Product Support
DR® Trimmer Mower
We want to help you keep your DR® Trimmer Mower running in top form.
Use these resources to help maximize performance and extend the life of your investment. If there is something specific you are looking for, please call or email one of our Specialists during our business hours.
Ordering Parts
The best way to order parts is to use our online parts ordering tool at the link below.
Find parts for all Trimmer MowersOwner's Manuals, Parts Lists & Schematics
If you have any questions or are unsure of your model, please contact one of our experienced Technical Support Specialists via phoneor email.
Please Note: Parts Lists and Schematics are located in the back of the Owner's Manual.
Walk-Behind - Current Models
| PILOT (February 2018 to Present)PILOT (February 2018 to Present) | Owner's Manual |
| PREMIER, PRO, PRO XL, PRO XLSP Self-Propelled (March 2016 to Present)PREMIER, PRO, PRO XL, PRO XLSP Self-Propelled (March 2016 to Present) | Owner's Manual |
| PULSE 62V, Battery-Powered (April 2019 to Present)PULSE 62V, Battery-Powered (April 2019 to Present) | Owner's Manual |
Walk-Behind - Older Models
Tow-Behind - Current Models
| PRO XLP 3-Point Hitch (April 2015 - Present)PRO XLP 3-Point Hitch (April 2015 - Present) | Owner's Manual |
| PRO XLT All-Terrain (January 2014 - Present)PRO XLT All-Terrain (January 2014 - Present) | Owner's Manual |
Tow-Behind - Older Models
| 6.25 Tow-Behind Trimmer (January 2014 - November 2016)Tow-Behind Yard Trimmer (January 2014 - November 2016) | Owner's Manual |
| 3-Point Hitch (August 2012 - May 2015)3-Point Hitch (August 2012 - May 2015) | Owner's Manual |
Accessories
| 12" Beaver Blade®12" Beaver Blade® | Owner's Manual |
| DuraBlade Kit (for machines with serial number TRM156200 & above)DuraBlade Kit (for machines with serial number TRM156200 & above) | Owner's Manual |
| DuraBlade Kit (for machines with serial number TRM156199 & below)DuraBlade Kit (for machines with serial number TRM156199 & below) | Owner's Manual |
| Power Take-Off (PTO) SystemPower Take-Off (PTO) System | Owner's Manual |
Support Videos
Troubleshooting
A guide to solving common problems with your DR® Trimmer Mower.
Most problems are easy to fix. Consult the troubleshooting table below for common problems and their solutions.
When performing any maintenance, you must first shut off the engine, wait five (5) minutes for all parts to stop and cool, and disconnect the spark plug wire, keeping it away from the spark plug. Read the safety considerations section of your Owner's Manual before performing any repairs or maintenance.
Recoil will not pull out or is difficult to pull.
- Check that the tine drive clutch is disengaged.
- Check the engine oil level, adjust as needed. If the level is too low, then engine may be seized.
- There may be an oil compression lock in the cylinder. Take out the spark plug; hold a rag over the spark plug hole and pull the recoil cord several times to blow out any oil in the cylinder. Wipe off the spark plug and reinstall it.
- Try to turn the engine pulley by hand, with the spark plug wire off. If it turns, the recoil may be broken or jammed.
The engine turns over, but does not start.
- Check that the tine drive clutch is disengaged
- Make sure the spark plug wire is attached.
- Make sure the fuel shut-off is in the ON position.
- Check the oil and gas level. See your Owner's Manual.
- The gas must be fresh and clean. If the gas is old, change it. Use DR® Ethanol Fuel Treatment if you keep gas longer than one month.
- Check the throttle and choke settings, adjustment and travel.
- Make sure the spark plug is clean. If the spark plug is dirty or cracked, change it. If it's oily, leave it out, hold a rag over the plug hole and pull the recoil cord several times to blow out any oil in the cylinder, then wipe off the plug and reinsert it.
- Make sure the wiring is all connected and the connections are tight.
- Check the air filter. If it is dirty, replace it following the procedure in the Engine Owner's Manual.
The engine will not start using electric-start.
- Review the "Electric Starting" section in your Owner's Manual.
- Check the in-line fuses in front of the battery. See your Owner's Manual.
- Check the wire connections, especially the ground connection. This is the large black wire leading from the battery, and connected to the engine.
- Check the wire connections to the solenoid. Disconnect the black battery ground wire first to avoid sparks. Make sure that all of the connections are clean and tight. Reconnect the battery ground wire.
