BOSCH GSA 18V-LI Cordless Reciprocating Saw User Manual

: June 3, 2024
: Bosch

BOSCH GSA 18V-LI Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Safety instructions

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.
Keep all safety instructions and information 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 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. 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.

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 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

Always charge the batteries only in chargers recommended by the manufacturer.
Chargers designed for a specific type of battery may pose a fire hazard when used together with other battery types.
Use only the batteries provided for this purpose in the power tools. Using other
batteries may cause injuries and pose a fire hazard.
When not in use, keep batteries away from paper clips, coins, nails, screws or other small metal objects that could bridge the contacts.
Short circuits between battery contacts can cause burns or fires.
Fluid may escape if batteries are used inappropriately. Avoid all contact with this fluid. In the event of accidental skin contact, rinse the affected area thoroughly. If the fluid enters your eyes, seek immediate medical assistance. Escaping battery fluid can cause skin irritation or burns.
Do not use damaged or modified batteries. Damaged or modified batteries may behave unpredictably and lead to fire, explosion or risk of injury.
Do not expose the battery pack to fire or excessive temperatures. Fire or temperatures above 130 °C can cause an explosion.
Follow all instructions on charging and never charge the battery or the cordless tool outside the temperature range indicated in the operating instructions. Incorrect charging or charging outside the permitted temperature range may destroy the battery and increase the risk of fire.

Service

Have your power tool serviced by a qualified technician using only original replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
Never service damaged batteries. Any servicing of batteries should only be carried out by the manufacturer or authorized customer service points.

Safety instructions for reciprocating saws

Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces, 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.
Use clamps or another practical way to secure and support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding the workpiece by hand or against your body leaves it un-stable and may lead to loss of control.
Keep hands away from the sawing area. Do not reach under the workpiece. Contact with the saw blade can lead to injuries.
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.
Only bring the power tool into contact with the work-piece when switched on. Otherwise there is danger of kickback if the cutting tool jams in the workpiece.
Ensure that the footplate is always resting on the workpiece while sawing. The saw blade can jam and lead to loss of control over the power tool.
When the cut is completed, switch off the power tool and then pull the saw blade out of the cut only after it has come to a standstill. In this manner you can avoid kickback and can place down the power tool securely.
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.
Use only undamaged saw blades that are in perfect condition. Bent or dull saw blades can break, negatively influence the cut, or lead to kickback.
Do not brake the saw blade to a stop by applying side pressure after switching off. The saw blade can be dam-aged, break or cause kickback.
Ensure that the material is securely clamped. Do not support the workpiece using your hands or feet. Do not touch any objects or the floor with the saw while it is running. There is a risk of kickback.
Use suitable detectors to determine if there are hid-den 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 ex-plosion. Breaking water pipes causes property damage.
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.

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 suitable for sawing wood, plastic, metal and building materials on a firm surface. It is suitable for straight and curved cuts. When using designated suitable bi-metal saw blades, flush cutting is also possible. The saw blade recommendations are to be observed.

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

Saw (blade)
Adjustable base plate
Saw blade receptacle
Locking sleeve for saw blade
Stroke speed selector switch
On/off switch
Battery release button)
(Battery)
Handle (insulated gripping surface)
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

Reciprocating saw GSA 18 V-LI
Article number 3 601 F4J 0..
Stroke rate control ●
Rated voltage V= 18
No-load stroke rate n₀A)
– first gear min−1 0–2400
– second gear min−1 0–2700
Tool holder SDS
Stroke mm 28
Max. cutting depth
– in wood mm 250
– in steel (unalloyed) mm 20

Reciprocating saw GSA 18 V-LI
– pipe diameter mm 130
Weight according to EPTA‑Procedure 01:2014 kg 3.2–4.2B)
Recommended ambient temperature during charging °C 0 to +35
Permitted ambient temperature during operation C) and during storage °C −20 to +50
Recommended rechargeable batteries GBA 18V… ProCORE18V…
Recommended chargers GAL 18… GAX 18… GAL 36…

Measured at 20–25 °C with rechargeable battery GBA 18V 2.6Ah.
Depends on battery in use
Limited performance at temperatures < 0 °C

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: Lithium-ion rechargeable batteries are supplied partially charged according to international transport regulations. To ensure full rechargeable battery capacity, fully charge the rechargeable battery before using your tool for the first time.
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 re-lease 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 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…

BOSCH-GSA-18V-LI-Cordless-Reciprocating-Saw-03

Battery model ProCORE18V…

BOSCH-GSA-18V-LI-Cordless-Reciprocating-Saw-04 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 re-moved for transport and storage. There is risk of injury from unintentionally pressing the on/off switch.

Inserting/changing the saw blade

When fitting or changing the saw blade, wear protect-ive gloves. Blades are sharp and can become hot when used for prolonged periods of time.
While replacing the saw blade, ensure that the saw blade receptacle is free of material residue, e.g. wood or metal chips.

Selecting the saw blade
You will find an overview of recommended saw blades at the end of these operating instructions. Only use saw blades with a 1/2″ universal shank. The saw blade should not be longer than required for the intended cut.

Inserting the saw blade (see figure A)
Firmly push the saw blade (1) into the saw blade receptacle (3) until it audibly engages. The locking sleeve (4) consequently rotates by approx. 90° and locks the saw blade in place.

If the saw blade (1) is not locked, rotate the locking sleeve (4) by approx. 90° in the direction of the arrow until it is locked in the open position and a clicking sound is heard. Then push the saw blade into the saw blade receptacle (3) once again.

