Makita DLM460 Cordless Lawn Mower Instruction Manual

Cordless Lawn Mower
INSTRUCTION MANUAL

SPECIFICATIONS

• Due to our continuing program of research and development, the specifications herein are subject to change without notice.
• Specifications and battery cartridge may differ from country to country.
• The weight may differ depending on the attachment(s), including the battery cartridge. The lightest and heaviest combinations, according to EPTA-Procedure 01/2014, are
  shown in the table.

Applicable battery cartridge and charger

• Some of the battery cartridges and chargers listed above may not be available depending on your region of residence.

WARNING: Only use the battery cartridges and chargers listed above. Use of any other battery cartridges and chargers may cause injury and/or fire.
WARNING: Do not use a corded power supply such as battery adapter or portable power pack with this machine. The cable of such power supply may hinder the operation and result in personal injury.

Symbols
The followings show the symbols which may be used for the equipment. Be sure that you understand their meaning before use.

Intended use
The machine is intended for lawn mowing.
Noise
The typical A-weighted noise level determined accord- ing to EN60335-2-77:
Model DLM460
Sound pressure level (LpA) : 84 dB(A)
Sound power level (LWA) : 94 dB (A)
Uncertainty (K) : 3 dB(A)

NOTE: The declared noise emission value(s) has been measured in accordance with a standard test method and may be used for comparing one tool with another.
NOTE: The declared noise emission value(s) may also be used in a preliminary assessment of exposure.
WARNING: Wear ear protection.
WARNING: The noise emission during actual use of the power tool can differ from the declared value(s) depending on the ways in which the tool is used especially what kind of workpiece is processed.
WARNING: Be sure to identify safety measures to protect the operator that are 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).

Vibration
The vibration total value (tri-axial vector sum) deter- mined according to EN60335-2-77:
Model DLM460
Vibration emission (ah) : 2.5 m/sor less
Uncertainty (K) : 1.5 m/s2
NOTE: The declared vibration total value(s) has been measured in accordance with a standard test method and may be used for comparing one tool with another.
NOTE: The declared vibration total value(s) 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 value(s) depending on the ways in which the tool is used especially what kind of workpiece is processed.
WARNING: Be sure to identify safety measures to protect the operator that are 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
The EC declaration of conformity is included as Annex A to this instruction manual.

SAFETY WARNINGS

Lawn Mower 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 lock 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. Always wear protective goggles to protect your eyes from injury when using power tools. The goggles must comply with ANSI Z87.1 in the USA, EN 166 in Europe, or AS/NZS 1336 in Australia/New Zealand. In Australia/New Zealand, it is legally required to wear a face shield to protect your face, too.
   It is an employer’s responsibility to enforce the use of appropriate safety protective equipment by the tool operators and by other persons in the immediate working area.
8. Operate the mower only in daylight or in good artificial light.
9. Avoid operating the mower in wet grass.
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. 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 eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
    – Do not dispose of the battery(ies) in a fire. The cell may explode. Check with local codes for possible special disposal instructions.
    – Do not open or mutilate the battery(ies). Released electrolyte is corrosive and may cause damage to the eyes or skin. It may be toxic if swallowed.
    – Do not charge the battery in rain, or in wet locations.
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 or blade bolts carefully for cracks or damage before operation. Replace cracked or damaged blades or blade bolts 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 cutting height adjustments while the mower is running if the mower has a cutting height adjustment feature.
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 lock 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 lock 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 basket, 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. Check the blade mounting bolt at frequent intervals for proper tightness.
40. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.
41. Always allow the mower to cool down before storing.
42. When servicing the blades be aware that, even though the power source is switched off, the blades can still be moved.
43. Replace worn or damaged parts for safety. Use only genuine replacement parts and accessories.
44. Do not use the machine when there is a risk of lightning.
45. When you use the machine on the muddy ground, wet slopes, or slippery places, pay attention to your footing.
46. Avoid working in a poor environment where increased user fatigue is expected.
47. Do not use the machine in bad weather where visibility is limited. Failure to do so may cause a fall or incorrect operation due to low visibility.
48. Do not replace the battery in the rain.
49. Do not submerge the machine into a puddle.
50. Do not leave the machine unattended outdoors in the rain.
51. Do not insert or remove the lock key in the rain.
52. When wet leaves or dirt adhere to the suction mouth (ventilation window) due to rain, remove them.
53. Do not wash the machine with high-pressure water.
54. When washing the machine, be sure to remove the battery and lock key and close the battery cover, and pour water toward the bottom of the machine to which the blade is attached.
55. When storing the machine, avoid direct sunlight and rain, and store it in a place where it does not get hot or humid.
56. Perform inspection or maintenance in a place where rain can be avoided.
57. After using the machine, remove the adhered dirt and dry the machine completely before storing. Depending on the season or the area, there is a risk of malfunction due to freezing.
58. Do not wet the terminal of the battery with a liquid such as water, or submerge the battery. Do not leave the battery in the rain, nor charge, use, or store the battery in a damp or wet place. If the terminal gets wet or liquid enters inside of the battery, the battery may be short-circuited and there is a risk of overheating, fire, or explosion.
59. After removing the battery from the machine or charger, be sure to attach the battery cover to the battery and store it in a dry place.
60. Do not replace the battery with wet hands.
61. Do not use the machine in the snow.
62. If the cut-off grass is wet, it is likely to be clogged inside of the machine. Check the condition of the machine regularly, and remove the adhered grass as necessary.

