makita RBC280 Brush Cutter Instruction Manual

RBC280 Brush Cutter

Brush Cutter Grass Trimmer
Taille-bordures
RBC280 RBC281, RBC320 RBC321
INSTRUCTION MANUAL

Warning
Read this instruction manual carefully before putting the Brush Cutter or the Grass Trimmer into operation and strictly observe the safety regulations! Preserve this instruction manual carefully!

Thank you very much for selecting the MAKITA Brush Cutter or Grass Trimmer. We are pleased to be able to offer you the MAKITA Brush Cutter or Grass Trimmer which is the result of a long develop- ment programme and many years of knowledge and experience
Please read, understand and follow this booklet which refers in detail to the various points that will demonstrate its outstanding performance. This will assist you to safely obtain the best possible results from your MAKITA Brush Cutter or Grass Trimmer.

Symbols

It is very important to understand the following symbols when reading this instructions manual.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

General instructions
— To ensure correct and safe operation, the user must read, understand and follow this instruction manual to assure familiarity with the handiing of the brush cutter or the grass trimmer. Users insufficiently informed will risk danger to themselves as well as
others due to improper handiing.
— It is recommended only to loan the brush cutter or the grass trimmer to people who have proven to be experienced with them. Always hand over the instruction manual.
— First-time users should ask the dealer for basic instructions to familiarize oneself with the handiing of an engine powered cutter.
— Children and young persons aged under 18 years must not be allowed to operate the brush cutter or the grass timmer. Persons over the age of 16 years may however use the tool for the purpose of being trained only while under the direct supervision of a qualified trainer.— Use brush cutters or grass trimmers with the utmost care and attention.
— Oporate the brush cutter or the grass trimmer only if you are in good physical condition. Perform all work conscientiously and carefully. The user has to accept responsibility for others.
— Never use the brush cutter or the grass trimmer while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
— Do not use the unit when you are tired.
— Save these instructions for future referral.
Personal protective equipment
— The clothing wom should be functional and appropriate, i. e. it should be tight-fitting but not cause a hinderance. Do not wear jewelry, clothing or long hair which could become entangled with bushes or shrubs.
— In order to avoid 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 brush cutter or the grass trimmer.
— Always wear a helmet when working in the forest. The protective helmet (1) is to be checked at regular intervals for damage and is 10 be replaced at least every 5 years. Use only approved protective helmets.
— The visor (2) of the helmet (or approved goggles) protects the face from flying sticks, stones or other objects. During operation of the brush cutter or the grass trimmer 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.), especially during extended work periods.
— The work overalls (4) protect against fiying stones and splinters. We strongly recommend that the user wear work overalls.
— Special gloves (5) made of thick leather are part of the prescribed equipment and must always be worn during operation of the brush cutter or the grass trimmer.
—When using the brush cutter or the grass trimmer, always wear sturdy shoes (6) with a non-slip sole. This protects against injuries and ensures good footing.
Starting up the brush cutter or the grass trimmer
— Please make sure that there are no children or other people within a working range of 15 meters, also pay attention to any animals in the working vicinity.
— Before operating, always check that the brush cutter or the grass trimmer is safe for operation:Check the security of the cutter blade. Be sure the biade mounting nut is firmly secured. The throttie lever should be checked for smooth and easy action. Check for proper functioning of the throttie lever fock. The cutter blade must not rotate during idling Consult idle adjustment instructions on page 18. Check for clean and dry handles and test the function of the starstop switch Keep handies free of oil and fuel.
Start the brush cutter or the grass trimmer only in accordance with the instructions.
Do not use any other methads for starting the engine!
—Use the brush cutter or the grass trimmer and the tools supplied only for applications specified.
— Start the brush cutter or the grass trimmer engine only after the entire tool has been assembled. Operation of the tool is permitted only after all the appropriate accessories are attached!
— Before starting, make sure that the cutter blade will not contact any objects such as branches, stones, etc.
— The engine is to be switched off immediately if there are any engine problems.
— Should the cutter blade hit stones or any other objects, immediately switch off the engine and inspect the cutter blade.
— Inspect the cutter blade at frequent regular Intervals for damage (detect hairline cracks by means of a tapping-noise test).
—Afamiliar ringing sound should be heard.
— Operate the brush cutter or the grass trimmer only with the shoulder strap attached. It should be properly adjusted before putting the brush cutter or the grass timmer into operation. It is essential to adjust the shoulder strap to the user’s size to prevent fatigue occurring during use or loss of control of the tool.
—Never hold the tool with one hand during use.
— During operation always hold the brush cutter or the grass trimmer with both hands. Always ensure a safe, well-balanced footing.
— Operate the brush cutter or the grass trimmer in such a manner as to avoid inhalation of the exhaust gases. Never run the engine in enclosed rooms (risk of suffocation and gas poisoning). Car- bon monoxide is an odortess gas. Always ensure there is adequate ventilation.
— Switch off the engine when resting and when leaving the brush cutter or the grass rimmer unattended. Place it in a safe location to prevent danger to others, setting fire to combustible materials, or damage to the machine.
—Never lay the hot brush cutter or the grass trimmer onto dry grass or onto any combustible materials.
—The cutter blade must be used with its appropriate guard. Never run the tool without this guard!
— Al protective parts and guards supplied with the machine must be used during operation.
— Never operate the engine with a faulty exhaust muffler.
— Shut off the engine during transport.— During transport over long distances the tool protection included vith the equipment must always be used.
— Position the brush cutter or the grass trimmer safely during car or truck transportation to avoid fuel leakage.
— When transporting the brush cutter or the grass trimmer, ensure that the fuel tank is completely empty.

