Ryobi 4 Cycle S430 Manual

							7 — English
ASSEMBLY
UNPACKING
This product requires assembly.
 Carefully remove the product and any accessories from 
the box. Make sure that all items listed in the packing list 
are included.
WARNING: 
Do not use this product if any parts on the packing list are 
already assembled to your product when you unpack it. 
Parts on this list are not assembled to the product by the 
manufacturer and require customer installation. Use of a 
product that may have been improperly assembled could 
result in serious personal injury.
 Inspect the product carefully to make sure no breakage 
or damage occurred during shipping.
 Do not discard the packing material until you have care-
fully inspected and satisfactorily operated the product.
 If any parts are damaged or missing, please call 
1-800-860-4050 for assistance.
PACKING LIST
C430
Trimmer Assembly
Dual Spool™ Fixed Line Adaptor
Front Handle
Curved Shaft Grass Deflector
Bottle of 4-Cycle Lubricant
Paper Funnel
Hanger Cap
Operator’s Manual
S430
Trimmer Assembly
Dual Spool™ Fixed Line Adaptor
Front Handle
Straight Shaft Grass Deflector
Bottle of 4-Cycle Lubricant
Paper Funnel 
Hanger Cap
Operator’s Manual
WARNING:
If any parts are damaged or missing do not operate this 
product until the parts are replaced. Use of this product 
with damaged or missing parts could result in serious 
personal injury.
WARNING: 
Do not attempt to modify this product or create acces-
sories not recommended for use with this product. Any 
such alteration or modification is misuse and could result 
in a hazardous condition leading to possible serious 
personal injury.
WARNING:
To prevent accidental starting that could cause serious 
personal injury, always disconnect the engine spark plug 
wire from the spark plug when assembling parts.
INSTALLING THE POWER HEAD TO THE 
ATTACHMENT
See Figures 2 - 3.
WARNING:
Never install, remove, or adjust any attachment while 
power head is running. Failure to stop the engine can 
cause serious personal injury.
The attachment connects to the power head by means of 
a coupler device.
 Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire. 
 Loosen the knob on the coupler of the power head shaft 
and remove the end cap from the attachment.
 Push in the button located on the attachment shaft. Align 
the button with the guide recess on the power head coupler 
and slide the two shafts together. Rotate the attachment 
shaft until the button locks into the positioning hole.
 NOTE: If the button does not release completely in the 
positioning hole, the shafts are not locked into place.  
Slightly rotate from side to side until the button is locked 
into place.
 Tighten the knob securely.
WARNING:
Be certain the knob is fully tightened before operating 
equipment; check it periodically for tightness during use 
to avoid serious personal injury.
REMOVING THE ATTACHMENT FROM THE 
POWER HEAD
For removing or changing the attachment:
 Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire. 
 Loosen the knob.
 Push in the button and twist the shafts to remove and 
separate ends.
ATTACHING THE STORAGE HANGER
See Figure 4.
There are two ways to hang your attachment for storage.
	To use the hanger cap, push in the button and place the 
hanger cap over end of the lower end attachment shaft. 
Slightly rotate the cap from side to side until the button 
locks into place. 
						

