Premium 521 VSH - Lawn mower AL-KO - Free user manual and instructions

Brand	AL-KO
Model	Premium 521 VSH
Product type	Gasoline lawn mower
Fuel	Unleaded gasoline
Cutting width	51 cm (estimated from model)
Cutting height adjustment	Centralized adjustment, multiple notches
Grass catcher	Yes, with fill level indicator
Mulching kit (shredding)	Optional
Side discharge	Optional
Wheel drive	Optional, activation by control bar
Vario transmission (variable speed)	Optional
Starting	Manual by cable, electric start optional
Engine type	4-stroke, gasoline
Engine oil capacity	Approx. 0.6 L
Safety devices	Safety bar, deflector flap
Maintenance	Blade sharpening/replacement, oil change, air filter, spark plug
Storage	Drain tank, store dry, frost-free

Frequently Asked Questions - Premium 521 VSH AL-KO

How to start the engine of the Premium 521 VSH lawn mower?

To start, first check the fuel and oil levels. Set the throttle to the max position if available (depending on model). Press the primer bulb 3 times (5 times if <10°C). Pull the safety bar up and hold it. Pull the starter cord quickly then let it rewind slowly. To stop, release the safety bar.

How to adjust the cutting height?

Adjustment must only be done with the engine off and blade stopped. Push the unlocking lever to the side and move the lever left or right to select the desired height. Make sure all wheels are on the same notch.

How to install the mulching kit?

With the engine off and blade stopped, remove the grass catcher. Lift the deflector flap and insert the mulching kit into the discharge opening until it clicks into place. To remove, unlock the locking mechanism and pull it out.

How to empty the grass catcher?

Lift the deflector flap, unhook the catcher and pull it back. Empty it, then put it back by lifting the flap again and hooking it into the supports. The fill level indicator tells you when it is full.

Which engine oil to use and how much?

Use the engine oil recommended by the engine manufacturer (see instructions). The filling amount is approximately 0.6 liters. Refill when the engine is cold and in a well-ventilated area.

What to do if the engine does not start?

Check the fuel level, set the throttle to Start, operate the starter, push the engine drive control towards the handlebar. Check the spark plug, clean the air filter, ensure the blade turns freely. If electric start, recharge the battery. Try starting on an area already mown.

How to activate the wheel drive?

The wheel drive (optional) is activated with the engine running. Press the drive control bar against the upper part of the handlebar and hold it. To deactivate, release the bar. For the Vario transmission, pull the lever to increase or decrease speed.

How to maintain the cutting blade?

Before any intervention, stop the engine and remove the spark plug cap. Wear gloves. Have the blade sharpened or replaced by an authorized center if dull or damaged. Regularly check the blade balance after sharpening.

How to store the lawn mower in winter?

Let the engine cool down. Drain the fuel tank and remove the spark plug cap. Store it in a dry, frost-free place, out of reach of children. For the starting battery (if present), store it frost-free.

What are the important safety instructions?

Read the instruction manual before use. Wear appropriate clothing (long trousers, sturdy shoes, hearing protection). Keep bystanders away. Do not mow on slopes >20° and always across the slope. Stop the engine before leaving the machine, unclogging or cleaning. Never use without protective devices (catcher, deflector, etc.).

USER MANUAL Premium 521 VSH AL-KO

Line drawing of a lawn mower with attached lever and magazine (no text or symbols)

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GB: Operating Instructions .....17

Line drawing of two hands operating a mechanical device with a tool, no text or symbols present

Mechanical assembly diagram showing a clamp and key inserted into a bracket (no text or symbols)

Diagram of a mechanical clamp or bracket being adjusted, showing hand positioning and motion direction (no text or symbols)

Illustration of a hand holding a tool with a curved handle, showing mechanical assembly (no text or symbols)

Technical line drawing of a mechanical clamp or bracket assembly (no text or symbols)

Illustration of a lawn mower with directional arrows indicating motion, labeled 'Briggs & Stratton' below (no other text or symbols)

Technical line drawing of a mechanical device with an inset showing a cable being inserted (no text or symbols present)

Zu diesem Handbuch

• Read through these operating instructions before starting up the machine. This is a prerequisite for safe and trouble-free working. Before use, familiarize yourself with the control elements and the correct use of the machine.
  ■ You should save these instructions, and also pass them on to any subsequent users.
• Observe the safety and warning signs on the machine.