Refuelling
— Shut off the engine during refuelling, keep well away from open flame anddo:not smoke.
— Avoid skin contact with petroleum products. Do not inhale fuel vapor. Always wear protective gloves during refueliing. Change and clean protective clofhing at regular intervals.
— Take care not to spill either fuel or oil in order to prevent soil contamination (environmental protection). Clean the brush cutter or the grass trimmer immediately after fuel has been spilt. Allow wet cloths to dry before disposing in proper, covered container to prevent spontaneous combustion.
— Avoid any fuel contact with your clothing. Change your clothing immediately if fuel has been spilled on it (danger hazard).
— Inspect the fuel cap at regular intervals making sure that it stays securely fastened.
— Carefully tighten the focking screw of the fuel tank. Change focations 1o start the engine {at least 3 meters away from the place of refuelling)— Never refuel in closed rooms. Fuel vapors accumulate at ground level {risk of explosions).
— Only transport and store fuel in approved containers. Make sure stored fuel is not accessible to children.
—  Do not attempt to refuel a hot or a running engine.
— When mixing gasoline with two-cycle engine oil, use only gasoline which contains no ethanol or methanol (types of alcohol). This will help to prevent damage to fuel fines and other engine parts.

Method of operation
— Use the brush cutter or the grass trimmer only in good light and visibility. During cold seasons beware of slippery or wet areas, ice and snow (risk of slipping). Always ensure a safe footing.
— Do not overreach. Keep proper footing, balance and hand control of the unit at all times.
— Never cut above waist level
— Never stand on a ladder while running the brush cutier or the grass trimmer.
— Never climb up into trees to perform any cutting operation with the brush cutter or the grass trimmer.
— Never work on unstable surfaces or steep terrain.— Remove sand, all objects such as stones, nails, broken glass wire etc. found within the working area. Foreign arlcles may damage the cutting foot, can cause dangerous kickbacks, or could be thrown about dangsrously.
— Before commencing cutting, the cutting tool must have reached full working speed.
— Never operate this tool while it is turned upside-down or when it is at an extreme angle.
— WARNING! — The cutter area is still dangerous while the machine is coasting to a stop.

Kickback
— When operating the brush cutter, uncontrolled kickback can oceur.
— This particularly is the case when attempting to cut within a blade segment between 12 and 2 o’clock as viewed from the operator’s position.
— Never touch this segment of the brush cutter to solid objects, such as bushes, stumps, trees, etc., with a diameter greater than 3cem.
—The brush cutter will then be deflected at great force and speed with the potential risk of serious injuries.
— Never operate the brush cutter using the blade segment between the 12 and 2 o’clock position.

