RYOBI RBC52FSB Petrol Brush Cutter with Bike Handle Instruction Manual

RYOBI RBC52FSB Petrol Brush Cutter with Bike Handle

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

Your product has been engineered and manufactured to Ryobi’s high standard for dependability, ease of operation, and operator safety. Properly cared for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free performance.

WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury, do not attempt to use this product until you read thoroughly and understand completely the operator’s manual. Failure to comply may result in accidents involving electric shock, fi re, and/or serious personal injury. Save this operator’s manual and review frequently for continuing safe operation and instructing others who may use this product.

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

• Do not allow children or untrained individuals to use this product.
• Never start or run the engine inside a closed or poorly ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill. Clear the work area before each use. Remove all objects, such as rocks, broken glass, nails, wire that can lead to accidents.
• Remove all objects such as cords, lights, wire, or string which can become entangled in the cutting blade.
• Always use eye protection which is marked to comply with EN 166.
• Wear head and eye protection to prevent injury from falling debris.
• Wear heavy, long trousers, boots and gloves. Do not wear loose fitting clothing, shorts, jewelry of any kind, or go barefoot.
• Secure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent entanglement in any moving parts.
• Keep all bystanders, children, and pets at least 15 m away.
• Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
• Do not operate in poor lighting.
• Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach. Overreaching can result in loss of balance or exposure to hot surfaces.
• Keep all parts of your body away from any moving part.
• Do not touch area around the exhaust, silencer or engine of the unit; these parts get hot during operation.
• Always stop the engine, remove the spark plug wire and allow the product to cool before refueling, cleaning, maintenance or storage.
• Inspect the unit before each use for loose fasteners, fuel leaks, etc.
• Replace any damaged parts before use.
• Check for and tighten any loose parts.
• Mix and store fuel in a container approved for fuel.
• Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames. Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m away from refueling site before starting engine.
• Stop the engine and allow to cool before refueling or storing the unit.
• Debris when hit by the blade can become thrown objects and may travel significant distances.
• Remove all debris from the work area before operating.
• Keep bystanders (especially children) away from the working area by 15 m.
• Allow the engine to cool; empty the fuel tank and secure the unit from moving before transporting in a vehicle. Cover the blade with the blade protector before storing the unit, or during transportation.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES

STRING TRIMMER

• Replace string head if cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. Make sure the trimmer head is properly installed and securely fastened. Failure to do so can cause serious injury.
• Make sure all guards, deflectors and handles are properly and securely attached.
• Use only original manufacturer’s replacement parts.
• Never operate the product without the safety guard in place and in good condition.
• Use a firm grip on the handles. Make sure you hold the tool firmly with both handles and that you are well balanced with your weight evenly distributed on both feet.
• Keep the trimmer head below waist level. Never use the product with the cutting head positioned 76 cm or more above ground level.

BRUSHCUTTER

• After engine stops, keep rotating blade in heavy grass or pulpy weeds until it stops.
• Never operate the product without the safety guard in place and in good condition.
• Use heavy gloves while installing or removing blades.
• Always stop the engine and remove the spark plug wire before attempting to remove any obstruction caught or jammed in the blade or before removing and installing the blade.
• Do not attempt to touch or stop the blade when it is rotating.
• A coasting blade can cause injury while it continues to spin after the engine is stopped or throttle trigger released. Maintain proper control until the blade has completely stopped rotating.
• Replace any blade that has been damaged. Always make sure blade is installed correctly and securely fastened before each use. Failure to do so can cause serious injury.
• Use only original manufacturer’s replacement parts.
• The Tri-Arc blade is suited for cutting pulpy weeds and vines only. Do not use for any other purpose. Never use the Tri-Arc blade to cut woody brush.
• Blade thrust is the reaction that may occur when the spinning blade contacts anything it cannot cut. This contact may cause the blade to stop for an instant, and suddenly “thrust” the unit away from the object that was hit. This reaction can be violent enough to cause the operator to lose control of the unit. Blade thrust may occur without warning if the blade snags, stalls or binds. This is more likely to occur in areas where it is difficult to see the material being cut. For cutting ease and safety, approach the weeds being cut from the right to the left. In the event an unexpected object or woody stock is encountered, this could minimize the blade thrust reaction.
• Never cut any material with a diameter over 13 mm.
• Always use the shoulder strap/harness with your unit. Maintain a firm grip on both handles while cutting with a blade. Keep the blade away from body and below waist. Never use the product with the cutting head positioned 76 cm or more above ground level.
• Cover the blade with the blade protector before storing the unit, or during transportation. Always remove the blade protector before using the unit. If not removed, the blade protector could become a thrown object as the blade begins to turn.