- Check the ground connection on the solenoid where it is bolted to the frame. Using a wrench or socket, tighten the bolts to ensure a good connection to the frame.
- The battery may not be charged. Check the voltage yourself or at a service station. If the voltage is low, charge the battery with a 12-volt, 1- to 2-amp trickle charger. If you don't run your machine for at least 45 minutes at a time, the battery may need to be periodically charged. See the Battery Care section in your Owner's Manual.
The engine lacks power or is not running smoothly.
- Check the throttle lever travel and adjustment. Make sure throttle lever in the FAST position.
- Check the air filter. If it is dirty, replace it following the procedure in the Engine Owner's Manual.
- Make sure the spark plug is clean. If the spark plug is dirty or cracked, change it. If it's oily, leave it out, hold a rag over the plug hole and pull the recoil cord several times to blow out any oil in the cylinder, then wipe off the plug and reinsert it.
- The gas must be fresh and clean. If the gas is old, change it. Use DR® Ethanol Fuel Treatment if you keep gas longer than one month.
- The engine may not have the right amount of clean oil. If the oil is dirty, change it following the procedure in your Owner's Manual.
The engine smokes.
- Check the oil level and adjust as needed.
- Check the air filter. If it is dirty, clean or replace it following the procedure in the Engine Owner's Manual.
- You may be using the wrong oil - too light for the temperature. Refer to your Engine Owner's Manual for detailed information.
- Clean the engine cooling fins and the carburetor housing if they're dirty.
The trimmer head won't spin or lacks power.
- Check for proper alignment of the V-belt and verify belt guide positions. Check against the figure "Trimmer Head Belt - All Models" in your Owner's Manual.
- The belt may be worn or frayed; replace it. See your Owner's Manual for instructions on replacing the belt.
- If the trimmer head still will not spin, follow the procedure for "Adjusting the Belt Tension through the Trimmer Control Cable" in your Owner's Manual.
The trimmer head keeps spinning or spins when your release the bail bar.
- Check for proper alignment of the V-belt and verify belt guide positions. Check against the figure "Trimmer Head Belt - All Models" in your Owner's Manual.
- If the trimmer head keeps spinning when you release the bail bar, see "Adjusting the Belt Tension through the Trimmer Control Cable" in your Owner's Manual.
- Check the brake for excessive wear and replace if necessary. See the "Brake Arm-All Models" in your Owner's Manual.
The cutting cords are breaking.
- The cords may be too dry. Store cords in a plastic bag with a damp sponge or cloth to make them less prone to breaking or soak them in a bucket of water for a few days.
- Try a lighter cord. The smallest diameter of cord capable of cutting the material at hand combined with the fastest engine speed usually provides the best grass trimming performance. When you need more power for thicker growth such as berry canes, brambles, thistles, or ragweed, you may want to use the 175-mil cord in combination with the highest engine speed.
- You may be trying to do too much too fast. Ease into the material you are cutting; let the cord tips do the work. Take small bites of tall or tough vegetation. Cut half a swath at a time, keeping the finished area to the discharge or right side of the trimmer. Go over tall material twice, the first time with the trimmer head tilted up and back; the second time with the Mow-Ball™ Support on the ground.
- Make sure that you are not hitting the cords against a stone or a chain-link fence. The cords won't last as long against obstacles as in the open. Work on controlling the cutting pattern. With practice, you'll learn to cut closer to obstacles without hitting them.
The cutting cords are pulling out.
- You may be moving too fast into tough, woody growth. In doing so, the cords may wrap on stalks and pull out. Check the operating tips in the section above on breaking cords.
- Make sure that you are not trying to cut material too heavy, dry or woody for the cord. The design of your trimmer is to cut green material up to about the thickness of a pencil. For very heavy material, you may need the optional Beaver Blade attachment.
- For trimmer heads prior to August 2008: Be sure that you are not installing the smaller cord in the larger cord slots. See your Owner's Manual for cord installation.
PTA (Parallel Trimming Action) is difficult.
- If you have adjusted the handlebar up or down, you may need to adjust the PTA lever. See the section "Adjusting the PTA" in your Owner's Manual.
The Mow-Ball Support is wearing too quickly.
- You may be pushing the trimmer head down into the ground. The DR® Trimmer Mower works best with a light touch, with the Mow-Ball™ Support gliding just above the ground.
- You may be hitting the Mow-Ball™ Support against rocks, concrete driveways or other hard obstacles. Try approaching them slowly, and from different directions, to avoid unnessary wear.
