How to Run a Power Trowel
Power trowels, a piece of construction equipment used to finish concrete, are essential to properly finish large slabs of concrete. There are walk-behind models and ride-on models, with the walk-behind models being the most versatile and the most popular due to a lower initial investment and the ability to maneuver. Operating a power trowel takes concrete finishing experience and requires a large amount of physical effort. Once the basic concept of running the power trowel is accomplished, finishing concrete becomes much easier.
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Instructions
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1
Apply all proper safety gear, including eyewear and ear plugs. Make sure that the fuel is turned "ON" and that the brake is "OFF." Check the engine oil and fuel levels, set the choke and move the throttle to 1/3 position. Hold the power trowel with the left hand next to the brake and pull the pull cord until the engine starts.
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2
Move the choke to a fully open position and allow the engine to warm up. Allow the engine to warm up longer in colder weather. Stand behind the center of the main handle and get a solid footing before releasing the brake and slowly pressing the throttle until proper speed is achieved.
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3
Push the handle down to move the power trowel to the right or lift the handle to move it to the left. Move forward by twisting the power trowel to the right, or backward by twisting the power trowel to the left. Hold the power trowel in a neutral position to keep the trowel stationary.
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4
Adjust the tilt knob, a knob used to adjust the angle of the trowel blades, to increase the angle of the trowel blades as the concrete cures and gets hard. Gradually increase the throttle as you increase the angle of the blades until the floor is completely hard and troweled.
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Reduce the throttle to the lowest setting, place the brake in the "OFF" position and turn off the engine.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a pressure washer to clean the entire power trowel after each use and make sure the blades are clean before using.
Wait to start the power trowel until your footprints leave only a slight impression in the concrete.
Replace the blades as necessary to provide the best possible finish.
Do not leave the trowel on the slab for an extended period of time.
Refer to the owner's manual for any detailed questions specific to the make and model.
The floor will have a black, shiny appearance, indicating a finished floor.
Make sure the area has proper air circulation before running the engine.
Always wear eye and ear protection.
Always practice job-site safety regulations.
Avoid wearing loose clothing.
Never leave the machine running unattended.
