Mountfield MHJ-2424 Petrol Hedge Trimmer User Guide

Mountfield MHJ-2424 Petrol Hedge Trimmer

Dear Customer, thank you for choosing one of our products. We hope that you will be completely satisfied with this machine and that it fully meets your expectations. This manual has been compiled to provide you with all the information you need to get acquainted with the machine and use it safely and efficiently. Don’t forget that it is an integral part of the machine, so keep it handy so that it can be consulted when necessary, and pass it on to a further user if you resell or loan the machine.

Your new machine has been designed and manufactured in pursuance of current regulations, and is safe and reliable if used in compliance with the instructions provided in this manual (proper use). Using the machine in any other way, or non-compliance with the safety specifications relative to use, maintenance, and repair, is considered “improper use,” which will invalidate the warranty, relieve the manufacturer from all liabilities, and the user will consequently be liable for all and any damage or injury to himself or others.

Since improvements are periodically made to our products, you may find slight differences between your machine and the descriptions contained in this manual. Certain modifications can be made to the machine without prior warning and without the obligation to update the manual, although the essential safety and function characteristics will remain unaltered. In case of any doubts, please contact your Retailer. And now enjoy your work!

IDENTIFICATION OF MAIN COMPONENTS

• Engine
• Cutting device (blade)
• Cutter protection plate
• Front handgrip
• Rear handgrip
• Rear handgrip release command
• Blade protection
• Registration plate

CONTROLS AND FILLING POINTS

• Engine stop switch
• Blade command (Accelerator lever)
• Accelerator safety lever
• Starter
• Choke
• Primer
• Fuel tank cap
• Air cleaner cover

REGISTRATION PLATE

1. Acoustic output level
2. Mark of conformity
3. Month/Year of manufacture
4. Type of machine
5. Serial number
6. Name and address of the manufacturer
7. Article Code

PREPARING TO WORK

CHECKING THE MACHINE

Before starting work, please:

• Check that all the screws on the machine and the blade are tightly fastened.
• Check that the blades are sharp and there are no signs of any damage.
• Check that the air filter is clean.
• Check that the protection devices are well fastened and working efficiently.
• Check that the handgrips are well fastened.

PREPARING THE FUEL

This machine is fitted with a two-stroke engine that requires a mix of petrol and lubricating oil.

IMPORTANT: Using petrol alone will damage the motor and will cause invalidation of the warranty.

IMPORTANT: Only use quality fuels and oils to maintain high performance and guarantee the duration of the mechanical parts over time.

Petrol characteristics

Only use unleaded petrol (green petrol) with an octane number no less than 90 N.O. IMPORTANT: Unleaded petrol tends to create deposits in the container if preserved for more than 2 months. Always use fresh petrol!

Oil characteristics

Only use top-quality synthetic oil specifically for two-stroke engines. Your retailer can provide you with oils that have been specifically studied for this type of engine, which are capable of guaranteeing a high level of protection. The use of these oils makes it possible to prepare a 2.5% mix, consisting of 1 part oil to 40 parts petrol.

Preparation and preservation of the fuel mix

DANGER! Petrol and the fuel mix are highly inflammable!

• Keep the petrol and fuel mix in homologated fuel containers, in a safe place, away from any flames or heat sources.
• Never leave the containers within the reach of children.
• Never smoke whilst preparing the mix and avoid inhaling the petrol fumes.

The chart indicates the amount of petrol and oil to use to prepare the fuel mix according to the type of oil used.

To prepare the fuel mix:

• Place about half the amount of petrol in a homologated tank.
• Add all the oil, according to the chart.
• Add the rest of the petrol.
• Close the top and shake well.

IMPORTANT: The fuel mix tends to age. Do not prepare excessive amounts of the fuel mix to avoid deposits from forming.

IMPORTANT: Keep the petrol and fuel mix containers separate and easily identifiable to avoid the mistake of using one in place of the other.