RESIDUAL RISKS

• 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. It is presently unknown what, if any, vibrations or extent of exposure may contribute to the condition. 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.
  • After each period of operation, exercise to increase blood circulation.
  • Ensure that the machine is correctly located in a designated working position before starting the machine.
  • Limit the amount of exposure per day. Take frequent work breaks.
    If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition, immediately discontinue use and see your physician about these symptoms.

INTENDED USE

This product is only intended for use outdoors in a well ventilated area.
The product is intended for cutting long grass, pulpy weed, brush and similar vegetation at or about ground level. The cutting plane should be approximately parallel to the ground surface. The product should not be used to cut or trim hedges, bushes or other vegetation where the cutting plane is not parallel to the ground surface.
Some regions have regulations that restrict the use of the product to some operations. Check with your local authority for advice

ASSEMBLY

SETTING UP THE HANDLE

1. Loosen the knob.
2. Lift and rotate the handle to the desired position.
3. Tighten the knob securely.

NOTE: The product has a built-in micro-switch that deactivates the engine if the knob is not fully tightened.

ATTACHING THE SHOULDER STRAP

1. Connect the latch on the shoulder strap to the strap hanger.
2. Adjust the shoulder strap hanger to a balanced position where the blade or cutter attachment will suspend between 100 mm to 300 mm above the ground surface.
3. Adjust the strap hanger to a comfortable position.

NOTE: To quickly release the product from the shoulder strap, sharply pull the quick release tab.
ATTACHING THE BLADE GUARD AND GRASS DEFLECTOR

Blade Guard

1. Attach the blade guard to the mounting bracket and align the screw holes on the blade guard to the screws on the mounting bracket.
2. Tighten screws securely.

NOTE: The blade guard should remain fitted to the product at all times.

Grass Deflector

1. Attach the grass deflector to the blade guard by placing the two locking tabs into the two notches.
2. Tighten screw securely.

CONVERTING FROM BRUSHCUTTER TO STRING TRIMMER

1. Place the wrench through the slot in the upper flange washer and the hole in the gear head. Turn the blade nut clockwise to remove.
2. Remove the cupped washer and the blade.
3. Remove the upper flange washer from the gear shaft and retain for later use.
4. Attach the grass deflector to the blade guard by placing the two locking tabs into the two notches.
5. Tighten screw securely.

NOTE: Store the disassembled parts together for later use.

Installing the ReelEasy™ String Trimmer Head

1. Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.

2. Remove currently installed string trimmer head.

3. Open the ReelEasy String Trimmer Head by depressing the latches on each side. The contents of the string trimmer head are spring loaded, so keep your other hand over the string trimmer head cover while depressing the latches.

4. Remove the string trimmer head cover, bump knob, and line spool and set aside.

5. Place the cutting head housing on the drive shaft. Make sure the housing is fully seated.

6. Install the hex bolt to secure the string trimmer head to the drive shaft. Tighten by using the hex-shaped opening on the inside of the bump knob.
   NOTE: Only use the bump knob to tighten the bolt. The use of other tools may allow over tightening of the bolt, which could damage the string trimmer head.

7. Reinstall the bump head spring into the string trimmer head and push down to seat.

8. Reinstall the line spool. For the curved shaft attachment with the ReelEasy cutting head the spool should be placed so “This side out for curved shaft” is visible on the line spool.

9. Replace the bump knob by inserting it into the centre of the line spool.

10. Replace the string trimmer head cover, aligning latches with openings in the string trimmer head. Press cover and string trimmer head together until both latches snap into openings securely.