Kickback prevention
To avoid kickbacks, observe the following:
— Operation within the blade segment between 12 and 2 o’clock can cause serious potential hazards, especially when using metal cutting blades.
Use of this brush cutter utilizing blade segment positions from 11 t0 12 o’clock and 2 to 5 o’clock can still cause a likely potential for some kickback.
— Cutting operations attempted within the blade seginents between 11 and 12 o’clock, and between 2 and 5 o’clock, should only be performed by trained and experienced operators, and only at their own risk. Smooth and easy cutting with almost no kickback is possible using the blade segment between 8 and 11 o’clock. Cutting Tools
Use only the correct cutting tool for the specific job in hand.
Nylon cutting head:
Exclusively designed for cutting along walls, fences, grass edges, trees, posts, etc. (supplementing a lawn mowar). Perform this. cutting work by swinging the grass trimmer evenly in semi-circles from right to left.
Star blade
For cutting thick materials, such as weeds, tall grass, bushes, shrubs, underbrush, thickets, etc. (max. 2 cm dia. thickness). Perform this cutting work by swinging the brush cutter evenly in semicircles from right to left (similar to using a scythe).
Maintenance instructions
—  The condition of the cutter, in particular of the cutter blade, guard and 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.
—Tum off the engine and remove spark plug connectors when feplacing or sharpening cutting blade, and also when cleaning the cutter o cutting tool
Never straighten or weld damaged cutting blades.
— Be kind to the environment. Operate the brush cuter or the grass trimmer with as litle noise and pollution as possible. In particular check the correct adjustment of the carburetor.
— Clean the brush cutter or the grass timmer at regular intervals and check that all screws and nuts are securely tightened.
— Never service or store the brush cutter or the grass trimmer in the vicinity of open flames, sparks, etc.
— Always store the brush cutter or the grass trimmer in a well-ventilated locked room and with an emptied fuel tank. Observe and follow all relevant accident prevention instructions issued by the trade associations and by insurance companies.
Do not perform any modifications to the brush cutter or the grass trimmer as this will risk your safety.
The performance of maintenance or repair work by the user is jimited to those activities as described in this Instruction manual. All other work is to be done by Authorized Service Agents.
Use only genine spare parts and accessories supplied by MAKITA.
Use of non-approved accessories and tools means increased risk of accidents and injuries. MAKITA will not accept any liability for accidents or damage caused by the use of any non-approved cutting tools, attachments or accessories.

First Aid
In case of accident make sure that a well-stocked first-aid kit 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 informa tion:
— Place of accident
—What happened
— Number of injured persons
— Extent of injuries
— Your name
Packaging
The MAKITA brush cutter or the grass trimmer is delivered in to protective cardboard boxes to prevent shipping damage. Cardboard is a basic raw material and is thersfore consequently reusable or suitable for recycling (waste paper recycling).

EU Comformity Declaration

The undersigned, Yasuhiko Kanzaki, as authorized by Makita France SA. Head office, 2, Allée des Performances, Zone Industrielle des Richardels, (B.P.118) 93162 Noisy Le Grand Cedex, France declare that the Makita machines,
Type:
RBC280, RBC281
RBC320, RBC321
manufactured by Robin conforms to the basic safety and health requirements of the applicable EU guidelines,
EU Machine guideline 89/392/EEC
EU EMC guideline 89/336/EEC
The most important standards applied to properly meet the requirement of the above EU guidelines were : prEN 31806,
EN 50081-1, DIN VDE 0879 Tt
Noisy Le Grand Cedex, 14 November 1996
Yasuhiko Kanzaki ;
Managing Derector
This declaration only applies to machine which are in compliance with CEN standard.

Technical data rec2so, rec2st

Mass
(without plastic guard and cutting blade)| kg| 5.9| 5.9 5.8
Volume (fuel tank)| cm3| 0.8
Engine displacement| cm3| 27.2
Maximum engine performance kW at 1/min| 0.84kW at 7,000 1/min
Engine speed at recommended max. spindle speed| 1/min| 8,800
Maximum spindle speed (corresponding)| 1/min| 6.000
Fuel consumption| kg/1| 0.38
Specific fuel consumption| g/kWh| 456
Idling speed| 1/min| 2,600
Clutch engagement speed| 1/min| 3,800
Carburettor (Diaphragm-carburettor)| type| WALBRO WYJ
Ignition system| type| Solid state ignition
Spark plug| type| NGK 6MR7A
Electrode gap| mm| 0.6 — 0.7
Vibration
per ISO 7916′)| Right handle
(Rear Grip)| Idling| m/s2| 3.18| | 2.94
Racing or W.O.T| m/s2| 3.25| | 6.57
Left Handle
(Front Grip)| Idling| m/s2| 3.83| | 4.05
Racing or W.O.T| m/s2| 4.01| | 6.69
Sound pressure level average to ISO 7917’1| db (A)| 90.6| | 95.0
Sound power level average to ISO 10884′)| db (A)| 101| | 105
Mixture ratio (Fuel: MAKITA 2-stroke oil)| | 50 : 1
Gear ratio| | 13/19