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 or tamper with the battery cartridge. It may result in a fire, excessive heat, or explosion.
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 battery cartridges 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 and use 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. Do not nail, cut, crush, throw, drop the battery cartridge, or hit a hard object to the battery cartridge. Such conduct may result in a fire, excessive heat, or explosion.
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, 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. When disposing of the battery cartridge, remove it from the tool and dispose of it in a safe place. Follow your local regulations relating to the disposal of batteries.
12. Use the batteries only with the products specified by Makita. Installing the batteries to non-compliant products may result in a fire, excessive heat, explosion, or leak of electrolyte.
13. If the tool is not used for a long period of time, the battery must be removed from the tool.
14. During and after use, the battery cartridge may take on heat which can cause burns or low-temperature burns. Pay attention to the handling of hot battery cartridges.
15. Do not touch the terminal of the tool immediately after use as it may get hot enough to cause burns.
16. Do not allow chips, dust, or soil to stuck into the terminals, holes, and grooves of the battery cartridge. It may cause heating, catching fire, burst, and malfunction of the tool or battery cartridge, resulting in burns or personal injury.
17. Unless the tool supports the use of near high-voltage electrical power lines, do not use the battery cartridge near high-voltage electrical power lines. It may result in a malfunction or breakdown of the tool or battery cartridge. 18. Keep the battery away from children.

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. When not using the battery cartridge, remove it from the tool or the charger.
5. Charge the battery cartridge if you do not use it for a long period (more than six months).

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 machine in a partially assembled state may result in serious personal injury from accidental start-up.

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. Attach the lower handle so that the holes in the handle fit in the protrusions on the lower body. Insert the bolts from inside, then attach washer A from outside, and then tighten the thumb nuts.
   ► Fig.1: 1. Lower handle 2. Washer A 3. Thumb nut 4. Protrusion 5. Hole 6. Bolt
2. Align the hole in the lower handle with the hole in the upper handle, then insert the bolts from inside, then attach washer B from outside, and then tighten the thumb nuts.
   ► Fig.2: 1. Upper handle 2. Hole 3. Washer B 4. Thumb nut 5. Lower handle 6. Bolt
   CAUTION: Hold the upper handle firmly so that it does not drop off your hand. Otherwise, the handle may fall and cause an injury.
3. Attach holder A and holder B to the handle. Position the cords as shown in the figure.
   ► Fig.3: 1. Cord 2. Holder A 3. Holder B

NOTE: When attaching holder A, be sure to fix the cord with the holder as shown in the figure.

Removing the mulching attachment

For DLM460

1. Open the rear cover.
   ► Fig.4: 1. Rear cover
2. Remove the mulching attachment while holding down the lever.
   ► Fig.5: 1. Lever 2. Mulching attachment

For DLM461

1. Open the rear cover.
   ► Fig.6: 1. Rear cover
2. Remove the mulching attachment while pulling the lever.
   ► Fig.7: 1. Mulching attachment 2. Lever

Installing the grass basket

1. Open the rear cover.
   ► Fig.8: 1. Rear cover
2. Hook the grass basket on the rod of the lower body as shown in the figure.
   ► Fig.9: 1. Rod 2. Guard 3. Grass basket

NOTICE: Make sure that the guard on the grass basket is facing downward. Otherwise, the grass basket may not catch all of the cut-off grass.

