GGP Italy SPA Brush Cutter Star 28htj Instructions Manual

							The machine is supplied with
some of the components disassembled and the
fuel tank empty.  
Mount the components
very carefully so as not to impair the safety
and efficiency of the machine. If in doubt,
contact your dealer.
1. MOUNTING THE FRONT HANDGRIP (Fig. 1)
The purpose of the spacer
(1) is to ensure a minimum distance between
the rear handgrip and the front one, for safe-
ty reasons. This spacer must always be fitted
and must not be modified in any way.
–In front of the spacer (1), fit the front handgrip
(2) onto the drive tube (3) using the screws (4)
and nuts (5) inserted in their proper seatings.
–Before tightening the screws (4), align the
handgrip correctly with respect to the drive
tube.
–Fully tighten the screws (4).
2. MOUNTING THE ROD (Models with sepa-
rate rod – Fig. 2)
–Line up the slot (1) on the joint (2) with the
raised notch (3) on the lower part of the rod (4).
–Pull out the stop pin (5) and push the lower
part of the rod (4) right down until the stop pin
(5) slots into the hole (6) in the rod. This is eas-
ier to do if you rotate the bottom of the rod (4)
slightly in both directions. The pin (5) is in
place when it is completely lodged in the hole.
–Lastly, tighten the knob (7) securely.
3. MOUNTING THE GUARD (Fig. 3)
The protection must be
suitable for the machine model and the type
of cutting tool used, and fitted correctly to
respect the correct position of the line cut-
ting knife.
–The guard (1) is fixed by two screws (2).

!WARNING!

!WARNING!

!WARNING!
IMPORTANT4. REMOVING AND REFITTING THE CUT-
TING LINE HEAD (Fig. 4)
–Insert the wrench supplied (2) into the specific
hole in the drive tube terminal (3) and rotate
the cutting line head (1) by hand until the
wrench enters the inner hole, blocking rota-
tion.
–Remove the cutting line head (1) unscrewing it
in an 
anticlockwise direction.
When mounting,
–Ensure that the grooves in the inner ring-nut
(4) match up perfectly with the drive tube ter-
minal (3).
–Fit the cutting line head (1) screwing it up in a
clockwise direction.
–Remove the wrench (2) to restore shaft rota-
tion. 6
MACHINE ASSEMBLYEN
4. MACHINE ASSEMBLY 
						

							PREPARING TO WORK7EN
CHECKING THE MACHINE
Before starting work please:
–check that all the screws on the machine and
the cutting device are tightly fastened;
–check that the air filter is clean;
–check that the protection devices are well fas-
tened and working efficiently;
–check the handgrips are well fastened.
FUELS AND OILS
This machine is fitted with a four-stroke engine
which DOES NOT require oil to be added to the
petrol.
Adding oil to the petrol dam-
ages the engine and will cause invalidation of the
warranty
Only use quality fuels and
oils to maintain high performance and guarantee
the duration of the mechanical parts over time.
• Petrol characteristics
Only use unleaded petrol with a fuel grade of at
least 90 N.O.
Unleaded petrol tends to
create deposits in the container if preserved for
more than 2 months. Always use fresh petrol!
Petrol is flammable!
– Keep the petrol in homologated fuel con-
tainers, in safe place, away from any flames
or heat sources.
– Never leave the containers within the reach
of children.

!DANGER!
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT
• Oil characteristics
Only use top quality oil specifically for four-
stroke engines, highly detergent, with classifica-
tion SF-SG and viscosity SAE10W30.
The use of a non-detergent
or inadequate oil or one with different features to
those indicated will damage the motor and will
cause invalidation of the warranty
Your dealer can provide you with oils which have
been specifically developed for this type of
engine, and which are capable of guaranteeing a
high level of protection and extend the efficiency
of the engine.
REFUELLING
Never smoke whilst refu-
elling and avoid inhaling the petrol fumes.
Carefully open the tank top
as pressure could have formed inside.
Before refuelling:
–Place the machine on a flat stable surface,
with the fuel tank cap facing upwards.
–Clean the fuel tank cap and the surrounding
area to avoid any dirt from entering the tank
during refilling.
–Carefully open the fuel tank cap to allow the
pressure inside to decrease gradually. Use a
funnel to refill and avoid filling the tank to the
brim.
Always close the fuel tank
cap firmly.
Immediately clean all
traces of petrol which may have dripped on
the machine or the ground and do not start
the engine until the petrol fumes have dissi-
pated.

!WARING!

!WARNING!

!WARNING!

