RYOBI RCS36X3550HI Cordless Chainsaw Instruction Manual

: October 30, 2023
: RYOBI

Table of Contents

RYOBI RCS36X3550HI Cordless Chainsaw Instruction Manual
GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS
KNOW YOUR PRODUCT
ASSEMBLY
OPERATION
TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
MAINTENANCE
SYMBOLS ON THE PRODUCT
SYMBOLS IN THIS MANUAL
- References
Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
Download This Manual (PDF format)

RYOBI RCS36X3550HI Cordless Chainsaw Instruction Manual

RYOBI RCS36X3550HI Cordless Chainsaw.jpg

RCS36X3550HI

Important!
It is essential that you read the instructions in this manual before assembling, operating and maintaining this machine.

Subject to technical modification

WARNING
When using the product, the safety rules must be followed. For your own safety and that of bystanders, you must read and fully understand these instructions before operating the product. You should attend a professionally organized safety course in the use, preventative actions, first-aid and maintenance of chainsaws. Please keep these instructions safe for later use.
WARNING
Chainsaws are potentially dangerous tools. Accidents involving the use of chainsaws often result in loss of limbs or death. It is not just the chainsaw that is the hazard.
Falling branches, toppling trees, rolling logs can all kill.
Diseased or rotting timber poses additional hazards.
You should assess your capability of completing the task safely. If there is any doubt, leave it to a professional tree surgeon.

GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING
Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.

WORK AREA SAFETY

Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools.
Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool.
Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD) protected supply. Use of an RCD reduces the risk of electric shock.

PERSONAL SAFETY

Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energising power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal Injury.
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.

POWER TOOL USE AND CARE

Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool.
Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc, in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.

BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE

Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.
Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire
When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help.
Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.

SERVICE

Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts.
This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.

ADDITIONAL GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS

Some regions have regulations that restrict the use of the product. Check with your local authority for advice.
Never allow children or people unfamiliar with the instructions to use the product. Local regulations may restrict the age of the operator.
Ensure before each use that all controls and safety devices function correctly. Do not use the power tool if the “off’ switch does not stop the motor.
Wear full eye and hearing protection, strong sturdy gloves as well as head protection while operating the product; use a face mask if operation is dusty.
Do not wear loose fitting clothing, short trousers or jewellery of any kind.
Secure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent entanglement in moving parts.
Beware of thrown, flying or falling objects; keep all bystanders, children, and animals at least 15 m away from work area.
Do not operate in poor lighting. The operator requires a clear view of the work area to identify potential hazards.
Use of hearing protection reduces the ability to hear warnings (shouts or alarms). The operator must pay extra attention to what is going on in the working area.
Operating similar tools nearby increases both the risk of hearing injury and the potential for other persons to enter your working area.
Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach.
Overreaching can result in loss of balance and can increase the risk of kickback.
Keep all parts of your body away from any moving part Inspect the machine before each use. Check for correct operation of all controls including the chain brake.
Check for loose fasteners, make sure all guards, and handles are properly and securely attached. Replace any damaged parts before use.
Do not modify the machine in any way or use parts and accessories which are not recommended by the manufacturer.

WARNING
If the machine is dropped, suffers heavy impact or begins
to vibrate abnormally, immediately stop the machine and
inspect for damage or identify the cause of the vibration.
Any damage should be properly repaired or replaced by
an authorized service centre.

CHAINSAW SAFETY WARNINGS

Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain when the chainsaw is operating. Before you start the chainsaw, make sure the saw chain is not contacting anything. A moment of inattention while operating chainsaws may cause entanglement of your clothing or body with the saw chain.
Always hold the chainsaw with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle. Holding the chainsaw with a reversed hand configuration increases the risk of personal injury and should never be done.
Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surface only, because the saw chain may contact hidden wiring. Saw chains contacting a “live” wire may make exposed metal parts of the power tool “live” and could give the operator an electric shock.
Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Further protective equipment for head, hands, legs and feet is recommended. Adequate protective clothing will reduce personal injury by flying debris or accidental contact with the saw chain.
Do not operate a chainsaw in a tree. Operation of a chainsaw while up in a tree may result in personal Injury.
Always keep proper footing and operate the chainsaw only when standing on fixed, secure and level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces such as ladders may cause a loss of balance or control of the chainsaw.
When cutting a limb that is under tension be alert for spring back. When the tension in the wood fibres is released the spring loaded limb may strike the operator and/or throw the chainsaw out of control.
Use extreme caution when cutting brush and saplings. The slender material may catch the saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance.
Carry the chainsaw by the front handle with the chainsaw switched off and away from your body.
When transporting or storing the chainsaw always fit the guide bar cover. Proper handling of the chainsaw will reduce the likelihood of accidental contact with the moving saw chain.
Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning and changing accessories. Improperly tensioned or lubricated chain may either break or increase the chance for kickback.
Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Greasy, oily handles are slippery causing loss of control.
Cut wood only. Do not use chainsaw for purposes not intended. For example: do not use chainsaw for cutting plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials. Use of the chainsaw for operations different than intended could result in a hazardous situation.

