BOSCH GBH 18V-21 Professional Cordless Rotary Hammer Instruction Manual

: June 15, 2024
: Bosch

Table of Contents

BOSCH GBH 18V-21 Professional Cordless Rotary Hammer
Product Information
Product Usage Instructions
Safety Instructions
Product Description and Specifications
Rechargeable battery
Assembly
Operation
Maintenance and Service
Accessories
EU Declaration of Conformity
References
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BOSCH GBH 18V-21 Professional Cordless Rotary Hammer

Product Information

Product Name: GBH 18V-21 Professional
Manufacturer: Robert Bosch Power Tools GmbH
Model Number: 1 609 92A 5GG
Website: www.bosch-pt.com

Specifications

Voltage: 18V
No-load Speed: 0-1800 min-1
Impact Rate: 0-5100 min-1
Tool Holder: SDS-plus
Max. Drilling Diameter (in concrete): 21mm
Max. Drilling Diameter (in wood): 13mm
Max. Drilling Diameter (in steel): 30mm
Weight: 2.8-3.7kg
Recommended Charging Temperature: 0…+35°C
Allowed Operating Temperature: -20…+50°C
Recommended Batteries: GBA 18V, ProCORE18V
Compatible Chargers: GAL 18, GAX 18, GAL 36

Product Usage Instructions

Safety Instructions

Read all safety instructions carefully.
The term “power tool” refers to both corded and cordless power tools.

Workplace Safety

If operating the power tool in a damp environment is unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD) to reduce the risk of electric shock.

Electrical Safety

Use only the specified batteries for the power tool. The use of other batteries may result in injury or fire hazards.
In case of accidental contact with liquid from the battery, rinse with water. If the liquid comes into contact with the eyes, seek medical help. Battery liquid can cause skin irritation or burns.

Safety of Persons

Use and handle the power tool properly.

Service

Only have your power tool repaired by qualified personnel using original spare parts to ensure the safety of the tool.

Safety Instructions

General Power Tool 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.

Hammer Safety Warnings

Wear ear protectors. Exposure to noise can cause hearing loss.
Use auxiliary handle(s), if supplied with the tool. Loss of control can cause personal injury.
Hold power tool by insulated gripping surfaces when performing an operation where the cutting accessory or fastener may contact hidden wiring. Cutting accessory and fasteners contacting a “live” wire may make exposed metal parts of the power tool “live” and could give the operator an electric shock.
Use suitable detectors to determine if there are hidden supply lines or contact the local utility company for assistance. Contact with electric cables can cause fire and electric shock. Damaging gas lines can lead to explosion. Breaking water pipes causes property damage.
Always wait until the power tool has come to a complete stop before placing it down. The application tool can jam and cause you to lose control of the power tool.
Secure the workpiece. A workpiece clamped with clamping devices or in a vice is held more secure than by hand.
In case of damage and improper use of the battery, vapours may be emitted. The battery can set alight or explode. Ensure the area is well ventilated and seek medical attention should you experience any adverse effects. The vapours may irritate the respiratory system.
Do not open the battery. There is a risk of short-circuiting.
The battery can be damaged by pointed objects such as nails or screwdrivers or by force applied externally. An internal short circuit may occur, causing the battery to burn, smoke, explode or overheat.
Only use the battery with products from the manufacturer. This is the only way in which you can protect the battery against dangerous overload.
Protect the battery against heat, e.g. against continuous intense sunlight, fire, dirt, water and moisture. There is a risk of explosion and short-circuiting.
Hold the power tool firmly with both hands and make sure you have a stable footing. The power tool can be more securely guided with both hands.

Product Description and Specifications

Read all the safety and general instructions.
Failure to observe the safety and general instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
Please observe the illustrations at the beginning of this operating manual.

Intended Use

The power tool is intended for hammer drilling in concrete, brick and stone, as well as for light chiselling work. It is also suitable for drilling without impact in wood, metal, ceramic and plastic. Power tools with electronic control and right/left rotation are also suitable for screwdriving.

Product Features

The numbering of the product features refers to the diagram of the power tool on the graphics page.

SDS plus drill chuck
SDS plus tool holder
Dust protection cap
Locking sleeve
Button for depth stop adjustment
Release button for impact/mode selector switch
Impact/mode selector switch
Rotational direction switch
On/off switch
Handle (insulated gripping surface)
Battery a)
Worklight
Battery release button a)
Auxiliary handle (insulated gripping surface)
Depth stop
Universal holder with SDS plus shank a)

a) Accessories shown or described are not included with the product as standard. You can find the complete selection of accessories in our accessories range.