The drive wheels won't turn (self-propelled model).
- The transmission clutch may be out of adjustment. Adjust the inline adjuster located in the clutch cable. See "Adjusting the Wheel Clutch" in your Owner's Manual.
- The drive chain may have broken or come off the sprockets. Remove the bottom shield to investigate. See your Owner's Manual for removal and drive chain replacement.
- The drive belt may have come off the pulleys, worn out or failed. Remove the bottom shield to investigate. See your Owner's Manual for removal and drive belt replacement.
- Check to see if the wheels rotate freely in each direction. They should freewheel in the forward direction and lock against the axle going backwards. If they freewheel backwards, the drive wheel clutches may have failed.
The machine creeps forward without squeezing the clutch (self-propelled model).
- The transmission clutch may be out of adjustment. Adjust the inline adjuster located in the clutch cable. See "Adjusting the Wheel Clutch" in your Owner's Manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the DR® Trimmer Mower do best?
A: While the trimmer mower will cut waist high weeds, and can be used to mow open areas, what's unique about it is where it can cut. There is no steel blade to bend or dull so you can trim fearlessly up against rocks, foundations, fence posts or any other hard surface. With our optional tree guard, you can also trim right up to trees with no risk of "girdling" the bark. The trimmer mower's low profile also allows you to reach underneath fences, shrubs and other obstacles.
Q: Can I use any trimmer cord with the DR® Trimmer Mower?
A: The DR® Trimmer/Mower is designed to be used with our 155 mil or 175 mil cord. These are thicker-than-usual cords designed to for trimming and mowing even the toughest weeds and grasses. It is not designed to accept the ordinary, thin string trimmer line commonly used on hand-held trimmers.
Q: How hard is it to maneuver the DR® Trimmer Mower?
A: The trimmer mower's balance and big wheels make it far easier to push and maneuver than most lawn mowers. And weighing from 68 to 88 pounds, it is lighter than most as well. We offer a self-propelled model for those that want the ultimate ease of use.
Q: What won't the DR® Trimmer Mower cut through?
A: The DR® Trimmer Mower is not a brush cutter (though with the optional Beaver Blade attached you can cut saplings up to 3" in diameter). If you are trying to clear areas with a significant amount of growth greater than pencil thickness, you will want to use a bladed mower.
Q: How are DR® Trimmer Mowers shipped?
A: The trimmer mower is shipped via UPS. Within the contiguous 48 United States, items shipped by standard method generally take 3 to 10 business days to arrive at their destination, depending on your location. Most 2nd Day UPS shipments arrive within 2 days, once they ship from our warehouse.
Q:What about shipping outside of the United States?
A: For shipping to Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam and other destinations outside the contiguous 48 United States, call 1-802-877-1200 ext 2040. For shipping to AK and HI, please call 800-376-9637. Shipping charges via Parcel Post, Priority Mail, or UPS will apply.
Q: How often does the trimmer cord need to be replaced?
A: The answer will vary greatly with job conditions. Obviously, trimming against stone will wear out cord faster than open area mowing, and thicker cord will last longer than thinner cord. Having extra cord on hand is a good idea. You'll want to change the trimmer cord when it becomes ragged at the ends and has lost a significant amount of its length.
Q: What happens if my machine needs service?
A: Our knowledgeable representatives have an extensive understanding of the DR® Trimmer/Mower and will be able to identify the problem and the best solution. If necessary, we can have replacement parts shipped to you right away, or direct you to one of our authorized DR® Service Centers nationwide.
Q: How does your 6 Month Hands-On Trial work?
A: We are so confident you'll love your DR® machine that we want you to be able to try it out on your own property virtually risk-free. If at any time during the first 6 months of owning your DR® (6 months from the date it ships) you decide that it isn't right for you, or wish to exchange it for a different model, we will take it back, no questions asked, for a full refund, less shipping to and from your delivery location. See more information here.
Q: How does my warranty work?
A: DR® machines come with a 2-year warranty for residential use (90 days for commercial use) that covers all defects in materials and workmanship. Extended warranties (1-year, 2-year, and 3-year) are available to extend your coverage for a total of up to 5 years. If, while your machine is under warranty, you experience a problem with your machine, your warranty will cover the replacement and installation of any non-wearable parts deemed to be the result of defective materials or workmanship. See more information here.
Tips & Tricks
The following information is provided to demonstrate proper techniques when operating your DR® Trimmer Mower.