1. This data takes equally into account idling and full speed or wide open throttie operating modes.
2. Some machines with U handle are not in compliance with CEN standard.
   Machines with Loop handle are not in compliance with CEN standard.
   Machines with J handle are in compiiance with CEN standard.
   (CE label is put on machines which are in compliance with CEN standard.)
   Technical data Rreca2o, Rec321

Mass
(without plastic guard and cutting blade)| kg| 5.9| 5.9 5.8
Volume (fuel tank)| cm3| 0.8
Engine displacement cm3| 31.
Maximum engine performance kW at 1/min| 0.95kW at 7,000 1/min
Engine speed
at recommended max. spindle speed| 1/min| 8.800
Maximum spindle speed (corresponding)| 1/min| 6,000
Fuel consumption| kg/h| 0.44
Specific fuel consumption| g/kWh| 487
Idling speed| 1/min| 2,600
Clutch engagement speed| 1/min| 3,800
Carburettor (Diaphragm-carburettor)| type| WALBRO WYJ
Ignition system| type| Solid state ignition
Spark plug| type| NGK I3MR7A
Electrode gap| mm| 0.6 — 0.7
Vibration
per
ISO 7916))| Right
handle
(Rear Grip)| Idling| m2| am| | 3.95
Racing or W.O.T| m/s2| 3.23| | 6.97
Left
handle
(Front Grip)| Idling| m/s2| 3.36| | 4.92
Racing or W.O.T| m/s2| 4.99| | 4.42
Sound pressure level average
to ISO 7917)1| db (A)| 90.8| | 94.5
Sound power level average
to ISO 10884’1| db (A)| 101| | 105
Mixture ratio (Fuel: MAKITA 2-stroke oil)| | 50 : 1
Gear ratio| | 13/19

1. This data takes equally into account idling and full speed or wide open throttle operating modes.
2. Some machines with U handle are not in compliance with CEN standard.
   Machines with Loop handile are not in compliance with CEN standard.
   Machines with J handie are in compliance with CEN standard.
   (CE label is put on machines which are in compliance with CEN standard.)

Designation of parts

| DESIGNATION OF PARTS| | DESIGNATION OF PARTS| | DESIGNATION OF PARTS| | DESIGNATION OF PARTS
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
1| Metal Blade| 8| Throttle Wire| 15| Air Cleaner| 22| Fuel Tank
2| Nylon Cutting Head| 9| Handle Joint| 16| Muffler| 23| Guard (for Nylon Cutting Head)
3| Gear Case| 10| Rear Grip| 17| Muffler Exhaust Port| 24| Guard (for Metal Blade)
4| Drive Shaft| 11| Hanger| 18| Choke Lever| 25| Shoulder Strap
5| Handle| 12| Waist Pad| 19| Starter Knob| |
6| Throttle Lever| 13| Holder Case| 20| Fuel Filler Cap| |
7| STOP Switch| 14| Spark Plug| 21| Recoil Starter| |

Assembly of engine

CAUTION: Before performing any work on the brush cutter or the grass trimmer, always switch off the motor and pull the spark plug connectors off the spark plug.
Beware of hot engine parts and sharp blade edges.
Always wear protective gloves!
CAUTION: Start the brush cutter or the grass trimmer only after having assembled it completely.

1. Loosen the screws (1) and insert the drive shaft into the holder case.
   (Note) Always Insert the drive shatt (2) Into the holder case (3) fully. If the Inner shaft (4) resists full insertion of the drive shaft, try to insert it again after slightly rotating the drive shaft or the support washer on the gear case to match the Inner shaft to the hole inside the holder case.

2. After making sure that the drive shaft is installed fully and properly, tighten the screws (1) to secure the drive shaft.

Mounting of handle
For machines with U handle
– Adjust the handle (1) to the proper position and secure the handie joint (2) by tightening the four socket head bolts M5 (3) evenly.
~ Pass the throttle wire through the handle joint .