Pictogram description

Caution!

Strict following of these warning alerts can prevent injury to persons and/or materials.

Special information for better understanding and handling.

The camera symbol refers to illustrations

Contents

About this handbook....17

Product description....17

Safety and protection devices 17

Safety instructions 19

Assembly....20

Fuelling....20

Initial startup 21

Maintenance and care....23

Repairs 24

Warranty 25

Storage 25

Disposal....25

EC declaration of conformity 25

Faults and remedies....26

Product description

This document describes various models of petrol lawnmowers. Some models are equipped with a grass catcher and/or are suitable for mulching.

Please identify your particular model in the product illustrations and descriptions of the various options.

Proper use

This equipment is intended for moving lawns on private property and should be used on dry grass only.

Use for any other purpose is considered improper use.

Incorrect use

This lawnmower is not suitable for use in public spaces, parks, sports grounds, farming or forestry
■ Safety devices must not be removed or bypassed
■ Do not use the equipment on damp grass, or if it is raining
■ The equipment is intended for domestic use only

Safety and protection devices

Caution - Risk of injury!

Safety/protection devices should not be disabled!

Safety brake handle

The lawnmower is equipped with a safety brake. Release the brake handle if there is an immediate danger.

■ Mower blade is stopped
■ Motor is stopped

Deflector plate

The deflector plate provides protection against any projectiles thrown up.

1 Starter cable 8 Vario transmission*
2 Wheel drive* 9 Operating instructions
3 Safety brake handle 10 Outlet shaft insert*
4 Fill level indicator* 11 Cover flap*
5 Deflector plate* 12 Mulch kit*
6 Grass catcher* 13 Ignition switch for electric start
7 Cutting height adjustment* 14 Quick guide

* depending on version

Symbols on the device

	Caution!Be particularly careful when handling.		Remove the spark plug connector before working on the cutting gear.
	Before initial startup read the instructions for use!		Quick guideRelease the motor brake.
	Keep other people out of the danger area!		Quick guideSwitch on the wheel drive.
	Keep hands and feet away from the cutting gear!		Quick guideRemote throttle control Start / Stop.
	Keep away from the danger area.

Additional symbols on lawnmowers with Electrostart

Caution! Risk of electric shock.

Keep the connection line away from the mower blades.

If the cable is damaged, or when carrying out maintenance work, always disconnect the equipment from the mains supply.

Safety instructions

Caution!

Use the equipment only if it is in correct operating condition!

Caution - Risk of injury!

Safety/protection devices should not be disabled!

Caution - risk of fire!

After fuelling, do not store the machine in buildings where the petrol fumes might come into contact with naked flames or sparks!

Keep the area around the motor, exhaust, battery case, and fuel tank clear of grass cuttings, petrol and oil.

• Keep other people out of the danger area
  ■ The machine operator or user is responsible for any accidents affecting other people or their property
  ■ Children, or any persons who have not read these operating instructions, should not be allowed to use this machine
  ■ Follow the local regulations regarding the minimum age for operators of this type of machine
  ■ Do not use the equipment if under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication

■ Wear appropriate work clothes

Long trousers
Hard, non-slip shoes
■ Hearing protection

■ If working on slopes

■ always make sure you are positioned securely
always work across the slope, never upward or downward

do not work on slopes where the gradient is greater than 20^
■ Take particular care when turning

■ Only use the lawnmower if there is sufficient daylight or artificial lighting
- Keep the body, limbs and clothing away from the cutting gear
■ Follow the hours of use regulations applying in the country concerned
■ Do not leave the equipment unattended when ready to operate
■ Only use the lawnmower if the mower blade is sharp
■ Do not operate the equipment if the safety devices / protective grilles are damaged
■ Never operate the equipment if the safety devices are not fully assembled (e.g. deflector plate, grass catching devices)
■ Before each use, check the equipment for damage; replace any damaged parts before using again
■ Switch off the motor, wait for the equipment to come to a standstill, then pull out the spark plug connector
■ if leaving the equipment unattended
■ if a fault has occurred
■ before clearing blockages
■ before removing obstructions
■ if the lawnmower has run into foreign objects
■ if malfunctions or unusual vibrations occur on the machine

Check the lawnmower for damage, and carry out the necessary repairs before restarting or using the lawnmower again.

