Makita DUN500WZ 18V Li-ion LXT Brushless Pole Hedge Trimmer

1. Product Overview

The Makita DUN500WZ is an 18V Li-ion LXT Brushless Pole Hedge Trimmer designed for efficient and precise hedge trimming. This cordless tool offers flexibility and power for various gardening tasks, featuring an adjustable head and multiple speed settings.

Figure 1: Full view of the Makita DUN500WZ Pole Hedge Trimmer, showcasing its extended reach and adjustable head.

Key Features:

• Brushless Motor: Provides increased power, efficiency, and longer tool life.
• Electric Brake: Enhances operator safety by quickly stopping the blade.
• Double-Sided Blade: 500mm blade length for effective cutting.
• Adjustable Head: Features 6 angle settings and 13 angle settings through 135 degrees (45 degrees tilt up to 90 degrees tilt down from the horizontal position).
• Constant Speed Control: Automatically applies additional power to maintain speed under load.
• Reverse Rotation System: Helps free the blade when jammed by thicker branches.
• Compatibility: Uses 18V Li-ion LXT slide-type batteries (not included). Not compatible with G-Series batteries.

Figure 2: Close-up of the control panel on the Makita DUN500WZ, showing the power switch, speed settings, and reverse rotation button.

2. Safety Instructions

Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury when using power tools. Read all instructions before operating this product.

General Safety:

• Work Area: Keep the work area clean and well-lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
• Children and Bystanders: Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear eye protection, hearing protection, and heavy-duty gloves. Non-slip safety shoes and head protection are also recommended.
• Clothing: Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep hair, clothing, and gloves away from moving parts.
• Stay Alert: Watch what you are doing and use common sense. Do not use the tool while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication.

Tool Specific Safety:

• Battery Safety: Use only Makita 18V Li-ion LXT slide-type batteries. Do not use G-Series batteries. Remove the battery pack before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the tool.
• Blade Guard: Ensure the blade guard is always in place when the tool is not in use or during transport.
• Two-Handed Operation: Always operate the pole hedge trimmer with both hands to maintain control.
• Clearance: Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid cutting near electrical wires, fences, or other obstacles.
• Stable Footing: Ensure stable footing and balance, especially when working at height or on uneven terrain.

3. Setup and Assembly

Before first use, ensure all components are present and undamaged. This unit requires an 18V Li-ion LXT battery (sold separately).

3.1 Unpacking:

Carefully remove the pole hedge trimmer and its accessories from the packaging. Retain packaging for future storage or transport.

Figure 3: The Makita DUN500WZ Pole Hedge Trimmer shown with its protective blade cover, as it might appear when unpacked.

3.2 Battery Installation:

1. Ensure the tool is switched off.
2. Align the battery pack with the battery housing on the tool.
3. Slide the battery into the housing until it clicks into place.
4. To remove, press the release button on the battery and slide it out.

Note: Only use genuine Makita 18V LXT batteries and chargers. Using non-genuine parts may void the warranty and pose safety risks.

Figure 4: The 18V Lithium-Ion logo, indicating the required battery type for the tool.

3.3 Adjusting the Hedge Trimmer Head:

The trimmer head can be adjusted to various angles for optimal cutting. The DUN500WZ offers 13 angle settings through 135 degrees, including 45 degrees tilt up to 90 degrees tilt down from the horizontal position.

1. Locate the angle adjustment lever near the trimmer head.
2. Press and hold the lever to unlock the head.
3. Adjust the head to the desired angle.
4. Release the lever to lock the head in position. Ensure it is securely locked before operation.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Starting and Stopping:

1. Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly installed.
2. Remove the blade cover.
3. Hold the tool firmly with both hands.
4. Press the power button (if applicable) and then squeeze the trigger switch to start the blades.
5. Release the trigger switch to stop the blades. The electric brake will quickly stop the blade movement.

4.2 Speed Settings:

The DUN500WZ features 3 speed settings (high, medium, low) for optimal control depending on the cutting task.

• Use the speed selection button on the control panel to cycle through the available speeds.
• Lower speeds are suitable for lighter trimming and increased battery runtime.
• Higher speeds are for denser foliage and faster cutting.

4.3 Cutting Techniques:

• General Trimming: Move the trimmer smoothly and evenly along the hedge. Avoid forcing the blades through thick branches.
• Tall Hedges: Utilize the pole extension and adjustable head to reach higher areas safely from the ground. Maintain a stable stance.
• Thick Branches: The maximum branch diameter is 23.5mm. For thicker branches, use the reverse rotation system if the blade jams.

Figure 5: An operator using the Makita DUN500WZ to trim the top of a tall hedge, demonstrating the tool's extended reach.

Figure 6: A close-up view of an operator trimming a hedge, highlighting the precise cutting action of the Makita DUN500WZ.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your tool. Always remove the battery before performing any maintenance.

5.1 Blade Care:

• Cleaning: After each use, clean the blades of sap, debris, and resin using a stiff brush and a suitable cleaning agent.
• Lubrication: Apply a light machine oil or blade lubricant to the blades after cleaning to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
• Sharpening: Dull blades can reduce cutting efficiency and strain the motor. Have the blades professionally sharpened or replace them if necessary.
• Storage: Always store the tool with the blade cover in place to protect the blades and prevent accidental injury.

5.2 General Cleaning:

• Wipe down the tool's body with a damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
• Keep ventilation openings clear of dust and debris to prevent overheating.

5.3 Battery and Charger Care:

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Do not store batteries in a discharged state for extended periods.
• Refer to your Makita battery and charger manuals for specific care instructions.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Makita DUN500WZ Pole Hedge Trimmer.

7. Technical Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

8.1 Manufacturer's Warranty:

Makita offers a 1-year manufacturer warranty on this product. An additional 2 years of warranty can be obtained by registering the product within 30 days of purchase.

Important: This guarantee does not apply where non-genuine or non-recommended parts or accessories are fitted to the tool. The use of non-genuine or compatible batteries and chargers with Makita tools will invalidate the Makita guarantee for our tools.

8.2 Customer Support:

For technical assistance, warranty claims, or to locate an authorized service center, please visit the official Makita website or contact their customer service department.

You can find more information and support at the Makita Store on Amazon.