For machines with J handle
~ Match the protrusions on the handle joint (6) to the holes in the underside of the handle (5). Tighten the four socket head bolts M5 (4) evenly to secure the handle.
~ Secure the throttle wire with the clip wire (7) as shown in the figure for easy operation.

For machines with loop handle
~ Secure the loop handle (9) by tightening the four socket head bolts (8).
~ The standard position of the hande is 200 to 250 mm from the hanger (10). Position the handie according to a worker’s stature and working conditions.

Assembly of throttie wire and ignition wire
– Remove the air cleaner cover from the carburetor.
– Insert throtlle wire (1) through adjusting screw (2) and fit the nipple of the throttie wire into swivel (3) of the carburetor.
— Adjust the adjusting screw to take up free play of the throttle wire ensuring the throttle is fuily opened when the throttie lever is in high speed position and 2 — 3 mm (0.079″ – 0.118″) free play when in low speed position.

— Connect the female and male bullet connectors (4) from the throttle assembly to the male and female bullet connactors coming from engine.
~ Retouch the air cleaner cover.

For machines with U handle or J handle
~ Place the waist pad (5) over the throttle wire (guide the hanger (6) through the slot in the waist pad).
– Position the throttle wire in the waist pad and snap the waist pad together (snaps, (7).

Mounting of guard
To meet the applicable safety provisions, only the tooliguard combinations as indicated in the table must be used. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or death to user or bystanders.
Be sure to use genuine MAKITA cutter blade or nylon cutter head.
~ The cutter blade must be well clean, sharp and free of cracks or breakage.
If the cuter blade contacts any hard objects or stones during operation, stop the engine and check the biade immediately.
~ Clean and sharpen of replace the cutter blade at least every three hours of operation.
For RBC280.
~ The outside diameter of the cutter blade must not exceed 230 mm (9-1/16″). Never use any blades surpassing 230 mm (9-1/16″) in outside diameter.
For RBC320
– The outside diameter of the cutter blade must not exceed 255 mm (10-1/32″). Never use any blades surpassing 255 mm (10-4/32″) in outside diameter.

CAUTION: The appropriate guard must always be installed, for your own safety and in order to comply with accident-prevention regulations.
Operation of the equipment without the guard being properly in place must never be attempted.
For RBC280 and RBC320
~ Install the clamp on the drive shaft so that the projection of the clamp is inserted into the opening between the gear case and the drive shatft.
Secure the guard with the installation bolts M6 x 30 (1).

For RBC281 and RBC 321
— Instali the clamp on the drive shaft so that the projection of the clamp is inserted into the opening between the gear case and the drive shatt.
Secure the guard with the installation bolts Mé x 30 (1).

Mounting of cutter blade

Tum the machine upside down, and you can replace the cutter blade or the nylon cutting head easily.
For RBC280 and RBC320
— Remove the nut from the shaft by turning the tightening nut (1) clockwise (left-hand thread).
– Remove the tightening washer (2).

– Place the blade (5) on the support washer (3).
– Put on the tightening washer and the spring washer (4).
– Tighten the tightening nut by hand.

~ Insert the socket-head wrench through the hole in the gear case and tum the box wrench unti the support washer will be locked with its notch.
~ Then tighten the tightening nut securely with left-hand thread spring washer and tightening nut. (Tighten them counter- clockwise.) (Tightening torque: 130 — 230 kg=om)
– Remove the blade cover. (115 – 200 in-Ib)
– Disassemble in the reverse order.
~ When mounting or dismounting the cutter blade, be sure to wear gloves for your safety.

Mounting of nylon cutting head

**** For RBC281 and RBC321
~ o install the nylon cutting head (7), remove the tightening nut (8) and the spring washer (9) and support washer (10).
~ Insert the socket-head wrench (11) through the hole in the gear case and turn the support washer until it will be locked with its notch (12) (or the shaft will be locked).
~ Then screw the nylon cutting head onto the shaft by turning it counter- clockwise.
– Remove the socket-head wrench

Fuels/Refuelling

Handling petroleum products
Utmost care is required when handling fuel. Fuel may contain substances similar to solvents. Refuel either in a well ventilated area or outdoors. Do not inhale fuel vapors, avoid any contact of fuel or oil with your skin.
Mineral oil products degrease your skin. If your skin comes in contact with these substances repeatedly or for an extended period of time, various skin diseases may result. In addition, allergic reac- tions are known to oceur. Eyes can be irritated by contact with oil, fuel etc.
1f oil comes into your eyes, immediately wash them with clear water.
If your eyes are sfill iritated, see a doctor immediately!