11. Install line as described in the next section of this manual.

CONVERTING FROM STRING TRIMMER TO BRUSHCUTTER

Removing the String Head

1. Open the ReelEasy String Trimmer Head by depressing the latches on each side. The contents of the bump head are spring loaded, so keep your other hand over the string head cover while depressing the latches.
2. Remove the string head cover, bump knob, and line spool.
3. Remove the hex bolt from the drive shaft by using the hex-shaped opening on the inside of the string knob.
4. Remove the string head housing from the drive shaft.
5. Place the holding pin through the upper flange washer and the gear head. Using the 16 mm wrench supplied, turn the drive connector clockwise to remove.
6. Remove the upper flange washer from the gear shaft and retain for later use.
7. Use the combination wrench supplied to loosen all 3 bolts, then remove the grass deflector from the blade guard.

NOTE: Store the disassembled parts together for later use.

Installing the Blade

1. Place the upper flange washer over the gear shaft with the hollow side towards the blade guard.
2. Centre the blade on the upper flange, making sure the blade sits flat. Install the cupped washer with the raised centre away from the blade.
3. Install the blade nut.
4. Place the wrench through the slot in the upper flange washer and the hole in the gear head. Using the 13 mm wrench supplied, turn the blade nut counterclockwise and tighten securely.

OPERATION

FUEL AND REFUELLING

Handling the Fuel Safely

• Always handle fuel with care. It is highly flammable.
• Always refuel outdoors where there are no sparks and flames. Do not inhale fuel vapor.
• Do not let petrol or lubricant come in contact with your skin.
• Keep petrol and lubricant away from the eyes. If petrol or lubricant comes in contact with the eyes, wash them immediately with clean water. If irritation is still present, see a doctor immediately.
• Clean up spilled petrol immediately.

Mixing the fuel

• This product is powered by a 2-stroke engine and requires pre-mixing petrol and 2-stroke lubricant. Premix unleaded petrol and 2-stroke engine lubricant in a clean container approved for petrol.
• This engine is certified to operate on unleaded petrol intended for motor vehicle use with an octane rating of 91 ([R + M]/2) or higher.
• Do not use any type of pre-mixed petrol/lubricant from fuel service stations.
• Use synthetic 2-stroke lubricant only. Do not use automotive lubricant or 2-cycle outboard lubricant.
• Mix 2% synthetic 2-stroke lubricant into the petrol. This is a 30:1 ratio.
• Mix the fuel thoroughly and also each time before refueling.
• Mix in small quantities. Do not mix quantities larger than usable in a 30-day period. A synthetic 2-stroke lubricant containing a fuel stabilizer is recommended.

Filling the Tank

• Clean surface around fuel cap to prevent contamination.
• Loosen the fuel cap slowly to release pressure and to keep fuel from escaping around the cap.
• Carefully pour fuel mixture into the tank. Avoid spillage.
• Prior to replacing the fuel cap, clean and inspect the gasket.
• Immediately replace fuel cap and hand tighten. Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m away from refueling site before starting engine.
  NOTE: It is normal for smoke to be emitted from a new engine during and after first use.

OPERATING THE STRING TRIMMER

• Hold the product with the right hand on the trigger handle and the left hand on the left handle. Keep a firm grip with both hands while in operation.
• The product should be held at a comfortable position with the trigger handle about hip height.
• Always operate the product at full throttle. Prolonged cutting at partial throttle will result in lubricant dripping from the silencer.
• Cut tall grass from the top down to prevent grass from wrapping around the shaft housing and string head which may cause damage from overheating.
• If grass becomes wrapped around the string head, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire, and remove the grass.

CUTTING TIPS

• Keep the product tilted towards the area being cut.
• Do not use in dangerous environments.
• Use the tip of the string to do the cutting; do not force the string head into the uncut grass.
• Wire and picket fences cause extra string wear, even breakage. Stone and brick walls, kerbs and wood may wear string rapidly.
• Avoid trees and shrubs. Tree bark, wood moldings, cladding and fence posts can be easily damaged by the string.

STARTING AND STOPPING

WARNING: Never start or run the engine inside a closed or poorly ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill.

