1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Einhell GC-HM 400 Manual Lawn Mower. This robust and functional mower is designed for efficient, quiet, and environmentally friendly lawn care. Its manual operation makes it ideal for areas up to 250 m², providing a clean cut without the need for motor power.
Please read this user manual carefully before operating the device. It contains important information regarding safety, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure safe and optimal use of your lawn mower.
Figure 1: Einhell GC-HM 400 Manual Lawn Mower with grass catcher.
2. Safety Instructions
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent injury or damage to the mower.
- Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with all controls and proper use of the mower before operation.
- Clear the Area: Before mowing, remove all objects such as stones, sticks, wires, bones, and other debris from the lawn that could be thrown by the blades.
- Wear Appropriate Attire: Always wear sturdy footwear and long trousers while operating the mower. Do not operate barefoot or in open sandals.
- Keep Bystanders Away: Ensure that other people, especially children and pets, remain at a safe distance from the mowing area.
- Mow Only in Daylight: Operate the mower only in good daylight or with adequate artificial light.
- Avoid Wet Grass: Do not mow wet grass, as it can be slippery and reduce cutting efficiency.
- Handle Slopes with Caution: Be extremely careful when changing direction on slopes. Mow across the face of slopes, never up and down.
- Inspect Before Use: Regularly check the mower for any signs of wear or damage, especially to the blades and safety devices.
- Storage: Store the mower in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.
3. Package Contents
Upon unpacking, please ensure all parts are present and undamaged:
- Einhell GC-HM 400 Manual Lawn Mower unit
- Upper handle bar
- Lower handle bar
- Grass catcher (27 L capacity)
- Assembly hardware (screws, nuts, washers)
- User Manual (this document)
If any parts are missing or damaged, please contact Einhell customer service immediately.
4. Assembly
Follow these steps to assemble your Einhell GC-HM 400 Manual Lawn Mower:
- Attach the Lower Handle Bar: Align the holes on the lower handle bar with the corresponding holes on the mower frame. Secure it using the provided screws and nuts. Ensure a tight fit.
- Connect the Upper Handle Bar: Slide the upper handle bar into the lower handle bar. Secure it with the remaining screws and nuts. The curved design of the handle ensures ergonomic use.
- Install the Grass Catcher: Hook the grass catcher onto the designated attachment points at the rear of the mower. Ensure it is securely fastened to prevent it from detaching during operation.
Figure 2: Attaching the 27-liter grass catcher.
5. Operation
Operating your manual lawn mower is straightforward. Follow these guidelines for optimal performance:
5.1. Adjusting Cutting Height
The Einhell GC-HM 400 offers a 4-stage cutting height adjustment from 13 mm to 37 mm. To adjust:
- Locate the height adjustment levers on the side of the mower, near the wheels.
- Carefully lift or lower the levers to select your desired cutting height. Ensure both sides are set to the same level for an even cut.
Figure 3: Detail of the 4-stage cutting height adjustment mechanism.
5.2. Mowing Your Lawn
Push the mower forward at a steady, comfortable pace. The ball-bearing spindle with its five high-quality steel blades will precisely cut the grass. For best results, mow in straight, overlapping lines.
Figure 4: User operating the Einhell GC-HM 400 on a lawn.
5.3. Emptying the Grass Catcher
When the 27-liter grass catcher is full, detach it from the mower and empty the clippings into a compost bin or designated area. Reattach the catcher securely before continuing to mow.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and performance of your lawn mower.
6.1. Cleaning
After each use, clean the mower thoroughly. Remove grass clippings and dirt from the blades, wheels, and frame. A stiff brush or cloth can be used. Do not use high-pressure cleaners or running water directly on the bearings.
6.2. Blade Care
The steel blades are designed for durability. If you notice a decrease in cutting performance, the blades may need sharpening. This should be done by a qualified professional to maintain the correct blade angle and balance.
Figure 5: Close-up view of the ball-bearing spindle and steel blades.
6.3. Storage
For long-term storage, clean the mower thoroughly and store it in a dry, well-ventilated area. The mower features a parking position for safe and easy storage, minimizing space requirements.
Figure 6: The mower can be stored upright to save space.
7. Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and their potential solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven cut | Cutting height not set evenly on both sides; dull blades. | Ensure both height adjustment levers are at the same setting. Sharpen or replace blades if necessary. |
| Mower difficult to push | Grass too long or wet; debris in blades/wheels. | Mow more frequently. Avoid mowing wet grass. Clear any obstructions from blades and wheels. |
| Grass catcher not collecting effectively | Catcher full; improperly attached. | Empty the grass catcher. Ensure it is securely attached to the mower. |
If you encounter problems not listed here or if solutions do not resolve the issue, please contact Einhell customer support.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | GC-HM 400 |
| Cutting Width | 40 cm (400 mm) |
| Cutting Height Adjustment | 4 stages (13 mm - 37 mm) |
| Recommended Lawn Area | Up to 250 m² |
| Grass Catcher Capacity | 27 Liters |
| Blade Type | Ball-bearing spindle with 5 high-quality steel blades |
| Roller Diameter | 46 mm (plastic) |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 58 x 36 x 24 cm (approximate, for main unit) |
| Weight | 7.5 kg |
| Material | Stainless Steel and Plastic |
9. Warranty and Support
Einhell products are manufactured with high-quality materials and undergo strict quality controls. In the unlikely event of a defect, please refer to your purchase documentation for warranty terms and conditions.
For technical support, spare parts, or warranty claims, please contact your local Einhell service center or visit the official Einhell website. Please have your model number (GC-HM 400) and proof of purchase ready when contacting support.
Online Resources: For additional information, FAQs, and product registration, please visit the official Einhell website: www.einhell.de
