HOW to USE Trimmer Head Control Bail

8Section 4: Operation

USE CORRECT DIAMETER TRIMMER LINE

For tougher cutting conditions, use two (or four) sections of the thicker, .155" di- ameter extra-heavy duty line.

For less demanding conditions, use two sections of the thinner, .130" diameter heavy-duty line.

The thicker line has the heft to chop through tougher materials, while the thin- ner line provides a more precise cut. To change trimmer lines, refer to “Changing Trimmer Lines” in Section 5.

NOTE: The thinner line is also recom- mended for use near trees or shrubs to help prevent girdling (cutting the bark).

HOW TO USE TRIMMER HEAD CONTROL BAIL

The Trimmer Head Control Bail (A, Figure 4-3) is used to start and stop trimmer head motion.

1.Leave the control bail in the disen- gaged (released) position when starting the engine to prevent the trimmer head from turning when the engine starts. See Figure 4-3.

2.When the engine is running, pull and hold the control bail up against the han- dlebar (Figure 4-4) to start rotation of the trimmer head.

3.Let go of the control bail to stop the trimmer head. The control bail should spring forward to the disengaged posi- tion. If it doesn’t, do not use the machine until the control bail has been repaired.

Figure 4-3: Control bail disengaged.

Figure 4-4: Control bail engaged.

WARNING

If the trimmer head control bail is not operating properly, shut off the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire and move wire away from plug.

Adjust or repair the control bail before using the trimmer/mower.

Failure to follow this instruction could result in personal injury or property damage.

OPERATING THE MACHINE

Once you have read and understood the sections in this Manual on “Safety”, “Assembly”, “Features and Controls”, and “Operation”, you are ready to start and operate your machine.

6.Start the engine as follows:

a)Put the Engine Throttle Control Lever in the FAST position.

b)Push in the fuel primer button as instructed in the engine manual. NOTE: Do not use primer to restart a warm engine after a short shut- down.

c)Pull recoil start rope slowly until re- sistance is felt. Then pull rope out rapidly to start engine. Let rope back in slowly.

NOTE: If engine fails to start after three pulls, repeat steps b-c.

To Start the Trimmer Head

1.Stand in the operator’s position di- rectly behind the handlebars.

2.Slowly pull the Trimmer Head Control Bail (Figure 4-4) against the handlebars to activate the trimmer head. Use the Engine Throttle Control Lever to adjust the turning speed of the trimmer head.

3.Once the trimmer head is revolving, push the unit forward to trim.

To Stop the Trimmer Head

Let go of the Trimmer Head Control Bail.

To Stop the Engine

Put the Engine Throttle Control Lever in the STOP position. (If time allows, first move throttle lever to SLOW setting be- fore stopping engine.)

NOTE: If unit is operated in a station- ary position with the wear cup in con- tact with dry vegetation, significant heat will result that may deform the plastic spindle or scorch vegetation.

Starting The Engine

1.Complete the “Pre-Start Checklist” in this Section of the Manual. You must wear safety glasses or goggles.

2.Move the unit to the work area.

3.Connect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.

4.Put on safety-approved eye protection.

5.Release (disengage) the Trimmer Head Control Bail (A, Figure 4-3).

OPERATING TIPS AND

TECHNIQUES

Tips for Precision Cutting

For the most precise cutting possible, se- lect the most appropriate line cutting height and trimmer line size (thickness) for the conditions.