Note: This information pertains to the most recent DR® Trimmer Mower models. Please refer to your Owner's Manual for instructions specific to your machine. Please refer to the Engine Owner's Manual for engine specific instructions.
The trimmer engine's power can easily throw stones, sticks and other debris at great velocity, which could cause personal injury or property damage. Do not run the machine over mulch, gravel driveways or loose stones with the trimmer head spinning.
Always try to cut tall grass or weeds on the left
Always check your work area before trimming and remove any debris that might tangle or damage the machine.
If you do run into debris and the trimmer becomes tangled, turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before attempting to untangle the machine.
For the neatest appearance, do your trimming first, discharging clippings away from borders and shrubs, then do your mowing.
Many owners like to mow easy, open areas with their regular riding or walk-behind mower after trimming all the odd and hard-to-reach spots with the DR® Trimmer Mower.
How to take care of dry or woody, heavy growth
Be sure to keep uncut material to your left, maintaining a clear discharge area to your right.
If the machine cannot do it all in one pass, use the "two pass" method: overlapping half of the cutting swath, whenever possible.
If the grass is very thick and heavy, try raising the trimmer head off the ground a few inches by pushing down on the handlebar. Cut the material at this height, and then make a second pass with the Mow-Ball™ Support close to the ground.
Ease the DR® Trimmer Mower into denser growth. If the material is too tough or woody to cut, the cutting cords will wrap around it, wear down, or even break off. The design of your trimmer is to cut green material up to about the thickness of a pencil. For very heavy, dry or woody material, you may need the optional Beaver Blade® attachment.
Sometimes the growth is so heavy, you cannot mow it in rows. Use a forward and back "vacuum cleaner" motion in these cases.
For self-propelled models only
If you must go back and forth in the "vacuum cleaner" motion, be sure to release the wheel clutch lever when pulling the trimmer back.
Trimmer cord installation and tips
Because conditions and vegetation vary so much, you should experiment with cord weights to discover what works best for your situation.
When replacing cords, do it one at a time and use the old cord to mark the position for the new cord that you are replacing.
If the cord breaks off flush at the line plate, use the new cord to push out the old cord.
Storing the cord in a plastic bag with a damp sponge or cloth will help keep it pliable. You can also soak it in a bucket of room temperature water for a few days before use to make it more pliable.
Safety Information
Important Safety Information regarding your DR® Trimmer Mower
Read the Safety and Operating Manual before you use the DR® Trimmer Mower. Become familiar with the service recommendations to ensure the best performance from you machine. (Our most recent manuals are available as a PDF download.)
Thoroughly inspect the area in which you will be working and remove all foreign objects. The site must be free or potentially hazardous obstacles (e.g, stones, logs, sticks, rope, wire, garden tools, glass and metal objects such as cans). Mowing over these objects could damage the machine and cause injury.
This is a high-powered machine, with moving parts operating with high energy at high speeds. You must use proper clothing and safety gear when operating this machine to prevent or minimize the risk of severe injury. This machine can cut and sever parts of your body if they encounter the spinning cords.
Labels
- Your DR® Trimmer Mower carries prominent labels as reminders for its proper and safe use. Your Owner's Manual shows copies of all the labels that appear on the equipment. Take a moment to study them and make a note of their location on your DR® Trimmer Mower as you assemble and before you operate the machine. Replace damaged or missing safety and information labels immediately.
Protecting yourself and others around you
This is a high-powered machine, with moving parts operating at high energy at high speeds. You must operate this machine safely. Unsafe operation can create a number of hazards for you, as well as anyone else in the nearby area. Always take the following precautions when operating this machine:
- Always wear protective goggles or safety glasses with side shields while mowing to protect your eyes from possible thrown debris.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry, which can catch on the mower's moving parts.
- We recommend wearing gloves while mowing. Be sure your gloves fit properly and do not have loose cuffs or drawstrings.
- Wear shoes with non-slip treads when using your DR® Trimmer Mower. If you have safety shoes, we recommend wearing them. Do not use the machine while barefoot or wearing open sandals.
- Wear long pants while operating the DR® Trimmer Mower.
- We recommend the use of ear protectors or ear plugs rated for at least 20 DBA to protect your hearing.
- Never allow people who are unfamiliar with these instructions to use the DR® Trimmer Mower. Allow only responsible individuals who are familiar with these rules of safe operation to use your machine.
