Scheppach BMS196-88 Gasoline Scythe Mower

1. Safety Instructions

Always read and understand this manual before operating the machine. Failure to follow instructions can result in serious injury or property damage. Keep this manual for future reference.

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including eye protection, hearing protection, sturdy footwear, and long pants.
• Ensure the work area is clear of debris, rocks, and other objects that could be thrown by the blades.
• Never operate the mower near bystanders, especially children or pets. Maintain a safe distance.
• Do not operate the machine under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication that may impair judgment.
• Before performing any maintenance, cleaning, or adjustments, always turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.
• Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine off and cool. Avoid spilling fuel.
• Be aware of the terrain. Operate with caution on slopes and uneven ground.

2. Product Overview

The Scheppach BMS196-88 is a powerful gasoline scythe mower designed for efficient cutting of high grass and challenging terrain. It features a robust engine and wide cutting bar for rapid progress.

Figure 2.1: The Scheppach BMS196-88 Gasoline Scythe Mower, shown with the included engine oil. This image provides a full view of the machine, highlighting its robust design and the wide cutting bar.

Key Features:

• Ideal for difficult terrain or slopes, such as orchards, pastures, or natural gardens.
• Powerful 5.7 HP / 4.2 kW 4-stroke gasoline engine with 196 cm³ displacement.
• Fast mowing progress thanks to an extra-large cutting width of 88 cm.
• Recommended for lawn areas up to 3,000 m².
• Equipped with a reliable pull starter.
• Cutting height adjustment from 30 – 60 mm.
• Vibration-damped guide handle adjustable in 3 heights for ergonomic operation.
• Large tires with off-road profile for excellent traction.
• Forward speed of 2.52 km/h ensures rapid work progress.
• Includes engine oil for immediate use.

Figure 2.2: Detail view of the cutting bar, showing the 50 mm blade spacing. This design ensures effective cutting of dense and tall vegetation.

Figure 2.3: A close-up of the powerful 5.7 HP, 196cc 4-stroke gasoline engine, compliant with Euro 5 emission standards. This engine provides the necessary power for demanding mowing tasks.

3. Setup and Assembly

Before first use, some assembly is required. Ensure all components are present and undamaged before beginning.

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Check against the packing list to ensure nothing is missing.
2. Handlebar Assembly: Attach the handlebar to the main unit using the provided bolts and nuts. Ensure it is securely fastened and adjusted to a comfortable height (3 height settings available).
3. Wheel Attachment: Mount the large off-road wheels. This step may require patience due to tight clearances. Ensure wheels are firmly attached for proper traction.
4. Add Engine Oil: The mower is supplied with engine oil. Before starting, fill the engine with the specified amount of oil. Refer to the engine manual for exact oil type and capacity.
5. Add Fuel: Fill the fuel tank with fresh, unleaded gasoline. Do not overfill.
6. Pre-Operation Check: Before each use, check all fasteners for tightness, inspect the blades for damage, and ensure all safety guards are in place.

4. Operating Instructions

Proper operation ensures efficient mowing and extends the life of your machine.

4.1 Starting the Engine:

1. Ensure the fuel valve is open and the engine switch is in the "ON" position.
2. If the engine is cold, apply choke as per engine manual instructions.
3. Pull the starter cord firmly and smoothly until the engine starts.
4. Once started, gradually return the choke to the "OFF" position.

Figure 4.1: Illustration of the powerful 4.2 kW / 5.7 PS 4-stroke gasoline engine and the pull starter mechanism. This visual aid helps in understanding the starting procedure.

4.2 Mowing:

The BMS196-88 is designed for cutting high grass and dense vegetation. Its wide cutting bar and robust engine make it suitable for large areas.

• Cutting Width: The mower features an extra-large cutting width of 880 mm, allowing for efficient coverage of large areas.
• Cutting Height: Adjust the cutting height between 30 mm and 60 mm according to the grass length and desired finish.
• Forward Speed: The machine operates at a forward speed of 2.52 km/h, ensuring a steady and rapid work pace.
• Terrain Suitability: This mower is particularly effective in challenging environments such as orchards, pastures, natural gardens, and on slopes, thanks to its large tires with off-road profile.

Figure 4.2: Visual representation of the mower's key operational parameters: cutting height, cutting width, recommended area capacity, and forward speed. This helps in understanding the machine's capabilities.

Figure 4.3: Examples of suitable applications for the Scheppach BMS196-88, including orchards, pastures, natural gardens, and sloped terrain. The mower's design makes it versatile for various challenging landscapes.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and optimal performance of your scythe mower. Always ensure the engine is off and cool, and the spark plug wire is disconnected before performing any maintenance.

• Cleaning: After each use, clean the cutting bar and the underside of the mower to remove grass clippings and debris. Use a brush or compressed air. Do not use high-pressure water directly on the engine or electrical components.
• Blade Inspection: Regularly inspect the cutting blades for sharpness and damage. Sharpen or replace blades as needed. Damaged blades can affect cutting performance and safety.
• Engine Oil: Check the engine oil level before each use. Change the engine oil according to the schedule in the engine manual (typically after the first 5-10 hours, then every 25-50 hours).
• Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter regularly, especially when operating in dusty conditions. A clogged air filter can reduce engine performance.
• Spark Plug: Inspect and clean the spark plug periodically. Replace if worn or fouled.
• Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts and pivot points as specified in the manual to ensure smooth operation.
• Storage: For long-term storage, drain the fuel tank or add a fuel stabilizer. Clean the machine thoroughly and store it in a dry, protected area.

6. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common operational issues. For problems not listed here, contact qualified service personnel.

7. Specifications

Technical data for the Scheppach BMS196-88 Gasoline Scythe Mower.

8. Warranty and Support

Scheppach products are manufactured with high quality standards. In the unlikely event of a defect, please refer to your purchase documentation for warranty terms and conditions.

For technical support, spare parts, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized Scheppach dealer or visit the official Scheppach website for contact information.

Keep your proof of purchase (receipt or invoice) as it will be required for any warranty claims.