IMPORTANT Periodically clean the petrol and fuel mix containers to remove any eventual deposits.

REFUELLING

DANGER! Never smoke whilst refuelling and avoid inhaling the petrol fumes.

WARNING! Carefully open the tank to the pressure that could have formed inside.

Before refuelling:

• Shake the fuel mix container well.
• Place the machine on a flat, stable surface, with the fuel tank cap facing upwards.
• Clean the fuel tank cap and the surrounding area to avoid any dirt from entering the tank during refilling.
• Carefully open the fuel tank cap to allow the pressure inside to decrease gradually. Use a funnel to refill and avoid filling the tank to the brim (Fig. 1).

WARNING! Always close the fuel tank cap firmly.

WARNING! Immediately clean all traces of fuel that may have dripped on the machine or the ground, and do not start the engine until the petrol fumes have dissipated.

HOW TO START – USE – STOP THE ENGINE

STARTING THE ENGINE

WARNING! The engine must be started in an area at least 3 metres from where you refilled the fuel tank.

Before starting the engine:

• Place the machine firmly on the ground.
• Remove the blade protection devices.
• Make sure the blade is not touching the ground or any other object.
• Make sure the handgrip is locked in the centre position.

Cold start

NOTE A “cold” start of the engine means starting it after at least 5 minutes from when it was switched off or after refuelling. To start the engine (Fig. 2):

1. Press switch (1) to position «I».
2. Gently press the bulb (2) on the “primer” 7-10 times until the fuel flows from the exhaust pipe.
3. Turn the starter control lever (3) to the «CHOKE» position.
4. Hold the machine firmly on the ground with one hand on the handgrip, in order not to lose control of the machine during startup. WARNING! If the machine is not held firmly, the force of the engine could cause the user to lose their balance or direct the blade towards an obstacle or the same user.
5. Pull the starter rope slowly for 10-15 cm until you feel some resistance, then tug it a few times until you hear the engine turn over. IMPORTANT: To avoid breaking the starter rope, do not pull the whole length of it or let it slide along the edge of the cable guide hole. Release the starter gradually to avoid letting it fly back uncontrollably.
6. Allow the engine to run at minimum speed for at least one minute before accelerating to maximum speed.
   IMPORTANT: If the handle (4) on the starter wire is pulled repeatedly with the starter control lever (3) in the «CHOKE» position, it can flood the engine and make starting difficult. If you have flooded the engine, remove the spark plug and gently pull the handle (5) on the starter wire to eliminate any excess fuel; then dry the spark plug electrodes and replace it on the engine.

Hot starting

When hot starting (immediately after stopping the engine), follow the procedure indicated above in points 1 – 4 – 5 – 6.

USE OF THE ENGINE (Fig. 3)

The speed of the cutting device is regulated by the accelerator lever (1) positioned on the rear handgrip (2). It is only possible to use this lever if the safety lever (3) is pressed simultaneously. The movement is transmitted from the engine to the blade by a centrifugal mass clutch that prevents the blade from moving when the engine is running at minimum speed.

WARNING! Do not use the machine if the cutting device moves when the engine is running idle; in this case, contact your dealer. The correct running speed will be achieved by pressing the accelerator lever (1) as far as possible.

IMPORTANT:  Avoid using the engine at full power for the first 6-8 working hours.

STOPPING THE ENGINE (Fig. 4)

To stop the engine:

• Release the accelerator lever (1) and allow the engine to run at minimum speed for a few seconds.
• Press the (2) switch to the «O» position.

WARNING! When the engine is ticking over, it will take a few seconds for the blades to stop.

USING THE MACHINE

To respect persons and the environment:

• Please try not to cause any disturbance.
• Scrupulously comply with local regulations and provisions for the disposal of waste materials after trimming.
• Scrupulously comply with local regulations and provisions for the disposal of oils, petrol, damaged parts, or any element that has a strong impact on the environment.
• Disposal of the packaging should be done in accordance with the local regulations in force.