- Never place your hands, feet, or any part of your body on or under the mower deck in the path of the spinning cords, belt, pulleys, or near the discharge opening while the engine is running. Keep area of discharge clear of people, animals, buildings, glass, or anything else that will obstruct clear discharge, cause injury, or damage.
- Keep bystanders at least 50 feet away from your work area at all times. The tips of the cutting cords on the DR® Trimmer Mower can throw sticks, small stones, gravel, and bits of debris over long distances at great velocity. Do not travel over loose materials such as gravel or mulch with the trimmer head spinning. Doing so could cause personal injury or property damage from thrown objects. Release the bail bar to stop the spinning cords and shut off the engine when another person or pet approaches.
- To be safe, do not operate the machine near small children or pets, and never allow children to operate the DR® Trimmer Mower.
- Do not operate the engine with the air cleaner or cover over the carburetor air-intake removed, except for adjustment. Removal of such parts could create a fire hazard. Do not use flammable solutions to clean air filter.
- Always operate the mower from behind the handlebar. Never pass or stand on the discharge side of the machine when the engine is running or cutting cords are spinning.
- The muffler and engine become very hot and can cause a severe burn; do not touch.
- Never under any conditions, remove, bend, cut, fit, weld, or otherwise alter standard parts on the DR® Trimmer Mower. This includes all shields and guards. Modifications to your machine could cause personal injuries and property damage and will void your warranty.
Safety for children and pets
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children and pets. Children are often attracted to the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume that children will remain where you last saw them. Always follow these precautions:
- Keep children and pets out of the working area and under the watchful care of a responsible adult.
- Be alert and turn the machine off if children or pets enter the work area.
- Before and while moving backwards, look behind, and down for small children and pets.
- Never allow children to operate the DR® Trimmer Mower.
- Use extra care when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure your vision.
Safety with gasoline-powered engines
Gasoline is a highly flammable liquid. Gasoline also gives off flammable vapor that can be easily ignited and cause a fire or explosion. Never overlook the hazards of gasoline. Always follow these precautions:
- Never run the engine in an enclosed area or without proper ventilation as the exhaust from the engine contains carbon monoxide, which is an odorless, tasteless, and deadly poisonous gas.
- Store all fuel and oil in containers specifically designed and approved for this purpose and keep away from heat and open flame, and out of the reach of children.
- Fill the gasoline tank outdoors with the engine off and allow the engine to cool completely. Do not handle gasoline if you or anyone nearby is smoking, or if you are near anything that could cause it to ignite or explode. Reinstall the fuel tank and fuel container caps securely.
- If you spill gasoline, do not attempt to start the engine. Move the mower away from the area of the spill and avoid creating any source of ignition until the gas vapors have dissipated. Wipe up any spilled fuel to prevent a fire hazard and properly dispose of the waste.
- Allow the engine to cool completely before storing in any enclosure. Never store the machine with gas in the tank or a fuel container, near an open flame or spark such as a water heater, space heater, clothes dryer or furnace.
- Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running. Stop the engine, wait five (5) minutes to make certain all moving parts have come to a complete stop and cool. Disconnect the spark plug wire, keeping it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
- Never check for an ignition spark with the spark plug or spark plug wire(s) removed. Always use an approved spark plug tester.
- Never tamper with the engine's governor setting or modify the engine speed. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed and protects the engine. Over-speeding the engine is dangerous and will cause damage to the engine and to the other moving parts of the machine. If required, see your authorized engine dealer for engine governor adjustments.
- To reduce fire hazard, keep the engine and muffler area free of debris build-up such as leaves, grass, oil, grease, or any other combustible material. Clean the engine area after each use.
- Always check fuel lines and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks, replace if necessary.
General safety
You must safely operate the DR® Trimmer Mower to prevent or minimize the risk of death or serious injury. Unsafe operation can create a number of hazards for you. Always take the following precautions when operating this mower:
- Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to the other people, their property and themselves.
- Your DR® Trimmer Mower is a powerful tool, not a plaything. Exercise extreme caution at all times. The design of your machine is for trimming and mowing grass, weeds, and other growth as specified in this manual. Do not use it for any other purpose.
- Know how to stop the mower quickly; see your Owner's Manual for information.
- Never operate your unit on a slippery, wet, or muddy surface. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
- Keep your face and body back from the discharge area.
- Be cautious when using your DR® Trimmer Mower around fencing, wires, ropes, and hoses. It is possible that these and other debris can become wound around the line plates of the machine, potentially damaging the bearings or injuring you.
