Operator Manual for Earthquake 40314 String Mower

Quick guide from the manual

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective operation of your Earthquake 40314 String Mower. Always read the full safety section before use. Key tasks include regular maintenance of the mower line, checking belt tension, and ensuring the engine is properly serviced with oil before the first use.

Safety Precautions

• Always wear safety goggles or glasses with side shields.
• Never operate the machine on slopes greater than 20 degrees. Mow across the face of slopes, never up and down.
• Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before cleaning, repairing, or adjusting the unit.
• Keep hands and feet away from rotating parts.
• Do not operate the machine in wet grass or when fatigued.

Product Features

The mower features a 22-inch cutting diameter and uses a 0.155-inch diameter mower line. Key controls include the mower head drive lever, engine on/off switch, recoil starter, and handle adjustment knobs.

Assembly

To assemble the mower:

1. Remove all loose parts and packing material from the carton.
2. Loosen the handle adjustment knobs to raise the handle to the operating position.
3. Ensure cables are not caught between the upper and lower handle.
4. Tighten the knobs to lock the handle in place.

Operation

Engine Preparation: The engine is shipped without oil or gasoline. You must service the engine before operation. Fill the crankcase to the FULL line on the dipstick.

Starting the Engine:

• Set the ON/OFF switch to ON.
• For a cold engine, push the primer bulb three times, waiting two seconds between each push.
• Pull the recoil starter handle sharply.

Mower Head Control: Hold the control lever against the handle to engage the mower head. Release the lever to stop the mower head.

Maintenance and Storage

Maintenance Schedule:

• Before Each Use: Check mower lines, check mower head engagement, clean engine/machine, check nuts and bolts.
• Every 25 Hours: Lubricate jackshaft assembly and wheel bearings.

Mower Line Replacement: Use a 0.155" diameter line cut to 21.5 inches. Thread the line through the outside loops, cross over the line retainer, and thread through the center hole.

Belt Tension: Proper tension is achieved when the beehive spring extends 1/8" - 1/4" when the drive lever is engaged. Adjust using the jam nuts on the engagement cable.

Troubleshooting

If the engine does not start, check if the spark plug wire is connected, the engine is primed, or if the fuel tank is empty. If the mower vibrates, check if the socket head cap screws for the mower head are loose or if the mower line lengths are uneven.