2-Cycle Trimmer Operator’s Manual

Irrigation Systems
by Olive Gauthier : Irrigation Systems

SERVICE

DO NOT RETURN THIS UNIT TO THE RETAILER. PROOF OF PURCHASE WILL BE REQUIRED FOR WARRANTY SERVICE. For assistance regarding the assembly, controls, operation or maintenance of the unit, please call the Customer Support Department at 1-800-800-7310 in the United States or 1-800-668-1238 in Canada.
Additional information about the unit can be found on our website: www.mtdproducts.com (U.S.) or www.mtdproducts.ca (Canada).
For service, please call the Customer Support Department to obtain a list of authorized service dealers near you. Service on this unit,
both within and after the warranty period, should only be performed by an authorized and approved service dealer. When servicing, use
only identical replacement parts.

SAFETY

The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols, and their explanations, deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do not by themselves eliminate any danger. The instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.

DANGER: Signals an EXTREME hazard. Failure to obey a safety DANGER signal WILL result in serious injury or death to yourself or to others.
WARNING: Signals a SERIOUS hazard. Failure to obey a safety WARNING signal CAN result in serious injury to yourself or to others.
CAUTION: Signals a MODERATE hazard.  Failure to obey a safety CAUTION signal MAY result in property damage or injury to yourself or to others.

NOTE: Advises you of information or instructions vital to the operation or maintenance of the equipment.

SPARK ARRESTOR NOTE

NOTE: For users on U.S. Forest Land and in the states of California, Maine, Oregon and Washington. All U.S. Forest Land and the state of California (Public Resources Codes 4442 and 4443), Oregon and Washington require, by law that certain internal combustion engines operated on forest brush and/or grass-covered areas be equipped with a spark arrestor, maintained in effective working order, or the engine 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 could subject you to liability or a fine. This unit is factory equipped with a spark arrestor. If it requires replacement, ask your LOCAL SERVICE DEALER to install the Accessory Part #753-06418 Muffler Assembly.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constituents and certain finished components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Read the operator’s manual and follow all warnings and safety Instructions. Failure to do so can result in serious injury to the Operator and/or bystanders.

• IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS •

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE OPERATING

WARNING: When using the unit, all safety rules must be followed. Please read these instructions before operating the unit in order to ensure the safety of the operator and any bystanders. Please keep these instructions for later use.

• Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the unit.
• Do not operate this unit when tired, ill or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.
• Children must not operate the unit. Teens must be accompanied and guided by an adult.
• All guards and safety attachments must be installed properly before operating the unit.
• Inspect the unit before use. Replace damaged parts. Check for fuel leaks. Make sure all fasteners are in place and secure. Replace parts that are cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.
• Only use the trimming line described in the Specifications section of this manual. Never use metal-reinforced line, wire, chain or rope. These can break off and become dangerous projectiles.
• Be aware of risk of injury to the head, hands and feet.
• Carefully inspect the area before starting the unit. Remove rocks, broken glass, nails, wire, string and other objects that may be thrown or become entangled with the unit.
• Clear the area of children, bystanders and pets; keep them outside a 50-foot (15 m) radius, at a minimum. Even then, they are still at risk from thrown objects. Encourage bystanders to wear eye protection. If you are approached, stop the unit immediately.
• Squeeze the throttle control and check that it returns automatically to the idle position. Make all adjustments or repairs before using the unit.

SAFETY WARNINGS FOR GAS UNITS

WARNING: Gasoline is highly flammable and its vapors can explode if ignited. Take the following precautions:

• Store fuel only in containers specifically designed and approved for the storage of such materials.
• Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before filling the tank. Never remove the fuel tank cap or add fuel when the engine is hot. Always loosen the fuel tank cap slowly to relieve any pressure in the tank before fueling.
• Always mix and add fuel in a clean, well-ventilated outdoor area where there are no sparks or flames. DO NOT smoke.
• Never operate the unit without the fuel cap securely in place.
• Avoid creating a source of ignition for spilled fuel. Wipe up any spilled fuel from the unit immediately, before starting the unit. Move the unit at least 30 ft. (9.1 m) from the fueling source and site before starting the engine. DO NOT smoke.
• Never start or run the unit inside a closed room or building. Breathing exhaust fumes can kill. Operate this unit only in a well ventilated outdoor area.

