Echo GT-1100 - User Manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL
WEED & GRASS
TRIMMERS
X
V
GT-1100
GT-2101
999222-01804
A CAUTION
READ RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
AND INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY

Summary

Safety

Use Trimmer As Intended

Warns against using steel blades and requires approved attachments and correct shield.

Handle Fuel Safely

Provides guidelines for safe fuel storage, refueling, and handling to prevent fires.

Wear Protective Clothing and Equipment

Details required safety gear like eye protection, gloves, and proper fitting clothing.

Operate Safely

Advises against operating while fatigued or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Operation

Fuel Mixing

Details the correct fuel-to-oil ratios (32:1 and 50:1) and mixing procedure.

Safe Starting Techniques

Provides notes on safe starting practices like clearing the area and proper rope pulling.

Starting Cold Engine

Step-by-step guide for starting a cold engine, including choke and throttle use.

Warm Engine Starting

Procedure for starting the engine when it is already warm.

Stopping Engine

Instructions on how to properly stop the engine and troubleshooting the stop switch.

Operate Safely and Avoid Damage

Tips for safe operation, preventing clogs, and avoiding damage from heat or obstructions.

Troubleshooting

Service

Carburetor Adjustment

Explains how to adjust the carburetor for proper idle speed control.

Adjusting Idle Speed Screw

Step-by-step guide for adjusting the idle speed screw on the carburetor.

Replacing Nylon Line (GT-2101)

Detailed steps for replacing nylon line on the Echomatic trimmer head.

Replacing Nylon Line (GT-1100)

Assembly

Assembling Driveshaft

Assembling Throttle Cable

Specifications

Overview

1. Safety Information
2. Fuel Handling Safety
3. Carbon Monoxide and Work Area Safety
4. Protective Clothing and Equipment
5. Safe Operation Practices
6. Device Description (Controls)
7. Operation - Fuel Requirements
8. Fuel Mixing Instructions
9. Trimmer Condition Check
10. Starting Techniques
11. Cold Engine Starting
12. Warm Engine Starting
13. Stopping Engine
14. Operating Safely and Avoiding Damage
15. Adjusting Line Length
16. Line Adjustment (G.T.-2101, Echomatic Head)
17. Line Adjustment (G.T.-1100, GT Head)
18. Trimming Technique
19. Scalping Technique
20. Edging Technique
21. Sweeping Technique
22. Mowing Technique
23. Troubleshooting Guide
24. Service - Cleaning Air Filter (Before Each Use)
25. Service - Cleaning Fuel Strainer (Check Periodically)
26. Service - Checking Spark Plug (Check Periodically)
27. Service - Lubricating Driveshaft (Flexible Shaft)
28. Service - Carburetor Adjustment (As Needed)
29. Service - Cleaning Muffler and Exhaust Port (SAM) (Clean as Necessary)
30. Service - Cleaning Cylinder Fins (Check Periodically)
31. Service - Replacing Nylon Line (GT-2101, Echomatic Head)
32. Service - Replacing Nylon Line (GT-1100 Head)
33. Service - Installing Nylon Cutter Head
34. Service - Installing Maxicut Head
35. Assembly - Assembling Driveshaft
36. Assembly - Assembling Throttle Cable
37. Assembly - Installing Loop Handle
38. Assembly - Installing Shield (With Cut-Off Knife)
39. Storage - Long Term Storage
40. Parts Books

This document serves as the Operator's Manual for ECHO Weed & Grass Trimmers, specifically models GT-1100 and GT-2101. These units are described as lightweight, high-performance, gasoline-powered tools designed for trimming weeds and grass in areas that are difficult to manage by other means. The manual provides comprehensive information necessary for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of these trimmers.

Safety Information:

The manual begins with crucial safety warnings, emphasizing the importance of understanding and following all instructions. It uses "DANGER" symbols to highlight procedures that, if not followed, could lead to serious, immediate, and irreversible human injury or death. "CAUTION" symbols are used for procedures that could result in serious, though not necessarily immediate, human injury or death. Users are instructed to follow all danger and caution warnings in the manual and on the safety decals affixed to the trimmer. These decals are for the user's protection, and it's essential to ensure they remain legible and their instructions are understood.

