Qualcast

1600W Electric Rotary Mower 2953258

(Model: M2EB1637M)

Instruction Manual

After Sales Support

UK/Ireland 0345 640 0800

Web www.argosspares.co.uk

Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly

These instructions contain important information that will help you get the best from
your mower, ensuring it is assembled correctly and safely.
If you need help or have damaged or missing parts, call the Customer Helpline
on 0345 640 0800.

Sep 2014
 Contents

Safety Information........................................................................................................................................... 3

Warning Symbols..........................................................................................................................................3

General Safety...............................................................................................................................................5

Personal Safety.............................................................................................................................................6

Operating and Maintenance Safety...........................................................................................................11

In the Box........................................................................................................................................................12

Parts.............................................................................................................................................................12

Assembly.........................................................................................................................................................13

Step 1 - Bottom Handle Support Assembly..............................................................................................13

Step 2 - Curved Handle Assembly.............................................................................................................14

Step 3 - Grass Collector Assembly...........................................................................................................15

Operating Instructions & Tips........................................................................................................................16

Mounting / Removing the Grass Collector................................................................................................16

Grass Full Indicator.....................................................................................................................................17

Setting the Cutting Heights........................................................................................................................18

ON/OFF Operation......................................................................................................................................20

Operation.....................................................................................................................................................21

Using as a Mulcher.....................................................................................................................................22

Mowing Advice............................................................................................................................................23

Maintenance....................................................................................................................................................24

Cleaning & Maintenance............................................................................................................................24

Blade Maintenance.....................................................................................................................................24

Maintenance and Storage..........................................................................................................................24

Troubleshooting..............................................................................................................................................25

General Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................25

Technical Data.................................................................................................................................................26

Technical Data Table...................................................................................................................................26

Disposal...........................................................................................................................................................26

Disposal and Recycling..............................................................................................................................26

Getting Help....................................................................................................................................................26

2 Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800

 Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Warnings Symbols

The following warning symbols appear throughout this

manual and indicate the appropriate safety measures you
should take when assembling and operating the mower.
Take extra care, beware of hazards.

Read instruction manual.

Wear eye and ear protection.

Do not use the machine in the rain or leave it outdoors

when it is raining.

Pay attention that bystanders are not injured by objects

thrown out from the machine.

Keep bystanders a safe distance away from the machine.

Sharp blade. Beware of injury to toes or fingers.

Disconnect from the mains supply before any maintenance

work.

Warning. Beware of electric shocks.

Keep the mains supply cord away from the cutting blade.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 3

 Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Warnings Symbols (continued)

Wait until all moving parts have stopped completely before

touching them. The blade may continue to rotate after the
machine is switched off, a rotating blade can cause injury.
Noise level specification Lwa in dB.

Protection class II

Do not dispose of electrical equipment in domestic waste.

Cutting width

Important! When using equipment, the following safety

precautions must be followed to avoid injuries and damage.
• Read all operating instructions carefully and comply with
them. It is important to understand these instructions
and to acquaint yourself with the machine, its correct
usage and all safety requirements.
• Keep this manual in a safe place so that the information
is available at all times.
• If you give the equipment to any other person, give them
these operating instructions as well.

4 Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800

 Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
General Safety

We accept no liability for damage or accidents which result

from non-compliance with these instructions.
Intended usage
This lawn mower if designed for use in private gardens.
The machine is to be used for its prescribed purpose only.
Any other use is deemed to be a case of misuse. The
user / operator and not the manufacturer will be liable for
any damage or injuries of any kind caused as a result of
misuse.
Please note that this equipment has not been designed
for use in commercial, trade or industrial applications.
Your warranty will also be voided if the machine is used in
commercial, trade or industrial businesses or for equivalent
purposes.
Assembly
The push handles and the grass collector must be fully
assembled, undamaged and in correct working order
before using the lawn mower.
Follow the operating instructions step-by-step and use
the pictures provided as a visual guide to assemble these
parts.
Power supply
Before you connect the equipment to the mains supply
ensure that the data on the rating plate corresponds to
your mains supply.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 5

 Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Personal Safety

Note! Only supply power to the equipment through circuit

protected by an RCD with a maximum trip current of 30 mA.
• Use only plugs or connectors approved for outdoor
usage.
• Extension cables must comply to H07RN-F requirements
as described in DIN 57 282/VDE 0282 and must have
a minimum cross-section of 1.5 mm2. The plug must
have an earth and any connection must also be earthed
and splashproof. Before use, check the cables for signs
of damage and ageing. Never use the mower if the
cables are not in perfect condition (this also applies to
the supply cable on the mower). If the cable is damaged
whilst the mower is working, disconnect the mains plug
from the power supply immediately and then check the
extent of the damage.
• Never allow children or others who are no familiar with
the operating instructions to use the lawn mower. Local
regulations may stipulate the minimum age of the user of
this type of machinery.
• In areas where the mains supply is weak or bearing
a high load, this mower may cause further voltage
fluctuations as it starts. In extreme cases, this can cause
damage to other equipment working from the same
supply. In this case we recommend to temporarily switch
off any unneeded equipment or connect it to a different
circuit.
• This machine is not designed to be used by people
(including children) with limited physical, sensory or
mental capacities or those with no experience and/
or knowledge unless they are supervised by a person
who is responsible for their safety or they have received
instructions from such a person in how to use the
6 Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800
 Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Personal Safety (continued)

machine safely. Children must always be supervised in

order to ensure that they do not play with the machine.
• Always check the mower for signs of damage before
each usage.
• Always disconnect the mains lead from the electrical
supply before carrying out any inspection, servicing or
maintenance work.
• Ensure that all the guards are securely fitted and in good
working order.
• Check the grass collector at regular intervals for signs of
wear and to ensure that it is always in perfect working
order.
• Before each use, inspect the mower to check the cutting
blade, fastening bolts and the entire cutting unit for
any signs of wear or damage. To prevent imbalance or
vibration, worn or damaged cutting blades and fastening
bolts must always be replaced in full.
• Damaged parts on the mower must be replaced by
qualified personnel. Use only genuine spare parts.
• Repair work on the electrical parts of the lawn mower
may only be carried out by a qualified electrician.
• Follow the instructions to fit or remove the blade and
wear protective gloves.
• The user remains responsible for any injury to third
parties within the working area of the lawn mower whilst
the lawnmower is being used.
• Only work in good daylight or appropriate and adequate
artificial light.
• Never use the mower when you are tired.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 7

 Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Personal Safety (continued)

• Never run the mower in enclosed or poorly ventilated

rooms or if there are inflammable or explosive fluids,
vapours or gases nearby.
• Switch off the motor and disconnect the mains lead
before clearing blockages in the grass ejection area and
before you inspect it if the mower has struck a foreign
body.
• Always use the lawn mower with the grass collector
correctly fitted.
• Check the site on which you intend to use the lawn
mower and remove all objects that may be caught
or thrown up by the mower. Foreign bodies must be
removed before you start mowing. Keep an eye of the
power cable and keep it away from the cutting blade at
all times.
• Ensure that you do not push the mower over areas that
might damage or snare the power cable.
• Never lift the lawn mower when you start the motor.
• Before you lift the lawn mower to transport it, switch off
the motor, disconnect the mains lead and wait until the
blade has come to a complete standstill.
• When you start the motor, the lawn mower should not
be tilted unless the grass is particularly long. In this case
only tilt it up as far as is really necessary and only raise
the side that is furthest away from the user.
• Never reach towards rotating parts with your hands or
feet. Always keep away from the discharge chute.
• Before you attach or empty the grass collector, switch
off the motor and wait until the blade has come to a
complete standstill.