!DANGER!
IMPORTANT
5. PREPARING TO WORK 
						

							OIL TOPPING UP (Fig. 5)
Do not start the engine and
do not use the machine if the oil level is low.
To check the oil level:
–  Place the machine on a flat stable surface, with
the fuel tank cap facing upwards.– Unscrew
the tank cap and check that the oil level reach-
es the rim of the filler.
The oil tank capacity is 80 cc.
IMPORTANT
8PREPARING TO WORK / HOW TO START - USE – STOP THE ENGINEEN
To start the engine (Fig. 6):
1. Set the switch (1) to «START».
2.Operate the starter, turning lever (5) to
«CLOSE».
3. Press the primer device button (6) 3 or 4
times to prime the carburettor.
4. Hold the machine firmly on the ground with
one hand on the power unit, in order not to
lose control of the machine during startup
(Fig. 7).
To prevent distortions, the
drive tube must not be used as a support for the
hand or knee during startup.  
5. Pull the starter rope slowly for 10 - 15 cm until
you feel some resistance, then tug it hard a
few times until you hear the engine turn over.
IMPORTANT
STARTING THE ENGINE
The engine must be start-
ed in an area at least 3 metres from where
you refilled the fuel tank.
Before starting the engine:
–Place the machine firmly on the ground.
•Cold starting
A “cold” start of the engine
means starting it after at least 5 minutes from
when it was switched off or after refuelling.NOTE

!WARNING!
6. HOW TO START - USE – STOP THE ENGINE 
						

							HOW TO START - USE – STOP THE ENGINE9EN
To avoid breaking the starter
rope, do not pull the whole length of it or let it
slide along the edge of the cable guide hole.
Release the starter gradually, to avoid letting it fly
back uncontrollably.
6. Pull the starter rope again until the engine
starts as normal.
Starting the engine with
the starter engaged causes the cutting
device to move, only stopping when the
starter is disconnected.
7. When the engine is started, disconnect the
starter by turning the lever (2) to  «OPEN».
8. Let the engine run idle for at least 1 minute
before using the machine.
If the starter rope is pulled
repeatedly with the choke on, it may flood the
engine and make starting difficult.
If you have flooded the engine, remove the spark
plug and gently pull the handle on the starter
rope to eliminate any excess fuel; then dry the
spark plug electrodes and replace it on the
engine.
•Hot starting
When hot starting (immediately after stopping
the engine), follow the procedure indicated
above in points 1 - 4 - 5 - 6.
USE OF THE ENGINE (Fig. 6)
Cutting device speed is regulated by the throttle
trigger (2), located on the rear handgrip (4).
The throttle trigger only works if the lockout (3) is
pressed at the same time.
The movement is transmitted from the engine to
the drive shaft by a centrifugal mass clutch that
prevents the shaft from moving when the engine
is running at minimum speed.
IMPORTANT

!WARNING!
IMPORTANTNever use the machine if
the cutting device moves when the engine is
running idle; if this is the case regulate the
minimum rate (see chap.8) and if the problem
persists please contact your dealer.
The correct running speed will be achieved by
pressing the throttle trigger (2) as far as possible.
Avoid using the engine at full
power for the first 6-8 working hours.
STOPPING THE ENGINE (Fig. 6)
To stop the engine:
–Release the throttle trigger (2) and allow the
engine to run idle for a few seconds.
–Set the switch (1) to “STOP”.
When you have reduced
speed to a minimum, it will take a few sec-
onds for the cutting device to stop
!WARNING!
IMPORTANT

!WARNING! 
						

							EN10USING THE MACHINE
To respect people and the environment:
– Try not to cause any disturbance.
– Scrupulously comply with local regulations
and provisions for the disposal of waste
materials after sawing.
– Scrupulously comply with local regulations
and provisions for the disposal of oils,
petrol, damaged parts or any elements
which have a strong impact on the environ-
ment.
Prolonged exposure to
vibrations can cause injuries and neurovas-
cular disorders (also called “Renaud’s syn-
drome” or “white hand”), especially to people
suffering from circulation disorders. The
symptoms can regard the hands, wrists and
fingers and are shown through loss of sensi-
tivity, torpor, itching, pain and discolouring of
or structural changes to the skin. These
effects can be worsened by low ambient tem-
peratures and/or by gripping the handgrips
excessively tightly. If the symptoms occur,
the length of time the machine is used must
be reduced and a doctor consulted.
Always wear suitable
clothing when using the machine. Your deal-
er can provide you with all the information on
the most suitable accident-prevention
devices to guarantee your safety.
USING THE MACHINE
When working, the
machine must always be firmly held in both
hands, keeping the power unit on the right of
the body and the cutting group below the line
of the belt.
Before tackling a mowing job for the first time it
is advisable to gain the necessary familiarity with
the machine and the most suitable cutting tech-
niques, finding out how to firmly grip the
machine and making the movements required by
the job.

!WARNING!

!WARNING!