							8 — English
 The secondary hole in the attachment shaft can be used 
for hanging purposes as well.
ATTACHING THE FRONT HANDLE
See Figure 5.
  Remove wing nut, washer, and bolt from the front 
handle.
   Install the front handle onto the top side of the drive shaft 
housing in the area indicated by the label.
  NOTE: The open side of the handle should face the 
operator. 
   Place the bolt through the front handle.
 NOTE: The hex bolt head fits inside the hex recess molded 
into one side of the handle.
 Reinstall the washer and wing nut.
 Tighten wing nut securely.
ATTACHING THE GRASS DEFLECTOR 
WARNING:
The line cut-off blade on the grass deflector is sharp. 
Avoid contact with the blade. Failure to avoid contact 
can result in serious personal injury.
ASSEMBLY
TO ATTACH THE CURVED SHAFT GRASS 
DEFLECTOR — C430
See Figure 6.
 Remove hex screw, flat washer, and wing nut from grass 
deflector.
 Press the grass deflector onto the bottom of the curved 
shaft as shown.
 Insert the hex screw through the grass deflector and the 
bracket on the curved shaft.
 Place the flat washer on the hex screw.
 Place the wing nut on the hex screw and tighten 
securely.
TO ATTACH THE STRAIGHT SHAFT GRASS 
DEFLECTOR — S430
See Figure 7.
 Remove the wing screw from the grass deflector.
 Insert the tab on the mounting bracket in the slot on the 
grass deflector.
 Align the screw hole in the mounting bracket with the 
screw hole in the grass deflector.
 Insert the wing screw through the mounting bracket and 
into the grass deflector.
 Tighten the screw securely.
OPERATION
WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with this product to make you 
careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a second is 
sufficient to inflict serious injury.
WARNING:
Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to 
comply with ANSI Z87.1, along with hearing protection. 
Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into 
your eyes and other possible serious injuries.
WARNING:
Never use blades, flailing devices, wire, or rope on this 
product. Do not use any attachments or accessories not 
recommended by the manufacturer of this product. The 
use of attachments or accessories not recommended 
can result in serious personal injury.
WARNING:
Gasoline and its vapors are highly flammable and 
explosive. To prevent serious personal injury and property 
damage, handle it with care. Keep away from ignition 
sources and open flames, handle outdoors only, do not 
smoke and wipe up spills immediately.
FUELING AND REFUELING THE TRIMMER
 Clean surface around fuel cap to prevent 
contamination.
 Loosen fuel cap slowly by turning counterclockwise. Rest 
the cap on a clean surface.
 Carefully pour fuel into the tank. Avoid spillage.
 Prior to replacing the fuel cap, clean and inspect the 
gasket.
 Immediately replace fuel cap and hand tighten by turning 
it clockwise. Wipe up any fuel spillage.
NOTE: It is normal for smoke to be emitted from a new 
engine after first use. 
						

							9 — English
OPERATION
WARNING:
Always shut off engine before fueling. Never add fuel to 
a machine with a running or hot engine. Move at least 
30 ft. from refueling site before starting engine. Do not 
smoke and stay away from open flames and sparks. 
Failure to safely handle fuel could result in serious per-
sonal injury.
OXYGENATED FUELS
DO NOT USE E85 FUEL. IT WILL VOID YOUR 
WARRANTY.
NOTE: Fuel system damage or performance problems re-
sulting from the use of an oxygenated fuel containing more 
than the percentages of oxygenates stated below are not 
covered under warranty.
Ethanol. Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by volume 
(commonly referred to as E10) or 15% ethanol by volume 
(commonly referred to as E15) are acceptable. E85 is not.
CAUTION:
Attempting to start the engine before it has been properly 
filled with lubricant will result in equipment failure.
ADDING/CHECKING ENGINE LUBRICANT
See Figure 8.
Engine lubricant has a major influence on engine perfor-
mance and service life. This unit is shipped with a 20W50 
engine lubricant to assist in the break-in period. For best 
operating performance, continuing to use 20W50 engine 
lubricant is recommended, however, SAE 30, 10W30, or 
10W40 are all acceptable lubricants to use in this product. 
Always use a 4-stroke engine lubricant that meets or exceeds 
the requirements for API service classification SJ. Check 
lubricant level before each use.
NOTE: Non-detergent or 2-stroke engine lubricants will 
damage the engine and should not be used.
To add engine lubricant:
 Remove the cap and seal from lubricant bottle pro-
vided.
 Unscrew the oil cap/dipstick and remove. 
 Using funnel provided, add entire bottle of engine lubricant 
through oil fill hole.
 Reinstall the oil cap/dipstick and secure. 
To check engine lubricant level:
 Set unit on a flat surface.
 Wipe dipstick clean and re-seat in hole; do not rethread.
 Remove dipstick again and check lubricant level. Lubricant 
level should fall within the hatched area on the dipstick.
 If level is low, add engine lubricant until the fluid level rises 
to the upper portion of the hatched area on the dipstick.
 Replace and secure the oil cap/dipstick.
CAUTION:
Do not overfill. Overfilling the crankcase may cause 
 