Technical Data

Cordless rotary hammer / GBH 18V-21

Article number: 3 611 J11 1..
Rated voltage: V= 18

Rated speed A)

– Clockwise	min–1	0−1800
– Anticlockwise	min–1	0−1800
Impact rateA)	min–1	0−5100
Impact energy per stroke according to EPTA-Procedure 05:2016	J	2
Tool holder		SDS plus
Max. drilling diameter
– Concrete	mm	21
– Steel	mm	13
– Wood	mm	30
Weight according to EPTA- Procedure 01:2014B)	kg	2.8−3.7
Recommended ambient temperature during charging	°C	0 to +35
Permitted ambient temperature during operation C) and during storage	°C	–20

to +50
Recommended batteries| | GBA 18V… ProCORE18V…
Recommended battery chargers| | GAL 18…

GAX 18…

GAL 36…

A) Measured at 20−25 °C with rechargeable battery ProCORE18V 12.0Ah.
B) Depends on battery in use
C) Limited performance at temperatures <0 °C

Noise/Vibration Information

Noise emission values determined according to EN 60745-2-6.

Typically, the A-weighted noise level of the power tool is:

Sound pressure level 90 dB(A); sound power level 101 dB(A). Uncertainty K = 3 dB.
Wear hearing protection!
Vibration total values ah (triax vector sum) and uncertainty K determined according to EN 60745-2-6:
Hammer drilling into concrete: ah=10.0 m/s2, K=1.5 m/s2, Chiselling: ah=7.5 m/s2, K=1.5 m/s2,

The vibration level given in these instructions has been measured in accordance with a standardised measuring procedure and may be used to compare power tools. It can also be used for a preliminary estimation of exposure to vibration. The stated vibration level applies to the main applications of the power tool. However, if the power tool is used for different applications, with different application tools or poorly maintained, the vibration level may differ. This can significantly increase the exposure to vibration over the total working period.

To estimate the exposure to vibration accurately, the times when the tool is switched off or when it is running but not actually being used should also be taken into account. This can significantly reduce the exposure to vibration over the total working period. Implement additional safety measures to protect the operator from the effects of vibration, such as servicing the power tool and application tools, keeping the hands warm, and organising workflows correctly.

Rechargeable battery

Charging the battery

Use only the chargers listed in the technical data. Only these chargers are matched to the lithium-ion battery of your power tool.

Note: The battery is supplied partially charged. To ensure full battery capacity, fully charge the battery in the charger before using your power tool for the first time.

The lithium-ion battery can be charged at any time without reducing its service life. Interrupting the charging process does not damage the battery.
The lithium-ion battery is protected against deep discharge by the “Electronic Cell Protection (ECP)”. When the battery is discharged, the power tool is switched off by means of a protective circuit: The application tool no longer rotates.
Do not continue to press the On/Off switch after the power tool has automatically switched off. The battery can be damaged.

Inserting the Battery

Push the charged battery into the battery holder until it clicks into place.

Removing the Battery

To remove the rechargeable battery, press the battery release button and pull the battery out. Do not use force to do this.
The rechargeable battery has two locking levels to prevent the battery from falling out if the battery release button is pressed unintentionally. The rechargeable battery is held in place by a spring when fitted in the power tool.

Battery charge indicator

The green LEDs on the battery charge indicator indicate the state of charge of the battery. For safety reasons, it is only possible to check the state of charge when the power tool is not in operation.
Press the button for the battery charge indicator On or to show the state of charge. This is also possible when the battery is removed.
If no LED lights up after pressing the button for the battery charge indicator, then the battery is defective and must be replaced.

Battery model GBA 18V…

LED	Capacity
3 × continuous green light	60–100 %
2 × continuous green light	30–60 %
1 × continuous green light	5–30 %
1 × flashing green light	0–5 %

Battery model ProCORE18V…

LED	Capacity
5 × continuous green light	80–100 %
4 × continuous green light	60–80 %
3 × continuous green light	40–60 %
2 × continuous green light	20–40 %
1 × continuous green light	5–20 %
1 × flashing green light	0–5 %

Recommendations for Optimal Handling of the Battery

Protect the battery against moisture and water.
Only store the battery within a temperature range of −20 to 50 °C. Do not leave the battery in your car in the summer, for example.
Occasionally clean the ventilation slots on the battery using a soft brush that is clean and dry.
A significantly reduced operating time after charging indicates that the battery has deteriorated and must be replaced.
Follow the instructions on correct disposal.

