12
Reaction forces
1. Push
The operator may feel the unit push toward him when he tries to cut the object on right.
If he cannot hold the blade in the cut, a kickback may occur when the blade is pushed out to
where the teeth at the outside furthest point from the operator are cutting.
The blade will "kickback" sideways.
2. Pull
The opposite of push.
When object on left, the operator may feel the unit pull away.
Although this pull type of cutting may cause sawdust to be thrown back at the operator, it is
recommended for sawing off heavy brush because the cutting is smoother and more stable
than when the unit pushes.
Kickback
This may occur when the moving blade at the front of the blade circle contacts strong brush or
trees.
The force that occurs pushes the entire unit and blade violently away in an arc.
Kickback is a danger to a bystander and also a jolting force to the operator.
Blade selection
Plastic grass / weed blade
may be used wherever the nylon line head is used.
Do not use this blade for heavy weeds or brush!
8 tooth weed / grass blade
is designed for grass, garden debris and thick weeds.
Do not use this blade for brush or heavy woody growth, 2 cm diameter or larger.
80 tooth brush blade
is designed for cutting brush and woody growth up to 2 cm diameter.
22 tooth clearing blade
is designed for dense thickets and saplings up to 6.5 cm diameter.
WARNING
Be sure you understand the reaction forces of push and pull, and kickback described
in this Manual, and how these forces may affect your balance in the operation of a
unit.
WARNING
Use only ECHO approved attachments.
Serious injury may result form the use of a non-approved attachment combination.
ECHO will not be responsible for the failure of cutting devices, attachments or
accessories which have not been tested and approved by ECHO.
Read and comply with all safety instructions listed in this manual.
The type of blade used must be matched to the type and size of material cut.
An improper or dull blade can cause serious personal injury.
Blades must be sharp.
Dull blades increase the chance of kick-out and injury to yourself and bystanders.