■ Insert the spark plug connector and start the motor

■ after correcting the fault (see Faults table) and checking the equipment

■ after cleaning the equipment

■ Carefully check the ground to be mowed, and remove any foreign objects

■ Take particular care when turning the lawnmower around, or if pulling it towards you

■ Do not mow over obstacles (such as branches, tree roots)

■ Remove cuttings only when the motor has stopped
■ Switch off the motor / mower blade when passing over areas other than those that have to be mowed
■ Never lift or carry the equipment while the motor is running
■ Do not eat or drink when topping up the petrol or motor oil
■ Do not inhale the petrol fumes
■ Move the machine at walking speed
■ Before use, ensure that all nuts, screws and bolts are securely fastened.

Assembly

Follow the accompanying assembly instructions.

Caution!

The equipment can be used only after complete assembly.

Fuelling

Fill the lawnmower with fuel before the initial startup.

Warning - risk of fire!

Petrol and oil are highly inflammable!

Always observe the operating instructions supplied by the motor manufacturer.

Operating fluids

	Petrol Motor oil
Grade Regular petrol / unleaded		Refer to the motor manufacturer's instructions
Filling capacity	Refer to the motor manufacturer's instructions	about 0.6 l

Safety

Warning!

Never leave a motor running in an enclosed space. Toxic hazard!

■ Store petrol and oil only in containers intended for this purpose
■ Only add or drain oil in the open air, and when the motor has cooled down
■ Do not add petrol or oil while the motor is running
■ Do not overfill the tank (petrol expands)
■ Do not smoke when refuelling
■ Do not open the tank lock when the motor is running or when hot
■ Replace the tank or tank lock if damaged
■ Always close the tank cap firmly
■ If petrol has been spilt:
Do not start the motor
Do not start the equipment
Clean the equipment
■ If motor oil has been spilled:
Do not start the motor
Soak up the spilled oil with an oil binding agent and dispose of appropriately
Clean the equipment

Used oil should not be:

■ disposed of with domestic rubbish
■ poured into the sewage system, drains, or onto the ground

We recommend to collect the used oil in a closed container and to deliver it to a suitable recycling or service station.

Adding petrol

1. Unscrew the tank cap, and keep in a clean place.
2. Pour in petrol using a funnel.
3. Firmly replace the cap on the filler opening and clean it.

Adding motor oil

1. Unscrew the filler cap, and keep in a clean place.
2. Pour in oil using a funnel.
3. Firmly replace the cap on the filler opening and clean it.

Initial startup

Caution!

The equipment should not be used if the cutting gear and/or fastenings are loose, damaged or worn.

Carry out a visual inspection before each start-up.

The camera symbol on the following page refers to the illustrations on Page 4–7.

Adjusting the cutting height

Caution - Risk of injury!

Adjust the cutting height only with the motor switched off and when the mower blade has come to a standstill.

- Always set all the wheels to the same cutting height.

- Cutting height adjustment depends on the particular model.

Central adjustment (☐ 1)

1. To release the lever, press to the side and hold.
2. Push the lever to the left or right to select the desired cutting height.
3. Let the lever click into position.
4. Check that all wheels are set to the same position.

Mowing with the grass catcher

Caution - Risk of injury!

Attach/detach the grass catcher only when the motor is switched off and the mower blade has come to a standstill.

1. Lift the deflector plate and insert the grass catcher in the holders (☐ 3).

Important!

Only a correctly attached and undamaged grass collector offers sufficient protection against flying objects!

Fill level indicator

The fill level indicator is pushed upward by the air flow when mowing (☐ 2a).

If the grass catcher is full, the indicator points to the box (☐ 2b). The grass catcher must be emptied.

