Makita DLM431 Twin 18V Cordless Rotary Lawn Mower Instruction Manual

DLM431 Twin 18V Cordless Rotary Lawn Mower
Instruction Manual

Cordless Lawn Mower

Original instructions

SPECIFICATIONS

• Due to our continuing research and development program, the specifications herein are subject to change without notice.
• Specifications and battery cartridges may differ from country to country.
• Weight, with battery cartridge, according to EPTA-Procedure 01/2003

Symbols

The following show the symbols used for the equipment. Be sure that you understand their meaning before use.

Intended use

The tool is intended for lawn mowing.

Noise
The typical A-weighted noise level is determined according to EN60335:
Sound pressure level (LpA): 80 dB(A)
Sound power level (LWA): 93 dB (A)
Uncertainty (K) : 3 dB(A)
The noise level under working may exceed 80 dB (A).

Vibration

The vibration total value (tri-axial vector sum) determined according to EN60335:
Vibration emission (ah) : 2.5 m/s 2 or less
Uncertainty (K) : 1.5 m/s 2

NOTE: The declared vibration emission value has been measured in accordance with the standard test method and may be used for comparing one tool with another.
NOTE: The declared vibration emission value may also be used in a preliminary assessment of exposure.
WARNING: The vibration emission during actual use of the power tool can differ from the declared emission value depending on the ways in which the tool is used.
WARNING: Be sure to identify safety measures to protect the operator that is based on an estimation of exposure in the actual conditions of use (taking account of all parts of the operating cycle such as the times when the tool is switched off and when it is running idle in addition to the trigger time).

EC Declaration of Conformity

For European countries only
Makita declares that the following Machine(s):
Designation of Machine: Cordless Lawn Mower
Model No./ Type: DLM431
Conforms to the following European Directives: 2000/14/EC, 2006/42/EC
They are manufactured in accordance with the following standard or standardized documents: EN60335
The technical file in accordance with 2006/42/EC is available from:
Makita, Jan-Baptist Vinkstraat 2, 3070, Belgium
The conformity assessment procedure required by Directive 2000/14/EC was in Accordance with annex VI.
Notified Body: TÜV Rheinland LGA Products GmbH
Am Grauen Stein 29 51105 Köln Germany
Identification number 0197
Measured Sound Power Level: 93 dB (A)
Guaranteed Sound Power Level: 94 dB (A)
1.12.2015

Yasushi Fukaya
Director
Makita, Jan-Baptist Vinkstraat 2, 3070, Belgium

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING: Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