Causes and operator prevention of kickback:

Kickback may occur when the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut.

Tip contact in some cases may cause a sudden reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back towards the operator.

Pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly back towards the operator.

Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in serious personal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into your saw. As a chainsaw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury.

Kickback is the result of tool misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:

Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and fingers encircling the chainsaw handles, with both hands on the saw and position your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback forces. Kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions are taken. Do not let go of the chainsaw.
Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder height. This helps prevent unintended tip contact and enables better control of the chainsaw in unexpected situations.
Only use replacement bars and chains specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement bars and chains may cause chain breakage and/or kickback.
Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain.
Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to increased kickback.

ADDITIONAL CHAINSAW SAFETY WARNINGS

It is recommended to cut logs on a saw-horse or cradle when operating the product the first time.
Ensure all guards, handles and spiked bumper are properly fitted and are in good condition.
Persons using this chainsaw should be in good health
The chainsaw is a heavy unit so the operator requires to be physically fit. The operator should be alert, have good vision, mobility, balance and manual dexterity. If there is any doubt, do not operate the chainsaw.
Do not start using the product until you have a clear work area, secure footing, and a planned retreat path away from the falling tree.
Beware of the emission of lubricant mist and saw dust Wear a mask or respirator if required
Do not cut vines and/or small undergrowth (less than 75 mm in diameter).
Always hold the chainsaw with both hands when operating the saw. Use a firm grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the chainsaw handles. Right hand must be on the rear handle and left hand on the front handle.
Before starting the tool, make sure the saw chain is not contacting any object.
Do not modify your tool in any way or use it to power any attachments or devices not recommended by the manufacturer for your saw.
There should be a first-aid kit containing large wound dressings and a means to summon attention (e.g., whistle) close to the operator. A larger more comprehensive kit should be reasonably nearby.
The operator may be tempted to remove the helmet if there is no danger of falling objects in the work area, but remember the helmet, particularly with the mesh visor, can help reduce the potential for injury to the face and head if kickback occurs.
An incorrectly tensioned chain can jump off the guide bar and could result in serious injury or fatality. The length of chain depends on the temperature. Check the tension frequently.
You should get used to your new chainsaw by making simple cuts on securely supported wood. Do this whenever you have not operated the saw for some time.
To reduce the risk of injury associated with contacting moving parts, always stop the motor, apply chain brake, remove the battery pack and make sure all moving parts have come to a stop before: cleaning or clearing a blockage leaving the product unattended installing or removing attachments checking, maintenance or working on the machine
The size of the work area depends on the job being performed as well as the size of the tree or work piece involved. For example, felling a tree requires a larger work area than making other cuts, i.e., bucking cuts, etc. The operator needs to be aware and in control of everything happening in this work area.
Do not cut with your body in line with the guide bar and chain. If you do experience kickback this will help prevent the chain coming into contact with your head or body.
Do not use a back and forward sawing motion, let the chain do the work, keep the chain sharp and don’t try to push the chain through the cut.
Do not put pressure on the saw at the end of the cut. Be ready to take on the weight of the saw as it cuts free from the wood. Failure to do so could result in possible serious personal injury.
Do not stop the saw in the middle of a cutting operation Keep the saw running until it is already removed from the cut.

Push and pull
The reaction force is always opposite to the direction the chain is moving. Thus, the operator must be ready to control the tendency for the machine to pull away (forward motion) when cutting on the bottom edge of the bar and the push backwards (towards the operator) when cutting along the top edge.