- Whenever you leave the operating position to make adjustments, change cords or if you have to remove grass or debris from the underside of the deck, always shut off the engine and wait five (5) minutes to make certain all moving parts have come to a complete stop and cool. Remove the key, if so equipped, and disconnect the spark plug wire and keep the wire away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting.
- The exhaust area on the engine becomes very hot with use. Allow the engine to cool before refueling, doing maintenance, or making adjustments.
- Keep combustible substances away from the engine when it is hot.
- Never cover the machine while the muffler is still hot.
- See manufacturer's instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories. Only use accessories approved by DR® Power Equipment, Inc.
- If the cutting cords strike a foreign object or if your machine should start making an unusual noise or vibration, stop the engine and wait five (5) minutes for all moving parts to come to a complete stop and cool. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. Disconnect the spark plug wire and inspect for damage. Clean and repair and/or replace damaged parts.
- Never tamper with safety devices. Regularly check their proper operation.
- Do not mow in the rain. Water on the spark plug may cause the engine to stall.
- Do not operate the DR® Trimmer Mower on slopes greater than 20 degrees.
- When operating over uneven terrain and slopes, use extreme caution to ensure solid and firm footing.
- While using the DR® Trimmer Mower, do not hurry or take things for granted. When in doubt about the equipment or your surroundings, stop the machine and take the time to look things over. Make sure that you have 100% control of the mower at all times.
- Do not operate the machine when under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.
- Use the machine only in daylight and give complete, undivided attention to the job at hand.
- Disengage the trimmer head and exercise extreme caution when on or crossing drives, walks, or roads. Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.
- Watch for traffic when mowing near roadways.
- Always keep the machine in good safe operating condition. Always make certain nuts and bolts are tight and always use the supplied self-locking hardware. Do not use substitute hardware.
- Never, under any conditions, remove, bend, cut, fit, weld, or otherwise alter standard parts on the DR® Trimmer Mower This includes all shields and guards. Modifications to your machine could cause personal injuries and property damage and will void your warranty.
A note to all users
Under California law, and the laws of some other states, you are not permitted to operate an internal combustion engine using hydrocarbon fuels without an engine spark arrestor. This also applies to operation on US Forest Lands. We provide all DR® Trimmer Mowers shipped to California and Washington State with spark arrestors. Failure of the owner/operator to maintain this equipment in compliance with state regulations is a misdemeanor under California law and may be in violation of other state and/or federal regulations. Contact your local fire marshal or forest service for specific information in your area.
Additional information and potential changes
DR® Power Equipment, Inc. reserves the right to discontinue, change, and improve its products at any time without alert alert-info or obligation to the purchaser. The descriptions and specifications contained in this manual were in effect at printing. Equipment described within this manual may be optional. Some illustrations may not be applicable to your machine.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the way to ensure the best performance and long life of your DR® Trimmer Mower.
Please refer to your Owner's Manual and the Engine Owner's Manual for maintenance procedures. Service intervals listed in the checklist below supersede those listed in the Engine Owner's Manual.
When performing any maintenance, you must first shut off the engine, wait five (5) minutes for all parts to stop and cool, and disconnect the spark plug wire, keeping it away from the spark plug. Read the safety considerations section of your Owner's Manual before performing any repairs or maintenance.
| Procedure | Before Each Use | Every 25 hours | Every 100 hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Check engine oil level | check | ||
| Check the general condition of the machine, e.g. nuts, bolts, welds, etc. | check | ||
| Check and clean out the Mow-Ball™ Support | check | ||
| Check the Mow-Ball Support lines plates for wear | check | ||
| Replace broken or frayed cutting cords | check | ||
| Clean engine exterior, cooling fins and remove collected grass trimmings | check | ||
| Check battery charge | check | ||
| Check belt for fraying or stretching | check | ||
| Lubricate throttle cable, trimmer control cable and idler pulley with SAE 30 oil | check | ||
| Clean the engine air foam filter | check | ||
| Change the engine oil and filter* Note: First time after five (5) hours of operation | check | ||
| Replace the engine paper air filter cartridge | check | ||
| Adjust clutch cable on the SELF-PROPELLED model | check | ||
| Remove the bottom shield and clean out collected debris | check | ||
| Replace the spark plug | check |
Note: Consider that service intervals show to be maximum under normal operating conditions. Increase frequencies under extremely dirty or dusty conditions.
*An oil filter is on the COMMERCIAL and SELF-PROPELLED models only.
