1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Bosch Professional GSB 18V-55 Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver. This powerful and versatile tool is designed for a wide range of drilling and screwdriving applications in wood, metal, plastic, and masonry. This manual provides essential information for safe and efficient operation, setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Please read these instructions carefully before using the tool and keep them for future reference.
2. General Safety Instructions
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.
- Work Area Safety: Keep your 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.
- Electrical Safety: Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators.
- Personal Safety: Always wear eye protection. Use hearing protection when operating hammer drills. Wear a dust mask in dusty conditions. Dress properly; avoid loose clothing or jewelry. Secure long hair.
- Power Tool Use and Care: Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or remove the battery pack before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools.
- Battery Tool Use and Care: Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs.
- 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.
3. Package Contents
Your Bosch Professional GSB 18V-55 package typically includes the following items:
- Bosch GSB 18V-55 Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver
- 2 x 18V 2.0Ah Lithium-ion Batteries
- GAL 18V-40 Quick Charger
- L-Case (Carrying Case)
Please check all contents upon receipt to ensure everything is present and undamaged.
4. Setup
4.1. Charging the Battery
Before first use, fully charge the battery. Insert the battery into the GAL 18V-40 quick charger. The charger's indicator light will show the charging status. A full charge typically takes approximately 40 minutes for a 2.0Ah battery.
4.2. Installing/Removing the Battery
- Installation: Slide the charged battery pack into the base of the tool until it clicks securely into place.
- Removal: Press the battery release button and pull the battery pack out of the tool.
4.3. Installing/Removing Drill Bits and Accessories
- Installation: Open the drill chuck by turning the front sleeve counter-clockwise. Insert the drill bit or accessory fully into the chuck. Tighten the chuck by turning the front sleeve clockwise until the accessory is firmly secured.
- Removal: Turn the front sleeve counter-clockwise to loosen the chuck and remove the accessory.
Image: A professional using the Bosch GSB 18V-55 hammer drill/driver for a drilling application.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Mode Selection
The GSB 18V-55 features a mode selector ring to switch between different operating modes:
- Screwdriving Mode (Screw Icon): For driving and removing screws. Use the torque setting ring to adjust the clutch for appropriate torque.
- Drilling Mode (Drill Bit Icon): For drilling without impact in wood, metal, and plastic. The clutch is bypassed for maximum power.
- Hammer Drilling Mode (Hammer Icon): For drilling in masonry and concrete with impact action.
5.2. Speed Settings
The tool has two mechanical speed gears:
- Gear 1 (Low Speed): For screwdriving and drilling large diameters, providing higher torque.
- Gear 2 (High Speed): For drilling small diameters and applications requiring higher speed.
Use the speed selector switch located on top of the tool to choose the desired gear.
5.3. Torque Settings
In screwdriving mode, the torque setting ring allows you to pre-select the desired torque. The clutch will disengage once the set torque is reached, preventing overtightening or damage to the workpiece. Start with a lower setting and increase as needed.
5.4. On/Off Switch and Speed Control
Press the trigger switch to turn the tool on. The speed is variable and controlled by how far you depress the trigger. Release the trigger to turn the tool off.
5.5. Direction of Rotation
The forward/reverse switch, located above the trigger, allows you to select the direction of rotation (clockwise for driving, counter-clockwise for removing screws or freeing jammed bits) or to lock the tool in the center position for safety.
6. Maintenance
6.1. Cleaning
Regularly clean the ventilation slots on the tool to prevent overheating. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris. Do not use water or chemical cleaning agents.
6.2. Battery Care
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Do not allow batteries to fully discharge for extended periods. Recharge them periodically if not in use.
- Protect batteries from impact and moisture.
6.3. Storage
When not in use, store the tool and its accessories in the L-Case, in a dry, secure location out of reach of children. Ensure the tool is switched off and the battery is removed before storage.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your GSB 18V-55, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- Tool not starting:
- Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
- Check if the forward/reverse switch is in the central (locked) position.
- Reduced power or short battery life:
- Recharge the battery.
- Ensure the battery is not old or damaged. Consider replacing if necessary.
- Chuck not holding bit:
- Ensure the chuck is tightened securely.
- Check for debris inside the chuck.
- If the chuck is worn, it may need replacement by a qualified service center.
- Excessive vibration or noise:
- Ensure the accessory is correctly installed and not bent or damaged.
- Check for loose components. If the issue persists, contact Bosch Professional service.
For problems not listed here, please contact Bosch Professional customer service.
8. Specifications
Key technical specifications for the Bosch Professional GSB 18V-55 Cordless Hammer Drill/Driver:
Image: Detailed product specifications for various Bosch Professional 18V hammer drills, including the GSB 18V-55.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 06019H5305 |
| Voltage | 18 Volts |
| Battery Capacity (included) | 2.0 Ah Lithium-ion |
| Max Torque (Hard/Soft) | 55 Nm / 28 Nm |
| No-load Speed (1st Gear) | 0 – 460 rpm |
| No-load Speed (2nd Gear) | 0 – 1750 rpm |
| Max Impact Rate | 27,000 bpm |
| Chuck Clamping Range | 1.5 – 13 mm |
| Max Drilling Diameter (Wood) | 35 mm |
| Max Drilling Diameter (Steel) | 13 mm |
| Max Drilling Diameter (Masonry) | 13 mm |
| Weight (with 2.0Ah battery) | 1.57 kg |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 191 x 78 x 207 mm |
| Charger Model | GAL 18V-40 |
9. Warranty and Support
9.1. Warranty Information
Bosch Professional offers a standard warranty on its power tools. Spare parts availability is guaranteed for 1 year. For extended warranty options, including up to 3 years for tools and batteries, please register your product on the official Bosch Professional website within 4 weeks of purchase. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
9.2. Customer Support
For technical assistance, service, or spare parts, please contact your local authorized Bosch Professional service center or visit the official Bosch Professional website. You can find contact information and further resources at www.bosch-professional.com.