WHILE OPERATING

• Wear safety glasses or goggles that meet current ANSI Z87.1 standards and are marked as such. Wear ear/hearing protection when operating this unit. Wear a face mask or dust mask if the operation is dusty.
• Wear heavy long pants, boots, gloves and a long sleeve shirt. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals or go barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.
• The cutting head shield must always be in place while operating the unit. Do not operate the unit without both trimming lines extended and the proper line installed. Do not extend the trimming line beyond the length of the shield.
• This unit has a clutch. The cutting head remains stationary when the engine is idling. If it does not, take the unit to an authorized service dealer for an adjustment.
• Adjust the handle to provide the best grip.
• Make sure the cutting head is not in contact with anything before starting the unit.
• Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Avoid accidental starting. Be in the starting position whenever pulling the starter rope. The operator and unit must be in a stable position while starting. Refer to Starting and Stopping.
• Use the right tool. Only use this tool for its intended purpose.
• Always hold the unit with both hands when operating. Keep a firm grip on both handles or grips.
• Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance. Take extra care when working on steep slopes or inclines.
• Keep hands, face, and feet away from all moving parts. Do not touch or try to stop moving parts.
• Do not touch the engine, gear housing or muffler. These parts get extremely hot from operation, even after the unit is turned off.
• Do not operate the unit faster than the speed needed to do the job. Do not run the unit at high speed when not in use.
• Do not force the unit. It will do a better, safer job when used at the intended rate.
• Always stop the unit when operation is delayed or when walking from one location to another.
• If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the unit immediately and check for damage. Do not operate the unit before repairing damage. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.
• Turn the engine to off and disconnect the spark plug for maintenance or repair.
• Use only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts and accessories for this unit. These are available from your authorized service dealer. Use of any other parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user, or damage to the unit, and void the warranty.
• Keep the unit clean. Carefully remove vegetation and other debris that could block moving parts.
• To reduce fire hazard, replace a faulty muffler and spark arrestor. Keep the engine and muffler free from grass, leaves, excessive
grease or carbon build up.
• If the unit starts to vibrate abnormally, stop the unit immediately. Inspect the unit for the cause of the vibration. Vibration is generally an indicator of trouble.

OTHER SAFETY WARNINGS

• All service, other than the maintenance procedures described in this manual, should be performed by a qualified service dealer.
• Before inspecting, servicing, cleaning, storing, transporting or replacing any parts on the unit:

  1. Stop the unit.
  2. Make sure all moving parts have stopped.
  3. Allow the unit to cool.
  4. Disconnect the spark plug wire.
    • Secure the unit while transporting.

• Never store the unit with fuel in the tank, inside a building where fumes may reach an open flame (pilot lights, etc.) or sparks (switches, electrical motors, etc.).
• Store the unit in a dry place, secured or at a height to prevent unauthorized use or damage. Keep the unit out of the reach of children.
• Never douse or squirt the unit with water or any other liquid. Keep handles dry, clean and free from debris. Clean the unit after each use. Refer to Cleaning and Storage.
• Keep these instructions. Refer to them often and use them to instruct other users. If you loan this unit to others, also loan them these instructions.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

SAFETY & INTERNATIONAL SYMBOLS

This operator’s manual describes safety and international symbols and pictographs that may appear on this product. Read the operator’s
manual for complete safety, assembly, operating and maintenance and repair information.

KNOW YOUR UNIT

APPLICATIONS

As a trimmer:
• Cutting grass and light weeds.
• Edging
• Decorative trimming around trees, fences, etc.
Other optional accessories may be used with this unit.