excessive smoke, oil loss, and engine damage.
OPERATING THE TRIMMER
See Figure 9.
WARNING:
Engine housing may become hot during trimmer opera-
tion. Do not rest or place your arm, hand, or any body 
part against the engine housing during trimmer operation. 
Only hold the trimmer as shown in Figure 9 with all body 
parts clear of engine housing. Extended contact with the 
engine housing may result in burns or other injuries.
WARNING:
Always position the unit on the operator’s right side. The 
use of the unit on the operator’s left side will expose 
the user to hot surfaces and can result in possible burn 
injury.
WARNING:
To avoid burns from hot surfaces, never operate unit with 
the bottom of the engine above waist level.
Hold the trimmer with your right hand on the rear handle 
and your left hand on the front handle. Keep a firm grip with 
both hands while in operation. Trimmer should be held at a 
comfortable position with the rear handle about hip height.
Cut tall grass from the top down. This will prevent grass from 
wrapping around the shaft housing and string head which 
could cause damage from overheating. If grass becomes 
wrapped around the string head, STOP THE ENGINE, dis-
connect the spark plug wire, and remove the grass. 
WARNING:
Always hold the string trimmer away from the body keep-
ing clearance between the body and the product. Any 
contact with the housing or string trimmer cutting head can 
result in burns and/or other serious personal injury. 
						

							10 — English
OPERATION
TO ADVANCE THE CUTTING LINE (REEL EASY 
STRING HEAD)
Line advance is controlled by tapping the string head on 
grass while running engine at full throttle.
 Run engine at full throttle.
 Tap the knob on ground to advance line. The line advances 
each time the knob is tapped. Do not hold the knob on 
the ground.
NOTE: The line trimming cut-off blade on the grass deflector 
will cut the line to the correct length.
NOTE: If the line is worn too short you may not be able to 
advance the line by tapping it on the ground. If so, stop the 
engine and manually advance the line.
To advance the cutting line manually:
	Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.
 Push the knob in while pulling on line(s) to manually 
 
advance the line.
NOTE: Dual Spool™ Fixed Line Adaptor line cannot be ad-
vanced. To replace the line, refer to Installing Line in Dual 
Spool™ Fixed Line Adaptor later in this manual.
CUTTING TIPS
See Figures 10 -11.
 Avoid hot surfaces by always keeping the tool away from 
your body. (Proper operating position shown in figure 9.)
 Keep the trimmer tilted toward the area being cut; this is 
the best cutting area. 
 The curved shaft trimmer cuts when passing the unit from 
right to left. The straight shaft trimmer cuts when passing 
the unit from left to right. This will avoid throwing debris at 
the operator. Avoid cutting in the dangerous area shown 
in illustration.
 Use the tip of line to do the cutting; do not force string 
head into uncut grass.
 Wire and picket fences cause extra line wear, even 
breakage. Stone and brick walls, curbs, and wood may 
wear line rapidly.
 Avoid trees and shrubs. Tree bark, wood moldings, siding, 
and fence posts can easily be damaged by the line.
GRASS DEFLECTOR LINE TRIMMING CUT-OFF 
BLADE
See Figure 12.
The trimmer is equipped with a line trimming cut-off blade 
on the grass deflector. For best cutting, advance line until it 
is trimmed to length by the cut-off blade. Advance the line 
whenever you hear the engine running faster than normal, 
or when trimming efficiency diminishes. This will maintain 
best performance and keep the line long enough to advance 
properly.
STARTING AND STOPPING
See Figures 13 - 15.
Trimmer should be on a flat, bare surface for starting. 
To start a cold engine:
	Slowly press the primer bulb 10 times.
 NOTE: After the 7th press, fuel should be visible in the 
primer bulb. If it is not, continue to press the primer until 
you see fuel in the bulb.
	Set the choke lever to FULL CHOKE position.
	With the throttle trigger at idle, pull the starter handle 
sharply until the engine attempts to run. Do not pull the 
starter handle more than 4 times.
	Set the choke lever to HALF CHOKE position.
	Pull the starter grip until the engine runs. Do not pull the 
starter grip more than 6 times.
 NOTE:  If the engine does not start, return to full choke 
position and repeat the steps that follow.
	Allow the engine to run for 10 seconds, then set the choke 
lever to the RUN position.
To restart a warm engine:
	Slowly press the primer bulb 10 times.
	Set the choke lever to the RUN position. 
	Pull the starter grip until the engine runs. DO NOT 
SQUEEZE the throttle trigger to start a warm engine.
To stop the engine:
	To stop the engine, depress the STOP switch to the stop 
position “  ”.
IF ASSISTANCE IS REQUIRED FOR THIS PRODUCT:
Do not return this product to the retail store where it was 
purchased. Please call our Customer Service Department 
for any issues you may have.
For Help Call: 1-800-860-4050 
						

