This document describes the Greenworks 15" 5.5A Electric String Trimmer, model 21272, an outdoor power tool designed for trimming and edging grass.
Function Description
The Greenworks Electric String Trimmer is a corded power tool primarily used for cutting grass and weeds in areas that mowers cannot reach, such as around obstacles, along fences, or near flowerbeds. It operates by rapidly spinning a monofilament string to cut vegetation. The tool is also capable of edging, allowing users to create clean lines along sidewalks and driveways. Its double-insulated design enhances user safety by eliminating the need for a grounded power cord.
Usage Features
Starting and Stopping:
To operate the trimmer, attach the outlet end of an approved outdoor extension cord to the plug on the rear of the string trimmer. Route the extension cord through the cord retainer to secure the connection. To start the trimmer, press the switch trigger. To stop it, simply release the switch trigger.
Proper Operating Position:
Hold the trimmer with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle, maintaining a firm grip with both hands during operation. The trimmer should be held at a comfortable position, with the rear handle about hip height. Always keep the string trimmer away from your body, ensuring clearance between your body and the cutting head to prevent serious personal injury.
Cutting Tips:
For effective trimming, tilt the trimmer toward the area being cut. The string trimmer cuts when passing the unit from left to right, which helps to avoid throwing debris at the operator. Use only the tip of the string for cutting; do not force the string head into uncut grass. Be aware that wire and picket fences, stone and brick walls, curbs, and wood surfaces can cause extra string wear or breakage. Avoid contact with trees and shrubs, as the strings can easily damage tree bark, wood moldings, siding, and fence posts. If grass becomes wrapped around the string head, stop the trimmer, unplug it, and remove the grass before resuming operation.
Advancing Strings:
The trimmer is equipped with an auto-feed head. To advance the strings, release the switch trigger, wait two seconds, and then press the switch trigger again. The strings will extend approximately 1/4 inch with each stop and start of the switch trigger until they reach the length of the grass deflector blade. Manual string advancement is also possible: disconnect the trimmer from the power supply, then push the spool retainer button while pulling on the strings.
Cut-Off Blade:
A cut-off blade is integrated into the grass deflector. For optimal cutting performance, advance the strings until they are trimmed to length by this blade. Advance strings whenever the engine runs faster than normal or trimming efficiency decreases, ensuring proper string length and performance.
Adjustable Front Handle:
The front handle can be adjusted for user comfort and control. To adjust, unplug the trimmer, unscrew the knob, position the handle as desired, and then tighten the knob.
Adjustable Shaft Length (Telescoping Boom):
The string trimmer features a telescoping boom, allowing the shaft length to be adjusted for ease of use. Unplug the trimmer, loosen the coupler, extend or retract the shaft to the proper length, and then tighten the coupler.
Trimmer/Edger Shift Button:
This tool can switch between trimming and edging modes. To change modes, unplug the trimmer, press the shift button, and rotate the trimmer head 90 degrees. Once in the desired position, fix the trimmer head.
Flower Guard:
An easily mounted flower guard is included to protect flowers from being accidentally cut during operation.
Cord Retainer:
A convenient cord retainer is provided to help keep the extension cord connection secure during operation, preventing accidental disconnection.
Maintenance Features
General Maintenance:
Regularly clean all foreign material from the trimmer head vents to prevent overheating of the motor. Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts, as most plastics are susceptible to damage from commercial solvents. Instead, use clean cloths to remove dirt, dust, oil, and grease. Do not allow brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based products, or penetrating oils to come into contact with plastic parts, as these chemicals can damage or destroy the plastic, potentially leading to serious personal injury. For repairs beyond those described in the manual, it is recommended to have the trimmer serviced by an authorized service dealer.
Spool Replacement:
To replace the spool, first unplug the string trimmer. Push in the tabs on the side of the spool retainer and pull the retainer up to remove it. Then, remove the old spool. When installing a new spool, ensure that the two strings are captured in the slots opposite each other on the new spool, with approximately 6 inches of each string extended beyond the slot. Install the new spool so that the strings and slots align with the eyelets in the string head, then thread the strings into the eyelets. Pull the strings extending from the string head to release them from the slots in the spool. Finally, reinstall the spool retainer by depressing the tabs into the slots and pushing down until it clicks into place. Only use .065-inch diameter monofilament string and original manufacturer's replacement string for best performance.
String Replacement:
If you need to replace the string, unplug the trimmer and remove the spool from the string head. Ensure the spring remains attached to the spool and remove any old string. Cut two pieces of .065-inch diameter monofilament string, each approximately 9 feet (2.7 meters) long. Insert the first string into the anchor hole in the upper part of the spool and wind it counterclockwise, as indicated by the arrows on the spool. Place the string in the slot on the upper spool flange, leaving about 6 inches (152 mm) extended beyond the slot. Do not overfill; there should be at least 1/4 inch (6 mm) between the wound string and the outside edge of the spool. Repeat this process with the second string, using the bottom part of the spool. After winding, replace the plastic retainer, spool, and spool retainer.
Storage:
Before storing, open the telescoping boom coupler and set the trimmer to its shortest setting. Clean all foreign material from the trimmer. Store the unit indoors in a dry, locked place, out of the reach of children. Keep it away from corrosive agents such as garden chemicals and de-icing salts. Do not hang the unit in a way that depresses the switch trigger.