Fuel and oil mixture
The engine of the brush cutter or the grass trimmer is a highefficiency two- stroke engine. It is run with a mixture of fuel and two- stroke engine oil. The engine is designed to use unleaded regular fuel with a min. octane value of 91 ROZ. If no such fuel is available,
you can use fuel with a higher octane vaiue. This will not affect the engine, but may cause poor operating behavior.
A similar situation will arise from the use of leaded fuel. To obtain optimum engine performance and to protect your health and the environment, only unleaded fuel should be used!
For engine lubrication use a two-stroke engine oil (quality grade: TSC- 3), which is added o the fuel. The engine has been designed to use MAKITA two- stroke engine oil at mixture ratio of 20 = 25:1 to protect the environment. in addition, a long service life and reliable opera- tion with a minimum emission of exhaust gasses is assured. It is absolutely essential o observe a mixture ratio of 20 – 25:1 MAKITA 2-stroke engine oil. Otherwise reliable function of the brush cutter or the grass trimmer cannot be guaranteed.
The correct mixture ratio:
Mix 20 – 25 parts gasoline with 1 part MAKITA 2-stroke engine oil (see table on right).

NOTE: For preparing the fuel-oil mixture first mix the entire oil quantity with half of the fuel required in an approved can which meets or exceeds all local code standards, then add the remaining fuel. Thoroughly shake the mix- ture before filling it into the brush cutter or the grass trimmer tank. It is not wise to add more engine oil than specified to ensure safe operation. This will only result in a higher production of combustion residues which will pollute the environment and clog the exhaust chan- nel in the cylinder, the spark plugs as well as the muf- fler. In addition, fuel consumption will rise and the per- formance will be decreased.

Refuelling
Never perform refuelling operations in a closed, unventilated area
The engine must be switched off!
– Thoroughly clean the area around the gas cap (1), to prevent dirt from getting into the fuel tank.
~ Unscrew the gas cap (2) and fill the tank with fuel
— Never fill the fuel tank to the very top.
– Securely screw on the gas cap (2).
~ Wipe the screw plug and tank with an absorbent after refueling!
Allow cloths to dry and discard in a proper container.
Storage of fuel
Fuel cannot be stored for an uniimited period of time. Purchase only the quantity required for a 4 week operating period. Only use appro- ved fuel storage containers.

Proper handling of machine

Attachment of shoulder strap
” Adjust the strap length so that the cutter blade will be kept parallel with the ground.

Detachment
– In an emergency, pull the release belt (1) strongly upward, and you can quickly detach the machine from the shoulder sirap. Be extremely cautious to maintain control of the machine at this fime. Do not allow the machine to be deflected toward you or any ‘one in the work vicinity.
WARNING: Failure to maintain complete control of the machine at all times could result in serious bodily injury or DEATH.

Brush cutter operation

Observe all applicable accident prevention regulations!

Starting
Move at least 3 m away from the place of refuoliing. Place the brush cutter or the grass timmer on an open area of ground taking care ihat the cutiing tool does not come into contact with the ground or any other objects. Make sure that this area is clear of  combustible materials.

Coid start
For machine with U handle or J handle
” push the stop switch (1) in the direction shown by the arrow:
~ Grasp the handle (hand pressure activates lever (2)).
— Press the throttie lever (3) and hold it down.
Press the lock button (4) and release the throttie lever. Then release the lock button (the lock button holds the throttle lever at the proper start-up position).
For machine with loop handle
Push the stop switch (7) in the direction shown by the arrow.
— Squeeze the throttle lever (5) fully.
Then release the throttie lever while depressing the lock button (6).
_ The throtile tever will now be locked in the “start-up” position.

– First place the machine on the ground.
~ Give a gentle push on the primer pump (1) repeatedly (7 – 10 times) until fuel enters the primer pump.
– Move the choke lever (2) to the top position ( ).