Saw jammed in the cut
Stop the chainsaw and make it safe. Do not try to force the chain and bar out of the cut as this is likely to break the chain which may swing back and strike the operator. This situation normally occurs because the wood is incorrectly supported and forcing the cut to close under compression thereby pinching the blade. If adjusting the support does not release the bar and chain, use wooden wedges or a lever to open the cut and release the saw. Never try to start the chainsaw when the guide bar is already in a cut or kerf.

Personal protective equipment
Good quality, personal protective equipment as used by professionals will help to reduce the risk of injury to the operator. The following items should be used when operating your chainsaw:

Safety helmet
should comply with EN 397 and be CE marked

Hearing protection
should comply with EN 352-1 and be CE marked

Eye and face protection
should be CE marked and comply with EN 166 (for safety glasses) or EN 1731 (for mesh visors)

Gloves
should comply with EN381-7 and be CE marked

Leg protection (chaps)
should comply with EN381-5, be CE marked and provide all-round protection.

Chainsaw safety boots

should comply with EN ISO 20345:2004 and be marked with a shield depicting a chainsaw to show compliance with EN 381-3. (Occasional users may use steel toe-cap safety boots with protective gaiters which conform to EN 381-9 if the ground is even and there is little risk of tripping or catching on undergrowth)

Chainsaw jackets for upper body protection
should comply with EN 381-11 and be CE marked

INSTRUCTIONS CONCERNING THE PROPER TECH- NIQUES FOR BASIC FELLING, LIMBING, AND CROSS- CUTTING

Understanding the forces within the wood

When you understand the directional pressures and stresses inside the wood you can reduce the “pinches” or at least expect them during your cutting. Tension in the wood means the fibers are being pulled apart and if you cut in this area the “kerf’ or cut will tend to open as the saw goes through. If a log is being supported on a saw horse and the end is hanging unsupported over the end then tension is created on the upper surface due to the weight of the overhanging log stretching the fibers. Likewise, the underside of the log will be in compression and the fibers are being pushed together. If a cut is made in this area the kerf will have the tendency to close up during the cut. This
would pinch the blade.

Felling a tree
See page 239 – 240.
When bucking and felling operations are being performed by two or more persons at the same time, the felling operations should be separated from the bucking operation by a distance of at least twice the height of the tree being felled. Trees should not be felled in a manner that would endanger any person, strike any utility line or cause any property damage. If the tree does make contact with any utility line, the company should be notified immediately.

The chainsaw operator should keep on the uphill side of the terrain as the tree is likely to roll or slide downhill after it is felled.

An escape path should be planned and cleared as necessary before cuts are started. The escape path should extend back and diagonally to the rear of the expected line of fall.

Before felling is started, consider the natural lean of the tree, the location of larger branches and the wind direction to judge which way the tree will fall.

Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples and wire from the tree.

Do not attempt to fell trees which are rotten or have been damaged by wind, fire, lightning, etc. This is extremely dangerous and should only be completed by professional tree surgeons.

1. Notching undercut
See page 239 – 240.
Make the notch 1/3 the diameter of the tree, perpendicular to the direction of falls. Make the lower horizontal notching cut first. This will help to avoid pinching either the saw chain or the guide bar when the second notch is being made.
2. Felling back cut
See page 239 – 240.
Make the felling back cut at least 50 mm/2 in higher than the horizontal notching cut. Keep the felling back cut parallel to the horizontal notching cut. Make the felling back cut so enough wood is left to act as a hinge. The hinge wood keeps the tree from twisting and falling in the wrong direction. Do not cut through the hinge.

As the felling gets close to the hinge, the tree should begin to fall. If there is any chance that the tree may not fall in desired direction or it may rock back and bind the saw chain, stop cutting before the felling back cut is complete and use wedges of wood, plastic or aluminium to open the cut and drop the tree along the desired line of fall.

When the tree begins to fall remove the chainsaw from the cut, stop the motor, put the chainsaw down, then use the retreat path planned. Be alert for overhead limbs falling and watch your footing.

Removing buttress roots
See page 240.
A buttress root is a large root extending from the trunk of the tree above the ground. Remove large buttress roots prior to felling. Make the horizontal cut into the buttress first, followed by the vertical cut. Remove the resulting loose section from the work area. Follow the correct tree felling procedure after you have removed the large buttress roots.