8 Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800

 Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Personal Safety (continued)

• Make sure you keep your feet at a safe distance from the
mower blade at all times! Do not stand near the grass
ejection chute if the grass collector is not fitted.
• The safety distance from the moving blade produced by
the push handle must be maintained at all times.
• If you use the mower on a small incline, mow across the
slope (not in an up and down direction). Always be sure
of your footing on slopes.
• Be particularly careful when changing direction with the
mower whilst working on a slope.
• Do not use the lawn mower on gradients of over 15
degrees.
• Ensure that you have safe footing at all times whilst
working with the mower.
• Always wear strong, anti-slip footwear and long trousers
when using the mower. Never mow in bare feet or in
open-toed sandals.
• When the mower is running ensure that no person or
pet, particularly children and animals, is in the immediate
vicinity of the lawn mower. Ensure that you keep
everybody at least 10meters away from the mower when
it is working.
• Switch off the motor and disconnect the plug from
the power supply if the mower strikes a foreign body.
Check the mower for signs of damage and carry out all
necessary repair work before you start the mower again.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 9

 Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Personal Safety (continued)

• If the lawn mower begins to vibrate abnormally, switch

it off immediately, disconnect the plug immediately and
check it carefully. Ensure that all the nuts, bolts and
screws are tight and that the mower is in a safe condition
for use.
• Do not leave the mower out in the rain. The lawn must
not be wet or very damp.
• Only push the mower at a normal walking pace.
• Be particularly careful when you change the direction of
the mower or pull it towards you. Avoid pulling it towards
you while the blade is moving.
• Switch off the mower if it has to be pushed over surfaces
other than grass, and when moving the mower to and
from the area you wish to mow.
• Carefully actuate the starter switch in accordance with
the instructions. (See Operating Instructions)
• Do not switch the mower on and off frequently over a
short period of time, and in particular do not play with
the ON/OFF switch.
• Do not touch the cutting blade until the machine has
been disconnected from the mains and the cutting blade
has reached a complete standstill.
• Never lift or carry the mower whilst the motor is running.
• Switch off the motor and disconnect the plug whenever
you leave the lawn mower.
• Keep the lawn mower in a dry place which is
inaccessible to children at all times.
• Before you adjust or clean the mower or check whether
the mains lead is kinked or damaged, switch off the
mower and disconnect the plug from the power supply.
10 Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800
 Safety Information
Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly
Operating and Maintenance Safety

CAUTION! Read all safety requirements and instructions.

Any errors made in following the safety requirements and
instruction may result in an electric shock, fire and serious
injury.
Keep all safety regulations and instructions in a safe place
for future use.
• Do not use the lawnmower if the cords are damaged or
worn.
• Do not connect a damaged cord to the mains supply or
touch a damaged cord before it is disconnected from
the mains supply. A damaged cord could allow parts to
become live and cause a risk of electrocution.
• Do not attempt to touch the blades before the machine
is disconnected from the supply and the blades have
come to a complete stop.
• Keep extension cords away from the blade. The blade
can cause damage to cords and lead to contact with live
parts.
• Disconnect from the mains supply (i.e. remove the plug
from the mains socket)
whenever leaving the machine unattended,
before cleaning a blockage,
after striking a foreign object,
whenever the machine starts vibrating abnormally.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 11

 In
the Box
Parts

1 Curved handle 4 Switch box 9 Front wheels 12 Grass box handle

section
5 Quick release levers 10 Cutting height 13 Deflector guard
2 Start / Stop switch adjuster
6 Grass box top 14 Carrying handle
lever
11 Bottom handle
7 Grass collector 15 Motor housing
3 Safety switch button supports
8 Back wheels

1 1

3
4

11

12

13
6

14 7

15 8

10

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Assembly

Step 1 - Bottom Handle Support Assembly

2 3
1
11

11

• The bottom handle support 11 is attached to the deck on either side using a bolt, washer and
plastic quick release lever. If the handle is not pre-fitted in the box push the bolt (from the inside
towards the outside) through the deck, handle, then washer, and fasten into the metal retainer in
the plastic lever, in that order.
• Ensure all the plastic quick release levers are unfolded. Hold the bottom handle support in the
desired position (fig 3) for operation. Fix the handle in this position by tightening the quick release
levers 5 (clockwise) and then locking them into position by folding the levers snug against the
handle 11 . These levers should be folded in towards the bar using moderate force to lock them
in position. If they feel too tight when you fold them, turn them anti-clockwise to loosen them and
then attempt to fold them again. Do not use excessive force.