Emptying the grass catcher

1. Lift the deflector plate.
2. Unhook the grass catcher and pull backward to remove (☐ 3).
3. Empty the grass catcher.
4. Lift the deflector plate and insert the grass catcher in the holders (☐ 3).

Mowing without the grass catcher

Caution!

Only work without the grass catcher if the deflector plate torsion spring is working correctly.

The deflector plate is held to the mower his spring force. This causes the mowed grass to be thrown backward and downward.

Mulching with the mulch kit (optional)

When mulching, the grass cuttings are not collected, but are left on the lawn. The grass mulch prevents the soil from drying out, and supplies it with nutrients.

The best results are obtained by cutting back regularly by about 2 cm. Only young grass with a soft leaf texture decomposes quickly.

■ Grass height before mulching: 8 cm maximum
■ Grass height after mulching: 4 cm minimum

Adapt your walking pace to the mulching process, do not walk too fast.

Inserting the mulch kit

Caution - Risk of injury!

Insert/remove the mulch kit only with the motor switched off and when the mower blade has come to a standstill.

1. Remove the grass catcher ( 3).
2. Lift the deflector plate and insert the mulch kit in the outlet shaft (☐ 4). It must lock into place.

If the mulch kit is not locked into position, both the mulch kit and the mower blade may be damaged.

Removing the mulch kit

1. Lift the deflector plate.
2. Release the lock on the mulch kit ( 5/1).
3. Pull out the mulch kit ( 5/2).

Mowing with side discharge unit (option)

Important – Danger of injury!

Attach or remove the side discharge unit only when the motor has been switched off and the cutting blade is at a standstill.

Fitting the side discharge unit

1. Remove the grass collector and fit the mulching kit.
2. Press the release lever on the cover of the side discharge unit (6/1).
3. Open and hold the cover of the side discharge unit (6/2).
4. Fit the side discharge tunnel ( 6/3).
5. Slowly close the cover. The cover secures the side discharge tunnel to prevent it from falling out.

Removing the side discharge unit

1. Open and hold the cover of the side discharge unit (6/2).
2. Remove the side discharge unit and close the cover (6/3).

Setting the handle height (optional)

Clamp adjustment

1. Hold the bar and loosen both clamps ( 10).
2. Move the bar to the desired position
3. Lock the clamps.

Starting the motor

Caution - risk of poisoning!

Never leave a motor running in an enclosed space.

Caution - Risk of injury!

Do not tilt the lawnmower while starting.

• Start the motor only when the blade is mounted (the blade acts as a flywheel mass)
• If starting the motor when hot do NOT use the choke or primer button
• Do not change the motor controller settings

■ Do not start the equipment if the outlet shaft is not covered by one of the following parts:

Grass catcher
Deflector plate
Mulch kit

■ Be particularly careful when operating the starter switch - follow the manufacturer's instructions
- Keep your feet at a safe distance from the cutting gear
■ Start the lawnmower where the grass is shorter

Starting manually

without remote throttle control, with primer (☐)

1. Press the primer button 3 times at intervals of about 2 seconds (☐ 7). If the temperature is below 10 °C, press the primer button 5 times.
2. Pull in the safety brake handle on the handlebar and hold it (☐ 8) – the brake handle does not lock.
3. Pull out the starter cord sharply, then allow it to slowly rewind (9).

Motor speed (rpm value) is fixed. Motor speed cannot be adjusted.

without remote throttle control, without primer/choke

1. Pull in the safety brake handle on the handlebar and hold it (8) – the brake handle does not lock.
2. Pull out the starter cord sharply, then allow it to slowly rewind (9).

Motor speed (rpm value) is fixed. Motor speed cannot be adjusted.

Electrostart without primer/choke

1. Pull in the safety brake handle on the handlebar and hold it (☐ 8) – the brake handle does not lock.
2. Turn the ignition key fully to the right in the ignition lock (10).
3. As soon as the motor starts running, release the ignition key (it returns automatically to position "0").

Turn the motor off

1. Release the safety brake handle ( ☐).

- The motor is switched off.