Check that it is seated securely by pulling the saw blade. A loose saw blade can fall out and lead to injuries.

For particular jobs, the saw blade (1) can also be flipped 180° (teeth point upwards) and refitted.

Ejecting the saw blade (see figure B)

When ejecting the saw blade, hold the power tool in such a manner that no persons or animals can be injured by the ejected saw blade.

Turn the locking sleeve (4) by approx. 90° in the direction of the arrow. The saw blade (1) is ejected.

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

Starting Operation

Preselecting the stroke rate/lock-off function
The stroke rate of the power tool can be preselected with the stroke speed selector switch (5). However, this is not possible while the on/off switch (6) is being pressed.

Stroke speed selector switch in centre:
Lock-off function activated.
The on/off switch (6) is blocked and the power tool is secured against being switched on unintentionally.

Stroke speed selector switch left:
First gear, low stroke rate
The low stroke rate is suitable for processing hard materials (e.g. steel, non-ferrous metal, hard plastics) or for making fine cuts in wood. The low stroke rate will result in less vibration when making the cut.

Stroke speed selector switch right :
Second gear, high stroke rate
The high stroke rate is suitable for processing soft materials and making plunge cuts.
The high stroke rate facilitates faster working, e.g. for making rough cuts in wood.

Switching on/off
To deactivate the lock-off function, push the stroke speed selector switch (5) to the right or left.
To switch on the power tool, press the on/off switch (6) and keep it pressed.
To switch off the power tool, release the on/off switch (6). Note: For safety reasons, the on/off switch (6) cannot be locked; it must remain pressed during the entire operation.

Controlling the stroke rate
You can variably adjust the stroke rate of the power tool when it is on by pressing in the on/off switch (6) to varying extents.
Applying light pressure to the on/off switch (6) results in a low stroke rate. Applying increasing pressure to the switch increases the stroke rate.
The required stroke rate is dependent on the material and the work conditions and can be determined using practical tests.
It is recommended that you reduce the stroke rate when placing the saw blade on the workpiece and when sawing plastic and aluminum.

During prolonged periods of use at a low stroke rate, the power tool may heat up significantly. Remove the saw blade and let the power tool run at the maximum stroke rate for around three minutes to cool down.

Working Advice

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 re-moved for transport and storage. There is risk of injury from unintentionally pressing the on/off switch.
Switch the power tool off immediately if the saw blade becomes blocked.

Tips

When sawing lightweight materials, take into account the statutory provisions and recommendations of the material manufacturers.

Before sawing into wood, chipboard, building materials, etc., check for any foreign objects such as nails, screws, etc. and use a suitable saw blade.
Switch on the power tool and guide it towards the workpiece you wish to work on. Place the base plate (2) on the surface of the workpiece and saw through the material applying even pressure and feed. Switch the power tool off once you have finished your work.
Switch the power tool off immediately if the saw blade jams. Widen the sawing gap slightly with a suitable tool and pull the power tool out.

Swivelling base plate (see figure C)
Thanks to its mobility, the base plate (2) adopts the required angle position of the surface.

Plunge cutting (see figure D)

Plunge cuts may only be applied to soft materials, such as wood, gypsum board, etc. Do not plunge cut metal materials.

For plunge cutting, use only short saw blades.
Place the power tool so that the edge of the base plate (2) rests on the workpiece, without the saw blade (1) touching the workpiece, and switch it on. When using power tools with stroke rate control, select the maximum stroke rate. Press the power tool firmly against the workpiece and allow the saw blade to plunge slowly into the workpiece.

As soon as the base plate (2) rests fully on the workpiece, continue sawing along the required cutting line.
For particular jobs, the saw blade (1) can also be fitted after being turned 180° in order to operate the power tool the other way around.

Flush sawing (see figure E)
Protruding components such as water pipes, for example, can be cut directly at the wall using elastic bi-metal saw blades.

Ensure that the saw blade is always longer than the diameter of the workpiece. There is a risk of kickback.

Place the saw blade directly against the wall and bend it slightly by applying lateral pressure to the power tool until the base plate is flush with the wall. Switch on the power tool and saw through the workpiece applying consistent lateral pressure.

Coolant/lubricant
As the material heats up along the cutting line when cutting metal, you should apply coolant or lubricant.

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 re-moved 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.

Carefully clean the saw blade receptacle with a soft cloth. To do so, remove the saw blade from the power tool. Keep the saw blade receptacle operational using suitable lubricants.
If the power tool becomes very dirty, this can lead to serious faults. For this reason, do not cut materials which generate large quantities of dust from below or overhead.

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.

Malaysia
Robert Bosch Sdn. Bhd.(220975-V) PT/SMY
No. 8A, Jalan 13/6
46200 Petaling Jaya

Selangor
Tel.: (03) 79663194
Toll-Free: 1800 880188
Fax: (03) 79583838
E-Mail: kiathoe.chong@my.bosch.com

www.bosch-pt.com.my

You can find further service addresses at:
www.bosch-pt.com/serviceaddresses

Transport
The recommended lithium-ion batteries are subject to legislation on the transport of dangerous goods. The user can transport the batteries by road without further require-ments.
When shipping by third parties (e.g.: by air transport or for-warding agency), special requirements on packaging and la-belling 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 undam-aged. Tape or mask off open contacts and pack up the bat-tery in such a manner that it cannot move around in the packaging. Please also observe the possibility of more de-tailed national regulations.

Disposal

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

Battery packs/batteries:
Li-ion:
Please observe the notes in the section on transport (see “Transport”, page 10).