							11 — English
MAINTENANCE
 Insert the new spool into the string head. 
 NOTE: Make sure the arrows on the spool are aligned 
with the eyelets in the string head housing. Push down 
and hold the spool and housing together while complet-
ing the installation.
 Reinstall the spool retainer to secure. 
 To install the spool retainer: 
  Turn the spool retainer clockwise for CS26. 
 Turn the spool retainer counterclockwise for SS26. 
 Install line as described in LINE REPLACEMENT.
LINE REPLACEMENT
See Figures 18 - 20
 Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.  
 Rotate the spool clockwise as necessary to align the arrows 
on the spool with the eyelets in the string head housing.
 Cut one piece of trimmer line 10 ft. long. Insert the line 
into the eyelet on the string trimmer housing. Push until 
the end of the line comes out the other side of the string 
head. Pull the line from the other side until equal amounts 
of line appear on both sides of the spool.
 Rotate the spool clockwise to wind the line on the spool 
until approximately 6 in. of line is showing on each side.
 Push the spool retainer down while pulling on line(s) to 
manually advance the line and to check for proper as-
sembly of the string head.
INSTALLING DUAL SPOOL™ FIXED LINE 
STRING HEAD INSERT
See Figure 21.
	Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire. 
	Remove spool retainer.
	Remove the spool and spring from the string head.
	Find the word LOAD on top of the Dual Spool™ Fixed 
Line String Head Insert, then locate the openings on the 
sides of the insert beneath LOAD. Place the insert inside 
the string head so that the openings on the sides of the 
insert align with the slots on the sides of the string head. 
Make sure the spool is completely seated. 
	Reinstall the spool retainer on the string head and turn 
counterclockwise to secure.
	Install line as described in the next section of this   manual.
INSTALLING LINE IN DUAL SPOOL™ FIXED 
LINE STRING HEAD INSERT
See Figure 22.
Use monofilament line between .095 in. and .105 in. diameter. 
	Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.
	Gather two of the pre-cut lengths of trimmer line provided 
or cut two pieces of trimmer line in 11 in. lengths.
WARNING:
When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. 
Use of any other parts may create a hazard or cause 
product damage.
WARNING:
Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to 
comply with ANSI Z87.1, along with hearing protection. 
Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into 
your eyes and other possible serious injuries.
WARNING:
Before inspecting, cleaning, or servicing the machine, 
shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to stop, and 
disconnect spark plug wire and move it away from spark 
plug. Failure to follow these instructions can result in 
serious personal injury or property damage.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most 
plastics are susceptible to damage from various types of 
commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. Use 
clean cloths to remove dirt, dust, lubricant, grease, etc.
WARNING:
Do not at any time let brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-
based products, penetrating lubricants, etc., come in con-
tact with plastic parts. Chemicals can damage, weaken or 
destroy plastic which may result in serious personal 
injury.
You can often make adjustments and repairs described here. 
For other repairs, have the trimmer serviced by an authorized 
service dealer.
SPOOL REPLACEMENT 
REEL-EASY™ TAP  ADVANCE SYSTEM  
See Figures 16 - 18.
If replacing line only, refer to Line Replacement later in 
this manual.
Use only .095 in. trimmer line. 
 Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire. Hold 
the string head and unscrew the spool retainer. 
 To remove the spool retainer: 
  Turn the spool retainer counterclockwise for 26CS. 
 Turn the spool retainer clockwise for 26SS.
 Remove the empty spool from the string head.
 NOTE: It is not necessary to remove the string head 
housing from the drive shaft.  
						