To Start a Cold Engine:

1. Lay the product on a flat, bare surface.
2. Set the ignition switch to the “I” (ON) position.
3. Push the primer bulb approximately 5 times.
4. Set the choke lever to position A (choke closed).
5. Pull the starter grip with a quick firm and consistent upward motion until the engine starts.
6. Set the choke lever to position B (choke open).
7. Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds prior to operation.

To Start a Warm Engine:

1. Lay the product on a flat, bare surface.
2. Set the ignition switch to the “I” (ON) position.
3. Set the choke lever to position B (choke open).
4. Pull the starter grip with a quick firm and consistent upward motion until the engine starts.

To Stop the Engine:
Set the ignition switch to the “O” (OFF) position.

OPERATING THE BRUSHCUTTER

• Hold the product with the right hand on the trigger handle and the left hand on the left handle. Keep a firm grip with both hands while in operation.
• The product should be held at a comfortable position with the trigger handle about hip height.
• Maintain your grip and balance on both feet. Position yourself so that you will not be drawn off balance by the kick-back reaction of the cutting blade.
• Adjust the strap hanger to a comfortable position.

Exercise extreme caution when using the blade with the product. Blade thrust is the reaction that may occur when the spinning blade contacts anything it cannot cut. This contact may cause the blade to stop for an instant, and suddenly “thrust” the unit away from the object that was hit. This reaction can be violent enough to cause the operator to lose control of the unit. Blade thrust may occur without warning if the blade snags, stalls or binds. This is more likely to occur in areas where it is diffi cult to see the material being cut. For cutting ease and safety, approach the weeds being cut from the right to the left. In the event an unexpected object or woody stock is encountered, this could minimize the blade thrust reaction.

BLADE

The blade is suited for cutting pulpy weeds and vines only. When the blade becomes dull, it can be turned over to extend its life. Do not sharpen the blade.

CUTTING TECHNIQUE

WARNING: The blades are very sharp and can injure even if they are not moving. Exercise extreme caution when using the blade with the product. Safe operation of this tool requires that you read and understand this operator’s manual and all labels affixed to the tool.

• Both hands must be used at all times to control this product. Keep a firm grip with both hands while in operation.
• Maintain your grip and balance on both feet. Position yourself so that you will not be drawn off balance by the kick-back reaction of the cutting blade.
• Inspect and clear the area of any hidden objects such as glass, stones, concrete, fencing, wire, wood, metal, etc.
• Never use blades near footpaths, fencing, posts, buildings or other immovable objects.
• Never use a blade after hitting a hard object without first inspecting it for damage. Do not use if any damage is detected.
• For cutting ease and safety, approach the weeds being cut from the right to the left.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: Use only genuine replacement parts and accessories. Failure to do so may cause poor performance, possible injury, and will void your warranty.

• The cutting attachment must not work in idle mode. If this requirement is not satisfied, the clutch has to be adjusted or the machine needs an urgent maintenance by a qualified technician.
• You may make adjustments and repairs described in this user manual. For other repairs, have the unit serviced by an authorized service agent.
• Consequences of improper maintenance may include excess carbon deposits resulting in loss of performance and discharge of black oily residue dripping from the silencer.
• Make sure all guards, straps, deflectors and handles are properly and securely attached to avoid the risk of personal injury.

STRING REPLACEMENT

• Ensure the unit is in the off position
• Remove the spark plug lead to prevent accidental starting.
• Use a 2.4 mm diameter monofilament string.
• Cut one piece of string approximately 6 m in length.
• Rotate the knob on the string head until the line on knob aligns with the arrows on the top of string head.
• Insert one end of the string into the eyelet located on the side of the string head and push until string comes out through eyelet on the other side. Continue to push string through the string head until the middle section of the string is inside the string head and string outside the string head is evenly divided on each side.
• Rotate the knob on the string head clockwise to wind the string.
• Wind the string until approximately 20cm remains protruding from the string head.

BLADE GUARD

Always place the blade protector on the blade when the unit is not in use. The blade protector has clips round the edges to snap over the blade and keep it in place. Wear gloves and be cautious when handling the blade.
NOTE: Always remove the blade protector before using the unit. If not removed, the blade protector could become a thrown object as the blade begins to turn.

CLEANING THE EXHAUST PORT AND SILENCER

Depending on the type of fuel used, the type and amount of lubricant used, and/or your operating conditions, the exhaust port and silencer may become blocked with carbon deposits. If you notice a power loss with your gas powered tool, a qualified service technician will need to remove these deposits to restore performance.

CLEANING THE AIR FILTER

• Ensure the unit is in the off position.
• Remove the screw and air filter cover.
• Remove the air filter and clean it with warm soapy water.
• Rinse, and let the air filter dry completely.
• Replace the air filter.
• Replace the holding plate and air filter cover.
• Tighten the screw.

CHECKING THE FUEL CAP

WARNING: A leaking fuel cap is a fi re hazard and must be replaced immediately.

The fuel cap contains a non-serviceable filter and a check valve. A clogged fuel filter will cause poor engine performance. If performance improves when the fuel cap is loosened, check valve may be faulty or filter clogged. Replace fuel cap if required.

REPLACING THE SPARK PLUG

This engine uses a TORCH L7RTC with 0.6 mm – 0.7 mm electrode gap. Use an exact replacement.

CAUTION: Be careful not to cross-thread the spark plug. Cross-threading will seriously damage the engine.

STORING THE PRODUCT

Short Term Storage

• Clean all foreign material from the product.
• Store the product in a well-ventilated place that is inaccessible to children.

Long Term Storage (1 Month or Longer)

• Drain all of the fuel from the tank into a container approved for gasoline.
• Run the engine until it stops.
• Clean all foreign material from the product.
• Store the product in a well-ventilated place that is inaccessible to children. Keep away from corrosive agents such as garden chemicals and de-icing salts.
• Cover the blade with the blade protector before storing the unit, or during transportation.
• Abide by all government and local regulations for the safe storage and handling of petrol.

INSPECTION AFTER DROPPING OR OTHER IMPACTS

Thoroughly inspect the product and identify any affections or damage with it. Any part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service centre.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Problem

| Possible Cause|

Solution

---|---|---
Engine will not start.| No spark| The spark plug may be damaged, remove it and check for dirt and cracks. Replace with a new spark plug.
No fuel.| Push primer bulb until bulb is full of fuel. If bulb does not fill, primary fuel delivery system is blocked. Contact a service dealer. If primer bulb fills, engine may be flooded (see next item).
Flooded engine.| Remove spark plug, turn trimmer so spark plug hole is aimed at the ground. Make sure lever is in the open choke position and pull starter cord 10 to 14 times. This will clear excess fuel from engine. Clean and reinstall spark plug. With the throttle trigger fully depressed, pull starter cord three times with lever at open choke position. If engine does not start, move choke lever to close choke position and follow normal starting instructions in “STARTING AND STOPPING” section. If engine still fails to start, repeat procedure with a new spark plug.
Starter rope pulls harder now than when new.| Contact a service dealer.
Engine starts but will not accelerate.| Carburetor requires adjustment.| Contact a service dealer.
Engine does not reach full speed and emits excessive smoke.| Check oil fuel mixture.| Use fresh fuel and the correct synthetic 2-stroke oil mix.
Air filter dirty.| Clean air filter. Refer to “Replacing and Cleaning Air Filter” earlier in this manual.
Carburetor requires adjustment.| Contact a servicing dealer.
Engine starts, runs, and accelerates but will not idle.| Carburetor requires adjustment.| Contact a servicing dealer.
Blade continues to rotate at idle speed.| Carburetor requires adjustment.| Contact a servicing dealer.
Grass wraps round shaft housing and string head.| Cutting tall grass at ground level.| Cut tall grass from the top down.
Operating trimmer at part throttle.| Operate trimmer at full throttle.
Oil drips from silencer.| Operating trimmer at part throttle.| Operate trimmer at full throttle.
| Check oil/fuel mixture.| Use fresh fuel and the correct synthetic 2-stroke oil mix.
| Air filter is dirty.| Clean per instruction in Maintenance Section.
| Carburetor requires adjustment.| Contact a servicing dealer.

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