ASSEMBLY TOOLS REQUIRED:

• #2 Phillips screwdriver
• 3/8” Socket

SPECIFICATIONS*

Engine Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air-Cooled, 2-Cycle
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 cc (1.52 cu. in.)
Spark Plug Gap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.025 in. (0.635 mm)
Spark Plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Champion® RDJ7J or equivalent plug
Lubrication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuel/Oil Mixture
Fuel/Oil Ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40:1
Fuel Tank Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 oz. (296 ml)
Approximate Unit Weight (No fuel, with cutting head, cutting head shield and handle) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 – 11 lbs. (4.5 – 5 kg)
Trimmer Mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fixed-line cutting head
Trimming Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.095 inches (2.41 mm) pre-cut line
Cutting Path Diameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 in. (35.56 cm)

All specifications are based on the latest product information available at the time of printing. We reserve the right to make changes at any
time without notice.

ASSEMBLY

INSTALLING THE CUTTING HEAD SHIELD

WARNING: To prevent serious personal injury, never operate the unit without the cutting head shield in place.

Use the following instructions if the cutting head shield is not installed. Use only the instructions that apply to the type of shaft and shield equipped with this unit.

  1. Place the cutting head shield onto the mount bracket. Align the holes in the cutting head shield with the holes in the mount bracket. (Fig. 1)
  2. Screw the 2 screws through the mount bracket and into the cutting head shield until finger tight.
  3. Using a #2 Phillips screwdriver, tighten the screws until the cutting head shield is firmly in place. Tighten the screws equally. The gap between the mount bracket and the cutting head shield should be the same on each side.
Fig. 1

INSTALLING AND ADJUSTING THE HANDLE

Installing the Handle

  1. Push the handle down onto the shaft housing (Fig. 2). The bolt hole in the handle should be to the right.
  2. Insert the bolt into the bolt hole and push it through (Fig. 2). Tighten the bolt with a 3/ 8” socket, but do not tighten the bolt completely.
  3. While holding the unit in the operating position (Fig. 10), move the handle to the location that provides the best grip. Place it a
    minimum of 6 inches (15.24 cm) from the end of the shaft grip (Fig. 2).
  4. Tighten the bolt with a 3/ 8” socket until the handle is secure.
Fig. 2

Adjusting the Handle

If the handle requires adjustment:

  1. Loosen the bolt with a 3/ 8” socket (Fig. 2).
  2. While holding the unit in the operating position (Fig. 10), move the handle to the location that provides the best grip. Place it a
    minimum of 6 inches (15.24 cm) from the end of the shaft grip (Fig. 2).
  3. Tighten the bolt with a 3/ 8” socket until the handle is secure.

OPERATING THE COUPLER

The coupler enables the use of various optional attachments.

WARNING: Before using any attachment, read and
understand the manual that came with the attachment.
Follow all safety information contained within.

CAUTION: Before operating the unit, make sure the release button is fully snapped into the primary hole (Fig. 5) and the knob (Fig. 3) is securely tightened.
WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury and damage to the unit, shut the unit off before removing or installing an attachment.

NOTE: To make installing or removing the attachment easier, place the unit on the ground or on a work bench.

Installing the Attachment

NOTE: Remove the protective cap and gray spacer from the upper and lower shafts prior to assembling the attachment.

  1. Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen (Fig. 3).
  2. While firmly holding the attachment, push it straight into the coupler until the release button snaps firmly into the primary hole (Fig. 5).

NOTE: Aligning the release button with the guide recess will help installation (Fig. 4).

3.Turn the knob clockwise to tighten (Fig. 3).

CAUTION: Before operating the unit, make sure the release button is fully snapped into the primary hole (Fig. 5) and the knob (Fig. 3) is securely tightened.

CAUTION: The release button should be snapped into the primary hole only. Using the wrong hole could lead to personal injury or damage to the unit.

For decorative edging with a string trimmer attachment, lock the release button into the 90° edging hole (Fig. 3).

Removing the Attachment

  1. Turn the knob counterclockwise to loosen (Fig. 3).
  2. Press and hold the release button (Fig. 4).
  3. While firmly holding the upper shaft housing, pull the attachment straight out of the coupler (Fig. 5).
Fig. 3
Fig. 4
Fig. 5

OIL AND FUEL

OIL AND FUEL MIXING INSTRUCTIONS

The use of old and/or improperly mixed fuel is the most common cause of performance problems. Use only fresh, clean unleaded gasoline.
Follow the instructions carefully for the proper gasoline/oil mixture.