A critical safety warning states, "Do not use steel blades on this unit." These trimmers are not designed for steel blades, and their use may cause serious injury. Users must always obey local ordinances regarding internal combustion engines and only use cutting attachments approved and supplied by ECHO INC. Operating the unit without the shield in the correct position is strictly prohibited.

Fuel Handling Safety:

Safe fuel handling practices are detailed, including storing gasoline in an approved container, never smoking while handling gasoline, and always stopping the engine before refueling. It's advised not to refuel a hot engine and to wait until it cools. The fuel cap should be removed slowly to relieve pressure, and overfilling the tank or spilling fuel should be avoided. The engine must be restarted at least 10 feet away from the refueling point.

Carbon Monoxide and Work Area Safety:

The manual warns against operating the trimmer in confined areas due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It also stresses the importance of keeping people and animals away from the work area during operation. Before starting, the work area must be inspected, and all stones, cans, bottles, wire, and other foreign objects should be removed.

Protective Clothing and Equipment:

Operators are required to wear safety protection that meets A.N.S.I. Z87 standards, including gloves and non-skid footwear. Proper attire includes snug-fitting, durable clothing, and loose clothing should be avoided.

Safe Operation Practices:

Operating the unit while fatigued or under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited. Operators must remain alert to prevent injury to themselves and others. The correct technique involves holding the unit firmly with both hands, with fingers and thumbs encircling the handles.

Device Description (Controls):

The manual provides a visual breakdown of the trimmer's components, including the spark plug, muffler, cylinder, air filter, fuel tank cap, fuel tank, recoil starter handle, drive shaft assembly, loop handle, cutter head, shield, ignition switch (for both GT-1100 and GT-2101 models), throttle trigger, and engine.

Operation - Fuel Requirements:

The trimmers use 2-cycle fuel. For 32:1 ECHO Oil, a mixture of 32 parts leaded or unleaded regular grade gasoline (minimum 87 Octane) and one part 32:1 ECHO 2-stroke oil is required. For 50:1 ECHO Approved Oil, a mixture of 50 parts leaded or unleaded regular grade gasoline (minimum 87 Octane) and one part 50:1 ECHO 2-stroke oil is specified. A crucial note for both is: "Do not use gasohol or alcohol blended fuels in this engine."

Fuel Mixing Instructions:

Fuel should never be mixed in the engine's fuel tank. The recommended procedure is to pour half the gasoline into a safe container, add the oil, mix, then add the remaining gasoline and remix. After mixing, the fuel tank cap should be installed, and any spilled fuel wiped clean.

Trimmer Condition Check:

Before each use, operators must check for loose nuts, bolts, and screws.

Starting Techniques:

Safe starting techniques include clearing the work area of debris, holding the unit firmly, using short pulls (1/2 to 2/3 of rope length) when pulling the starting rope, and not allowing the starter handle to snap back against the housing.

Cold Engine Starting:

A "DANGER" warning indicates that the cutter head may rotate even in a low-speed position when the engine starts. To start a cold engine:

1. Turn the ignition switch to START/RUN (on GT-1100, it's next to the carburetor).
2. Turn the choke lever to COLD START (closed).
3. Depress the throttle trigger fully.
4. Pull the starter handle several times until the engine fires once.
5. Turn the choke lever to RUN (open).
6. Start the engine.
7. Release the throttle trigger and allow the engine to warm up.
8. Squeeze the throttle trigger gradually.

Warm Engine Starting:

1. Turn the ignition switch to START/RUN.
2. Place the choke lever in the RUN (open) position.
3. Pull the starter handle. If the engine doesn't start after 4 pulls, the cold start procedure should be used.

Stopping Engine:

1. Release the throttle trigger and allow the engine to idle.
2. Turn the ignition switch to STOP. A "CAUTION" warns that if the engine doesn't stop, the choke lever should be closed to stop it, and the stop switch should be checked and repaired before restarting.

Operating Safely and Avoiding Damage:

Operators must keep both hands on the handles when the engine is running. If the cutter becomes clogged, the engine must be stopped, and the cutter cleaned. Overreaching or standing on unstable surfaces is prohibited. If the trimmer is operated for extended periods in high temperatures, the driveshaft housing may become very hot. In such cases, the unit should be allowed to cool, and lubrication checked as outlined in the service section. To prevent engine damage, the unit should not be run at full throttle without a load. If the cutter head strikes an obstruction or is prevented from turning freely, the engine must be stopped, and the cutter head inspected for damage.

