Hedge trimmer operation
WARNING: This hedge trimmer is designed for the trimming of hedges, bushes and shrubs. If it is used for any
other purpose not detailed in this manual, there may be a risk of damage to the hedge trimmer or serious injury
to the user.
Note: If this is the first time using the hedge trimmer attachment, remove the protective cover from the Hedge
Trimmer Blade (20).
•
Adjusting the trimmer head angle:
1. Attach the Hedge Trimmer Shaft (21) to the Upper Shaft (8) by following the instructions under 'Pole
assembly'
2. To adjust the angle of the Hedge Trimmer Blade (20), hold the Adjustment Handle (19) and press the Angle
Position Lever (18) (Image N)
3. Use the Adjustment Handle to alter the angle of the Blade, then release the Angle Position Lever to lock the
Blade into place
•
Inspect the area to be cut before starting. Remove any objects or debris that could be thrown, jammed or
become entangled in the blades
•
Always hold the tool firmly with both hands. The left hand should be firmly holding the Front Handle (30),
whilst the right hand should be holding the Rear Handle (13) to operate the Throttle Trigger (14)
•
Allow the cutting blades to reach full speed before commencing the cut
•
When cutting, always move in a forward direction - never backwards
•
Never work towards bystanders or solid objects such as walls, trees or vehicles
•
If during cutting the blade stalls, stop the hedge trimmer immediately by switching the Ignition Switch (11) to
'STOP' before investigating the cause
•
Remove any jammed debris from the blades and examine them for any damage before recommencing
cutting. Always replace damaged blades.
•
The hedge trimmer can be used for trimming soft and new growth on hedges, shrubs and bushes.
•
When cutting:
•
Assume a secure position, using two hands to hold the trimmer
•
Trim both sides of the hedge, starting at the bottom
•
Pass the blade lightly through the surface of the hedge. Do not attempt to cut too deep
•
Trim the top of the hedge
•
For older hedges that require cutting back substantially, use the pruner attachment to cut the thicker
branches and then finish the job with the hedge trimmer
WARNING: Do not let the blade make contact with fencing wire or any other object that could cause damage.
Pruner operation
WARNING: The pruner attachment is not used for felling trees - only domestic pruning/limbing tasks.
WARNING: Never use any type of elevated platform such as ladders or steps to perform pruning tasks. Doing so
will greatly increase the possibility of balance loss and user injury.
•
Thoroughly check the area to be cut; NEVER operate the pruner near power lines or other such cables
•
Inspect the limb to be cut for any hidden foreign objects such as nails and other dense materials
•
Operate alone without assistance. Do not allow anyone within a 15 metre radius of the operator
•
Maintain firm footing when operating the pruner
•
Always hold the tool firmly with both hands. The left hand should be firmly holding the Front Handle (30),
whilst the right hand should be holding the Rear Handle (13) to operate the Throttle Trigger (14)
•
Allow the saw chain to reach full speed before performing the cut
•
Always maintain a stable cutting angle of not more than 60° from the horizontal ground plane (Fig. III)
•
Never stand directly beneath the limb that is being pruned; debris may fall differently than expected
•
Never use the end of the Guide Bar (24) to perform a cut; doing so will greatly increase the possibility of
kickback
•
Do not cut the branch flush against the main limb; doing so will strip back the bark
•
Allow the pruner to work through the branch with minimal pressure applied. Do not force or apply excessive
force to try to accelerate the cut
•
Cutting thin branches: Thin branches (less than 60mm dia.) may be cut in a single pass, but it is
recommended to cut the branch in increments starting from the end to prevent slivering
•
Cutting thick branches: Thick branches (60-150mm dia.) should be cut in stages to control the separation of
the branch from the tree, and to prevent blade damage and possible operator injury
1. Cut the branch in an upwards direction from below, to the outside of where the branch is intended to be
finally cut, and cut no more than halfway through the branch (Fig. IV)
2. From the top, cut into the branch, to the outside of where the branch is intended to be finally cut, cutting
roughly halfway through the branch (Fig. IV)
3. Perform the final cut through the branch close to the trunk of the tree and on the inside of the previous two
cuts (Fig. IV)
Note: Ensure the chain oil level is monitored when performing extensive cuts; the chain oil will deplete faster
when the pruner is under constant loads.
Accessories
•
A range of accessories and consumables, including Kevlar cut proof gloves, face shield and visor, and
safety goggles, is available from your GMC stockist. Spare parts can be obtained from toolsparesonline.
com
Maintenance
WARNING: Ensure the ignition lead is disconnected before attaching or changing any accessories, or making
any adjustments, to prevent accidental starting.
WARNING: ALWAYS wear adequate personal protective equipment, including eye protection and oil/fuel-
resistant gloves, when carrying out maintenance on this tool. ALWAYS ensure proper ventilation.
General inspection
•
Regularly check that all the fixing screws are tight
•
Inspect the fuel tank and lines of the tool prior to each use for damage or wear. Repairs should be carried
out by an authorised GMC service centre. This advice also applies to extension cords used with this tool.
WARNING: Maintenance not covered by this manual MUST be carried out by an authorised GMC technician.
Attempting such maintenance or repairs will void the warranty.
15
GB