GB
9
Operation
WARNING: ALWAYS wear eye protection, adequate respiratory and hearing protection,
as well as suitable gloves, when working with this tool.
WARNING: If it is used for any other purpose not expressly permitted by these operating
instructions, there may be a risk of damage to the hedge trimmer or serious injury to the user.
WARNING: DO NOT use the hedge trimmer in the rain or store the hedge trimmer in wet
conditions.
WARNING: Do not let the blade come into contact with fencing wire or any other object that
could damage it.
Switching on and off
Note: This hedge trimmer is fitted with a two-hand safety switch.
1. To switch the hedge trimmer on, press the Safety Bar Switch (4) on the Front Grip (5) with
one hand and the Trigger Switch (6) with the other hand
2. To stop the hedge trimmer, move the hedge trimmer away from the cutting area and
release either one or both of the switches
Cutting
WARNING: If the blade stalls during cutting, stop the hedge trimmer immediately and
disconnect it from the power supply, before investigating the cause. Then remove
any jammed debris from the blades and examine the blades for any damage before
recommencing cutting.
1. Assume a secure position, using two hands to hold the trimmer, and switch on (see
‘Switching on and off’)
2. ALWAYS allow the blade to reach full speed before commencing the cut
3. Always move in a forward direction
WARNING: DO NOT move backwards, as you may fall over unseen obstacles. DO NOT cut
towards solid objects such as walls, trees or vehicles.
4. Trim both sides of the hedge, starting at the bottom
5. Pass the blade lightly through the surface of the hedge. Do not attempt to cut too deep
6. Trim the top of the hedge last
Note: For older hedges that require cutting back substantially, use pruning shears or a
suitable saw to cut the thicker branches, and then finish the job with the hedge trimmer.
Shaping
• Trim a hedge so that it is wider at the bottom than the top. This improves light penetration
and promotes healthy growth
• Narrow the hedge approximately 100mm for every metre in height
Pruning
• For optimum trimming performance, guide the blade teeth at an angle of approx. 15° to
the hedge
• To achieve a hedge with a uniform height, it is recommended that you stretch a piece of
string along the edge of the hedge for guidance. Then simply cut away all twigs projecting
above the line
Accessories
• A range of accessories, including additional batteries, cut-proof gloves are available from
your GMC dealer. Spare parts can be purchased from your GMC dealer or online at www.
toolsparesonline.com
Maintenance
WARNING: Ensure the battery is disconnected from the power supply before attaching or
changing any accessories, or making any adjustments.
General inspection
• Regularly check that all the fixing screws are tight
• Inspect the supply cord 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
Maintaining the blades
WARNING: Always ensure the tool is disconnected from the power supply, before carrying
out any maintenance.
WARNING: Wear sturdy, cut-resistant gloves at all times when handling the blades.
• Remove any deposits with a brush after every use, and apply a light film of lubricant spray
to the blade
• Periodically check the blades for sharpness and inspect for damage
• The blade teeth can be sharpened using a flat file. Sharpen the cutting edges only
Note: If you are unsure about how to sharpen the blades, have your hedge trimmer
sharpened by a professional.
• If there is significant blade damage, have the blades replaced by an authorised GMC
service centre
Cleaning
• Keep your tool clean at all times. Dirt and dust will cause internal parts to wear quickly, and
shorten the machine’s service life. Clean the body of your machine with a soft brush, or dry
cloth. If available, use clean, dry, compressed air to blow through the ventilation holes
• Clean the tool casing with a soft damp cloth using a mild detergent. Do not use alcohol,
petrol or strong cleaning agents
• Never use caustic agents to clean plastic parts
Lubrication
• Slightly lubricate all moving parts at regular intervals with a suitable spray lubricant
Brushes
• Over time the carbon brushes inside the motor may become worn
• Excessively worn brushes may cause loss of power, intermittent failure, or visible sparking
• If you suspect that the brushes may be worn, have them replaced at an authorised GMC
service centre
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