To tighten - turn clockwise or to loosen- turn anticlockwise, before folding them.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 13

 Assembly

Step 2 - Curved Handle Assembly

44 5
5

1
5

11

• The top, curved handle section 1 is assembled to the bottom handle support 11 using a bolt,
washer and quick release lever 5 on either side. Adjust the height to suite the operator as
necessary by inserting the bolt into the required holes on the handle (fig 4)
• The top, curved handle section 1 is assembled to the bottom handle supports 11 using a
bolt, washer and quick release lever 5 on either side. Adjust the height to suite the operator as
necessary by inserting the bolt into the required holes on the handle (fig 4).
• Hold the curved handle in the desired operating position (fig 4). Fix the handle in this position by
tightening (clockwise) the quick release levers then fold them against the handle. These levers
should be folded in towards the handle using moderate force to lock them in position. When
locked there should be no play between the top and bottom handle assemblies.
To tighten, unfold these lever, turn them clockwise, then fold them back (fig 5).
To loosen, unfold these levers, turn anticlockwise, then fold them back in (fig 5).
Several adjustments may be needed to find the correct setting. Do not force.

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Assembly

Step 3 - Grass Collector Assembly

3a. Clip the plastic retainers 17 two sides of the cloth grass collector onto the metal frame 16

Fully insert the rods of the metal frame 16 into the slots 18 on either side of the plastic base of the
grass collector
3b. There is a hole 19 in the bottom of the grass collector to hang it up if required.

The grass collector is also designed to collapse into a compact size to reduce storage space when the
lawnmower is not in use.
To do this reverse stage 3a.
Remove the metal frame 16 from the slots 18 on either side of the plastic base of the grass collector.
Unclip the plastic retainers of the cloth grass collector from the metal frame. Fold grass collector.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 15

 Operating
Instructions & Tips
Mounting / Removing the Grass Collector

7
13

20

• Lift the deflector guard 13

• Place the grass collector on the mounting bracket 20 provided at the back of the lawn mower.
• Lower the deflector guard 13 onto the grass collector - it will keep it in place.
• To remove the grass collector, lift the deflector guard 13 and unhook the grass collector from the
mounting bracket. Ensure the deflector returns to its original position.

16 Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800

Operating
Instructions & Tips
Grass Full Indicator

• Your mower may be fitted with a grass full indicator. This is a small red flap on the top side of the
grass collector.
• When this flap remains open as you work, it means that the grass collector is not full (air flowing
freely through the grass collector).
• When this flap remains closed it means that the grass collector is full and needs to be emptied (no
airflow through the grass collector)

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 17

 Operating
Instructions & Tips
Setting the Cutting Heights

10

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Operating
Instructions & Tips
Setting the Cutting Heights (continued)

IMPORTANT! Ensure the power cord is disconnected from the mains supply before adjusting the
cutting height.

To adjust the cutting height, gently pull the height adjustment lever towards you to disengage it from
its existing position and move it to the desired cutting height position. Ensure it clicks back firmly into
position.

Before you begin to mow, check to ensure that the blade is not blunt or damaged and that none
of the fasteners are lose. To prevent any imbalance, replace blunt and/or damaged blades. Always
ensure the blade is at a standstill and the motor disconnected from the mains before checking the
blade.
Position Cutting height
1 20 mm
2 30 mm
3 40 mm
4 50 mm
5 60 mm
6 70 mm

A higher cut height should generally be selected for the first cut of the season. When cutting longer
grass, cut the grass in 2 or more passes by lowering the cutting height gradually at each pass.
These techniques will help to a avoid over-stressing your grass.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 19

 Operating
Instructions & Tips
ON/OFF Operation

10 11
2

Make a loop at the end of the cable and hang the loop onto the strain relief on the cross bar.
• Connect the mower to your power supply socket.
• Before switching on, ensure that the mower is not in contact with any foreign objects.
• To switch on, press the safety lock-off button 3 on the handle, then activate the start/stop switch
lever 2 . Release the lock-off button 3 .
• To switch off, release the start/stop switch lever 2 .