1. Do not insert the key into the mower until it is ready to be used.
2. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the mower.
3. Never allow children or people unfamiliar with these instructions to use the mower. Local regulations can restrict the age of the operator.
4. Never operate the mower while people, especially children, or pets are nearby.
5. Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or their property.
6. While operating the mower, always wear substantial footwear and long trousers. Do not operate the mower when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Avoid wearing clothing or jewelry that is loose fitting or that has hanging cords or ties. They can be caught in moving parts.
7. Operate the mower only in daylight or in good artificial light.
8. Avoid operating the mower in wet grass.
9. Never operate the mower in the rain.
10. Battery tool use and care
    – Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery cartridge may create a risk of fire when used with another battery cartridge.
    – Use power tools only with specifically designated battery cartridges. The use of any other battery cartridges may create a risk of injury and fire.
    – When the battery cartridge is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a  connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
    – Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts the eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
11. Always keep a firm hold on the handle.
12. Always be sure of your footing on slopes.
13. Walk, never run.
14. Don’t grasp the exposed cutting blades or cutting edges when picking up or holding the mower.
15.  Physical condition – Do not operate the mower while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any medication.
16. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades. Caution – Blades coast after the mower is switched off.
17. Use only the manufacturer’s genuine blades specified in this manual.
18. Check the blades carefully for cracks or damage before operation. Replace cracked or damaged blades immediately.
19. Be sure the area is clear of other people before mowing. Stop the mower if anyone enters the area.
20. Remove foreign matters such as rocks, wire, bottles, bones, and large sticks from the work area before mowing to prevent personal injury or damage to the mower.
21. Stop operation immediately if you notice anything unusual. Switch off the mower and remove the key. Then inspect the mower.
22. Never attempt to make wheel height adjustments while the mower is running.
23. Release the switch lever and wait for blade rotation to stop before crossing driveways, walks, roads, and any gravel-covered areas. Also, remove the key if you leave the mower, reach to pick up or remove something out of your way, or for any other reason that may distract you from what you are doing.
24. Objects struck by the mower blade can cause severe injuries to persons. The lawn should always be carefully examined and cleared of all objects prior to each mowing.
25. If the mower strikes a foreign object, follow these steps:
    – Stop the mower, release the switch lever and wait until the blade comes to a complete stop.
    – Remove the key and the battery cartridge.
    – Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage.
    – Replace the blade if it is damaged in any way. Repair any damage before restarting and continuing to operate the mower.
26.  Check the grass basket frequently for wear or deterioration. For storage, always make sure the grass basket is empty. Replace a worn grass basket with a new factory replacement for safety.
27. Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the mower towards you.
28. Stop the blade(s) if the mower has to be tilted for transportation when crossing surfaces other than grass, and when transporting the mower to and from the area to be used.
29.  Never operate the mower with defective guards or shields, or without safety devices, for example, deflectors and/or grass baskets, in place.
30.  Switch on the mower carefully according to instructions and with feet well away from the blade(s).
31. Do not tilt the mower when switching on the motor, except if the mower has to be tilted for starting. In this case, do not tilt it more than absolutely necessary and lift only the part, which is away from the operator.
32. Do not start the mower when standing in front of the discharge opening.
33. Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating parts. Keep clear of the discharge opening at all times.
34. Do not transport the mower while the mower is turned on.
35. Stop the mower, and remove the disabling device. Make sure that all moving parts have come to a complete stop
    – whenever you leave the mower,
    – before clearing blockages or unclogging the chute,
    – before checking, cleaning, or working on the mower,
    – after striking a foreign object.
    Inspect the mower for damage and make repairs before restarting and operating the mower.
36. If the mower starts to vibrate abnormally (check immediately) – inspect for damage, – replace or repair any damaged parts, – check for and tighten any loose parts.
37. Be careful during the adjustment of the mower to prevent entrapment of the fingers between moving blades and fixed parts of the mower.
38. Mow across the face of slopes, never up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes. Do not mow excessively steep slopes.
39. Do not wash with a hose; avoid getting water in the motor and electrical connections.
40. Check the blade mounting bolt at frequent intervals for proper tightness.
41. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
42. Always allow the mower to cool down before storing.
43. When servicing the blades be aware that, even though the power source is switched off, the blades can still be moved.
44. Replace worn or damaged parts for safety. Use only genuine replacement parts and accessories.

WARNING: DO NOT let comfort or familiarity with the product (gained from repeated use) replace strict adherence to safety rules for the subject product.
MISUSE or failure to follow the safety rules stated in this instruction manual may cause serious personal injury.

Important safety instructions for battery cartridge

1. Before using the battery cartridge, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) battery charger, (2) battery, and (3) product using the battery.
2. Do not disassemble the battery cartridge.
3. If the operating time has become excessively shorter, stop operating immediately. It may result in a risk of overheating, possible burns, and even an explosion.
4. If electrolyte gets into your eyes, rinse them out with clear water and seek medical attention right away. It may result in loss of your eyesight.
5. Do not short the battery cartridge: (1) Do not touch the terminals with any conductive material. (2) Avoid storing the battery cartridge in a container with other metal objects such as nails, coins, etc. (3) Do not expose the battery cartridge to water or rain. A battery short can cause a large current flow, overheating, possible burns, and even a breakdown.
6. Do not store the tool and battery cartridge in locations where the temperature may reach or exceed 50 °C (122 °F).
7. Do not incinerate the battery cartridge even if it is severely damaged or is completely worn out. The battery cartridge can explode in a fire.
8. Be careful not to drop or strike the battery.
9. Do not use a damaged battery.
10. The contained lithium-ion batteries are subject to the Dangerous Goods Legislation requirements. For commercial transports e.g. by third parties or forwarding agents, the special requirements on packaging and labeling must be observed. For the preparation of the item being shipped, consulting an expert for hazardous material is required. Please also observe possibly more detailed national regulations. Tape or mask off open contacts and pack up the battery in such a manner that it cannot move around in the packaging.
11. Follow your local regulations relating to the disposal of batteries.
    SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. 

