1. Get Set Up Safely

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Before you even start the engine, make sure you’ve got:

• Safety glasses or a face shield
• Hearing protection (earmuffs or plugs)
• Heavy-duty work gloves
• Long pants and long sleeves
• Steel-toe boots
• Dust mask/respirator in very dry, dusty conditions

Check the Work Area

• Remove rocks, metal, wire, nails and other debris
• Check for underground services (pipes, cables, irrigation)
• Avoid steep slopes and soft, boggy ground
• Keep kids, pets and bystanders well away (at least 10 m)

Trim the Stump Lower (If You Can)

If you’ve got a chainsaw and know how to use it safely, cut the stump as low as possible first. Less stump height = less grinding time.

2. Transporting the Stump Grinder

Our stump grinders are designed for trailers, utes and vans. They’re heavy, so always lift with care and use ramps or enough people to help.

• Load using ramps or suitable lifting equipment
• Secure the grinder with straps around the frame / grab handles
• Transport upright so fuel and oil stay where they should
• Turn the fuel tap OFF during transport
• Do not transport with an overfull fuel tank

3. Starting the Machine

Once you’re onsite and in position, follow this quick checklist before starting the engine.

1. Put on all PPE listed above.
2. Make sure no people, pets or vehicles are within 10 metres.
3. Park the machine on firm, level ground.
4. Engage the parking brake.
5. Set the throttle to SLOW / idle.
6. For a cold engine, set the choke to CLOSED.
7. Raise the cutting head so the wheel is clear of the stump.
8. Pull the recoil starter firmly until the engine fires.
9. Gradually open the choke as the engine warms up.

Tip: Let the engine idle briefly to warm up before you begin grinding.

4. How to Grind a Stump

Step 1 – Position the Grinder

• Roll the grinder until the cutting wheel is just above the front edge of the stump.
• Engage the parking brake.
• Stand behind the handlebar — never in front of the cutting wheel.

Step 2 – Bring the Wheel Up to Speed

• Increase the throttle to FAST.
• Let the wheel reach full speed before touching the wood.

Step 3 – Take Shallow Passes

• Lower the wheel gently into the stump.
• Grind in small bites (about 1–2 cm at a time).
• Sweep left-to-right smoothly across the face of the stump.
• After each sweep, adjust height slightly to work your way down.

It’s easier on the machine (and faster overall) to take many small passes rather than trying to chew off too much in one go.

Step 4 – Reposition as Needed

• Raise the cutting wheel clear of the stump.
• Idle down if needed.
• Release the brake and roll the machine forward or back.
• Re-engage the brake and continue grinding.

Step 5 – Watch Chip Build-Up

• Idle down and wait for the wheel to stop.
• Pull the machine back and clear built-up chips with a rake.
• Reposition and continue until you’re 15–30 cm below ground level.

5. Key Safety Reminders

• Operate only from behind the handlebar.
• Never remove safety guards or shields.
• Don’t use the grinder in heavy rain or on very slippery ground.
• Keep children, pets and bystanders at least 10 m away.
• Never leave the machine running unattended.
• If you notice unusual vibration, noise, smoke or loss of power, stop immediately and contact us.

6. Shutting Down the Machine

1. Raise the cutting wheel clear of the ground.
2. Bring the throttle back to SLOW / idle.
3. Turn the engine off using the stop / emergency button.
4. Wait until the cutting wheel has completely stopped spinning.
5. Engage the parking brake.

Only once everything has stopped is it safe to approach the cutting area and clean around the machine.

7. Basic Troubleshooting On Site

Engine Won’t Start

• Is there fuel in the tank?
• Is the fuel tap turned ON?
• For a cold engine, is the choke set to CLOSED?
• Is the spark plug lead firmly attached?

Cutting Wheel Isn’t Turning

• Is the throttle set high enough (FAST)?
• Is the parking brake still engaged?

Grinding Feels Very Slow

• Take shallower passes (1–2 cm at a time).
• Stop and clear excess chips under the guard.
• If it still feels wrong, stop and contact MarKay Outdoors before continuing.

Do not attempt your own repairs or adjustments to belts, clutches or internal parts during hire.

8. Before You Return Your Hire

A quick clean-up helps us turn the machine around faster for the next customer (and helps you avoid cleaning fees).

• Brush or hose off heavy soil and wood chips from the outside.
• Check for stones or debris stuck around the cutting area.
• Turn the fuel tap to the OFF position.
• Visually check for any obvious damage or missing parts.
• Let us know if you had any issues during the hire.

Stump Grinder Hire – FAQ