Caution - danger of serious cut injuries!

The motor may continue running. After switching off, make sure the motor has stopped turning.

Wheel drive (optional)

Caution!

Engage the transmission only when the motor is running.

Switching on the wheel drive

1. Press the transmission control handle against the handlebar and hold it (☐ 11) – the transmission control handle does not lock.
2. The wheel drive is switched on.

Switching off the wheel drive

1. Release the transmission control handle ( 13).
2. The wheel drive is switched off.

Vario transmission (Vario Speed) (optional)

The Vario transmission allows continuous variation of the ground speed of the lawnmower.

Caution!

Operate the lever only when the motor is running. Operating the lever without the motor drive may damage the drive mechanism.

■ To increase the speed, pull the level (12) towards (12/2)
■ To lower the speed, pull the lever(12) towards (12/1)

Always adjust the ground speed to suit the current ground and lawn conditions.

Maintenance and care

Caution - Risk of injury!

• Before carrying our any care or maintenance work, always switch off the motor and pull out the spark plug connector.
• The motor may continue running. After switching off, make sure the motor has stopped turning.

• Always wear working gloves when carrying out maintenance or repair work.

• Check the grass catcher regularly for wear, and to ensure it is working correctly
  ■ Clean the equipment after each use
  ■ Do not wash the equipment by hosing or spraying with water Water infiltration can cause faults (in the ignition system, carburettor)
  ■ Check the mower blade regularly for damage
  ■ Always replace the muffler if faulty

Tilting the lawnmower

Depending on the motor manufacturer:

■ the carburettor / air filter must be facing upward (15)
■ the spark plug must be facing upward (16)

Follow the operating instructions of the motor manufacturer!

Resharpening/replacing the mower blade

■ Blunt or damaged blades should be resharpened / replaced only at a service point or by an authorised specialist
■ Resharpened blades must be rebalanced

Caution!

Blades that have not been rebalanced can cause serious vibrations, and may result in damage to the lawnmower.

■ Always have the equipment checked out by a professional in the following cases:

■ after bumping against an obstacle
■ if the motor stops suddenly
■ if there is damage to the transmission
■ if the V-belt is faulty
if the blade is bent
■ if there is warping of the motor shaft

Charging the starter battery (optional)

■ Follow the instructions of the manufacturer of the motor.

Caution!

Use only the original battery charger supplied.

• Charge the starter battery only in dry, well-ventilated rooms.
• Do not start up the lawnmower while the battery is charging.

Care of the motor

Changing the motor oil

1. Have a suitable container ready to collect the used oil.
2. Drain or suction off all the oil through the oil filler opening.

Dispose of used motor oil in a manner that is compatible with the environment! We recommend to collect the used oil in a closed container and to deliver it to a suitable recycling or service station.

Used oil should not be

■ disposed of with domestic rubbish
- poured into the sewage system or drains
- poured out onto the ground

Changing the air filter

■ Follow the instructions of the manufacturer of the motor.

Changing the spark plug

■ Follow the instructions of the manufacturer of the motor.

Wheel drive (optional)

Adjusting the Bowden cable

If the wheel drive can no longer be switched on or off while the motor- is running, the related Bowden cable needs to be adjusted.

Caution!

Adjust the Bowden cable only when the motor is switched off.

1. Turn the adjuster on the Bowden cable in the direction of the arrow (☐ 17).
2. To test the cable setting, switch on the motor and switch on the wheel drive.
3. If the wheel drive is still not working, the lawnmower must be taken to a service point or an authorised specialist.

Lubricating the drive pinion

■ From time to time, lubricate the drive pinion on the transmission shaft

The wheel drive gearing is maintenance free.

Repairs

Repairs should be carried out only by a service point or an authorised specialist.

Storage

Caution - risk of explosion!

Do not store the equipment where there are naked flames or heat sources.

■ Allow the motor to cool down
■ Store the equipment in an area which is kept dry, and which cannot be accessed by children or unauthorised persons
■ Store the starter battery where it will be protected from frost
- Drain the fuel tank
■ Follow the instructions of the manufacturer of the motor
■ Pull out the spark plug connector

Disposal

Do not dispose of old equipment, batteries or accumulators as household waste!