WARNING! Prolonged exposure to vibrations can cause injuries and neurovascular disorders (also called “Renaud’s syndrome” or “white hand”), especially to people suffering from circulation disorders. The symptoms can affect the hands, wrists, and fingers and are shown through loss of sensitivity, torpor, itching, pain, and discoloration or structural changes to the skin. These effects can be worsened by low ambient temperatures and/or by gripping the handgrips excessively tightly. If the symptoms occur, the length of time the machine is used must be reduced and a doctor consulted.

WARNING! Always wear suitable clothing when using the machine. Your retailer can provide you with all the information on the most suitable accident prevention devices to guarantee your safety at work.

WARNING! If something breaks or an accident occurs during mowing, turn off the engine immediately and move the machine away to prevent further damage; if an accident occurs with injuries or third parties are injured, carry out the first aid measures most suitable for the situation immediately and contact the medical authorities for any necessary health care. Carefully remove any debris that might cause damage or harm to persons or animals, should it not be seen.

REGULATING THE HANDGRIP (Fig. 5)

The rear handgrip (1) can be adjusted to 3 different positions in relation to the cutting device to make trimming your hedges easier.

WARNING! The handgrip must only be adjusted when the engine is switched off.

• Lower the release lever (2).
• Rotate the rear handgrip (1) to the desired position.
• Before using the machine, check that the release lever (2) has correctly returned to the high position, and the rear handgrip is firmly attached.

WARNING! When working, the rear handgrip must always be in a vertical position, whatever the position of the cutting device (3).

CUTTING PROCEDURES

WARNING! When cutting, always hold the machine firmly with both hands.

WARNING! Immediately stop the engine if the blades block while running or if they get caught up in the hedge branches. It is recommended to trim the two vertical sides of the hedge before trimming the top.

Vertical trimming (Fig. 6)

Proceed to cut by using curved movements from the bottom towards the top, keeping the blade as far from the body as possible.

Horizontal trimming (Fig. 7)

The best results will be obtained with the blade slightly inclined (5° – 10°) in the direction you are cutting. Proceed with a curved movement, slowly and without interruptions, especially in the case of very thick hedges.

LUBRICATING THE BLADES DURING JOBS

If the trimming device overheats whilst working, it is necessary to lubricate the internal surfaces of the blades.

WARNING! This operation must only be performed when the blades have stopped running and the engine is switched off.

END OF OPERATIONS

When you have finished your work:

• Switch off the engine as indicated above (Chap. 5).
• Wait for the blades to stop and replace the protection device.

MAINTENANCE AND PRESERVATION

Correct maintenance is essential to maintain the original efficiency and safety of the machine over time.

WARNING! During maintenance operations:

• Remove the spark plug cap.
• Wait until the engine is sufficiently cold.
• Use protective gloves when handling the blades.
• Keep the blade protection devices on, except when intervening directly on the blade.
• Never dispose of oils, fuel, or other polluting materials in unauthorized places.

CLEANING THE ENGINE AND THE SILENCER

To reduce fire risks, periodically clean the cylinder flaps with compressed air and clear the silencer area from branches, leaves, or other debris.

CLEANING THE AIR FILTER

IMPORTANT: Cleaning the air filter is essential to guarantee the efficiency and duration of the machine. It must be cleaned after every 8-10 working hours.

To clean the filter (Fig. 8):

• Loosen the knob (1), remove the cover (2), and the filter element (3).
• Wash the filter element (3) with soap and water. Do not use petrol or other solvents.
• Leave the filter to dry in the open air.
• Refit the filter element (3) and close the cover (2), pushing until it clicks into place.

FUEL FILTER

Inside the fuel tank, there is a filter that prevents impurities from entering the engine. The filter should be replaced once a year by your Retailer.

CHECKING THE SPARK PLUG

Periodically, remove and clean the spark plug from any eventual deposits using a metal brush. Check and reset the correct distance between the electrodes (Fig. 9). Replace the spark plug and fasten it firmly using the supplied key. The spark plug must be replaced with one with the same characteristics in cases where the electrodes have burnt or the insulation has worn out, and in any case, every 50 working hours.