~ Firmly hold the clutch case with your left hand, as illustrated at right.
~ Slowly withdraw the starter grip until resistance s felt and continue with a rapid pull.
~ Do not pull the starter rope to its full extent and do not allow the starter handle to be retracted uncontrolied, but ensure that it is retracted slowly.
– Repeat the starting operation until initial engine ignition are heard.
— Depress the choke lever (| |) and pull the starter rope again until the engine starts.
~ As soon as the engine starts, immediately squeeze and release the throttle, thus releasing the lock button so that the engine can fun at idie.
~ Run the engine for approximately one minute at a moderate speed 1o allow warm-up before applying full throttle.

Caution during operation:
If the throttle lever is opened fully in a no-load operation, the engine fotation is increased to 10,000 rpm or more. Never operate the engine at a higher spead than is required (at an approximate speed of 6,000 – 8,000 rpm).

Starting the warm engine
~ As described above, except without moving the choke lever (choke lever remains in the down position (| |).

Stopping
– Release the throtile lever fully, and when the engine rpm has lowered, push the stop switch to * O ” position. Engine will stop.

Idie adjustment

~ Never attempt to make engine adjustments while the unit is running and strapped to the operator. Always make engine adjust- ments with the unit resting on a flat, clear surface.
The cutter blade or the nylon cutting head should not run when the throttle lever is fully released. If necessary, adjust the idie rpm using the idle adjusting screw.

Checking the idle speed
– Idle speed should be set to 2,600 rpm.
If necessary correct it by means of the idle adjustment screw (the blade must not turn when the engine is at idle).
Tuming the screw (1) clockwise will cause an increase in the engine speed, whereas turning the screw counterclockwise will reduce the engine speed.

Resharpening the cutter blade
CAUTION: The cutter blades mentioned below must only be resharpened by an authorized facility. Manual res- harpening will result in imbalances of the cutting tool causing potentially dangerous vibrations and damage to the equipment.

Star blade
– An expert resharpening and balancing service is provided by your Authorized Service Agent.
NOTE: To increase the service life of the star blade it may be turned over once, until both cutting edges have become dull. Never continue to use a dull blade or kic- kback and serious injury may result.

Nylon cutting head
The nylon cutting head is a dual grass trimmer head capable of both automatic and bump & feed mechanisms.
The nylon cutting head will automatically feed out the proper length of nylon cord by the changes in centrifugal force caused by increasing or decreasing rpms. However, to cut soft grass more efficiently, bump the nylon cutting head against the ground to feed out extra cord as indicated under operation section.

Operation
” Increase the nylon cutting head speed to approx. 6,000 rpm. Low speed (under 4,800 rpm) is not suitable, the nylon cord will not feed out properly at low speed.
~ The most effective cutting area is shown by the shaded area.
If the nylon cord does ot feed out automatically, proceed as follows:

1. Release the throttle lever to run the engine idle and then squeeze the throttle lever fully. Repeat this procedure until the nylon cord feeds out to the proper length.
2. If the nylon cord is too short to feed out automatically with the above procedure, bump the knob of the nylon cutting head against the ground te feed out the nylon cord.
3. If the nylon cord does not feed out with procedure 2, rewind/replace the nylon cord by following the procedures described under “Replacing the nylon cord”

Replacing the nylon cord
~ 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 otner.
Then wind both ends firmly around the spool in the direction of the head rotation (left-hand direction indicated by LH and righthand direction by RH on the side of the spoo).

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 mateh up with those in the housing. Keep the side with letters on the spool visible on the top. Now, unhook the nds 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 the cover firmly onto the housing to secure it.

Servicing instructions

CAUTION: Before doing any work on the brush cutter or the grass trimmer, always switch off the motor and pull the plug caps off the spark plugs (see “Checking the spark plugs”). Always wear protective gloves!
To ensure a long service life and to avoid any damage to the equip- ment, 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.
– Before operation, always check for clogging of the cooling air passage and the cylinder fins.
Clean them if necessary.
– Perform the following maintenance daily after use:

• Clean the brush cutter or the grass trimmer externally and inspect for damage.
• Clean the air filter. When working under extremely dusty conditions, clean the filter and blow out the cooling air pas- sage and cylinder fins several times a day.
• Check the blade or the nylon cutting head for damage and duliness and make sure it is firmly mounted.
• Check that there is sufficient difference between idiing and engagement speed to ensure that the cutting tool is at a standstil while the engine is idling (if necessary reduce idiing speed).
• If under idiing conditions the tool shouid still continue to run, consult your nearest Authorized Service Agent before further use of the tool.