							12 — English
MAINTENANCE
	Insert the lines into the eyelets located on the sides of the 
string head. Line should be pushed in until approximately  
1 in. protrudes from the holes on the top of the string head.
	Remove old line by pulling it from the holes located on 
the top of the string head.
CLEANING THE EXHAUST PORT AND 
MUFFLER
NOTE: Depending on the type of fuel used, the type and 
amount of lubricant used, and/or your operating conditions, the  
exhaust port, muffler, and/or spark arrestor screen may be-
come blocked with carbon deposits. If you notice a power 
loss with your gas powered tool, you may need to remove 
these deposits to restore performance. We highly recom-
mend that only qualified service technicians perform this 
service.
SPARK ARRESTOR
The spark arrestor must be replaced every 50 hours or yearly 
to ensure proper performance of your product. Spark arres-
tors may be in different locations depending on the model 
purchased. Please contact your nearest service dealer for 
the location of the spark arrestor for your model.
IDLE SPEED ADJUSTMENT
See Figure 23.
If the cutting attachment turns at idle, the idle speed screw 
needs adjusting on the engine. Turn the idle speed screw 
counterclockwise to reduce the idle RPM and stop the cut-
ting attachment movement. If the cutting attachment still 
moves at idle speed, contact a service dealer for adjustment 
and discontinue use until the repair is made.
WARNING: 
The cutting attachment should never turn at idle. Turn 
the idle speed screw counterclockwise to reduce the 
idle RPM and stop the cutting attachment, or contact a 
service dealer for adjustment and discontinue use until 
the repair is made. Serious personal injury may result 
from the cutting attachment turning at idle.
CLEANING AIR FILTER SCREEN
See Figures 24 - 25.
For proper performance and long life, keep air filter screen 
clean.
 Remove the air filter cover by pushing down on the latch 
with your thumb while gently pulling on the cover.
 Brush the air filter screen lightly to clean. 
 Replace the air filter cover by inserting the tabs on the 
bottom of the cover into the slots on the air filter base; 
push the cover up until it latches securely in place.
FUEL CAP
WARNING:
Check for fuel leaks. A leaking fuel cap is a fire hazard 
and must be replaced immediately. If you find any leaks, 
correct the problem before using the product. Failure 
to do so could result in a fire that could cause serious 
personal injury.
The fuel cap contains a non-serviceable filter and a check 
valve. A clogged fuel filter will cause poor engine perfor-
mance. If performance improves when the fuel cap is loos-
ened, check valve may be faulty or filter clogged.  Replace 
fuel cap if required.
SPARK PLUG REPLACEMENT
This engine uses an Champion RY4C spark plug with  
.025 in. electrode gap. Use an exact replacement and re-
place   annually.
CHANGING ENGINE LUBRICANT
See Figure 26.
For best performance, engine lubricant should be changed 
after every 25 hours of operation. 
To change the engine lubricant:
 Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire. Allow 
the engine to cool completely before proceeding.
 Remove the screw from the top engine cover and set 
aside. 
 Remove the screws from the bottom of the engine cover. 
Remove the bottom cover and set aside.
 Remove the oil fill cap/dipstick.
 Tip powerhead on its side and allow lubricant to drain 
from the oil fill hole into an approved container.
 NOTE: Drain the lubricant while the engine is still warm 
but not hot. Warm lubricant will drain quickly and more 
completely.
 Return the power head to an upright position and refill 
with lubricant following the instructions in the Adding/
Checking Engine Lubricant section previously in this 
manual.
 Reinstall the bottom engine cover. Replace the screws 
and tighten securely.
 Replace the screw in the top engine cover and tighten 
 securely.
NOTE: Used lubricant should be disposed of at an   approved 
disposal site. See your local retailer for more information. 
						