CAUTION: Only use genuine Makita batteries.
Use of non-genuine Makita batteries, or batteries that have been altered, may result in the battery bursting causing fires, personal injury, and damage. It will also void the Makita warranty for the Makita tool and charger.
Tips for maintaining maximum battery life

1. Charge the battery cartridge before completely discharged. Always stop tool operation and charge the battery cartridge when you notice less tool power.
2. Never recharge a fully charged battery cartridge. Overcharging shortens the battery service life.
3. Charge the battery cartridge at room temperature at 10 °C – 40 °C (50 °F – 104 °F). Let a hot battery cartridge cool down before charging it.
4. Charge the battery cartridge if you do not use it for a long period (more than six months).

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

Installing or removing the battery cartridge 

CAUTION: Always switch off the tool before installing or removing of the battery cartridge.
CAUTION: Make sure that you lock the battery cover before use. Otherwise, mud, dirt, or water may cause damage to the product or the battery cartridge.
CAUTION: Always install the battery cartridge fully until the red indicator cannot be seen. If not, it may accidentally fall out of the tool, causing injury to you or someone around you.
CAUTION: Do not install the battery cartridge forcibly. If the cartridge does not slide in easily, it is not being inserted correctly.
NOTE: The tool does not work with only one battery cartridge.

To install the battery cartridge;

1. Slide the battery cover locking lever and open the battery cover.
   ► Fig.1: 1. Battery cover 2. Battery cover locking lever
2. Align the tongue on the battery cartridge with the slot on the mower then slide the cartridge until it locks in place with a little click. If you can see the red indicator on the upper side of the button, the battery cartridge is not locked completely.
   ► Fig.2: 1. Battery cartridge
3. Insert the lock key in the place shown in the figure as far as it will go.
   ► Fig.3: 1. Lock key
4. Close the battery cover and push it until it is latched with the locking lever.

To remove the battery cartridge from the mower; 

1.  Slide the battery cover locking lever and open the battery cover.
2. Pull out the battery cartridge from the mower while sliding the button on the front of the cartridge.
3. Pull out the lock key.
4. Close the battery cover.

Tool/battery protection system
The tool is equipped with a tool/battery protection system. This system automatically cuts off power to the motor to extend tool and battery life. The tool will automatically stop during operation if the tool or battery is placed under one of the following conditions.
Overload protection
When the tool is operated in a manner that causes it to draw an abnormally high current, the tool automatically stops without any indication. In this situation, turn the tool off and stop the application that caused the tool to become overloaded. Then turn the tool on to restart.
Overheat protection
When the tool is overheated, the tool stops automatically. Let the tool cool down before turning the tool on again.
Overdischarge protection
When the battery capacity becomes low, the tool stops automatically. If the product does not operate even when the switches are operated, remove the batteries from the tool and charge the batteries.

Indicating the remaining battery capacity
► Fig.4: 1. Battery indicator 2. Check button
Press the check button to indicate the remaining battery capacities. The battery indicators correspond to each battery.

Indicating the remaining battery capacity
Only for battery cartridges with “B” at the end of the model number
► Fig.5: 1. Indicator lamps 2. Check button
Press the check button on the battery cartridge to indicate the remaining battery capacity. The indicator lamps light up for a few seconds.

NOTE: Depending on the conditions of use and the ambient temperature, the indication may differ slightly from the actual capacity.
Switch action
WARNING: Before installing the battery cartridge, always check to see that the switch lever actuates properly and returns to the original position when released.
Operating a tool with a switch that does not actuate properly can lead to loss of control and serious personal injury.
NOTE: The mower does not start without pressing the switch button even if the switch lever is pulled.
NOTE: Mower may not start due to the overload when you try to mow long or dense grass at a time. Increase the mowing height in this case.
This mower is equipped with an interlock switch and handle switch. If you notice anything unusual with either of these switches, stop operation immediately and have them checked by your nearest Makita Authorized Service Center.

1. Install the battery cartridges. Insert the lock key into the interlock switch and then close the battery cover.
   ► Fig.6: 1. Battery cartridge 2. Lock key
2. Press the switch button and hold it.
3. Grab the upper handle and pull the switch lever.
   ► Fig.7: 1. Switch button 2. Switch lever
4. Release the switch button as soon as the motor starts running. The mower will continue to run until you release the switch lever.
5. Release the switch lever to stop the motor.