End of Season and Storage
The following information is provided to demonstrate proper techniques when storing your DR® Trimmer Mower.
Note: This information pertains to the most recent trimmer mower models. Please refer to your Owner's Manual for instructions specific to your machine. Please refer to the Engine Owner's Manual for engine specific instructions.
When performing any maintenance, you must first shut off the engine, wait five (5) minutes for all parts to stop and cool, and disconnect the spark plug wire, keeping it away from the spark plug. Read the safety considerations section of your Owner's Manual before performing any repairs or maintenance.
Never store the DR® Trimmer Mower with fuel in the fuel tank inside a building where ignition sources are present, such as hot water and space heaters, clothes dryers and the like. If you are going to drain the fuel tank, do this outdoors. Allow the engine to cool before storing in any enclosure.
When not in use, your DR® Trimmer Mower should be stored out of the reach of children in a dry location.
End-of-Season Procedure
- Storing the cord in a plastic bag with a damp sponge or cloth will help keep it pliable. You can also soak it in a bucket of room temperature water for a few days before use to make it more pliable.
- Check the drive belt(s) for wear.
- Change the engine oil (and oil filter, if applicable). This will help to eliminate sludge and acids in the engine.
- Remove the spark plug and pour about 1 ounce of motor oil into the cylinder hole. Reinstall the plug and pull the recoil starter rope until you feel strong resistance. This will coat the piston and seat the valves to prevent moisture buildup.
- Clean or replace the engine air filters.
- Clean any dirt and debris from the cylinder head cooling fins, carburetor linkage, recoil housing, debris screen, and muffler area of the engine.
- Remove any wrapped weeds from the Mow-Ball™ Support, wheel spokes and axles. Using a stiff brush, clean grass and debris from the top and underneath the trimmer deck.
- Remove the bottom shield and clean out any debris.
- Check to make sure the operator controls are moving freely. Lubricate the throttle lever, PTA™lever (Sprint™, Pro and Commercial models), and key switch with SAE 30 oil if necessary.
- If your engine has a fuel filter, replace it.
- If your DR® Trimmer Mower will be idle for more than 30 days, we recommend using DR® Ethanol Fuel Treatment. This will prevent sediment from gumming up the carburetor. If there is dirt or moisture in the gas or tank, remove it by draining the tank. Completely fill the tank with fresh, unleaded gas and add the appropriate amount of fuel treatment. Run the Engine for a short time to allow the additive to circulate.
- Battery storage: On electric-starting models, remove the battery or store your DR® Trimmer Mower in a dry environment where the temperature is between -10° F (-23° C) and +85° F (+23° C). Make sure the storage temperatures will never be outside these limits. If you will not use the machine over a long period, charge the battery every four to six weeks. (See your Owner's Manual for battery care).
Cord tips and cord installation
The following information is provided to demonstrate proper techniques when installing or replacing cord on your DR® Trimmer Mower.
Note: This information pertains to the most recent trimmer mower models. Please refer to your Owner's Manual for instructions specific to your machine. Please refer to the Engine Owner's Manual for engine specific instructions.
When performing any maintenance, you must first shut off the engine, wait five (5) minutes for all parts to stop and cool, and disconnect the spark plug wire, keeping it away from the spark plug. Read the safety considerations section of your Owner's Manual before performing any repairs or maintenance.
Types of cord vs. types of vegetation
We ship (2) two thicknesses of cutting cord with your DR® Trimmer Mower (older models used to use 130-mil orange cord as well). The cords are blue (175-mil) and green (155-mil). Because conditions and vegetation vary so much, you should experiment with cord weights (diameters) to discover what works best for your particular mowing and trimming situations.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- If you buy cutting cord in rolls, cut it into 23" lengths.
- Cord life depends on trimming conditions. Replace cords when they become broken or frayed.
- The smallest diameter of cord capable of cutting the material at hand combined with the fastest engine speed usually provides the best grass trimming performance. When you need more power for thicker growth such as berry canes, brambles, thistles, or ragweed, you may want to use the 175-mil cord in combination with the highest engine speed.
- Ease the ends of the cord into heavy growth and move slowly through thick growth. If there are woody weeds in the material you are cutting, the cutting cords may wrap around the stalks they cannot cut, and pull away from the trimmer head.
- Please note that installing more than (2) two cords at a time does not improve trimming performance, in fact, it can lessen it. Adding additional cords creates drag on the trimmer head, robs the engine of power, and may cause wrapping. Installing (2) two cords, 180 degrees apart, is the best method for optimal trimming performance.