							13 — English
MAINTENANCE
ADJUSTING CAMSHAFT-TO-ROCKER ARM 
 CLEARANCE
See Figures 27 - 30.
Inspect the camshaft-to-rocker arm clearance after every 
25  hours of operation. This should be done in a clean, dust-
free environment.
NOTE: This procedure requires partial disassembly of the 
engine. If you are unsure if you are qualified to perform this 
operation, take the unit to an authorized service center. 
 Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire. Allow 
the engine to cool completely before proceeding.
 Remove the screw from the top engine cover. Remove 
engine cover and set aside.
 Using a Torx screwdriver, remove the screw from the 
rocker arm cover. Remove the cover and set aside.
 Position camshaft by pulling the recoil starter grip just 
until the deep hole in the camshaft gear is located at the 
6 o-clock position as shown.
 Place the feeler gauge under each rocker arm and mea-
sure the gap. The gap should be between .006 in. (0.15 
mm)  and .008 in. (0.20 mm) for both rocker arms.
 NOTE: Use a standard automotive feeler gauge. The .006 
in. (0.15 mm) feeler gauge should slide between the rocker 
arm and valve stem with a slight amount of resistance 
but without binding. The 0.008 in. (0.20 mm) feeler gage 
should not slide between the rocker arms and the cam 
lobes — it should be held tight.
 If the valve clearance is not between .006 in. (0.15 mm) 
and .008 in. (0.20 mm), the clearance should be adjusted 
as follows:
	 While holding a wrench on the flats of the adjusting  nut 
with one hand, loosen the retaining nut with a second 
wrench as shown. Take care not to loosen the stud.
	 Rotate the adjusting nut until it touches the feeler gauge. 
Once the gap setting is correct, hold the wrench on 
the flats of the adjusting nut and retighten the retaining 
nut securely.
 Adjust the second rocker arm, if necessary.
 Replace the rocker arm cover and screw; tighten 
 securely.
 Replace the top engine cover and screw; tighten 
 securely.
WARNING: 
Ensure all engine cover and all engine parts are completely 
and properly reassembled before starting engine.  Failure 
to correctly reassemble engine may result in serious injury 
or property damage.
STORING THE PRODUCT
 Clean all foreign material from the product. Store idle unit 
indoors in a dry, well-ventilated area that is inaccessible 
to children. Keep away from corrosive agents such as 
garden chemicals and de-icing salts.
 When storing the product vertically, do so with the engine 
up to avoid hydraulically locking the engine due to oil 
entering the combustion chamber.
 NOTE: If the engine/starter rope becomes locked after 
storage, place the unit flat on the ground in the upright 
position to allow the engine oil to slowly migrate back 
into the engine’s oil reservoir.
 Abide by all ISO and local regulations for the safe storage 
and handling of gasoline. 
When storing 1 month or longer:
 Drain all fuel from tank into a container approved for 
gasoline. Run engine until it stops.
HIGH ALTITUDE ENGINE OPERATION
Please have an authorized service center adjust this engine 
if it is to be run above 2000 feet. Failure to do so may result 
in poor engine performance, spark plug fouling, hard start-
ing, and increased emissions. Carburetor adjustment by 
an authorized service center will improve performance and 
allow that this engine meets EPA (Environmental Protection 
Agency) and California ARB (Air Resources Board) emis-
sion standards. An engine adjusted for high altitudes can 
not be run at 2000 feet or lower. In doing so, the engine will 
overheat and cause serious engine damage. Please have 
an authorized service center restore high altitude modified 
engines to the original factory specification before operating 
below 2000 feet. 
						

							14 — English
IF THESE SOLUTIONS DO NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED SERVICE DEALER.
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEMPOSSIBLE CAUSESOLUTION
Engine will not startNo spark.
 
 
No fuel.
 
 
 
 
Engine is flooded.
Clean or replace spark plug. Reset spark plug gap. 
Refer to Spark Plug Replacement earlier in this 
manual.
Push primer bulb until bulb is full of fuel. If bulb does 
not fill, primary fuel delivery system is blocked. Con-
tact a service dealer. If primer bulb fills, engine may 
be flooded, proceed to next item.
Set the start lever to the START position. Squeeze the 
trigger and pull the rope repeatedly until the engine 
starts and runs. 
NOTE: Depending on the severity of the flooding, this 
may require numerous pulls of the rope.
Engine does not reach full 
speed and emits excessive 
smoke
Air filter screen is dirty.
 