Adjusting the mowing height
WARNING: Never put your hand or leg under the mower body when adjusting the mowing height.
WARNING: Always make sure that the lever fits in the groove properly before operation. The mowing height can be adjusted in the range of between 20 mm – 75 mm.

1. Remove the lock key.
2. Pull the mowing height adjusting lever to the outward of the lower body and move it to your desired mowing height.

► Fig.8: 1. Mowing height adjusting lever
NOTE: The mowing height figures should be used just as a guideline. Depending on the conditions of the lawn or the ground, the actual lawn height may become slightly different from the set height.
NOTE: Try a test mowing of grass in a less conspicuous place to get your desired height.

Grass level indicator
► Fig.9: 1. Grass level indicator
The grass level indicator shows the volume of mowed grass.

• When the grass basket is not full, the indicator floats during mowing.
• When the grass basket is full, the indicator does not float during mowing. In this case, stop mowing immediately and empty the basket. After emptying the basket, clean it so that its meshwork vents the air.

NOTE: This indicator is a rough guide. Depending on the conditions of inside the basket, this indicator may not work properly.

ASSEMBLY

WARNING: Always be sure that the lock key and battery cartridge are removed before carrying out any work on the mower. Failure to remove the lock key and the battery cartridge may result in serious personal injury from accidental start-up.
WARNING: Never start the mower unless it is completely assembled. Operation of the tools in a partially assembled state may result in serious personal injury from accidental start-up.

Installing the battery cover
WARNING: Do not insert the lock key and battery cartridge before installing the battery cover.
Failure to do so may cause a serious injury.
Install the battery cover completely before the operation. The battery cover protects the mower and battery cartridge from mud, dirt, and water.

1. Place the battery cover with the protrusions on the mower aligned to the holes on the battery cover.
   ► Fig.10: 1. Protrusion 2. Hole 3. Battery cover
2. Place your hands in the middle of the battery cover and push it.
   ► Fig.11
3. Before the first operation, check that the pivot point of the battery cover is attached properly. If the battery cover is installed correctly, it will not open until the battery cover locking lever is pulled.
   ► Fig.12: 1. Pivot point 2. Battery cover locking lever

Installing the handle

NOTICE: When installing handles, position the cords so that they are not caught by anything between the handles. If the cord is damaged, the mower switch may not work.

1. Slide both ends of the lower handle into the grooves of the mower then fully tighten the clamping screws.
   ► Fig.13: 1. Clamping screw 2. Lower handle
2. Align the screw holes of the upper handle and lower handle. Secure them with the clamping screws and nuts.
   ► Fig.14: 1. Clamping nut 2. Clamping screw
   NOTE: Hold the upper handle firmly so that it does not drop off your hand.
3. Attach the holders to the handle. Position the power supply cord as shown in the figure.
   ► Fig.15: 1. Holder

Removing or installing the mower blade
WARNING: Always remove the lo ck key and battery cartridge when removing or installing the blade. Failure to remove the lock key and battery cartridge may cause a serious injury.
WARNING: The blade coasts for a few seconds after releasing the switch. Do not start any operation until the blade comes to a complete stop.
WARNING: Always wear gloves when handling the blade.
To remove the mower blade, take the following steps.

1. Put the mower on its side so that the mowing height adjusting lever comes to the upper side.
2. To lock the blade rotation, insert a screwdriver or a similar tool into a hole on the base of the blade.
3. Turn the bolt counterclockwise with the wrench.
   ► Fig.16: 1. Mower blade 2. Screwdriver 3. Wrench
4. Remove the bolt, outer flange, mower blade, and inner flange in order.
   ► Fig.17: 1. Inner flange 2. Rotational direction arrow
5. Outer flange 4. Bolt 5. Mower blade

To install the mower blade, take the removal procedure in reverse.

WARNING: Install the blade carefully. It has a top/bottom face. Place the blade so that the rotational direction arrow faces outward.
WARNING: Tighten the bolt clockwise firmly to secure the blade.
WARNING: Make sure that the blade and all the fixing parts are installed correctly and tightened securely.
WARNING: When you replace the blades, always follow the instructions provided in this manual.

