Update on 09-22-2010. Some vibration might be normal, but this was excessive. I drove around my garage for about 5 minutes to remove what little gas was in the tank. The blade was engaged. After it ran out of gas, I noticed my hands were tingling from the vibration. This tingling sensation lasted for about 10 minutes. It did not make sense to take a brand new machine to the service center. I took it back to Wal Mart and got a refund.
Joe,
Hi and thanks for using the Answer Army to post your question.
Some vibration is normal for a small machine like this. The belts on these machines are much shorter than the belts on a full size rider. Think of it like a shock absorber the longer the length the more room there is to take the impact. If you feel this is not the case and as you stated you have had the blade balanced your next option would be to take the machine to an authorized service center and let them take a look at it. They can check the spindle and make sure it isn't bent or out of balance.
I have attached a link below to help you find a service center in your area based on your address.
http://www.weedeater.com/node7833.aspx
I hope this helps and thanks again for using the Answer Army.
Greg P.
Joe,
Hi and thanks for using the Answer Army to post your question.
Some vibration is normal for a small machine like this. The belts on these machines are much shorter than the belts on a full size rider. Think of it like a shock absorber the longer the length the more room there is to take the impact. If you feel this is not the case and as you stated you have had the blade balanced your next option would be to take the machine to an authorized service center and let them take a look at it. They can check the spindle and make sure it isn't bent or out of balance.
I have attached a link below to help you find a service center in your area based on your address.
http://www.weedeater.com/node7833.aspx
I hope this helps and thanks again for using the Answer Army.
Greg P.