Definition of Blended Fuels

Today’s fuels are often a blend of gasoline and oxygenates such as ethanol, methanol or MTBE (ether). Alcohol-blended fuel absorbs
water. As little as 1% water in the fuel can make fuel and oil separate, forming acids when stored. ALWAYS use fresh fuel (less than 30 days old).

NOTE: Dispose of old fuel according to federal, state and local regulations.

Using Blended Fuels

If using a blended fuel:

• Always use the fresh fuel mix explained in your operator’s manual
• Use the fuel additive STA-BIL® or an equivalent
• Always agitate the fuel mix before fueling the unit
• Drain the tank and run the engine dry before storing the unit

WARNING: DO NOT USE E85 FUEL IN THIS UNIT. It has been proven that fuel containing greater than 10% ethanol will likely damage this engine and void the warranty.

Using Fuel Additives

The bottle of 2-cycle oil provided with this unit contains a fuel additive to help inhibit corrosion and minimize gum deposits. Always use the brand of 2-cycle oil that came with this unit. If this is unavailable, use a 2-cycle oil designed for air-cooled engines and mix it with a fuel additive, such as STA-BIL Fuel Stabilizer or an equivalent. Add 0.8 oz. (23 ml) of fuel additive per gallon of fuel, according to the instructions on the container. NEVER add fuel additives directly to the unit’s fuel tank.

Mixing the Fuel

NOTE: This unit comes with a 3.2 oz. bottle of 2-cycle oil. To obtain the correct fuel mixture described below, pour the entire bottle into one gallon of unleaded gasoline.

CAUTION: For proper engine operation and maximum reliability, pay strict attention to the gasoline and oil mixing instructions on the 2-cycle oil bottle. Using improperly mixed fuel can severely damage the engine.

Thoroughly mix the proper ratio of unleaded gasoline with 2-cycle engine oil. Do not mix them directly in the unit’s fuel tank. Use a
separate fuel can. Use a 40:1 gasoline/oil ratio. See the table below for specific gasoline and oil mixing ratios.

MIXING RATIO – 40:1

STARTING AND STOPPING

WARNING: Operate this unit only in a well-ventilated outdoor area. Carbon monoxide exhaust fumes can be lethal in a confined area.
WARNING: Avoid accidentally starting the unit. To avoid serious injury, the operator and the unit must be in a stable position when pulling the starter rope (Fig. 9).

STARTING INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Mix gasoline with oil. Refer to Oil and Fuel Mixing Instructions.
  2. Fill the fuel tank. Refer to Fueling the Unit.

NOTE: There is no need to turn the unit on. The On/Off switch is in the ON ( I ) position at all times (Fig. 6).

  1. Slowly press and release the primer bulb 10 times (Fig. 7). If fuel cannot be seen in the primer bulb, press and release the primer
    bulb until fuel is visible.
  2. Flip the choke lever clockwise until it clicks (Fig. 8).
  3. Crouch in the starting position (Fig. 9).
  4. DO NOT squeeze the throttle control (Fig. 6). Pull the starter rope with a controlled and steady motion until the unit starts (Fig. 9).
  5. Idle the engine for 5 to 10 seconds. If the unit stops during this time, squeeze the throttle control and pull the starter rope in a
    controlled and steady motion until the unit starts.
  6. Squeeze and hold the throttle control. Allow the engine to warm up for 30 to 60 seconds.

NOTE: The engine is properly warmed up when it accelerates without hesitation.

IF… the engine does not start, begin the starting procedure with step 3.
IF… the unit is hot and fails to start within 3 pulls of the starter rope, squeeze the throttle control and pull the starter rope with a
controlled and steady motion until the unit starts.

STOPPING INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Release the throttle control and allow the engine to idle.
  2. Press and hold the On/Off switch in the OFF (O) position until the engine comes to a complete stop (Fig. 6).
Fig. 6
Fig. 7
Fig. 8
Fig. 9

OPERATION

HOLDING THE UNIT

WARNING: Always wear eye, hearing, hand, foot and body protection to reduce the risk of injury when operating this unit.