Bucking a log
See page 241.
Bucking is cutting a log into lengths. It is important to make sure your footing is firm and your weight is evenly distributed on both feet. When possible, the log should be raised and supported by the use of limbs, logs or chocks. Follow the simple directions for easy cutting. When the log is supported along its entire length, it is cut from the top (overbuck).

When the log is supported on one end, cut 1/3 the diameter from the underside (underbuck). Then make the finished cut by overbucking to meet the first cut.

When bucking on a slope always stand on the uphill side of the log. When “cutting through”, to maintain complete control release the cutting pressure near the end of the cut without relaxing your grip on the chainsaw handles. Don’t let the chain contact the ground. After completing the cut, wait for the saw chain to stop before you move the chainsaw. Always stop the motor before moving from tree to tree.

Limbing a tree
See page 242.
Limbing is removing the branches from a fallen tree. When limbing leave larger lower limbs to support the log off the ground. Remove the small limbs in one cut. Branches under tension should be cut from the bottom up to avoid binding the chainsaw.

Cutting springpoles
See page 242.
A springpole is any log, branch, rooted stump, or sapling which is bent under tension by other wood so that it springs back if the wood holding it is cut or removed.
On a fallen tree, a rooted stump has a high potential of springing back to the upright position during the bucking cut to separate the log from the stump. Watch out for springpoles—they are dangerous.

WARNING
Springpoles are dangerous and could strike the operator, causing the operator to lose control of the chainsaw.
This could result in severe or fatal injury to the operator.
This should be done by trained users.

INTENDED USE
The product is only intended for use outdoors. For safety reasons the product must be adequately controlled by using two handed operation at all times.

The product is designed for cutting branches, trunks, logs and beams of a diameter determined by the cutting length of the guide bar. It is only designed to cut wood. It is only to be used in domestic application by adults who have received adequate training on the hazards and preventative measures/actions to be taken whilst using it.
Do not use the product for any purpose not listed above. It is not to be used for professional tree services. The product is not to be used by children or by persons not wearing adequate personal protective equipment and clothing.

RESIDUAL RISKS
Even when the product is used as prescribed, it is still impossible to completely eliminate certain residual risk factors. The following hazards may arise in use and the operator should pay special attention to avoid the following:

Injury caused by vibration. Always use the right tool for the job, use designated handles and restrict working time and exposure.
Exposure to noise can cause hearing injury. Wear ear protection and limit exposure
Contact with exposed saw teeth of the chain (cutting hazards).
Unforeseen, abrupt movement or kickback of the guide bar (cutting hazards).
Parts ejected from the saw chain (cutting/injection hazards).
Thrown out pieces of the work piece (wood chips, splinters)
Inhalation of saw dust and particles.
Skin contact with lubricant/oil.

RISK REDUCTION
It has been reported that vibrations from hand-held tools may contribute to a condition called Raynaud’s Syndrome in certain individuals. Symptoms may include tingling, numbness and blanching of the fingers, usually apparent upon exposure to cold. Hereditary factors, exposure to cold and dampness, diet, smoking and work practices are all thought to contribute to the development of these symptoms. There are measures that can be taken by the operator to possibly reduce the effects of vibration:

Keep your body warm in cold weather. When operating the unit wear gloves to keep the hands and wrists warm. It is reported that cold weather is a major factor contributing to Raynaud’s Syndrome.

After each period of operation, exercise to increase blood circulation.

Take frequent work breaks. Limit the amount of exposure per day.

Protective gloves available from professional chainsaw retailers are designed specifically for chainsaw use which give protection, good grip and also reduce the effect of handle vibration. These gloves should comply with EN381-7 and must be CE marked.

If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition, immediately discontinue use and see your doctor about these symptoms.

WARNING

Injuries may be caused, or aggravated, by prolonged use of a tool. When using any tool for prolonged periods, ensure you take regular breaks.

KNOW YOUR PRODUCT

See page 233.

Front hand guard/Chain brake
Front handle
Rear handle
Chain
Guide bar
Spiked bumper
Chain lubricant cap
Trigger release
Throttle trigger
Sprocket cover
Chain tensioner adjustment ring
Chain tensioner knob
Guide bar cover

SAFETY DEVICES
Low kick-back saw chain
A low-kick-back saw chain helps to reduce the possibility of a kickback event.

