If you need a petrol lawn mower that can handle tough grass and big gardens, the Hitachi RB24EAP is a top choice. This powerful and reliable machine is built to make your lawn care easier and more efficient.
It’s a robust tool designed for homeowners who have a lot of ground to cover. Let’s look at what makes it stand out and how you can get the best from it.
Hitachi RB24EAP
This mower is a self-propelled petrol model, which means it does the hard work of moving forward for you. You just need to guide it. This is a huge advantage on slopes or if you have a large, flat lawn. It saves your energy so you can mow for longer without getting tired.
Key Features at a Glance:
* Powerful 140cc Engine: Provides consistent cutting power, even in thick, wet grass.
* Self-Propelled Drive: Adjustable speed settings let you set the pace.
* 24-Inch Cutting Width: Covers more ground with each pass than a typical 21-inch mower.
* Robust Steel Deck: Durable and built to last for many seasons.
* 6 Cutting Height Positions: Easy to adjust for the perfect lawn length.
* Large 60-Litre Grass Box: Reduces how often you need to stop and empty it.
What’s in the Box and First Setup
When your Hitachi RB24EAP arrives, you’ll need to do some minor assembly. Don’t worry, it’s straightforward. Here’s what you can expect to find:
* The main mower unit with the engine and deck.
* The high-wheeled handles.
* The large capacity grass collection box.
* All necessary bolts, tools, and the manual.
Setting it up is simple:
1. Attach the handle to the mower body using the provided bolts. The instructions are clear, and it should only take about 15-20 minutes.
2. Fit the grass box onto its rear brackets until it clicks securely into place.
3. Before starting, add the correct petrol-oil mixture. Remember, this is a 2-stroke engine, so you must mix 2-stroke oil with unleaded petrol. The manual gives the exact ratio—don’t guess this part!
4. Check the tyre pressure. Properly inflated wheels ensure smooth movement and consistent cutting height.
Starting Your Mower for the First Time
Starting a petrol mower has a few key steps. Follow them, and you’ll have no trouble.
1. Prime the Engine: Press the primer bulb (the soft rubber button) 5-7 times. This draws fuel into the carburettor.
2. Set the Choke: Move the choke lever to the ‘Closed’ or ‘Start’ position for a cold engine.
3. Hold the Safety Lever: Grip the bail bar on the handle. This is a safety feature that stops the blade if you let go.
4. Pull the Starter Cord: Place your foot on the mower deck for stability and pull the starter cord firmly. It might take a few pulls.
5. Adjust the Choke: Once the engine fires, gradually move the choke to ‘Open’ or ‘Run’ as it warms up.
If it doesn’t start, check you’ve primed it enough and that the fuel tap (if fitted) is in the ‘On’ position.
Adjusting the Cut for a Perfect Lawn
One of the best things about the Hitachi RB24EAP is the easy height adjustment. You can change it with a single lever, even while moving.
* For a Standard Lawn: A medium setting (around 2.5-3 inches) is often best. It promotes healthy roots and helps shade out weeds.
* For Overgrown Grass: Don’t try to cut it all at once. Set the mower to its highest setting for the first pass, then lower it for a second pass a few days later. This avoids stressing the grass and clogging the deck.
* In Dry Summer: Raise the height slightly. Longer grass retains more moisture and resists browning.
Remember, never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mow.
Maintenance Tips to Keep It Reliable
A little regular care keeps your mower running smoothly for years. The Hitachi RB24EAP is built to be reliable, but it needs your help.
After Each Use:
* Let the engine cool, then tip the mower on its side (with the air filter facing up) to clean out grass clippings from under the deck. A build-up here can rust the deck and makes starting harder.
* Check the grass box for moisture and clean it out.
Regular Seasonal Maintenance:
* Air Filter: Clean the foam filter regularly with warm soapy water. Let it dry completely before putting it back. Replace it if it’s damaged.
* Spark Plug: Check and clean it every season. Replace it annually for easiest starting.
* Blade Sharpening: A dull blade tears grass, leaving a brown, ragged tip. Sharpen the blade at least once a season. You can remove it with a spanner, or take it to a local shop.
* Fuel: If storing for winter, either run the engine until the fuel tank is empty, or add a fuel stabilizer. Old petrol left in the carburettor can cause starting issues next spring.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the most powerful and reliable mowers can have off days. Here’s how to fix common problems.
* Mower Won’t Start: Check for fresh fuel, a clean spark plug, and that the primer bulb is working. The safety bail bar must be held down firmly.
* Loss of Power or Rough Running: This is often a clogged air filter or old fuel. Clean the filter and try fresh petrol mix.
* Uneven Cutting: Your mower deck might be unlevel. Check the tyre pressures first, as this is the most common cause. Then, check the manual for how to level the deck from side-to-side.
* Vibrations: Stop the engine immediately! This usually indicates a loose or damaged blade. Inspect it carefully before using the mower again.
Why Choose a Petrol Mower Like the RB24EAP?
You might wonder if petrol is still the right choice. For many gardens, it absolutely is.
* Total Freedom: No cables or batteries to limit your range. You can mow as much as you have fuel for.
* Consistent Power: The power doesn’t fade towards the end of the job, unlike some battery mowers.
* Tough Jobs: It powers through long, damp grass that would stall an electric model.
The Hitachi RB24EAP combines this freedom with the convenience of self-propelled drive. It’s a workhorse that makes maintaining a large lawn much less of a chore.
Storing Your Mower Safely
When the mowing season ends, proper storage is key. Store it in a dry, covered place like a shed or garage. Make sure you’ve done the end-of-season maintenance, especially regarding the fuel. Cover the mower with a cloth to keep dust off, but avoid plastic bags that can trap moisture and cause rust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Hitachi RB24EAP easy to push?
A: It’s self-propelled, so it drives itself. You only need to guide it. The speed is adjustable, making it very easy to use on all terrains.
Q: What fuel mix does it use?
A: It uses a 2-stroke petrol mix. Always refer to your manual for the exact ratio, but it is typically a 25:1 or 33:1 mix of unleaded petrol to 2-stroke oil.
Q: How wide does it cut?
A: It has a 24-inch cutting width, which is wider than many domestic mowers. This helps you finish the job quicker.
Q: Can it collect clippings?
A: Yes, it comes with a large 60-litre grass box that clips on the back. It does a good job of collection, but remember to empty it before it gets completely full for best performance.
Q: Is it suitable for very steep slopes?
A: While its self-propelled drive helps, always mow across slopes, not up and down, for safety. Very steep banks are often better handled with a dedicated strimmer.
The Hitachi RB24EAP proves itself as a powerful and reliable partner for serious lawn care. With its wide cut, self-propel feature, and sturdy build, it turns a big job into a manageable one. By following the simple setup, operating, and maintenance tips, you’ll ensure this mower serves you well for countless seasons, keeping your garden looking its best with minimal fuss.