- When replacing cords, do it one at a time and use the old cord to mark the position for the new cord that you are replacing.
- If the cord breaks off flush at the line plate, use the new cord to push out the old cord.
- Storing the cord in a plastic bag with a damp sponge or cloth will help keep it pliable. You can also soak it in a bucket of room temperature water for a few days before use to make it more pliable.
Cord Installation:
- Refer to your Owner's Manual for cutting height procedures before installing the cords.
- Insert the ends of the cord into the openings of the lines plate. Push each end of the cord through the center hold in the line plate. Adjust the cord so that the tips are even.
- Pull the cords through the loop and push the loop up into the line plate groove above.
- Pull the cord tight.
Running the trimmer with only one cord installed or cords installed at different levels can cause excessive vibration and damage your machine.
Note: To firmly tighten and set the cords, it is best to start the engine and spin the Mow Ball for a few seconds before cutting.
Warranty
DR® Walk-Behind Trimmer Mower 2-Year Limited Warranty - Terms and Conditions
Unless otherwise stated in the materials that arrive with your product, DR® Walk-Behind Trimmer Mowers are warranted for two (2) years against defects in materials or workmanship when put to ordinary and normal consumer use; ninety (90) days for any other use.
For the purposes of all the above warranties, "ordinary and normal consumer use" refers to non-commercial residential use and does not include misuse, accidents or damage due to inadequate maintenance.
DR® Power Equipment certifies that your DR® Walk-Behind Trimmer Mower is fit for ordinary purposes for which products of its type are used. DR® Power Equipment however, limits the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness in duration to a period of two (2) years in consumer use, ninety (90) days for any other use.
The 2-Year Limited Warranty on a DR® Walk-Behind Trimmer Mower starts on the date the machine ships from our factory. The 2-Year Limited Warranty is applicable only to the original owner.
The warranty holder is responsible for the performance of the required maintenance as defined by the manufacturer's owner's manuals. The warranty holder is responsible for replacement of normally wearing parts such as belts, cutting cord, Mow-Balls, batteries, air filters, oil filters and spark plugs. Accessories to the machine are not covered by this warranty.
During the warranty period, the warranty holder is responsible for the machine transportation charges, if required. During the warranty period, warranty parts will be shipped by standard method at no charge to the warranty holder. Expedited shipping of warranty parts is the responsibility of the warranty holder.
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON THE LENGTH OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
DR® Power Equipment shall not be liable under any circumstances for any incidental or consequential damages or expenses of any kind, including, but not limited to, cost of equipment rentals, loss of profit, or cost of hiring services to perform tasks normally performed by your DR® Walk-Behind Trimmer Mower.
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS, WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
DR® Tow-Behind Trimmer Mower 2-Year Limited Warranty - Terms and Conditions
Unless otherwise stated in the materials that arrive with your product, DR® Tow-Behind Trimmer Mowers are warranted for two (2) years against defects in materials or workmanship when put to ordinary and normal consumer use; ninety (90) days for any other use.
For the purposes of all the above warranties, "ordinary and normal consumer use" refers to non-commercial residential use and does not include misuse, accidents or damage due to inadequate maintenance.
DR® Power Equipment certifies that your DR® Tow-Behind Trimmer Mower is fit for ordinary purposes for which products of its type are used. DR® Power Equipment however, limits the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness in duration to a period of two (2) years in consumer use, ninety (90) days for any other use.
The 2-Year Limited Warranty on a DR® Tow-Behind Trimmer Mower starts on the date the machine ships from our factory. The 2-Year Limited Warranty is applicable only to the original owner.
The warranty holder is responsible for the performance of the required maintenance as defined by the manufacturer's owner's manuals. The warranty holder is responsible for replacement of normally wearing parts such as drive belts, cutting cord, Mow-Balls, air filters and spark plugs. Accessories to the machine are not covered by this warranty.
During the warranty period, the warranty holder is responsible for the machine transportation charges, if required. During the warranty period, warranty parts will be shipped by standard method at no charge to the warranty holder. Expedited shipping of warranty parts is the responsibility of the warranty holder.
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON THE LENGTH OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
DR® Power Equipment shall not be liable under any circumstances for any incidental or consequential damages or expenses of any kind, including, but not limited to, cost of equipment rentals, loss of profit, or cost of hiring services to perform tasks normally performed by your DR® Tow-Behind Trimmer Mower.
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS, WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.