The rakers (depth gauges) ahead of each cutter can minimize the force of a kick-back reaction by preventing the cutters from digging in too deeply. Only use replacement guide bar and chain combinations recommended by the manufacturer.

As saw chains are sharpened, they lose some of the low kickback qualities and extra caution is required. For your safety, replace saw chains when cutting performance decreases.

Spiked bumper
The integral bumper spike may be used as a pivot when making a cut. It helps to keep the body of the chainsaw steady while cutting. When cutting, push the machine forward until the spikes dig into the edge of the wood, then by moving the rear handle up or down in the direction of the cutting line it can help ease the physical strain of cutting

Guide bars
Generally, guide bars with small radius tips have somewhat lower potential for kick-back. You should use a guide bar and matching chain which is just long enough for the job. Longer bars increase the risk of loss of control during sawing. Regularly check the chain tension. When cutting smaller branches (less than the full length of the guide bar) the chain is more likely to be thrown off if the tension is not correct.

Chain brake
Chain brakes are designed to quickly stop the chain rotating. When the chain brake lever/hand guard is pushed towards the bar, the chain should stop immediately. A chain brake does not prevent kick-back. It only lowers the risk of injury should the chain bar contact the operator’s body during a kick-back event. The chain brake should be tested before each use for correct operation in both the run and brake positions.

ASSEMBLY

WARNING
If any parts are damaged or missing do not operate this product until the parts are replaced. Failure to heed this warning could result in serious personal injury.

ASSEMBLING SAW CHAIN AND GUIDE BAR
See page 243 – 244.

Make sure to remove the battery pack from the unit. Wear protective gloves.
Unscrew the chain tensioner knob and remove the sprocket cover.
The saw chain should face in the direction of chain rotation. If they face backwards, turn the loop over.
Place the chain drive links into the bar groove.
Position the chain so there is a loop at the back of the bar.
Hold the chain in position on the bar and place the loop around the drive sprocket. Lower the bar so that the bolt goes through the hole in the attached chain tension assembly. You may need to rotate this assembly so the bolt and hole align. You may rotate this assembly again to apply some tension to the chain which will help keep it in place.
Replace the sprocket cover and turn the chain tensioner knob until nearly tight, turn the chain tension adjustment ring until the saw chain is properly tensioned. The guide bar must then be pushed upwards, check chain tension again, do not tension the chain too tight.
After the chain is well-tensioned, tighten the knob again.

ADJUSTING THE CHAIN TENSION
See page 235. See page 245.

Loosen the chain tensioner knob slightly by turning it counterclockwise.
To increase the chain tension, turn the chain tensioner adjustment ring clockwise and check the chain tension frequently. To reduce the chain tension, turn the chain tensioner adjustment ring counterclockwise and check the chain tension frequently.
The chain tension is correct when the gap between the cutter in the chain and the bar is between 3 mm – 4 mm. Pull the chain in the middle of the lower side of the bar downwards (away from the bar) and measure the distance between the bar and the chain cutters.

Tighten the chain tensioner knob by turning it clockwise.

OPERATION

ADDING CHAIN LUBRICATING OIL
See page 234.
WARNING

Never work without chain lubricant. If the saw chain is running without lubricant, guide bar and saw chain can be damaged. It is therefore essential to check the oil level in the oil level gauge frequently and every time before starting to use the chain saw.

Clear surface around the oil cap to prevent contamination.
Unscrew and remove the cap from the oil tank.
Pour the oil into the oil tank and monitor the oil level gauge. Ensure that no dirt enters the oil tank while filling.
Put the oil cap back on and tighten it up. Wipe away any spillage.
One full oil tank will enable you to use the saw for 20- 40 min.

Recommended chain lubricating oil

The manufacturer recommends you use only Ryobi chainsaw lubricating oil. (Available from your authorised Ryobi service centre)

INSTALLING BATTERY PACK
See page 235.

Place the battery pack in the chain saw. Align raised ribs on battery pack with grooves in the chain saw’s battery port.
Make sure the latch on bottom of the battery pack snaps in place and that battery pack is fully seated and secure in the chain saw before beginning operation.

HOLDING THE CHAIN SAW
See page 235.
Always hold the chain saw with your right hand at the rear handle and your left hand at the front handle. Grip both handles with the thumbs and fingers encircling the handles. Ensure that your left hand is holding the front handle so that your thumb is underneath.