• Stand in the operating position (Fig. 10).
• Hold the shaft grip with the right hand. Keep the right arm slightly bent.
• Hold the handle with the left hand. Keep the left arm straight.
• Hold the unit at waist level.
• Keep the cutting head parallel to the ground so that it easily contacts the grass without the need for bending over.

Fig. 10

TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS

• Keep the cutting head parallel to the ground.
• Cut from left to right whenever possible. This improves the unit’s cutting efficiency and throws clippings away from the operator.
• Do not trim wet grass or weeds.

NOTE: Some line breakage will occur from:

• Entanglement with foreign matter
• Normal line fatigue
• Attempting to cut thick vegetation
• Forcing the line into objects such as walls or fence posts

DECORATIVE TRIMMING

When trimming around trees, posts, fences, etc., rotate the whole unit so that the cutting head is at a 30° angle to the ground (Fig. 11).

Fig. 11

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: To prevent serious injury, never perform maintenance or repairs while the unit is running. Always allow the unit to cool before servicing or repairing the unit. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent the unit from starting accidentally.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

Perform these required maintenance procedures at the frequency stated in the table. These procedures should also be a part of any
seasonal tune-up.

NOTE: Some maintenance procedures may require special tools or skills. If you are unsure about these procedures, take the unit to
an MTD authorized service dealer.
NOTE: Maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and system may be performed by an MTD authorized service dealer.
NOTE: Please read the California/EPA statement that came with the unit for a complete listing of terms and coverage for the emissions
control devices, such as the spark arrestor, muffler, carburetor, etc.

FREQUENCY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED
Every 10 hours • Clean and re-oil the air filter. Refer to Maintaining the Air Filter.
Every 25 hours • Check the spark plug condition and gap. Refer to Maintaining the Spark Plug.

REPLACING THE TRIMMING LINE

Only use the trimming line described in the Specifications section. Other types of trimming line may cause the engine to overheat or fail.

WARNING: Never use metal-reinforced line, wire, chain or rope. These can break off and become dangerous projectiles.

  1. Remove the old line from the cutting head.
  2. Use a clean cloth to clean the surface of the cutting head.
  3. Insert the ends of the line through the circular holes in the side of the cutting head (Fig. 12). Push the line through the holes until
    both ends protrude from the positioning tunnels (Fig. 13).
Fig. 12
Fig. 13

4.Pull the ends of the line until the line is tight against the cutting head. Make sure the ends of the line are of equal length (Fig. 14).
If one end is longer than the other, push the longer end back through the cutting head partway and pull the shorter end out. If
necessary, repeat this process until both ends are of equal length.

Fig. 14

Press the exposed trimming line between the circular holes until it lies flat against the cutting head (Fig. 15).

Fig. 15

MAINTAINING THE AIR FILTER

WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury, always stop the engine and allow it to cool before cleaning or maintaining the unit.

Failure to maintain the air filter can result in poor performance or can cause permanent damage to the engine. Engine failure due to
improper air filter maintenance is not covered by the product warranty.

Cleaning the Air Filter

  1. Open the air filter cover: press in the lock tab and swing the air filter cover to the right (Fig. 16).
  2. Remove the air filter from inside the air filter cover (Fig. 16).
  3. Wash the air filter in detergent and water. Rinse the air filter thoroughly and allow it to dry.
  4. Lightly coat the air filter with clean SAE 30 oil.
  5. Squeeze the air filter to spread and remove excess oil.
  6. Reinstall the air filter inside the air filter cover (Fig. 16).

NOTE: Operating the unit without the air filter and air filter cover will VOID the warranty.

  1. Close the air filter cover: swing the air filter cover to the left and press it closed until the lock tab snaps into place (Fig. 16).
Fig. 16

ADJUSTING THE IDLE SPEED

WARNING: The cutting head may spin during idle speed adjustments. Wear protective clothing and observe all safety instructions to prevent serious personal injury.