TUNING THE CARBURETTOR

The carburettor is tuned by the manufacturer to achieve maximum performance in all situations of use, with a minimum emission of toxic gas in compliance with current specifications. In the case of poor performance, first check that the blades are not partially blocked or deformed; on the contrary, ask your Retailer to check the carburettor and the engine.

Tuning minimum speed

WARNING! The cutting device must not move when the engine is running idle. If the cutting device moves when the engine is running idle, contact your dealer to correctly regulate the engine.

LUBRICATING THE REDUCTION GEAR (Fig. 10)

Every 20 working hours, top up the level with special molybdenum bisulfur lubrication, injecting it into the lubricator (1).

BLADE CLEANING AND CHECK

WARNING! Periodically check that the blades are not bent or deformed and that the screws are adequately tightened. Adjustment of the distance between blades is not necessary, as this is predetermined by the manufacturer. Cleaning of debris from the inner grooves must be done regularly, as this could impede the blades from turning correctly.

Proceed with cleaning (Fig. 11):

• Loosen the nuts (1), remove the screws (2), and the bar (3).
• Carefully remove any dust or debris from the slots (4).
• Lubricate the internal surfaces of the blades.
• Remount the bar (3) with the screws (2), taking care to reposition the spacers accurately (5) and the washers (6) and (7) under the nuts (1).
• Fully tighten the nuts (1).

WARNING! Always check that the nuts (1) are tightened as far as possible before starting work.

SHARPENING THE BLADES

It is necessary to sharpen the blades when the trimming performance decreases and the branches tend to stick together.

WARNING! Always replace and never repair a blade that has blunt cutting edges.

IMPORTANT: We recommend you take your machine to your Retailer for sharpening as he has the required tools and suitable experience.

To sharpen the blades, it is recommended to use a fine-grain file and proceed as follows (Fig. 12):

• Place the file (1) on the blade (2) at a 45° angle, and proceed with upward strokes towards the cutting edge.
• Make sure that you put pressure on the file only when stroking upwards and raise it from the blade when you move it back towards you.
• Only remove the smallest amount of material.
• Eliminate any burr with a grinding stone.
• Eliminate all grinding traces and lubricate the blades before reassembling them.

EXTRAORDINARY INTERVENTIONS

All maintenance operations not foreseen in this manual must be performed exclusively by your Retailer. All and any operations performed in unauthorized centres or by unqualified persons will totally invalidate the warranty.

PRESERVATION

After each working session, carefully clean the machine of dust and debris, repair or replace any faulty parts, and lubricate the blades to prevent them from rusting. The machine must be preserved in a dry area, protected from all weather conditions, and with the blade protection device correctly fitted.

PROLONGED IDLE PERIODS

IMPORTANT: If the machine will not be used for a period of more than 2-3 months, it is recommended to follow some advice to avoid difficulty when you wish to use the machine and to prevent permanent damage to the engine.

Storage

Before storing the machine:

• Empty the fuel tank.
• Start the engine and allow it to tick over until it comes to a halt, so that it uses all the fuel that is left in the carburettor.
• Allow the engine to cool down and remove the spark plug.
• Pour a teaspoon of (new) 2-stroke engine oil into the spark plug slot.
• Pull the starter wire a couple of times to distribute the oil in the cylinder.
• Replace the spark plug with the piston in the dead-end upper position (visible from the spark plug slot when the piston is at maximum stroke).

Restarting work

When you wish to start using the machine again:

• Remove the spark plug.
• Pull the starter wire a couple of times to eliminate all excess oil.
• Check the spark plug as described in the chapter “Checking the spark plug”.
• Prepare the machine as indicated in the paragraph entitled “Preparing for work”.

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Mountfield MHJ-2424 Petrol Hedge Trimmer-FAQs