Installing the grass basket

1.  Remove the lock key.
2. Lift the rear guard of the mower body. Fig.18
3. Hook the grass basket on the groove of the lower body as shown in the figure.
   Fig.19: 1. Hook 2. Groove 3. Grass basket

OPERATION

Mowing
WARNING: Before mowing, clear away sticks and stones from the mowing area. Furthermore, clear away any weeds from the mowing area in advance.
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when operating the mower. Fig.20
Firmly hold the lawn mower handle with both hands when mowing. The outside edges of the front wheels is the guideline for mowing width. Using the two front wheel outside edges as a guideline, mow in strips, overlapping by one-half to one-third of the previous strip, to mow the lawn evenly. Periodically check the grass basket for mowed grass. Empty the grass before it becomes full. Before every periodical check, be sure to stop the mower then remove the lock key and the battery cartridge.
NOTE: Using the mower with the grass basket full prevents smooth blade rotation and places an extra load on the motor, which may cause a breakdown.

Mowing a long-grass lawn
Do not try to cut long grass all in one go. Instead, mow the lawn in some steps. Leave a day or two between mows until the lawn becomes evenly short. NOTE: Mowing long grass to a short length all in one go may cause the grass to die. The cut grass may also block up inside of the lower body.
Emptying the grass basket
WARNING: To reduce the risk of accident, regularly check the grass basket for any damage or weakened strength. Replace the grass basket if necessary.

1. Release the switch lever.
2. Remove the lock key.
3. Lift the rear guard and take out the grass basket by holding the handle.
   Fig.21: 1. Rear guard 2. Handle
4. Empty the grass basket.

MAINTENANCE & STORAGE

WARNING: Always be sure that the lock key and battery cartridge are removed from the mower before storage or attempting to perform inspection or maintenance.
WARNING: Always remove the lock key when the mower is not in use. Store the lock key in a safe place out of reach of children.
WARNING: Wear gloves when performing inspection or maintenance.
NOTICE: Never use gasoline, benzene, thinner, alcohol, or the like. Discoloration, deformation, or cracks may result.

Maintenance

1. Remove the lock key. Store it in a safe place out of the reach of children.
2. Clean the mower using only a wet cloth. Do not spray or pour water on the mower when cleaning.
3. Put the mower on its side and clean grass clippings accumulated on the underside of the mower deck.
4. Check all nuts, bolts, knobs, screws, fasteners etc. for tightness. 5. Inspect moving parts for damage, breakage, and wear. Damaged or missing parts should be repaired or replaced.

Storage
WARNING: When carrying or storing the mower, do not hold the folded handles but the front grip of the mower. Holding the folded handles may cause a serious injury or damage to the mower.
Before storing the mower, remove the battery cartridge from it. Store mower indoors in a cool, dry, and locked place. Don’t store the mower and charger in locations where the temperature may reach or exceed 40 °C (104 °F). Fig.22: 1. Front grip 2. Rear grip

1. Loosen the clamping screws and expand the lower handle to both sides. Move down the handle forward. At this time, keep a firm grip on the lower handle so that the handle does not fall down to the far side from the lower body. Fig.23: 1. Clamping screw 2. Lower handle
2. Loosen the clamping nuts and pivot the upper handle back while expanding both sides. Fig.24: 1. Clamping nut 2. Upper handle
3. Store the grass basket between the handle and the lower body. Fig.25: 1. Grass basket
   NOTE: When putting the mower in the upright position, do not hold the handle but use the front grip of the mower.

To maintain product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, any other maintenance or adjustment should be performed by Makita Authorized or Factory Service Centers, always using Makita replacement parts.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Before asking for repairs, conduct your own inspection first. If you find a problem that is not explained in the manual, do not attempt to dismantle the tool. Instead, ask Makita Authorized Service Centers, always using Makita replacement parts for repairs.

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

CAUTION: These accessories or attachments are recommended for use with your Makita tool specified in this manual. The use of any other accessories or attachments might present a risk of injury to persons. Only use accessory or attachment for its stated purpose.
If you need any assistance with more details regarding these accessories, ask your local Makita Service Center.

• Mower blade
• Makita genuine battery and charger

NOTE: Some items in the list may be included in the tool package as standard accessories. They may differ from country to country.

Makita Europe N.V.
Jan-Baptist Vinkstraat 2,
3070 Kortenberg, Belgium
Makita Corporation 3-11-8,
Sumiyoshi-cho, Anjo, Aichi 446-8502 Japan
www.makita.com
885453A999
EN, FR, DE, IT, NL, ES, PT, DA, EL, TR
20151029