NOTE: Careless adjustments can seriously damage the unit. A qualified service dealer should make carburetor adjustments.

If, after checking the fuel and cleaning the air filter, the engine still will not idle, adjust the idle speed screw as follows:

  1. Start the engine. Refer to Starting and Stopping.
  2. Release the throttle control and let the engine idle. If the engine stops, use a small Phillips screwdriver to turn the idle speed screw
    clockwise, 1/8 of a turn at a time (as needed) until the engine idles smoothly (Fig. 17).
  3. If the engine is idling too quickly, turn the idle speed screw counterclockwise, 1/8 of a turn at a time (as needed) to reduce the
    idle speed (Fig. 17).
Fig. 17

Checking the fuel, cleaning the air filter, and adjusting the idle speed should solve most engine problems. If not, and any of the following
conditions are true, take the unit to a qualified service dealer:

• the engine will not idle
• the engine hesitates or stalls on acceleration
• there is a loss of engine power

MAINTAINING THE SPARK PLUG

  1. Stop the engine and allow it to cool. Grasp the spark plug boot firmly and pull it from the spark plug.
  2. Clean around the spark plug. Remove the spark plug from the cylinder head with a 5/8-inch socket, turning counterclockwise.

WARNING: Do not sand blast, scrape or clean spark plug electrodes. Grit in the engine could damage the cylinder.

  1. Inspect the spark plug. If the spark plug is cracked, fouled or dirty, replace it with a replacement part #753-06193, a Champion RDJ7J or an equivalent spark plug.
  2. Use a feeler gauge to set the air gap at 0.025 in. (0.635 mm) (Fig. 18).
  3. Install the spark plug in the cylinder head. Tighten the spark plug with a 5/8-inch socket, turning it clockwise until snug.

NOTE: If using a torque wrench, torque to: 110-120 in.•lb. (12.3-13.5 N•m). Do not over tighten.

6.Reattach the spark plug boot.

Fig. 18

CLEANING AND STORAGE

CLEANING

WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury, always stop the engine and allow it to cool before cleaning or maintaining the unit.

Use a small brush to clean the outside of the unit. Do not use strong detergents. Household cleaners that contain aromatic oils such as
pine and lemon, and solvents such as kerosene, can damage plastic. Wipe off any moisture with a soft cloth.

STORAGE

• Never store a fueled unit where fumes may reach an open flame or spark.
• Allow the engine to cool before storing.
• Lock up the unit to prevent unauthorized use or damage.
• Store the unit in a dry, well-ventilated area.
• Store the unit out of the reach of children.

Short-term Storage (1-2 weeks)

  1. Store the unit in a horizontal position. If this is not possible, store the unit vertically with the engine at the top.

Long-term Storage

  1. Remove the fuel cap, tip the unit and drain the fuel into an approved container. Reinstall the fuel cap.
  2. Start the engine and allow it to run until it stalls. This ensures that all fuel has been drained from the carburetor.
  3. Allow the engine to cool. Remove the spark plug and put 5 drops of any high quality motor oil or 2-cycle oil into the cylinder. Pull the starter rope slowly to distribute the oil. Reinstall the spark plug.
  4. Thoroughly clean the unit and inspect it for any loose or damaged parts. Repair or replace damaged parts and tighten loose screws, nuts or bolts.

Preparing the Unit for Use after Long-term Storage

1.Remove the spark plug and drain all of the oil from the cylinder.

NOTE: Do not use fuel that has been stored for more than 30 days. Dispose of old fuel according to federal, state and local regulations.