 
Spark arrestor screen is dirty.
Spark plug fouled.
Clean air filter screen. Refer to Cleaning Air Filter 
Screen earlier in this manual.
Contact a servicing dealer.
Clean or replace spark plug. Reset spark plug gap. 
Refer to Spark Plug Replacement earlier in this 
manual.
Engine starts, runs, and accel-
erates but will not idle
Idle speed screw on carburetor 
needs adjustment.
Turn idle speed screw clockwise to increase idle 
speed. See Figure 28.
Engine emits too much smokeToo much oil in crankcase.Drain lubricant and refill with correct amount of 10W-
30 engine lubricant. See Adding/Checking Engine 
Lubricant in the Operation section of this manual.
Engine rope cannot be pulledOil has entered the combustion 
chamber. 
This is usually caused by storing the unit for an extended 
time with the engine in an upside-down position. Remove 
and clean the spark plug. Drain the oil out of the spark 
plug hole, then reinstall the spark plug.
Check engine lubricant and add if necessary prior to 
starting. Refer to Adding/Checking Engine Lubri-
cant earlier in this manual.
Line will not advanceLine is welded to itself.
 
Not enough line on spool.
 
 
Line is worn too short.
 
Line is tangled on spool.
 
 
Engine speed is too slow.
Replace line. Refer to the applicable line replacement 
section in this manual.
Install more line. Refer to the applicable line replace-
ment section in this manual.
Pull lines while alternately pressing down on and 
releasing spool retainer.
Remove line from spool and rewind. Refer to the ap-
plicable line replacement section in this manual.
Advance line at full throttle. 
						

							15 — English
IF THESE SOLUTIONS DO NOT SOLVE THE PROBLEM CONTACT YOUR AUTHORIZED SERVICE DEALER.
TROUBLESHOOTING
WARRANTY
EMISSIONS MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE AND  WARRANTED PARTS LIST
Emissions Parts  Inspect Before   Clean Every Replace Every   Replace Every 
  Each Use 5 Hours 25 Hours or Yearly  50 Hours or Yearly
AIR FILTER ASSY
 INCLUDES:
 FILTER ........................................................................\�........X
ENGINE LUBRICANT ..................X ........................................................................\�.............X
SPARK SCREEN ........................................................................\�........................................................................\�................X
CARBURETOR ASSY
 INCLUDES:
  HEAT DAM ...............................X
 GASKETS .................................X
FUEL TANK ASSY
 INCLUDES:
  FUEL LINES .............................X
  FUEL CAP  ................................X
  FUEL FILTER ............................X
IGNITION ASSY
 INCLUDES:
  SPARK PLUG ........................................................................\�........................................................................\�.................X
ALL EMISSIONS-RELATED PARTS ARE WARRANTED FOR THREE YEARS, OR FOR THE PERIOD OF TIME PRIOR TO THE PARTS’ FIRST SCHEDULED REPLACEMENT, WHICHEVER COMES FIRST.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR PURCHASE!
Go to http://register.ryobitools.com and register your new tool on-line.
Your product has been fully tested prior to shipment  
to ensure your complete satisfaction.
For any questions about operating or maintaining  
your product, call the Ryobi Help Line!
PROBLEMPOSSIBLE CAUSESOLUTION
Spool retainer hard to turnScrew threads are dirty or 
damaged.
Clean threads and lubricate with grease - if no im-
provement, replace the spool retainer.
Grass wraps around driveshaft 
housing and string head
Cutting tall grass at ground 
level.
 
Operating trimmer at part 
throttle.
Cut tall grass from the top down to prevent 
wrapping. 
Operate trimmer at full throttle. 
						