Machine, packaging, and accessories were made with recyclable materials, and should be disposed of accordingly.

EC declaration of conformity

■ see assembly instructions

Warranty

If any material or manufacturing defects are found during the statutory customer protection period, we will either repair or replace the equipment, whichever we consider the more appropriate. This statutory period may vary according to the legislation in force in the country where the equipment was purchased.

Our warranty is valid only if: The warranty is no longer valid if:

■ The equipment has been used properly
■ The operating instructions have been followed
■ Genuine replacement parts have been used

■ The equipment has been tampered with
■ Technical modifications have been made
■ The equipment was not used for its intended purpose (for example, used for commercial or communal applications)

The following are not covered by warranty:

■ Paint damage due to normal wear
■ Wear parts identified by a border XXXXX (X) on the spare parts list

Combustion motors – these are covered by a separate warranty from the manufacturer concerned

To make a claim under warranty, please take this statement of warranty and proof of purchase to the nearest authorised customer service centre. This warranty does not affect the usual statutory rights of the customer relative to the seller.

Faults and remedies

Caution!

The motor shaft and mower blade should not be aligned.

Fault Solution
The motor does not start▪	Add petrolSet throttle lever to "Start"Switch on the chokePress the motor switch at the handlebarCheck the spark plugs and replace if necessary.Clean the air filter.Spin the mower bladeRecharge the starter batteryStart on a surface already mowed
Motor power reduced▪ Adjust the cutting heightResharpen / replace the mower bladeClean the outlet shaft/housingClean the air filter.Reduce the working speed
Lawnmower cuts unevenly▪	Resharpen/replace the mower bladeAdjust the cutting height
Grass catcher does not fill sufficiently	Adjust the cutting heightAllow the lawn to dryResharpen/replace the mower bladeClear the grille on the grass catcherClean the outlet shaft/housing
Wheel drive does not work▪	Adjust the Bowden cableV-belt faultyContact the service-workshopClean any dirt away from the wheel drive, toothed belt and gearingLubricate the freewheels (drive pinion on drive shaft) with spray oil
Wheels do not turn when the transmission is switched on	Retighten the wheel boltsWheel hub faultyV-belt faultyContact the service-workshop
Unusually strong vibrations in the lawnmower	Check the mower blade

For faults not listed in this table, or which you cannot resolve by yourself, please contact our customer service.

Over dit handboek

1 Vrv zaganjalnika 8 Menjalnik Vario*
2 Kolesni pogon* 9 Navodila za uporabo
3 Varnostno streme 10 Vstavek za izmetavanje*
4 Kazalnik nivoja napolnjenosti* 11 Zaporna loputa*
5 Prestrezni zaklop* 12 Komplet za zastiranje*
6 Zbiralna košara za travo* 13 Električni vžig Start
7 Nastavitev višine rezanja* 14 Hitri vodič

* odvisno od izvedbe

Simboli na napravi

1 Uže pokretača 8 Vario prijenosnik*
2 Pogon kotača* 9 Upute za uporabu
3 Sigurnosni stremen 10 Nastavak za izbacivanje*
4 Pokazatelj razine napunjenosti* 11 Zatvarač*
5 Zaklopac 12 Komplet za malčiranje*
6 Košara* 13 Paljenje Električni Start
7 Namještanje visine rezanja* 14 Brzi vodič

* ovisno o izvedbi

Simboli na uređaju

	Pozor!Naročit oprez pri rukovanju.		Prije radova na alatu za rezanje izvucite utikač svjećice.
	Prije puštanja uređaja u rad pročitajte upute za uporabu!		Brzi vodičOtpustite kočnicu motora.
	Ostale osobe držite dalje od područja opasnosti!		Brzi vodičUključite sustav kotača.
	Šake i stopala držite podalje od alata za rezanje!		Brzi vodičDaljinsko upravljanje gasom Start / Stop.
	Održavajte razmak od opasnih područja.

Dodatni simboli kod uređaja s električnim pokretanjem

Advarsel - brandfare!