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEMSOLUTION
 THE ENGINE WILL NOT START 
 The fuel tank is empty Fill the fuel tank with properly mixed fuel
 The primer bulb was not pressed enough Press the primer bulb 10 times or until fuel is visible
 The engine is flooded Squeeze the throttle control and pull the starter rope until the engine
starts
 The fuel is old (over 30 days) and/or improperly mixed Drain the fuel tank and add fresh, properly mixed fuel
 The spark plug is fouled Replace the spark plug
THE ENGINE WILL NOT IDLE
The air filter is dirtyClean or replace the air filter
The fuel is old (over 30 days) and/or improperly mixedDrain the fuel tank and add fresh, properly mixed fuel
The idle speed is incorrectAdjust the idle speed
THE ENGINE WILL NOT ACCELERATE
The fuel is old (over 30 days) and/or improperly mixedDrain the fuel tank and add fresh, properly mixed fuel
The cutting head is bound with grassStop the engine and clean the cutting head
The air filter is dirtyClean or replace the air filter
THE ENGINE LACKS POWER OR STALLS
The fuel is old (over 30 days) and/or improperly mixedDrain the fuel tank and add fresh, properly mixed fuel
The air filter is dirtyClean or replace the air filter
The spark plug is fouledReplace the spark plug
If further assistance is required, contact an authorized service dealer.

MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:

The limited warranty set forth below is given by MTD LLC (MTD) with respect to new merchandise purchased and used in the United States,
its possessions and territories.

MTD warrants this product against defects in material and workmanship for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date of original
purchase and will, at its option, repair or replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective in material or workmanship. This limited
warranty shall only apply if this product has been operated and maintained in accordance with the Operator’s Manual furnished with the
product, and has not been subject to misuse, abuse, commercial use, neglect, accident, improper maintenance, alteration, vandalism, theft,
fire, water or damage because of other peril or natural disaster. Damage resulting from the installation or use of any accessory or attachment not approved by MTD for use with the product(s) covered by this manual will void your warranty as to any resulting damage. This warranty is limited to ninety (90) days from the date of original retail purchase for any MTD product that is used for rental or commercial purposes, or any other income-producing purpose.

HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE: Warranty service is available, WITH PROOF OF PURCHASE THROUGH YOUR LOCAL AUTHORIZED SERVICE
DEALER. To locate the dealer in your area, visit our website at www.mtdproducts.com or www.mtdproducts.ca, check for a listing in the
Yellow Pages, call 1-800-800-7310 or 1-800-668-1238 in Canada, or write to P.O. Box 361131, Cleveland, OH 44136-0019. No product returned directly to the factory will be accepted unless prior written permission has been extended by the Customer Service Department of MTD.

This limited warranty does not provide coverage in the following cases:

A. Tune-ups – Spark Plugs, Carburetor Adjustments, Filters
B. Wear items – Bump Knobs, Outer Spools, Cutting Line, Inner Reels, Starter Pulley, Starter Ropes, Drive Belts, Saw Chains, Guide Bars,
Cultivator Tines, Blades.
C. MTD does not extend any warranty for products sold or exported outside of the United States of America, its possessions and territories,
except those sold through MTD’s authorized channels of export distribution.

MTD reserves the right to change or improve the design of any MTD Product without assuming any obligation to modify any product
previously manufactured.

No implied warranty, including any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, applies after the applicable period of express written warranty above as to the parts as identified. No other express warranty or guaranty, whether written or oral, except as mentioned above, given by any person or entity, including a dealer or retailer, with respect to any product shall bind MTD. During the period of the Warranty, the exclusive remedy is repair or replacement of the product as set forth above. (Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.)

The provisions as set forth in this Warranty provide the sole and exclusive remedy arising from the sales. MTD shall not be liable for
incidental or consequential loss or damages including, without limitation, expenses incurred for substitute or replacement lawn care services, for transportation or for related expenses, or for rental expenses to temporarily replace a warranted product. (Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.)

In no event shall recovery of any kind be greater than the amount of the purchase price of the product sold. Alteration of the safety features
of the product shall void this Warranty. You assume the risk and liability for loss, damage, or injury to you and your property and/or to others and their property arising out of the use or misuse or inability to use the product.

This limited warranty shall not extend to anyone other than the original purchaser, original lessee or the person for whom it was purchased
as a gift.
How State Law Relates to this Warranty: This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from
state to state.
To locate your nearest service dealer, dial 1-800-800-7310 in the United States or 1-800-668-1238 in Canada.

You can download the PDF version of the 2-Cycle Trimmer Operator’s Manual here.