!WARNING!
The cutting line head can eliminate tall grass and
non-woody vegetation near fences, walls, foun-
dations, pavements, around trees, etc. or to
completely clean a particular area of the garden;
The use of metal or rigid
blades of any type with this machine is pro-
hibited.
WORKING TECHNIQUES
Use ONLY nylon lines. The
use of metal lines, plasticised metal lines
and/or lines not suitable for the head can
cause serious injuries and wounds.
During use it is advisable to stop the engine peri-
odically and remove the weeds wound round the
machine, so as to prevent the drive tube from
overheating due to the grass caught under the
guard. 
Remove the caught-up grass with a screwdriver
to allow the rod to be properly cooled.
Do not use the machine
for sweeping, tilting the cutting line head.
The power of the engine could throw objects
and small stones 15 metres or more, causing
damage and injuries to people.
•Cutting in motion (Scything) (Fig. 8)
Proceed at a regular pace, with a circular motion
similar to a traditional scythe, without tilting the
cutting line head during the operation.
First try cutting at the right height in a small area,
so as to then achieve a uniform cutting height
keeping the cutting line head at a constant dis-
tance from the ground.
For heavier cutting it can be useful to tilt the cut-
ting line head by about 30°.
Do not work in this way if
there is the possibility of causing objects to
be thrown, which could harm people and ani-
mals and cause damage.
!WARNING!

!WARNING!

!WARNING!

!WARNING!
7. USING THE MACHINE 
						

							ENUSING THE MACHINE11
•Precision cutting (Trimming)
Keep the machine slightly tilted so that the lower
part of the cutting line head does not touch the
ground and the cutting line is at the required
point, always keeping the cutting device at a dis-
tance from the operator.
•Cutting near fences/foundations (Fig. 9)
Slowly approach the cutting line head to fences,
posts, rocks, walls, etc. without hitting them
hard. 
If the line strikes a solid object it could break or
become worn; if it gets tangled in a fence it
could break abruptly.
In any case, cutting around pavements, founda-
tions, walls, etc. can cause greater wear than
normal in the line.
•Cutting round trees (Fig.10)
Walk round the tree from left to right, approach-
ing the trunks slowly so as not to strike the tree
with the line and keeping the cutting line head
tilted forward slightly.
Remember that the nylon line could lop or dam-
age small shrubs and that the impact of the
nylon line against the trunk of bushes or trees
with soft bark could seriously damage the plant.
•
Adjusting line length when working (Fig. 11)
This machine is fitted with a “Tap & Go” head.
To release more line, tap the cutting line head
against the round with the engine at top speed:
the line will be released automatically and the
knife cut off the excess length.
END OF OPERATIONS
When you have finished your work:
–Switch off the engine as indicated above
(Chap. 6).
–Wait for the cutting device to stop and fit the
blade guard (if 3 or 4-point blades of saw
blades are used). 
						

							EN12MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE 
Correct maintenance is essential to maintain the
original efficiency and safety of the machine over
time.
During maintenance oper-
ations:
–Remove the spark plug cap.
–Wait until the engine is sufficiently cold.
–Never dispose of oils, fuel or other polluting
materials in unauthorised places.
CYLINDER AND SILENCER
To reduce fire risks, periodically clean the cylin-
der flaps with compressed air and clear the
silencer area to get rid of sawdust, branches,
leaves or other debris.
STARTING SYSTEM
To avoid overheating and damage to the engine,
always keep the cooling air vents clean and free
of sawdust and debris.
The starter rope must be replaced as soon as it
shows signs of wear.
NUTS AND SCREWS
Periodically check that all the nuts and screws
are securely tightened and the handgrips are
tightly fastened.
CLEANING THE AIR FILTER  (Fig. 12)
Cleaning the air filter is
essential to guarantee the efficiency and duration
of the machine. Do not work with a damaged fil-
ter or without a filter, as this could permanently
damage the engine. 
It must be cleaned after every 8-10 working
hours.
Clean the filter as follows:
–Press the tab (3), remove the cover (1) and the
filter element (2).
–Wash the filter element(2) with soap and water.
Do not use petrol or other solvents.
–Leave the filter to dry in the open air. 
–Fit the filter element (2) and the cover (1) back
on.
IMPORTANT

!WARNING!CHECKING THE SPARK PLUG (Fig. 13)
Periodically remove and clean the spark plug
using a metal brush to get rid of any deposits.
To access the spark plug, screw must be
unscrewed with the wrench provided and the
upper cover removed.
Check and reset the correct distance between
the electrodes.
Replace the spark plug and fasten it firmly using
the supplied wrench.
The spark plug must be replaced with one with
the same characteristics whenever the elec-
trodes have burnt or the insulation has worn, and
in any case every 100 working hours.
ENGINE OIL CHANGE
Empty the oil tank with the engine still warm to
ensure fast and complete emptying.
1. Check that the fuel tank cap is fully tightened.
2. Remove the oil tank cap and empty the oil into
a container, tilting the engine in the direction
of the oil tank filler.
3. Fill the tank with the recommended oil and
check the level.
4. Replace the oil tank cap.
TUNING THE CARBURETTOR
The carburettor is tuned by the manufacturer to
achieve maximum performance in all situations,
with a minimum emission of toxic gas in compli-
ance with the regulations in force.
In the case of poor performance contact your
Dealer for a check of the carburetion and engine.
•
Tuning minimum speed 
The minimum speed must
only be tuned if the cutting device moves
when the engine idles.
!WARNING!
8. MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE  
						

							MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE 13EN
Speed is reduced by turning the screw marked
«MIN» anti-clockwise until the cutting device
stops moving. The engine should continue to run
as normal.
If the engine does not idle smoothly, turn the
screw clockwise to increase the speed.
The cutting device must
not move when the engine idles; contact your
dealer if you are not able to tune it to your
satisfaction.
HEAD LINE REPLACEMENT
Follow the instructions attached to the head for
replacing the nylon line.
SHARPENING THE LINE CUTTING KNIFE
(Fig. 14)
–Remove the line cutting knife (1) from the
guard (2) by unscrewing screw (3).
–Fix the line cutting knife in a vice and sharpen
it using a flat file, being careful to retain the
original cutting angle.
–Refit the knife on the guard.
EXTRAORDINARY MAINTENANCE
All maintenance operations not foreseen in this
manual must be performed exclusively by your
dealer.
All and any operations performed in unautho-
rised centres or by unqualified persons will total-
ly invalidate the warranty.
STORAGE
After every work stint, clean the machine thor-
oughly to remove all dust and debris, and repair
or replace any faulty parts.
The machine must be stored in a dry place away
from the elements.

!WARNING!LONG PERIODS OF DISUSE
If you are not going to use
the machine for a period of more than 2-3
months, we recommend you do a few things
before putting it away. This will make it easier
when you want to use the machine again and will
also prevent permanent damage to the engine.
•Storage
Before putting the machine away:
–Empty the fuel tank.
–Start the engine and run it idle until it comes to
a halt, so that it uses up all the fuel that is left
in the carburettor.
–Wait for the engine to cool down and remove
the spark plug
–Pour a teaspoon of fresh oil into the spark plug
hole.
–Pull the starter rope several times to deliver oil
to the cylinder.
–Replace the spark plug with the piston in the
dead end upper position (visible from the
spark plug slot when the piston is at maximum
stroke).
•Restarting work
When you wish to start using the machine again:
–Remove the spark plug.
–Pull the starter rope a few times to eliminate
excess oil.
–Check the spark plug as described in chapter
“Checking the spark plug”.
–Prepare the machine as indicated in the para-
graph entitled “Preparing for work”.
IMPORTANT 
						

							14TROUBLESHOOTING / TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONSEN
9. TROUBLESHOOTING
1)The engine will
not start or will not
keep running
2)The engine starts
but is lacking in
power
3)The engine runs
irregularly and lacks
in power when
revved–Incorrect starting procedure
–Dirty spark plug or incorrect distance
between the electrodes
–Air filter clogged
–Carburetion problems
–Air filter clogged
–Carburetion problems
–Dirty spark plug or incorrect distance
between the electrodes
–Carburetion problems–Follow the instructions (see chap-
ter 6)
–Check the spark plug (see chapter
8)
–Clean and/or replace the filter (see
chapter 8)
–Contact your dealer
–Clean and/or replace the filter (see
chapter 8)
–Contact your dealer
–Check the spark plug (see chapter
8)
–Contact your dealer
PROBLEM LIKELY CAUSE SOLUTION
Engine .................................. 4-stroke air-cooled
Capacity / Power   .................. 25 cm3/ 0,81 kW
Engine rotation speed 
at tick-over  .............................. 2900-3300 rpm
Maximum engine 
rotation speed  ....................... 9500-10500 rpm
Maximum tool rotation speed ..............8500 rpm
Spark plug ................ NGK CM5H (or equivalent)
Fuel: .............. Unleaded petrol - at least 90 N.O
Fuel tank capacity  ................................ 550 cm
3
Oil tank capacity ..................................... 80 cm3
Weight 1)................................................. 5,24 kg
1)Weight as per standard ISO 11806 (without
fuel, cutting devices and guards)
Phonometric Recordings and Vibrations
Noise level recorded
(ISO 10884) ................................... 108,2 dB(A)
Noise level recorded
(EN 27917) ....................................... 94,7 dB(A)
Vibrations transmitted to the hand on the front
handgrip  (ISO 7916)
at tick-over   .................................. 1,97 m/sec
2
at maximum ......................................5,6 m/sec2
Vibrations transmitted to the hand on the rear
handgrip (ISO 7916)
at tick-over  ................................... 2,12 m/sec
2
at maximum ..................................... 5,8 m/sec2
10. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS