RYOBI 18V ROTARY TOOL STATION User Manual

June 5, 2024
RYOBI

18V ROTARY TOOL STATION
User Manual

REGISTER YOUR TOOLS
http://register.ryobitools.com
1-800-525-2579

INCLUDES: Rotary Tool Console, Flexible Shaft, Pen Holder, Rotary Tool Accessories, Wrench, Operator’s Manual

WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the operator’s manual before using this product.

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING
Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below 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 the 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 that may ignite 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 the 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. The 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 ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. The use of a GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.

  • Use this product only with batteries and chargers listed in tool/appliance/battery pack/charger correlation supplement 987000-432.

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 masks, nonskid safety shoes, hard hats, 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 a power source and/ or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing 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 jewelry. Keep your hair and clothing away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry, 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. The use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
  • Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of tools allow you to become complacent and ignore tool safety principles. A careless action can cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.
  • Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long hair. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be drawn into air vents.
  • Do not use a ladder or unstable support. Stable footing on a solid surface enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.

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 at 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 remove the battery pack, if detachable, 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 and accessories. 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.
  • Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and control of the tool in unexpected situations.

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. The use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
  • When the 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 the eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
  • Do not use a battery pack or tool that is damaged or modified. Damaged or modified batteries may exhibit unpredictable behavior resulting in fire,  explosion, or risk of injury.
  • Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or temperature above 265°F may cause an explosion.
  • Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or tool outside the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.

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.
  • Never service damaged battery packs. Service of battery packs should only be performed by the manufacturer or authorized service providers.

ROTARY TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

SAFETY WARNINGS ARE COMMON FOR GRINDING, SANDING, WIRE BRUSHING, POLISHING, CARVING, OR ABRASIVE CUTTING-OFF OPERATIONS

  • This power tool is intended to function as a grinder, sander, wire brush, polisher, carving, or cut-off tool.
    Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations, and specifications provided with this power tool.
    Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.

  • Do not use accessories that are not specifically designed and recommended by the tool manufacturer. Just because the accessory can be attached to your power tool, it does not assure safe operation.

  • The rated speed of accessories must be at least equal to the operating speed setting marked on the power tool. Accessories running faster than their rated speed can break and fly apart.

  • The outside diameter and the thickness of your accessory must be within the capacity rating of your power tool. Incorrectly sized accessories cannot be
    adequately controlled.

  • The arbor size of wheels, sanding drums, or any other accessory must properly fit the spindle or collet of the power tool. Accessories that do not match the mounting hardware of the power tool will run out of balance, vibrate excessively, and may cause loss of control.

  • Mandrel-mounted wheels, sanding drums, cutters, or other accessories must be fully inserted into the collet or chuck. If the mandrel is insufficiently held and/or the overhang of the wheel is too long, the mounted wheel may become loose and be ejected at high velocity.

  • Do not use a damaged accessory. Before each use inspect the accessory such as abrasive wheels for chips and cracks, a sanding drum for cracks, tear, or excess wear, and a wire brush for loose or cracked wires. If a power tool or accessory is dropped, inspect for damage or install an undamaged accessory. After inspecting and installing an accessory, position yourself and bystanders away from the plane of the rotating accessory and run the power tool at maximum no-load speed for one minute. Damaged accessories will normally break apart during this test time.

  • Wear personal protective equipment. Depending on the application, use a face shield, safety goggles, or safety glasses. As appropriate, wear a dust mask,  hearing protectors, gloves, and a workshop apron capable of stopping small abrasive or workpiece fragments. The eye protection must be capable of stopping flying debris generated by various operations. The dust mask or respirator must be capable of filtrating particles generated by your operation. Prolonged exposure to high-intensity noise may cause hearing loss.

  • Keep bystanders a safe distance away from the work area. Anyone entering the work area must wear personal protective equipment. Fragments of a workpiece or of a broken accessory may fly away and cause injury beyond the immediate area of operation.

  • Hold power tool by insulated gripping surfaces only, when performing an operation where the cutting accessory may contact hidden wiring. Cutting accessory contacting a “live” wire may make exposed metal parts of the power tool “live” and could give the operator an electric shock.

  • Always hold the tool firmly in your hand(s) during the start-up. The reaction torque of the motor, as it accelerates to full speed, can cause the tool to twist.

  • Use clamps to support the workpiece whenever practical. Never hold a small workpiece in one hand and the tool in the other hand while in use. Clamping a  small workpiece allows you to use your hand(s) to control the tool. Round material such as dowel rods, pipes, or tubing has a tendency to roll while being cut and may cause the bit to bind or jump toward you.

  • Position the cord clear of the spinning accessory. If you lose control, the cord may be cut or snagged and your hand or arm may be pulled into the spinning accessory.

  • Never lay the power tool down until the accessory has come to a complete stop. The spinning accessory may grab the surface and pull the power tool out of your control.

  • After changing the bits or making any adjustments, make sure the collet nut, chuck or any other adjustment devices are securely tightened. Loose adjustment devices can unexpectedly shift, causing loss of control, loose rotating components will be violently thrown.

  • Do not run the power tool while carrying it at your side. Accidental contact with the spinning accessory could snag your clothing, pulling the accessory into your body.

  • Regularly clean the power tool’s air vents. The motor’s fan will draw the dust inside the housing and excessive accumulation of powdered metal may cause electrical hazards.

  • Do not operate the power tool near flammable materials. Sparks could ignite these materials.

  • Do not use accessories that require liquid coolants. Using water or other liquid coolants may result in electrocution or shock.

  • The maximum recommended diameter of mounted wheels, threaded cones and plugs shall not exceed 2 in. (55 mm), and that the maximum recommended diameter of sanding accessories shall not exceed 3 in. (80 mm).

KICKBACK AND RELATED WARNINGS
Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched or snagged rotating wheel, sanding band, brush, or any other accessory. Pinching or snagging causes rapid stalling of the rotating accessory which in turn causes the uncontrolled power tool to be forced in the direction opposite of the accessory’s rotation.
For example, if an abrasive wheel is snagged or pinched by the workpiece, the edge of the wheel that is entering into the pinch point can dig into the surface of the material causing the wheel to climb out or kick out. The wheel may either jump toward or away from the operator, depending on the direction
of the wheel’s movement at the point of pinching. Abrasive wheels may also break under these conditions.
Kickback is the result of power tool misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below.

  • Maintain a firm grip on the power tool and position your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback forces. The operator can control torque reactions or kickback forces if proper precautions are taken.

  • Use special care when working corners, sharp edges, etc. Avoid bouncing and snagging the accessory.
    Corners, sharp edges, or bouncing have a tendency to snag the rotating accessory and cause loss of control or kickback.

  • Do not attach a toothed saw blade. Such blades create frequent kickback and loss of control.

  • Always feed the bit into the material in the same direction as the cutting edge is exiting from the material (which is the same direction as the chips are
    thrown). Feeding the tool in the wrong direction causes the cutting edge of the bit to climb out of the work and pull the tool in the direction of this feed.

  • When using rotary files, cut-off wheels, high-speed cutters, or tungsten carbide cutters, always have the work securely clamped. These wheels will grab if they become slightly canted in the groove, and can kick back.
    When a cut-off wheel grabs, the wheel itself usually breaks. When a rotary file, high-speed cutter or tungsten carbide cutter grabs, it may jump from the groove and you could lose control of the tool.

SAFETY WARNINGS SPECIFIC FOR GRINDING AND ABRASIVE CUTTING-OFF OPERATIONS:

  • Use only wheel types that are recommended for your power tool and only for recommended applications. For example: do not grind with the side of a  cut-off wheel. Abrasive cut-off wheels are intended for peripheral grinding, side forces applied to these wheels may cause them to shatter.

  • For threaded abrasive cones and plugs use only undamaged wheel mandrels with an unrelieved shoulder flange that are of correct size and length.
    Proper mandrels will reduce the possibility of breakage.

  • Do not “jam” a cut-off wheel or apply excessive pressure. Do not attempt to make an excessive depth of cut. Overstressing the wheel increases the loading and susceptibility to twisting or snagging of the wheel in the cut and the possibility of kickback or wheel breakage.

  • Do not position your hand in line with and behind the rotating wheel. When the wheel, at the point of operation, is moving away from your hand, the possible kickback may propel the spinning wheel and the power tool directly at you.

  • When the wheel is pinched, snagged or when interrupting a cut for any reason, switch off the power tool and hold the power tool motionless until the wheel comes to a complete stop. Never attempt to remove the cutoff wheel from the cut while the wheel is in motion otherwise kickback may occur. Investigate and take corrective action to eliminate the cause of wheel pinching or snagging.

  • Do not restart the cutting operation in the workpiece. Let the wheel reach full speed and carefully re-enter the cut. The wheel may bind, walk up or kick back if the power tool is restarted in the workpiece.

  • Support panels or any oversized workpiece to minimize the risk of wheel pinching and kickback. Large workpieces tend to sag under their own weight.  Supports must be placed under the workpiece near the line of cut and near the edge of the workpiece on both sides of the wheel.

  • Use extra caution when making a “pocket cut” into existing walls or other blind areas. The protruding wheel may cut gas or water pipes, electrical wiring, or objects that can cause kickback.

SAFETY WARNINGS SPECIFIC FOR WIRE BRUSHING OPERATIONS:

  • Be aware that wire bristles are thrown by the brush even during ordinary operations. Do not overstress the wires by applying excessive load to the brush.  The wire bristles can easily penetrate light clothing and/or skin.
  • Allow brushes to run at operating speed for at least one minute before using them. During this time no one is to stand in front or in line with the brush.  Loose bristles or wires will be discharged during the run-in time.
  • Direct the discharge of the spinning wire brush away from you. Small particles and tiny wire fragments may be discharged at high velocity during the use of these brushes and may become imbedded in your skin.

ADDITIONAL SAFETY RULES

  • WARNING – Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other common rotary tool activities contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
    • Lead from lead-based paints,
    • Crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
    • Arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber. Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals: work in a well-ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.

  • Always use proper guard with grinding wheel. A guard protects the operator from broken wheel fragments.

  • Know your power tool. Read the operator’s manual carefully. Learn its applications and limitations, as well as the specific potential hazards related to this tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or serious injury.

  • Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.

  • Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.

  • Protect your hearing. Wear hearing protection during extended periods of operation. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.

  • This product is not intended for use with pet grooming, dental work, or any human or veterinarian medical applications.

  • Keep pets away while operating this tool.

  • Check damaged parts. Before further use of the tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should be carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting, and any other conditions that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service center.  Following this rule will reduce the risk of shock, fire, or serious injury.

  • Inspect for and remove all nails from lumber before using this tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.

  • Do not grind or sand heat flammable materials. Sparks from the wheel could ignite these materials.

  • This product is not intended for use as a dental drill or in human or veterinary medical applications. Serious injury may result.

  • When using steel screws, cut-off wheels, high-speed cutters, or tungsten carbide cutters, always have the work securely clamped. Never attempt to hold the work with one hand while using any of these accessories.

  • Battery tools do not have to be plugged into an electrical outlet; therefore, they are always in operating condition. Be aware of possible hazards when not using your battery tool or when changing accessories. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or serious personal injury.

  • Do not place battery tools or their batteries near fire or heat. This will reduce the risk of explosion and possibly injury.

  • Do not crush, drop or damage the battery pack. Do not use a battery pack or charger that has been dropped or received a sharp blow. A damaged battery is subject to explosion. Properly dispose of a dropped or damaged battery immediately.

  • Batteries can explode in the presence of a source of ignition, such as a pilot light. To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, never use any cordless product in the presence of an open flame. An exploded battery can propel debris and chemicals. If exposed, flush with water immediately.

  • Under extreme usage or temperature conditions, battery leakage may occur. If liquid comes in contact with your skin, wash immediately with soap and water. If liquid gets into your eyes, flush them with clean water for at least 10 minutes, then seek immediate medical attention. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.

  • For organic material, a flex shaft accessory is required. Proper cleaning and sanitizing is required after use. Any material including organic material cut or altered by this tool is not intended nor suitable for human consumption.

  • Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and use them to instruct others who may use this product. If you loan someone this product, loan them these instructions also.

SYMBOLS

SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING
DANGER : Indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will

result in death or serious injury.
| WARNING :| Indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
| CAUTION :| Indicates a hazardous situation, that, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
| NOTICE :| (Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates information considered important, but not related to a potential injury (e.g. messages relating to property damage).

Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the product better and safer.

SYMBOL NAME DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION
Safety Alert Indicates a potential personal injury hazard.
Read Operator’s Manual To reduce the risk of injury, users must read and

understand the operator’s manual before using this product.
| Eye and Breathing Protection| Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1. Breathing protection may also be required depending on the type of attachment used and as prescribed elsewhere in this Operator’s Manual.
| Wet Conditions Alert| Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
| Long Hair| Secure long hair above shoulder level to prevent entanglement in moving parts.
| Recycle Symbol| This product uses lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. Local, state, or federal laws
may prohibit the disposal of batteries in ordinary trash. Consult your local waste
authority for information regarding available recycling and/or disposal options.
V| Volts| Voltage
min| Minutes| Time
| Direct Current| Type or a characteristic of current
n| Rated Speed| Rotational speed
…/min| Per Minute| Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits etc., per minute

FEATURES

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Quick-Change Collet ……………………………………. 1/8 in. Universal
Rated Speed …………………………………………………..5,000 – 35,000/min (RPM)
Foot Pedal Capability …………………………………….Yes

ASSEMBLY

UNPACKING
This product requires assembly.

  • Carefully remove the tool and any accessories from the box. All items listed in the Includes section must be included at the time of purchase.

WARNING:
Items in this Assembly section are not assembled to the product by the manufacturer and require custom installation. Use of a product that may have been improperly assembled could result in serious personal injury.

  • If any parts are damaged or missing, please call 1-800-525-2579 for assistance.

WARNING:
If any parts are damaged or missing do not operate this product until the parts are replaced. Use of this product with damaged or missing parts could result in serious personal injury.

WARNING:
Do not attempt to modify this product or create accessories or attachments not recommended for use with this product. Any such alteration or modification is misused and could result in a hazardous condition leading to possible serious personal injury.

WARNING:
To prevent accidental starting that could cause serious personal injury, always remove the battery pack from the product when assembling parts.

CONNECTING THE PEN HOLDER AND FLEX SHAFT TO THE ROTARY TOOL CONSOLE
See Figures 1 and 2, page 13.

  • Slide the flange on the pen holder into the opening on the left or right side of the rotary tool console until it is fully seated.

  • Place the collar of the flex shaft onto the threaded outlet on the rotary tool console.
    NOTE: The square shaft inside the flex hose inserts into the square hole in the outlet.

  • Turn the collar clockwise and tighten securely.

OPERATION

WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with this product to make you careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a second is sufficient to inflict serious injury.

WARNING:
Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1. Hearing protection may also be required depending on the type of attachment used and as prescribed elsewhere in this Operator’s Manual.
Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into your eyes and other possible serious injuries.

WARNING:
Do not use any attachments or accessories not recommended by the manufacturer of this product. The use of attachments or accessories not recommended can result in serious personal injury.

NOTICE:
To prevent damage to the spindle or spindle lock, always allow the motor to come to a complete stop before engaging the spindle lock.

APPLICATIONS
You may use this product for the purposes listed below:

  • Carving, engraving, etching, polishing, cleaning, removing rust, sanding, cutting, grinding, sharpening, drilling, and routing

KEY HOLE HANGER
See Figure 3, page 13.
To mount the rotary tool console, use the keyhole hanging feature. Screws should be installed so that the center distance is 2.5 in.

ACCESSORY STORAGE
See Figures 4 – 5, page 13.
The collet wrench and frequently used accessories can be stored using accessory storage.

INSTALLING/REMOVING BATTERY PACK
See Figure 6, page 14.

  • Insert the battery pack into the product as shown.
  • Make sure the latches on each side of the battery pack snap into place and that the battery pack is secured in the product before beginning operation.
  • Depress the latches to remove the battery pack.
    For complete charging instructions, see the operator’s manuals for your battery pack and charger.

WARNING:
Battery products are always in operating condition.
Therefore, the switch should always be in the off position when not in use or carrying at your side.

QUICK-CHANGE COLLET
See Figures 7 – 8, page 14.
NOTE: The tool ships with a preinstalled collet that is machined to precision tolerances to fit accessories with 1/8 in. diameter shanks. When installed, the quick change collet allows the user to change accessories without tools and without removing the collet from the shaft. The quick change collet is not compatible with 1/16 in. shanks.

To remove/install the quick change collet:

  • Remove the battery pack from the tool.
  • Depress and hold the spindle lock button and rotate the shaft by hand until the spindle lock engages the shaft, preventing further rotation.
  • With the spindle lock engaged, place the included 3/8 in. wrench on the bottom threaded end of the quick-change collet and turn counterclockwise to loosen. Continue turning counterclockwise to remove the collet from the tool.
  • Remove the quick-change collet.
  • To install, engage the spindle lock. Place the quick-change collet on the shaft and begin threading on by hand until there is resistance. Then use the included 3/8 in. wrench on the bottom threaded end of the collet and rotate clockwise until tightly secured.

WARNING:
Always use the collet which matches the shank size of the accessory you plan to use. Never force a large diameter shank into a collet. The accessory should fit smoothly into the collet, but you should be able to tighten the accessory firmly and securely with the quick-change collet.

INSTALLING/REMOVING ACCESSORIES
See Figures 7 – 8, page 14.
To install:

  • Remove the battery pack from the tool.
  • Choose an accessory that fits the collet and is suitable for the application you are attempting.
  • Ensure the quick-change collet is securely installed on the shaft.
  • While depressing the spindle lock, use your hand to loosen the collet by rotating the sleeve counterclockwise.
  • Insert the shank of the accessory into the collet until the shank bottoms out, then pull it out 1/16 in. to allow for expansion when the accessory gets hot.
  • Rotate the collet sleeve clockwise until clicking stops and the accessory shank is gripped by the collet.
    NOTE: If the sleeve cannot be tightened or loosened sufficiently by hand, use the included 3/8 in. collet wrench on the top hexed area of the collet. Turn clockwise to tighten or counterclockwise to loosen.

To remove:

  • Remove the battery pack from the tool.
  • Loosen the collet sleeve.
  • Remove the accessory.
    NOTE: When trying to remove an accessory, if the quick-change collet begins to unthread from the tool, repeat the install process.

DANGER:
If you are changing an accessory immediately after use, be careful not to touch the collet or the accessory with your hands or fingers. You will get burned because of the heat build-up from the operation. Always use the wrench provided or allow the collet to cool.

USING MANDRELS
See Figure 9, page 14.
The most common types of mandrel to use with this tool include the standard mandrel which is used with grinding wheels and emery wheels. Screw mandrels are used with polishing wheels and polishing drums. Drum mandrels are used with sanding drums.

To install:

  • Remove the battery pack from the tool.
  • Install the mandrel.

If using the standard mandrel:

  • Depress and hold the spindle lock button and rotate the mandrel by hand until the spindle lock engages preventing further rotation.

  • Insert the slot end of the provided wrench into the slot on top of the mandrel and unscrew.

  • Remove mandrel screw and washer.

  • Place desired accessory over the mandrel shaft and align the accessory hole with the mandrel hole.

  • Insert mandrel screw with washer through the accessory and mandrel shaft holes.
    NOTE: The mandrel washer should be placed between the mandrel screw and the accessory.

  • Tighten using a provided wrench.

If using the screw mandrel:

  • Align the desired accessory hole with the mandrel screw head.
  • Screw accessory onto mandrel by twisting clockwise until secure.

If using the drum mandrel:

  • Align an appropriately sized sanding drum over a mandrel and push down to completely cover the drum end of the mandrel.
    NOTE: If necessary, tighten the screw on the drum mandrel head to expand the drum and securely hold the sanding drum in place.

BALANCING ACCESSORIES
For precision work, it is important that all accessories be properly balanced. To balance an accessory, slightly loosen the quick-change collet and give the ccessory a 1/4 in. turn. You should be able to tell by the sound and feel if the accessory is running in balance. Continue adjusting in this fashion until the best balance is achieved. Replace accessories if they become damaged or unbalanced.

TURNING THE ROTARY TOOL ON/OFF
See Figure 10, page 14.
To turn the rotary tool ON, slide the on/off switch to the ON position. To turn it OFF, slide the on/off switch to the OFF position.

SELECTING THE RIGHT SPEED
See Figure 11, page 14.
To increase the tool’s speed, rotate the speed control dial clockwise. To decrease the speed, rotate the dial counterclockwise. To control the speed with a foot pedal (not included), rotate the dial completely counterclockwise. The rotary tool has a speed range of 5,000-35,000 RPM. To select the right speed for each job, use a practice piece of material. Vary speed to find the best speed for the accessory you are using and the job to be done. Refer to the  Application Speed Recommendations table to determine the proper speed based on the material being worked and the type of accessory being used.

SLOWER SPEEDS
Certain materials, some plastics, for example, require a relatively slow speed because the friction of the tool generates heat and causes the plastic to melt at a high speed.
Slow speeds (15,000 RPM or less) are usually best for polishing operations using polishing accessories. They may also be best for working on delicate projects, delicate wood carving, and fragile model parts.
Higher speeds are better for carving, cutting, and shaping wood. Hardwoods, metals, and glass require a high-speed operation. Drilling should also be done at high speeds.
To determine the optimum operating speed for different materials and accessories, refer to the Application Speed Recommendations table. Look this table over and become familiar with it.
The best way to determine the correct speed for work on any material is to practice for a few minutes on a piece of scrap, even after referring to the table.  You can quickly learn that a slower or faster speed is more effective just by observing what happens when you make a pass or two at different speeds.

**APPLICATION SPEED RECOMMENDATIONS***

Type of
Accessory| Soft
Wood| Hard
Wood| Laminates
Plastics| Steel| Aluminum, Brass, Etc.| Shell/
Stone| Ceramic| Glass
Cut-off Discs| 15-35K| 15-35K| 5-15K| 35K| 35K| N/A| N/A| N/A
Fiberglass
Cut-off
Wheel| 15-35K| 15-35K| 5-15K| 35K| 35K| N/A| N/A| N/A
Sanding
Drums| 15-35K| 15-35K| 5-15K| 15-35K| 15-35K| 15-35K| N/A| N/A
Felt
Polishing
Wheels| 5-15K| 5-15K| 5-15K| 5-15K| 5-15K| 5-15K| 5-15K| 5-15K
Aluminum
Oxide
Grinding
Stones| 15-35K| 15-35K| 5-15K| 15-35K| 15-35K| N/A| N/A| N/A
Silicon
Carbide
Grinding
Stone| N/A| N/A| N/A| 15-35K| 15-35K| 15-35K| 5-35K| N/A
Drill Bit| 35K| 35K| 15-35K| 35K| 35K| —| —| —
Drywall
Cutting Bit| 35K (Drywall only)

*The settings provided in the chart are recommendations for operating ranges for best performance.

When working with a scrap piece of plastic, start at a slow rate of speed and increase the speed until you observe whether the plastic is melting at the point of contact; reduce the speed slightly to get optimum working speed without melting the workpiece.

NOTE:

  • Plastic and materials that could melt at low temperatures should be cut at low speeds.
  • Softwood should be cut at high speed.
  • Aluminum, tin, copper, lead, and zinc alloys may be cut at any speed, depending on the type of cutting being done. Use paraffin or another suitable lubricant on the cutter to prevent the cut material from adhering to the cutter teeth.

USING A FOOT PEDAL (NOT INCLUDED)
See Figures 12 – 13, page 15.
To install a foot pedal (not included):

  • Remove the battery pack from the tool.
  • Open the foot pedal port cover on the front of the rotary tool console.
  • Insert the foot pedal cord into the foot pedal port on the rotary tool console as shown. Route cord and place the pedal cautiously to avoid trip or snag hazards.

To use a foot pedal (not included):

  • Turn the rotary tool on.
  • Rotate the speed control dial fully counterclockwise to the “foot pedal” position.
  • Follow the instructions in the RYOBI foot pedal operator’s manual to use the foot pedal.