Attaching the mulching attachment
For DLM460

1. Open the rear cover, and then remove the grass basket.
   ► Fig.10: 1. Rear cover 2. Grass basket
2. Attach the mulching attachment while holding down the lever, and then release the lever to lock the mulching attachment.
   ► Fig.11: 1. Lever 2. Mulching attachment

For DLM461

1. Open the rear cover, and then remove the grass basket.
   ► Fig.12: 1. Rear cover 2. Grass basket
2. Attach the mulching attachment while pulling the lever, and then release the lever to lock the mulching attachment.
   ► Fig.13: 1. Mulching attachment 2. Lever

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

Installing or removing the battery cartridge

CAUTION: Always switch off the tool before installing or removing of the battery cartridge.
CAUTION: Hold the machine and the battery cartridge firmly when installing or removing the battery cartridge. Failure to hold the tool and the battery cartridge firmly may cause them to slip off your hands and result in damage to the tool and battery cartridge and a personal injury.
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. Pull up the locking lever, and then open the battery cover.
   ► Fig.14: 1. Battery cover 2. 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.
   ► Fig.15: 1. Battery cartridge
3. Insert the lock key in the place shown in the figure as far as it will go.
   ► Fig.16: 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. Pull up 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 battery is operated in a manner that causes it to draw an abnormally high current, the tool automatically stops and the main power lamp blinks in green. 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 or battery is overheated, the tool stops automatically and the main power lamp lights up in red. In this case, let the tool and battery cool before turning the tool on again.
Over-discharge protection
When the battery capacity is not enough, the tool stops automatically and the main power lamp blinks in red. In this case, remove the battery from the tool and charge the battery cartridges or change the battery cartridges to fully charged ones.
Indicating the remaining battery capacity
Only for battery cartridges with the indicator
► Fig.17: 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.
NOTE: The first (far left) indicator lamp will blink when the battery protection system works.

Control panel
The control panel has the main power switch, the mode switching button, and the indicator of the remaining battery capacity.
► Fig.18: 1. Battery indicator 2. Mode switching lamp 3. Main power lamp 4. Check button 5. Mode switching button 6. Main power switch

Main power switch
WARNING: Always turn off the main power switch when not in use.
To turn on the machine, press the main power switch. The main power lamp lights up in green. To turn off the machine, press the main power switch again.
NOTE: If the main power lamp lights up in red or blinks in red or green, refer to the instructions for the tool/ battery protection system.
NOTE: This machine employs the auto power-off function. To avoid unintentional start-up, the main power switch will automatically shut down when the switch lever is not pulled for a certain period after the main power switch is turned on.
Mode switching button
You can switch the operating mode by pressing the mode switching button. When the machine is turned on, the machine starts up in the normal mode. When you press the mode switching button, the machine shifts to the energy-saving mode and the mode switching lamp lights up in green. In the energy-saving mode, you can decrease the noise at mowing. When you press the mode switching button again, the machine returns to the normal mode.

Indicating the remaining battery capacity
Press the check button to indicate the remaining battery capacities. The battery indicators correspond to each battery.

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 machine 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 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.
2. Press the main power switch.
3. Press the switch button and hold it.
4. Grab the upper handle and pull the switch lever.
   ► Fig.19: 1. Switch button 2. Upper handle 3. Switch lever
   NOTE: If the lock key is not inserted, the power lamp blinks in green when you pull the switch lever.
5. Release the switch button as soon as the motor starts running. The mower will continue to run until you release the switch lever.
6. 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 and 75 mm. Remove the lock key, and then pull the mowing height adjusting lever outward of the lower body and move it to your desired mowing height.
► Fig.20: 1. Mowing height adjusting lever Hold the front grip with one hand and then move the mowing height adjusting lever with the other hand.
► Fig.21: 1. Mowing height adjusting lever 2. Front grip

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
Country specific
Grass level indicator shows the volume of mowed grass. When the grass basket is not full, the indicator floats while the blades are running.
► Fig.22: 1. Grass level indicator
When the grass basket is almost full, the indicator does not float while the blades are running. In this case, stop the operation immediately and empty the basket.
► Fig.23: 1. Grass level indicator
NOTE: This indicator is a rough guide. Depending on the conditions inside of the basket, this indicator may not work properly.