Assembly

Remove the battery from the power tool before carrying out work on the power tool (e.g. maintenance, changing tool, etc.). The battery should also be removed for transport and storage. There is risk of injury from unintentionally pressing the on/off switch.

Auxiliary handle

Do not operate your power tool without the auxiliary handle (14).

Swivelling the auxiliary handle (see figure A)

You can swivel the auxiliary handle (14) to any angle for a safe work posture that minimises fatigue.
Turn the lower gripping end of the auxiliary handle (14) anticlockwise and swivel the auxiliary handle (14) into the required position. Then turn the lower gripping end of the auxiliary handle (14) clockwise to retighten it.
Make sure that the retaining strap of the auxiliary handle slots into the corresponding groove of the housing.

Changing the Tool

The dust protection cap (3) largely prevents the penetration of drilling dust into the tool holder during operation. When inserting the tool, make sure that the dust protection cap (3) does not become damaged.
Replace a damaged dust protection cap immediately.
It is recommended that you have use an after-sales service for this.

Changing the tool (SDS plus)

Inserting SDS-plus application tools (see figure B1)

The SDS-plus drill chuck enables you to change the application tool easily and conveniently without needing to use additional tools.

Clean and lightly grease the insertion end of the application tool.
Insert the application tool into the tool holder while turning it until it locks automatically.
Check the latching by pulling the tool.

As a requirement of the system, the SDS-plus application tool can move freely. This causes a certain radial run-out at no-load, which has no effect on the accuracy of the drill hole, as the drill bit centres itself upon drilling.

Removing SDS-plus application tools (see figure B2)

Push the locking sleeve (4) back and remove the application tool.

Dust/Chip Extraction

Dust from materials such as lead-containing coatings, some wood types, minerals and metal can be harmful to one’s health. Touching or breathing-in the dust can cause allergic reactions and/or lead to respiratory infections of the user or bystanders. Certain dust, such as oak or beech dust, is considered carcinogenic, especially in connection with wood-treatment additives (chromate, wood preservative). Materials containing asbestos may only be worked by specialists.

Provide for good ventilation of the working place.
It is recommended to wear a P2 filter-class respirator.
Observe the relevant regulations in your country for the materials to be worked.
Avoid dust accumulation at the workplace. Dust can easily ignite.

Operation

Start-up

Setting the Operating Mode

The operating mode of the power tool is selected using the impact/mode selector switch (7).

To change the operating mode, press the release button (6) and turn the impact/mode selector switch (7) until it clicks into the required position.

Note: Only change the operating mode when the power tool is switched off. Otherwise, the power tool may become damaged.

Position for hammer drilling into concrete or stone
Position for drilling without impact in wood, metal, ceramic and plastic and for screwdriving
Vario-Lock position for adjusting the chisel position
The impact/mode selector switch (7) will not engage in this position.
Position for chiselling

Setting the rotational direction (see figure C)

The rotational direction switch (8) is used to change the rotational direction of the power tool. However, this is not possible while the on/off switch (9) is being pressed.

Only operate the rotational direction switch (8) when the power tool is not in use. Always set the rotational direction to clockwise rotation for hammer drilling, drilling and chiselling.
- Clockwise: To drill and to drive in screws, press the rotational direction switch (8) all the way to the left.
- Anticlockwise: To loosen and unscrew screws and nuts, press the rotational direction switch (8) all the way to the right.

Switching On/Off

If necessary, release the lock-on button for the on/off switch.
To switch on the power tool, press the on/off switch (9). The worklight (12) lights up when the on/off switch (9) is lightly or fully pressed, allowing the work area to be illuminated in poor lighting conditions.
To switch off the power tool, release the on/off switch (9).

For low temperatures, the power tool reaches the full hammer/ impact capacity only after a certain time.

Adjusting the Speed/Impact Rate

You can adjust the speed/impact rate of the power tool when it is on by pressing in the on/off switch (9) to varying extents.
Applying light pressure to the on/off switch (9) results in a low rotational speed/impact rate. Applying increasing pressure to the switch increases the speed/impact rate.

Changing the chiselling position (Vario-Lock)

You can lock the chisel in 13 different positions, so you can select the optimum working position for each task.

