorized Service Agent or a machine shop.
3. After emptying the fuel tank, continue to run the engine and drain fuel in the carburetor.

TROUBLESHOOTING

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

with new one. (Recommended replacement: 1 month)
Excessive suction of fuel|

• Set throttle lever from medium speed to high speed, and pull starter handle until engine starts. Once engine starts, cutter blade starts rotating. Pay full attention to cutter blade.
• If engine will not start still, remove spark plug, make electrode dry, and reassemble them as they originally are. Then, start as specified.

Detached plug cap| Attach securely
Contaminated spark plug| Clean
Abnormal clearance of spark plug| Adjust clearance
Other abnormality of spark plug| Replace
Abnormal carburetor| Make request for inspection and maintenance.
Starter rope cannot be pulled| Make request for inspection and maintenance.
Abnormal drive system| Make request for inspection and maintenance.
Engine stops soon Engine speed does not increase| Insufficient warm-up| Perform warm-up operation
Choke lever is set to “CLOSE” although engine is warmed up.| Set to “OPEN”
Clogged fuel filter| Clean
Contaminated or clogged air cleaner| Clean
Abnormal carburetor| Make request for inspection and maintenance.
Abnormal drive system| Make request for inspection and maintenance.

• Cutter blade does not rotate
• Stop engine immediately

| Loosened cutter blade-tightening nut| Tighten securely
Twigs caught by cutter blade or dispersion- preventing cover.| Remove foreign matter
Abnormal drive system| Make request for inspection and maintenance.

• Main unit vibrates abnormally
• Stop engine immediately

| Broken, bent or worn cutter blade| Replace cutter blade
Loosened cutter blade-tightening nut| Tighten securely
Shifted convex part of cutter blade and cutter blade support fitting.| Attach securely
Abnormal drive system| Make request for inspection and maintenance.

• Cutter blade does not stop immediately
• Stop engine immediately

| High idling rotation| Adjust
Detached throttle wire| Attach securely
Abnormal drive system| Make request for inspection and maintenance.
Engine does not stop| Detached connector| Attach securely
Abnormal electric system| Make request for inspection and maintenance.
| Run engine at idling, and set choke lever to CLOSE| |
|

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

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