Adjusting the handle height
CAUTION: Before removing the bolts, hold the upper handle firmly. Otherwise, the handle may fall and cause an injury. The handle height can be adjusted in three levels.

1. Loosen the thumb nuts of the lower handle, and then remove the bolts, washer, and thumb nuts.
   ► Fig.24: 1. Thumb nut 2. Washer 3. Bolt
2. Adjust the handle height.
3. Insert the bolts from inside, then attach washers from outside, and then tighten the thumb nuts.

Using mulching attachment
The mulching attachment allows you to return the cut grass to the ground without gathering the cut grass in the grass basket. When you operate the machine with the mulching attachment, be sure to remove the grass basket.
NOTICE: When using the machine with the mulching attachment, make sure that the total length of grass after cutting is 30 mm or more, and the cut length is 15 mm or less.
► Fig.25: (1) 30 mm or more (2) 15 mm or less

Electronic function
The machine is equipped with electronic functions for easy operation.

• Constant speed control Electronic speed control for obtaining constant speed. Possible to get a fine finish, because the rotating speed is kept constant even under load conditions.
• Soft start The soft-start function minimizes start-up shock and makes the machine start smoothly.

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.
CAUTION: If the cut grass or foreign object blocks up inside of the mower body, be sure to remove the lock key and battery cartridge and wear gloves before removing the grass or foreign object.
NOTICE: Use this machine for mowing lawns only. Do not mow weeds with this machine.
► Fig.26
Firmly hold the handle with both hands when mowing. The mowing speed guideline is approximately 1 meter per 4 seconds.
► Fig.27
The center lines of the front wheels are guidelines to mowing width. Using the center lines as guidelines, mow in strips. Overlap by one-half to one-third the previous strip to mow the lawn evenly.
► Fig.28: 1. Mowing width 2. Overlapping area 3. Centerline Change the mowing direction each time to prevent the grass grain pattern from forming in just one direction.
► Fig.29 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 at once. Instead, mow the lawn in steps. Leave a day or two between mowings until the lawn becomes evenly short.
► Fig.30
NOTE: Mowing long grass to a short length all at once 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 a 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. Open the rear cover and take out the grass basket by holding the handle.
   ► Fig.31: 1. Rear cover 2. Handle 3. Grass basket
4. Empty the grass basket.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: Always be sure that the lock key and battery cartridge are removed from the mower before storing or carrying the mower 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.
WARNING: Always wear the safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when performing inspection or maintenance.

NOTICE: Never use gasoline, benzine, thinner, alcohol or the like. Discoloration, deformation or cracks may result.
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.

Maintenance

1. Remove the lock key and battery cartridges, and then close the battery cover.
2. Put the mower on its side and clean grass clippings accumulated on the underside of mower deck.
3. Pour water toward the bottom of the machine to which the blade is attached.
   NOTICE: Do not wash the machine with high pressure water.
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.
6. Store the mower in a safe place out of the reach of children.

Carrying the mower
When carrying the mower, hold the front grip and lower handle with two people as shown in the figure.
► Fig.32: 1. Lower handle 2. Front grip

Storing
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).

1. Open the rear cover and take out the grass basket by holding the handle.
   ► Fig.33: 1. Rear cover 2. Handle 3. Grass basket
2. Loosen the thumb nuts and fold the upper handle.
   ► Fig.34: 1. Upper handle 2. Thumb nut

Removing or installing the mower blade
WARNING: Always remove the lock 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 sec- onds after releasing the switch. Do not start any operation until the blade comes to a complete stop.
WARNING: Always wear gloves when han- dling the blade.

Removing the mower blade

1. Put the mower on its side so that the mowing height adjusting lever comes to the upper side.
2. To lock the blade, insert a lumber or similar into the mower.
3. Turn the bolt counterclockwise with the wrench.
   ► Fig.35: 1. Mower blade 2. Wrench 3. Lumber
4. Remove the bolt, washer, mower blade in order.
   ► Fig.36: 1. Mower blade 2. Washer 3. Bolt

Installing the mower blade
To install the mower blade, take the removal procedure in reverse.
WARNING: Install the mower blade carefully. It has a top/bottom facing. 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 mower 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.

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 for 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
885657C993