Insert the chisel into the tool holder.
Turn the impact/mode selector switch (7) to the “Vario- Lock” position.
Turn the application tool to the required chisel position.
Turn the impact/mode selector switch (7) to the “chiselling” position. With this, the tool holder is locked.
Set the rotational direction for chiselling to clockwise.

Practical Advice

Setting the drilling depth (see figure D)

You can use the depth stop (15) to set the required drilling depth X.

Press the button for depth stop adjustment (5) and insert the depth stop into the auxiliary handle (14). The fluting on the depth stop (15) must face downwards.
Insert the SDS-plus application tool into the SDS-plus tool holder (2) to the stop. Otherwise, the movability of the SDS-plus drilling tool can lead to incorrect adjustment of the drilling depth.
Pull the depth stop far enough out that the distance between the drill bit tip and the edge of the depth stop corresponds to the required drilling depth X.

Overload clutch

If the application tool jams or snags, the power transmission to the drill spindle will be interrupted. Always hold the power tool firmly with both hands to withstand the forces this may create and adopt a position with stable footing.
Switch the power tool off immediately and remove the application tool if the power tool becomes blocked. Switching on when the drilling tool is blocked may cause high torque reactions.

Inserting screwdriver bits (see figure E)

u Only apply the power tool to the screw/nut when the tool is switched off. Rotating tool inserts can slip off.
A universal holder (16) with SDS-plus shank (accessory) is required to work with screwdriver bits.
- Clean and lightly grease the insertion end of the shank.
- Insert the universal holder into the tool holder while turning it until it locks automatically.
- Check that it is locked by pulling the universal holder.
- Insert a screwdriver bit in the universal holder. Only use screwdriver bits that fit the screw head.
- To remove the universal holder, slide the locking sleeve (4) backwards and remove the universal holder (16) from the tool holder.

Maintenance and Service

Maintenance and Cleaning

Remove the battery from the power tool before carrying out work on the power tool (e.g. maintenance, changing tool, etc.). The battery should also be removed for transport and storage. There is risk of injury from unintentionally pressing the on/off switch.
To ensure safe and efficient operation, always keep the power tool and the ventilation slots clean.
Replace a damaged dust protection cap immediately.
It is recommended that you have use an after-sales service for this.
Clean the tool holder (2) after each use.

After-Sales Service and Application Service

Our after-sales service responds to your questions concerning maintenance and repair of your product as well as spare parts. You can find explosion drawings and information on spare parts at: www.bosch-pt.com.
The Bosch product use advice team will be happy to help you with any questions about our products and their accessories.
In all correspondence and spare parts orders, please always include the 10‑digit article number given on the nameplate of the product.

Great Britain

Robert Bosch Ltd. (B.S.C.)
P.O. Box 98 Broadwater Park
North Orbital Road Denham Uxbridge UB 9 5HJ
At www.bosch-pt.co.uk you can order spare parts or arrange the collection of a product in need of servicing or repair.
Tel. Service: (0344) 7360109
E-Mail: boschservicecentre@bosch.com
You can find further service addresses at: www.bosch-pt.com/serviceaddresses

Transport

The contained lithium-ion batteries are subject to the Dangerous Goods Legislation requirements. The batteries are suitable for road transport by the user without further restrictions. When shipping by third parties (e.g.: by air transport or forwarding agency), special requirements on packaging and labelling must be observed. For preparation of the item being shipped, consulting an expert for hazardous material is required. Dispatch battery packs only when the housing is undamaged. Tape or mask off open contacts and pack up the battery in such a manner that it cannot move around in the packaging. Please also observe the possibility of more detailed national regulations.

Disposal

Power tools, rechargeable batteries, accessories and packaging should be sorted for environmentally-friendly recycling.
Do not dispose of power tools and batteries/rechargeable batteries into household waste!

Only for EU countries:

According to the Directive 2012/19/EU, power tools that are no longer usable, and according to the Directive 2006/66/EC, defective or used battery packs/batteries, must be collected separately and disposed of in an environmentally correct manner.

Battery packs/batteries:

Li-ion:

Please observe the notes in the section on transport (see “Transport”).

Accessories

EU Declaration of Conformity

Cordless rotary hammer/ Article number

We declare under our sole responsibility that the stated products comply with all applicable provisions of the directives and regulations listed below and are in conformity with the following standards.
Technical file at: *

Robert Bosch Power Tools GmbH