The device described in this manual is a Maxim MBC190H Brush Cutter, designed for heavy-duty use in clearing brush, saplings, and tall grass. It is a walk-behind, self-adjusting manual clutch machine with a heavy-duty frame, built for rugged terrain and demanding tasks.
Function Description
The MBC190H Brush Cutter is designed to cut through thick brush, saplings up to 2 inches in diameter, and tall grass. It operates with a rotating blade powered by a Honda GXV390 engine. The machine features a hydro transaxle with Enhanced Traction Control, providing infinite variable speed forward and reverse, which is controlled by twist handle hydro controls. An operator presence lever system ensures safety by disengaging the blade and drive if the operator releases the controls. The blade engagement is managed by a lever, and a parking brake is included for securing the machine.
Important Technical Specifications
- Engine: Honda GXV390, 389cc
- Transmission: Hydro transaxle w/ Enhanced Traction Control
- Blade Drive: V-Belt
- Engagement: Manual clutch (self-adjusting)
- Tire Size: 4.80/4.00 - 8 Pneumatic Bar Lug
- Ground Speed: Variable, max. 4 mph
- Cutting Width: 26 inches
- Blade: Dual Sided, Reversible
- Forward/Reverse: Twist Handle Hydro Controls
- Operator Present Safety: Yes
- Deck: 10 Gauge Steel
- Engine Start: Recoil
- Length: 70 inches
- Height: 41 inches
- Width: 29 inches
- Weight: 300 lbs.
- Warranty: 12 Months
- Maximum Cut Sapling Diameter: 2 inches
- Sealed Spindle Bearings: Yes
- Spindle Size: 3/4 inches
Usage Features
The MBC190H is designed for ease of use and operator safety.
- Controls: The machine features a dipstick and oil fill, recoil starter handle, gas cap, air cleaner, fuel on/off valve, throttle lever & on/off switch, choke, forward and reverse twist handle controls, transmission engagement lever, blade engagement lever, and parking brake. These controls are clearly labeled and their locations are provided in the manual for familiarization.
- Starting the Engine: To start the engine, the operator must ensure the fuel valve is open, the choke is set appropriately (if cold), and the throttle is in the "RUN" position. The recoil starter handle is then pulled to start the engine.
- Drive Operation: The drive operation and operator presence levers work in conjunction. With hands on the handlebar, gripping the operator presence levers/micro safety switch tabs engages the drive. Twist handlebar controls manage forward and reverse movement, while the center control adjusts neutral operation. Groundspeed increases with more twist.
- Blade Engagement: The blade is engaged by holding one hand on the handle, pulling the presence lever down, and increasing engine throttle to 3/4 or more. The blade engagement lever is then lifted and lowered to engage the blade.
- Transporting: For manual transport without the engine running, the transmission engagement lever can be pulled outward to disconnect the powertrain and allow the machine to be pushed.
- Parking Brake: The parking brake is engaged by pulling the large loop of the chain outward until taut, engaging the chain in a keyhole slot to secure it. To disengage, the chain is slid up and out of the slot, releasing the chain to move inward.
- Cutting/Mowing: Operators are instructed to only allow responsible individuals to operate the machine and to avoid children. Thorough inspection of the area for foreign objects is crucial. Appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and sturdy footwear, is mandatory. The machine should only be operated in daylight, and operators should avoid slopes that are too steep or uncertain. If the unit should start to vibrate abnormally, the engine should be stopped immediately for inspection.
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is crucial for the MBC190H's longevity and safe operation.
- Mower Blade: The blade should be checked for damage and sharpness regularly. If removal is necessary, the engine must be cool, and the spark plug wire disconnected. The mower is tipped back, and the blade is secured with a wooden block before loosening the hex nut. The blade is reversible and can be sharpened or replaced.
- Mower Transmission Belt: To access the transmission belt, the engine mounting plate needs to be loosened and slid forward. The front belt cover and rear cover are removed, and the blade engagement spring and pivot bolt are removed to allow the engine to slide forward, releasing belt tension. The anti-rotation bracket can be swiveled to allow belt clearance.
- Mower Blade Belt Tension: The tension of the blade drive belt is adjusted by the position of the engine mounting plate.
- Cleaning: The brush cutter should be cleaned after each use, especially the cooling system and air cleaner, to prevent debris buildup. The air cleaner element should be soaked in clean water and detergent, then rinsed and dried.
- Engine Oil: The engine oil level should be checked before each use, and the oil should be changed after the first 20 hours of operation, then every 100 hours or at least twice a year. The manual provides instructions for draining and refilling the oil.
- Muffler: The muffler should be kept clear of debris to prevent fire hazards.
- Spark Plug: The spark plug should be replaced at the beginning of each season or every 100 hours of use, with a specified gap setting.
- Tire Care: Tires should be maintained at 39 pounds of pressure. New tires are overinflated at the factory and need to be properly seated.
- Maintenance Schedule: A detailed maintenance schedule is provided, outlining checks and services for engine oil, air cleaner, spark plug, spark arrester, valve clearance, fuel tank and filter, and fuel line at various intervals (20 hours, 3 months/50 hours, 6 months/100 hours, every year/300 hours, or every 3 years).
- Storage: Before storing, the machine should be cleaned, and the fuel tank should be drained or treated with a fuel stabilizer. The engine should be run until it stops to ensure all fuel is consumed. The spark plug should be removed, and a small amount of oil added to the cylinder before replacing the plug. The machine should be stored in a cool, dry, and clean area.