Adjusting Line Length:

The recommended line length is 5 inches, measured from the edge of the cutting head to the tip of the line. Trimming is done with the tip of the line; cutting with the entire length can cause the line to snap or fray. If the line is too long, the cut-off knife will automatically trim it to the correct length during operation.

Line Adjustment (G.T.-2101, Echomatic Head):

With the engine running at normal operating speed, the head should be tapped firmly on the ground. One inch of line will be released each time the head is tapped.

Line Adjustment (G.T.-1100, GT Head):

With the engine stopped, line should be unwound from the spool until the proper length is achieved.

Trimming Technique:

The trimmer should be placed so the cutter faces straight ahead. A "CAUTION" warns that tilting the head to the right will throw debris towards the operator. To trim, the unit should be tilted slightly to the left, allowing debris to be thrown away from the operator.

Scalping Technique:

Scalping involves removing all vegetation down to the ground. The cutter head should be tilted about 30 degrees to the left. This technique is effective around trees and shrubs, but care must be taken not to bruise bark or young sensitive growth. When trimming around flowers, the line cuts in a full circle around the head.

Edging Technique:

The cutter head should be tilted at right angles to the ground. The handle bracket should be adjusted to fit the edging position. The line should skim along the edge of concrete or other hard surfaces. A "CAUTION" explicitly states: "Never use ECHO units with blades for edging."

Sweeping Technique:

For sweeping, the cutter head should be tilted slightly to the left and swung side to side.

Mowing Technique:

A "DANGER" warning for mowing states that debris may be thrown in any direction, and eye protection must always be worn.

Troubleshooting Guide:

The manual includes a detailed troubleshooting section covering common issues like engine failure to start, difficulty starting, engine misses, lack of power, overheating, noisy/knocking engine, and stalling under load. For each problem, potential causes are listed, along with corresponding "WHAT TO DO" solutions, ranging from simple checks (e.g., fill tank, clean strainer) to more complex adjustments (e.g., carburetor adjustment) or recommendations to contact an authorized dealer.

Service - Cleaning Air Filter (Before Each Use):

1. Remove the air filter cover.
2. Remove the air filter from the cover.
3. Brush dirt from the filter or wash it in a suitable cleaner. All parts should be allowed to air dry.
4. Reinstall the filter and cover, ensuring the filter is undamaged and properly fitted; replace if necessary.

Service - Cleaning Fuel Strainer (Check Periodically):

1. Pick up the fuel strainer through the fuel inlet port with a piece of steel wire.
2. Clean the strainer in a suitable cleaner or replace it.
3. Reinstall the strainer.

Service - Checking Spark Plug (Check Periodically):

1. Check for a proper gap of 0.6-0.7 mm (0.024-0.028).
2. Inspect the electrode for wear.
3. Inspect the insulator for oil or other deposits.
4. Replace the plug if needed, and torque to 145-155 kg-cm (125-135 in. lb).

Service - Lubricating Driveshaft (Flexible Shaft):

1. Loosen the screw and bolt and remove the bearing housing.
2. Pull the flexible shaft from the drive shaft tube.
3. Wipe the shaft clean and recoat it with a thin coating (0.352-0.705 oz.) of lithium base grease.
4. Reverse the procedure for installation.

Service - Carburetor Adjustment (As Needed):

The idle speed adjustment screw controls the throttle opening at idle. If the idling adjustment is too low or too high, the following procedure should be used:

1. Start the engine and allow it to warm up.
2. Turn the screw clockwise until the cutting head begins to rotate.
3. Turn the screw counterclockwise one turn or until the head stops rotating.

Service - Cleaning Muffler and Exhaust Port (SAM) (Clean as Necessary):

1. Remove the muffler cover and muffler. A note advises caution not to scratch the cylinder or piston when cleaning the cylinder exhaust port.
2. Clean deposits from the cylinder exhaust port.
3. Replace the spark arrester screen if clogged.
4. Install the muffler and muffler cover.

Service - Cleaning Cylinder Fins (Check Periodically):

1. Remove the cover.
2. Remove dust and dirt from between the fins.
3. Reinstall the cover.
4. Clean the air intake grids on the crankcase.