– Check for proper functioning of the stop switch, the lock-off lever, the throttle lever, and the lock button.

Cleaning of air cleaner
~ Unscrew the air cleaner cover mounting screw (1).
– Remove the air cleaner cover.

– Push the choke lever (2) up (arrow), to prevent dirt particles from entering the carburetor.
– Remove the sponge element (3).
Wash it with lukewarm water and then dry it thoroughly.
~ After cleaning the air cleaner, install the air cleaner cover (4) and tighten the screw () to secure.
NOTE: If there is excessive dust or dirt adhering to the air cleaner, clean it every day. A clogged air cleaner may make it difficult or impossible to start or run the engine at proper rotational speeds.

Checking the spark plugs

**** – Use only the supplied socket wrench to remove or install the spark plug.
~ The gap between the two electrodes of the spark plug should be 0.6 – 0.7 mm (0.024″ – 0.028″). If the gap is too wide or too narrow, adjust it. If the spark plug is clogged with carbon o fouled, clean it thoroughly or replace it.

CAUTION: Never touch the spark plug connector while engine is running (danger of high voltage electric shock).

Supply of grease to gear case
– Supply grease (Shell alvania No. 3 or equivalent) to the gear case through the grease hole every 30 hours of operation. (Genuine MAKITA grease may be purchased from your MAKITA dealer.)

Suction head in the fuel tank
The felt gas line fiiter (1) of the suction head is used to filter the fuel required by the carburetor.
– Aperiodical visual inspection of the felt filter is o be conducted.
To accomplish this, open the tank cap, use a wire hook and pull out the suction head through the tank opening. Filters found to have hardened, become polluted or clogged are to be replaced.
~ Insufficient fuel supply can result in excessively high and dangerous engine speeds. It is therefore important to replace the felt filter at least every three months to ensure satisfactory fuel sup- ply to the carburetor.

Cleaning of muffler exhaust port
~ Check muffler exhaust port (2) regularly.
— ifitis clogged with carbon deposits, carefully scrape the deposits out with a suitabe tool.

Any maintenance or adjustment work that has not been included and described in this manual is only to be performed by Authorized Service Agent.

Maintenance schedule

General| Engine assembly, screws and nuts| Visual inspection for damage and tightness Check for general condition and security
---|---|---
After each refuelling| Throttle lever Safety lock key Stop switch| Functional check
Functional check
Functional check
Daily| Air filter
Cooling air duct Cutting blade Idling speed| To be cleaned To be cleaned Check for damage and sharpness
Inspection (cutting tool must not move)
Weekly| Spark plug Muffler| Inspection, replace if necessary
Check and if necessary clean the opening
Quarterly| Suction head (gas line filter) Fuel tank| To be replaced To be cleaned
Shutting down procedure| Fuel tank Carburetor| Empty fuel tank
Operate until engine runs out of fuel

Storage
~ When keeping the machine in storage for a long time, drain fuel from the fuel tank and carburetor, as follows : Drain i fuel from the fuel tank. Dispose of properly and in accordance with all local taws.
~ Remove the spark plugs and add a few drops of oil into each spark plug hole. Then, pul the starter gently. Confirm that ol film covers the engine inside and tighten the spark plugs.
– Clear dirt or dust from the cutter blade and outside of engine, wipe them with an oil-immersed cloth and keep the machine loc- ked in a dry, well ventiated location.
~ Do ot store in a closed area where fuel vapors can reach an open flame from hot water heaters, fumaces etc.

Troubleshooting procedures

plug or connector defective, ignition module faulty
Fuel supply| Fuel tank filled| Incorrect choke position, carburetor defective, suction head (gas line filter) dirty, fuel supply line bent or interrupted
Compression| Inside of engine| Cylinder bottom gasket defective, crankshaft seals damaged, cylinder or piston rings defective
Outside of engine| 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| Choke in incorrect position
Carburetor contaminated, have it cleaned
Engine starts but dies immediately| Fuel supply| Tank filled| Incorrect idling adjustment, suction head or carburetor contaminated
Fuel tank cap defective, fuel supply line interrupted, cable or Stop switch faulty
Insufficient performance| Several systems may simultaneously be  affected| Engine idling| Air filter contaminated, carburetor contaminated, muffler clog- ged, exhaust duct in the cylinder clogged

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