							16 — English
WARRANTY
LIMITED WARRANTY STATEMENT
Techtronic Industries North America, Inc., warrants to the 
original retail purchaser that this RYOBI® brand outdoor 
product is free from defect in material and workmanship 
and agrees to repair or replace, at Techtronic Industries 
North America, Inc.’s, discretion, any defective product 
free of charge within these time periods from the date of 
purchase.
 Three years if the product is used for personal, family 
or household use;
 90 days, if used for any other purpose, such as 
commercial or rental.
This warranty extends to the original retail purchaser 
only and commences on the date of the original retail 
purchase.
Any part of this product found in the reasonable judgment 
of Techtronic Industries North America, Inc. to be defective 
in material or workmanship will be repaired or replaced  
without charge for parts and labor by an authorized service 
center for RYOBI® brand outdoor products (Authorized 
Ryobi Service Center).
The product, including any defective part, must be returned 
to an authorized Ryobi service center within the warranty 
period. The expense of delivering the product to the service 
center for warranty work and the expense of returning it 
back to the owner after repair or replacement will be paid 
by the owner. Techtronic Industries North America, Inc.’s, 
responsibility in respect to claims is limited to making the 
required repairs or replacements and no claim of breach 
of warranty shall be cause for cancellation or rescission 
of the contract of sale of any RYOBI® brand outdoor 
product. Proof of purchase will be required by the dealer 
to substantiate any warranty claim. All warranty work must 
be performed by an authorized service dealer.
This warranty is limited to ninety (90) days from the date 
of original retail purchase for any RYOBI® brand outdoor 
product that is used for rental or commercial purposes, or 
any other income-producing purpose.
This warranty does not cover any product that has been 
subject to misuse, neglect, negligence, or accident, or that 
has been operated in any way contrary to the operating 
instructions as specified in this operator’s manual. This 
warranty does not apply to any damage to the product that 
is the result of improper maintenance or to any product 
that has been altered or modified. The warranty does not 
extend to repairs made necessary by normal wear or by the 
use of parts or accessories which are either incompatible 
with the RYOBI® brand outdoor product or adversely affect 
its operation, performance, or durability. In addition, this 
warranty does not cover:
A.  Tune-ups – Spark Plugs, Carburetor, Carburetor       
Adjustments, Ignition, Filters
B.  Wear items – Bump Knobs, Outer Spools, Cutting 
Lines, Inner Reels, Starter Pulleys, Starter Ropes, Drive 
Belts, Tines, Felt Washers, Hitch Pins, Mulching Blades, 
Blower Fans, Blower and Vacuum Tubes, Vacuum Bag 
and Straps, Guide Bars, Saw Chains
Techtronic Industries North America, Inc., reserves the right 
to change or improve the design of any RYOBI® brand 
outdoor product without assuming any obligation to modify 
any product previously manufactured.
ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED IN DURATION 
TO THE STATED WARRANTY PERIOD. ACCORDINGLY, 
ANY SUCH IMPLIED WARRANTIES INCLUDING 
MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR 
PURPOSE, OR OTHERWISE, ARE DISCLAIMED IN 
THEIR ENTIRETY AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF THE 
APPROPRIATE TWO-YEAR, ONE-YEAR, OR NINETY-
DAY WARRANTY PERIOD. TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES 
NORTH AMERICA, INC.’S, OBLIGATION UNDER THIS 
WARRANTY IS STRICTLY AND EXCLUSIVELY LIMITED TO 
THE REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF DEFECTIVE PARTS 
AND TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES NORTH AMERICA, 
INC., DOES NOT ASSUME OR AUTHORIZE ANYONE 
TO ASSUME FOR THEM ANY OTHER OBLIGATION. 
SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW 
LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE 
LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. TECHTRONIC 
INDUSTRIES NORTH AMERICA, INC., ASSUMES NO 
RESPONSIBILITY FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, 
OR OTHER DAMAGES INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED 
TO, EXPENSE OF RETURNING THE PRODUCT TO AN 
AUTHORIZED RYOBI SERVICE CENTER AND EXPENSE 
OF DELIVERING IT BACK TO THE OWNER, MECHANIC’S 
TRAVEL TIME, TELEPHONE OR TELEGRAM CHARGES, 
RENTAL OF A LIKE PRODUCT DURING THE TIME 
WARRANTY SERVICE IS BEING PERFORMED, TRAVEL, 
LOSS OR DAMAGE TO PERSONAL PROPERTY, LOSS 
OF REVENUE, LOSS OF USE OF THE PRODUCT, 
LOSS OF TIME, OR INCONVENIENCE. SOME STATES 
DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF 
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE 
ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY 
TO YOU.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may 
also have other rights which vary from state to state.
This warranty applies to all RYOBI® brand outdoor products 
manufactured by or for Techtronic Industries North America, 
Inc., and sold in the United States and Canada.
To locate your nearest Authorized Ryobi Service Center, 
dial 1-800-860-4050.