After switching off the equipment, the blade may continue to turn for several seconds. Do not touch
the moving blade. There is a risk of serious injury.

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Operating
Instructions & Tips
Operation

Before you connect the equipment to the mains supply make sure that the data on the rating plate
corresponds to your mains supply.

IMPORTANT! Always ensure the on/off switch is working correctly. Do not use if you suspect a fault.
Before you perform any repair or maintenance work on the machine, ensure that the blade is not
rotating and that the power supply is disconnected.

IMPORTANT! Never open the deflector flap to empty the grass collector if the motor is still running.
The rotating blade can cause serious injuries and throw objects out at high speed.

Always ensure grass deflector and grass collector fit securely. Always switch off the motor before you
remove these items.

A safe distance between the blade deck and the user is provided by the length of the handle. This
distance must be maintained at all times. Take special care when mowing and changing direction on
embankments and slopes. Ensure that you have a secure surface to stand on, wear shoes with anti-
slip soles that offer good grip, and long trousers. Always mow across the slope (not in up or down
direction).

Do not use the mower on gradients exceeding 15° for safety reasons.

Take special care when moving backwards and pulling the lawn mower. Never pull the mower
backwards when the motor is running.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 21

 Operating
Instructions & Tips
Using as a Mulcher

12 13

14

• Your lawnmower is supplied with a mulching plug.

• Before fitting the mulching plug,disconnect the lawnmower from the mains supply.
• Lift the deflector guard and insert the mulching plug into rear discharge chute (fig 12), ensuring it is
correctly fitted (fig 13).
• The mulching plug retains the cut grass inside the deck and cuts this grass several more times
into very small particles before it is deposited back onto the lawn. This finely cut grass acts as a
nutrient for the lawn.
• The rear roller (fig 14) leaves a stripe finish on the lawn and helps to prevent scalping on borders
and edges.

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Operating
Instructions & Tips
Mowing Advice

We recommend that you mow in overlapping lines. Only mow with a sharp blade so that the blades of
grass do not fray. This can cause grass to turn yellow. To achieve a good cut, guide the lawn mower
in lines that are as straight as possible. These lines should always overlap by a few centimeters so that
you do not leave any uncut strips.

How often you need to mow your lawn depends on how fast the grass is growing. During the main
growth period mow more frequently. If the grass is longer than usual, cut it in 2 or more stages. This
will cause less stress to both the mower and the grass. Never cut the grass by more than half its
height.

Keep the under side of the mower casing clean and remove all grass deposits from it. Deposits make it
more difficult to start the mower and also adversely affect the mowing quality and the grass collection.
Switch off the motor before you carry out any inspections of the blade. Remember that the blade will
continue to turn for a few seconds after the motor has been switched off. Never attempt to stop the
blade.

Check regularly that the blade is correctly secured, in good condition and sharp. If not, sharpen or
replace the blade.

If the moving blade strikes an object, stop the mower and wait until the blade has come to a complete
standstill. Then check the condition of the blade and the blade mounting. If they are damaged, they
must be replaced.

Place the mains lead in loops on the ground near the wall socket. Mow away from the socket and
cable and ensure that the mains lead is always on the section of lawn that you have already mowed so
that you do not run over the mains lead with the mower.

If you you see mown grass on the lawn whilst you are mowing it means the grass collector is full and
needs to be emptied immediately.

IMPORTANT! Before you remove the grass collector, switch off the motor and wait until the blade
reaches a complete standstill.