Service - Replacing Nylon Line (GT-2101, Echomatic Head):

1. Turn the cutting head clockwise, using a locking tool, until the head comes free of the shaft.
2. Depress the button on the head and remove the cover. Remove the hub and spring from the head.
3. Secure one end of the replacement nylon line to the loop on the hub. Hold the line tight while winding it in a clockwise direction.
4. Feed the nylon line through the eyelet in the hub and press the reel into position against the spring.
5. Align the pegs on the cover with the holes in the head and press the cover into place.

Service - Replacing Nylon Line (GT-1100 Head):

Note: Use 3.65 m (12 ft.) of line.

1. Loop one end of the line through the retainer slots in the spool holder.
2. Wind the line evenly and tightly onto the spool in a clockwise direction (following the arrow on the spool, as viewed from the outer end of the head).
3. Thread the end of the line through the eyelet in the housing.

Service - Installing Nylon Cutter Head:

1. Rotate the driveshaft until the holes in the upper adapter plate and bearing housing are aligned.
2. Insert the locking tool into the holes.
3. Screw the cutter head onto the driveshaft (rotate the head CLOCKWISE to tighten).
4. Remove the locking bar.

Service - Installing Maxicut Head:

1. Align the hole in the adapter plate with the hole in the bearing housing and install the locking tool.
2. Rotate the nylon line cutter head counterclockwise until it comes free of the shaft.
3. Tighten the blade attaching screws and nuts (A) until the blades are snug.
4. Loosen the screws and nuts (A) until the blades swing freely.
5. Install the Maxicut Head (B) on the shaft.
6. Install the flat washer (C).
7. Install and tighten the lock nut (D). A note specifies that this is an interference thread nut and must be tightened until the Maxicut Head will not rotate on the shaft.

Assembly - Assembling Driveshaft:

1. Stand the engine upright on a level surface.
2. Loosen the two bolts at the driveshaft end of the engine.
3. Carefully fit the driveshaft assembly to the engine, ensuring the shaft is correctly engaged. A note indicates that the line on the driveshaft housing must be in contact with the engine (an arrow on the driveshaft indicates the line).
4. Rotate the driveshaft housing until the gear housing is in line with the engine.
5. Tighten the bolts.

Assembly - Assembling Throttle Cable:

Note: The engine is delivered separated from the shaft, with the throttle cable attached to the shaft.

1. Remove the nut from the throttle cable.
2. Insert the throttle cable through the hole in the fan cover.
3. Reinstall the nut. Finger tighten the nut and attach the inner cable to the swivel on the throttle lever. A note emphasizes that the nipple of the throttle cable must fit into one side of the slot.
4. Tighten the nut.
5. Check the throttle for freedom of movement and ensure it returns to the idle position.
6. Attach the ground wire under the screw head of the fan housing screw. Note: On Model G.T. 1100, the ground wire is already attached to the rear of the stop switch.

Assembly - Installing Loop Handle:

1. Remove the wing nut, washer, and bolt from the loop handle.
2. Push the handle over the driveshaft so that it is 152.4 mm-203.2 mm (6-8 in.) from the engine.
3. Place the handle in a comfortable operating position and secure it with the bolt, washer, and wing nut.

Assembly - Installing Shield (With Cut-Off Knife):

1. Remove the wing nut, washer, and bolt from the shield.
2. Install the shield on the bearing housing.
3. Install the bolt, washer, and wing nut. A note states that the location of the cut-off knife should be adjusted depending on the model (remove both nuts and the cut-off knife and set as required). A "CAUTION" warns: "Do not operate trimmer without shield in correct position."

Storage - Long Term Storage:

1. Clean each part and replace or repair any damaged or worn parts.
2. Apply a thin coating of oil to all metal parts to prevent rust.
3. Drain fuel from the fuel tank. Start the engine and let it run to remove fuel from the carburetor and fuel lines.
4. Remove the cutter head, apply a generous coating of oil, and store it in plastic.
5. Pour a small amount of clean motor oil into the spark plug hole and pull the starter handle until the motor reaches top dead center.
6. Store the unit in a dry area, free from dust.

Parts Books:

The manual concludes with information on how to obtain replacement Parts Books, requiring completion of an order form and enclosing a check or money order for $2.00, payable to ECHO, INCORPORATED. It provides the mailing address and specifies the Parts Book numbers for models GT-1100 (898-696-44330) and GT-2101 (898-696-44430).

Echo GT-1100 Specifications