OPERATING THE ROTARY TOOL
See Figure 13, page 15.
Learning to use the rotary tool:

  • Hold the pen in your hand and get used to its weight, balance, and the taper of the housing. This taper permits the pen to be grasped like a pencil.
  • Examine the rotary tool accessories carefully. Damaged accessories can fly apart as they come up to speed and should not be used. The use of damaged accessories can result in serious personal injury.
  • Practice scrap materials first to see how the tool operates. Keep in mind that the work is done by the speed of the tool and by the accessory in the collet. You should not lean on or push the tool into the work. It is best to make a series of passes with the tool rather than attempt to do all the work in one pass. To make a cut, pass the tool back and forth over the work like you would a small paintbrush. Cut a little material on each pass until you reach
    the desired depth. For most work, a gentle touch is best; you will have greater control, make fewer errors, and get the most efficient work out of the accessory. For the best control in close work, grip the tool like a pencil between your thumb and forefinger.
    A “hand grip” method of holding the tool is used for operations such as grinding a flat surface or using cut-off discs.

To operate the rotary tool:

  • Secure all work in a vise or clamp to a workbench to prevent it from moving under the tool.
  • Hold the tool in front and away from you, keeping the tool accessory clear of the workpiece.
  • Turn on the tool and let the motor and accessory build up to full speed.
  • Lower the tool gradually until the accessory contacts the workpiece.
  • Move the tool continuously at a steady, consistent pace.
  • Use just enough pressure to keep the tool from chattering or bouncing.

NOTE: Heavy pressure will decrease the tool’s speed and put a strain on the motor. The weight of the tool alone is adequate for most jobs.

  • Lift the tool away from the workpiece before turning off the tool.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING:
When servicing, use only identical replacement parts.
The use of any other parts could create a hazard or cause product damage.

WARNING:
Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1. Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into your eyes resulting in possible serious injury.

WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury, always remove the battery pack from the product when cleaning or performing any maintenance.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most plastics are susceptible to damage from various types of commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. Use clean cloths to remove dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.

WARNING:
Do not at any time let brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based products, penetrating oils, etc., come in contact with plastic parts. Chemicals can damage,
weaken or destroy plastic which could result in serious personal injury.

NOTE: ILLUSTRATIONS START ON PAGE 13 AFTER FRENCH AND SPANISH LANGUAGE SECTIONS.

NOTES _____

RYOBI 18V ROTARY TOOL STATION - Figure

A – Accessory storage F – Quick-change collet
B – Rotary tool console G – Pen holder
C – Speed control dial H – Spindle lock button
D – On/off switch I – Foot pedal port
E – Flexible shaft
A – Pen holder C – Opening
B – Flange
A – Threaded outlet C – Square shaft
B – Collar

A – Keyhole hanger

A – Accessory storage

A – Accessory tray B – Accessory compartment

RYOBI 18V ROTARY TOOL STATION - Figure 7

A – Battery port B – Battery pack

RYOBI 18V ROTARY TOOL STATION - Figure 8

A – Quick-change collet D – Threaded end
B – Shaft E – Loosen
C – Spindle lock button F – Tighten

RYOBI 18V ROTARY TOOL STATION - Figure 9

A – Quick-change collet C – Sleeve
B – Accessory D – Hexed end
A – Screw E – Screw mandrel
B – Accessory F – Sanding drum
C – Washer G – Drum mandrel
D – Standard mandrel

RYOBI 18V ROTARY TOOL STATION - Figure 11

A – Speed control dial B – On/off switch

RYOBI 18V ROTARY TOOL STATION - Figure 12

A – Foot pedal cord B – Foot pedal port

RYOBI 18V ROTARY TOOL STATION - Figure 13

A – Foot pedal B – Lock-out

RYOBI 18V ROTARY TOOL STATION - Figure 14

A – “Pencil grip” method

OPERATOR’S MANUAL/18V ROTARY TOOL STATION

To request service, purchase replacement parts, locate an Authorized Service Center or obtain Customer or Technical Support:
Visit www.ryobitools.com or call 1-800-525-2579
If any parts or accessories are damaged or missing, do not return this product to the store.
Call 1-800-525-2579 for immediate service.
Please obtain your model and serial number from the product data plate.
This product is covered under a 3-year limited Warranty. Proof of purchase is required.
MODEL NUMBER ___ SERIAL NUMBER __
Model number on a product may have additional letters at the end. These letters designate manufacturing information and should be provided when calling for service.

RYOBI is a trademark of Ryobi Limited and is used pursuant to a license granted by Ryobi Limited.

ONE WORLD TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
P.O. Box 1288, Anderson, SC 29622 • Phone 1-800-525-2579
www.ryobitools.com

References

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