To remove the grass collector, raise the deflector guard with one hand and remove the grass collector
holding its handle with your other hand.To maintain safety, the deflector guard will close when you
remove the grass collector to seal the rear discharge opening. If any grass drops onto the ground you
need push the mower away from the area to make it easier to re-start the motor.

Do not remove grass cuttings in the mower casing or on the cutter by hand or with your feet. Instead
use suitable tools such as a brush or broom. To ensure efficient grass collection the grass collector
should be cleaned after use. This will ensure the air is able to flow freely through it for best grass
collection performance.

Only fit the grass collector when the motor is switched off and the blade is not moving. Raise the
deflector guard with one hand and, holding the grass collector by its handle in your other hand,
position it squarely onto its support. Ensure it fits snug against the body of the mower before starting.

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 23

 Maintenance

Cleaning & Maintenance

WARNING: Always switch the product off, disconnect it from power supply and let the
product cool down before performing inspection, maintenance and cleaning work!

Cleaning
• Keep all safety devices, air vents and the motor housing free of dirt and dust as far as possible.
Wipe the equipment with a soft brush or blow it with compressed air at low pressure after usage.
• Clean the mower regularly with a moist cloth and some soft soap. Do not use cleaning agents or
solvents; these may damage plastic components.
• Ensure that no water can seep into the device.

Blade Maintenance

If the blade is blunt, it can be sharpened in a specialised workshop. If the blade is damaged or
showing signs of imbalance, it must be replaced.

Carry out the following steps to change the blade:

• Turn the mower over and rest it carefully on its side .
• Use sturdy gloves and hold the blade firmly. Turn the blade bolt anticlockwise to remove the blade .
• Install the new blade in the reverse order. Ensure that the blade is positioned correctly and the
screw tightened firmly. The blade’s wings should be angled upwards (towards the mower).
• Tighten the fastening bolt. The tightening torque should be approx. 25 Nm.

IMPORTANT! Always wear work gloves when engaging in any maintenance work.

Only replace the blade with a genuine replacement blade as this will ensure top performance and
safety under all conditions.

Maintenance and Storage

• There are no parts inside the mower which require additional maintenance.
• Store in a dry place, out of reach of children.

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Troubleshooting

General Troubleshooting

The following table provides solutions to common problems encountered with the mower.

Fault Possible Cause Solution

Mower does not start No power at mains socket Check the fuse, switch,
socket, cable, wire and have
any repairs carried out by a
qualified electrician
Defective on/off switch Repair by a qualified technician
Worn carbon brushes required
Defective motor
Grass too long Set at a higher cut setting.
Lift the front wheels slightly by
pressing down on the handle
bar.
Motor stops Blade is blocked Disconnect from mains and
remove blockage
Untidy finish, motor labours Cut height too low Set a higher cut height
Blade blunt Sharpen or replace the blade
Blade area blocked Remove blockage
Blade assembled incorrectly Install the blade correctly
Blade fails to turn Blade blocked by grass Remove blockage
Blade bolt loose Tighten the blade bolt
Strange noises, rattling or Blade bolt loose Tighten the blade bolt
vibrations Blade damaged Replace the blade

Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800 25

 Technical
Data
Technical Data Table

Specification Value
Voltage 220-240 V ~ 50 Hz
Power input 1600W
Motor speed 3250min-1
Cutting width 37cm
Cutting height adjustment 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70mm; 6 levels
Volume of grass collector 40 liters
Wheel size 140/200mm
LpA sound pressure level 93.7 dB(A) K=2.16 dB(A)
LWA sound power level 96 dB(A)
Vibration at the handlebars ahv < 2.5m/s2
Protection class II

Disposal
Disposal and Recycling

Do not dispose with household waste.

Recycle products and components according to local legal requirements.

Getting Help

After sales helpline number: 0345 640 0800

Spare parts purchases: www.argosspares.co.uk

26 Customer Helpline 0345 640 0800