STARTING THE CHAIN SAW
See page 235.

Before starting for operation, you should install the battery pack in the machine, and make sure chain brake is in run position by pulling chain brake lever / hand guard toward the front handle.
To start the machine: pull the trigger release, and then press the throttle trigger.

CHECKING AND OPERATING CHAIN BRAKE

Engage the chain brake by rotating your left hand around the front handle. Allow the back of your hand to push the chain brake lever/hand guard toward the bar while the chain is rotating rapidly. Be sure to maintain both hands on the saw handles at all times.
Reset the chain brake back into the Run position by grasping the top of the chain brake lever / hand guard and pulling toward the front handle until you hear a click.

WARNING
If the chain brake does not stop the chain immediately, or if the chain brake will not stay in the run position without assistance, take the saw to an authorised service centre for repair prior to use.

TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE

See page 247 – 248.
Stop the machine, remove the battery pack and allow the tool to cool before storing or transporting.
Clean all foreign material from the product. Store it in a cool dry and well- ventilated place that is inaccessible to children. Keep away from corrosive agents such as garden chemicals and de-icing salts. Do not store outdoors.
Fit guide bar cover before storing the unit, or during transportation.
For transportation, secure the machine against movement or falling to prevent injury to persons or damage to the machine.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING
Use only original manufacturer’s replacement parts, accessories and attachments. Failure to do so can cause possible injury, poor performance and may void your warranty.

WARNING
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge and should be performed only be a qualified service technician. For service we suggest you return the product to your nearest authorized service center for repair. When servicing, use only identical replacement parts.

WARNING
Remove the battery before adjustment, maintenance or cleaning. Failure to do so could result in serious personal Injury.

You may only make adjustments or repairs described in this manual. For other repairs, contact the authorized service agent.

Consequences of improper maintenance may cause the chain brake and other safety features to not function correctly, thus increasing the potential for serious injury. Keep your chainsaw professionally maintained and safe.

Sharpening the chain safely is a skilled task. Therefore the manufacturer strongly recommends that a worn or dull chain is replaced with a new one, available from your authorised Ryobi service centre. The part number is available in the product specification table in this manual.

Follow instructions for lubricating and chain tension checking and adjustment.

After each use, clean the product with a soft dry cloth. Check all nuts, bolts and screws at frequent intervals for security to ensure the product is in safe working condition. Any part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service centre.

REPLACING GUIDE BAR AND SAW CHAIN
See page 243 – 244.

Make sure to remove the battery. Wear protective gloves.
Unscrew the chain tensioner knob by turning it counterclockwise until the sprocket cover comes loose.
Remove the sprocket cover. Remove the bar and saw chain from unit.
To replace the bar with a new one, unscrew the nut of the chain tension assembly. Mount the chain tension assembly on to the new bar and tighten the nut.
Put the new chain in the correct direction onto the bar and make sure that the drive links are aligned in the bar groove.
Attach the bar to the chain saw and loop the chain around the drive sprocket.
Replace the sprocket cover.
Adjust the chain tension. Refer to the “Adjusting the chain tension” section.

WARNING
A dull or improperly sharpened chain can cause excessive motor speed during cutting which may result in severe motor damage.

WARNING
Improper chain sharpening Increases the potential of kick-back.

WARNING
Failure to replace or repair a damaged chain can cause serous Injury.

WARNING
The saw chain is very sharp. Always wear protective gloves when performing maintenance to the chain.

INSPECTING AND CLEANING THE CHAIN BRAKE
See page 246.

Always keep the chain brake mechanism clean by lightly brushing the linkage free from dirt.
Always test the chain brake performance after cleaning. Refer to “Operation – Checking and Operating Chain Brake” earlier in this manual for additional information.

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

FIG 1 MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE.JPG

Hours of operation

SYMBOLS ON THE PRODUCT

FIG 2 SYMBOLS ON THE PRODUCT.JPG

FIG 3 SYMBOLS ON THE PRODUCT.JPG

FIG 4 SYMBOLS ON THE PRODUCT.JPG

SYMBOLS IN THIS MANUAL

The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this product.

DANGER
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION
Without safety alert symbol
Indicates a situation that may result in property damage.

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