Murray IQ18PSHK 1688106 18V Cordless Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of your Murray IQ18PSHK 1688106 18V Cordless Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer. This 2-in-1 tool is designed for pruning and trimming tasks in your garden, offering versatility for both high branches and hedges. It is powered by an 18V Briggs & Stratton Li-Ion battery system.

Please read this manual thoroughly before assembly, operation, or maintenance to ensure proper handling and to prevent injury or damage to the product.

Figure 1: Murray IQ18PSHK 18V Cordless Pole Saw and Hedge Trimmer. This image shows the complete tool with both attachments, highlighting its dual functionality.

2. Safety Information

Always observe basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury when operating power tools. Keep this manual for future reference.

General Safety Warnings:

• Read all instructions: Familiarize yourself with the controls and proper use of the tool.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): This includes safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and sturdy footwear.
• Keep work area clear: Ensure the area is free from obstacles, children, and bystanders.
• Avoid dangerous environments: Do not use the tool in wet or damp conditions.
• Secure footing: Always maintain proper footing and balance, especially when working at height with the telescopic pole.
• Battery safety: Use only the specified battery and charger. Do not expose batteries to extreme temperatures or water.
• Maintenance: Disconnect the battery before performing any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the tool.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present and undamaged upon opening the package. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact your retailer.

• Murray 18V Power Head
• Telescopic Pole Attachment
• Pole Saw Attachment (20 cm Oregon bar and chain)
• Hedge Trimmer Attachment (41 cm blade)
• Briggs & Stratton 18V 5.0 Ah Li-Ion Battery
• Briggs & Stratton 18V Battery Charger
• Auxiliary Handle
• Shoulder Strap
• Chain Oil (for pole saw)
• Instruction Manual

4. Assembly and Setup

4.1 Attaching the Telescopic Pole

1. Ensure the battery is removed from the power head.
2. Align the telescopic pole with the power head.
3. Push the pole firmly into the power head until it clicks into place.
4. Secure the connection by tightening any locking mechanisms.

4.2 Attaching the Pole Saw or Hedge Trimmer Attachment

1. With the telescopic pole attached to the power head, select either the pole saw or hedge trimmer attachment.
2. Align the attachment with the end of the telescopic pole.
3. Push the attachment firmly onto the pole until it clicks into place.
4. Tighten the securing knob or lever on the attachment to ensure a firm connection.

Figure 2: Attaching the hedge trimmer head to the telescopic pole. Ensure a secure connection before operation.

4.3 Attaching the Auxiliary Handle

1. Slide the auxiliary handle onto the telescopic pole.
2. Position the handle for comfortable operation and tighten the locking knob.

Figure 3: Attaching the auxiliary handle to the telescopic pole for improved control and balance.

4.4 Charging and Attaching the Battery

1. Insert the Briggs & Stratton 18V 5.0 Ah Li-Ion battery into the charger.
2. Plug the charger into a standard power outlet. The indicator light will show charging status.
3. Once fully charged, remove the battery from the charger.
4. Slide the charged battery into the battery slot on the power head until it locks into place.

Figure 4: Attaching the Briggs & Stratton 18V Li-Ion battery to the power head. Ensure it clicks securely into place.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Adjusting the Telescopic Pole

The telescopic pole can be extended to reach higher areas. For the hedge trimmer, it extends up to 290 cm. For the pole saw, it extends up to 260 cm.

1. Loosen the locking collar on the telescopic pole.
2. Extend or retract the pole to the desired length.
3. Tighten the locking collar securely to fix the pole in position.

Figure 5: Adjusting the length of the telescopic pole. Ensure the locking collar is tightened after adjustment.

5.2 Using the Pole Saw Attachment

The pole saw features a 20 cm Oregon bar and a 9.5 mm low-profile chain, designed for cutting branches up to 15 cm thick.

• Chain Lubrication: The pole saw has an automatic chain lubrication system. Ensure the oil reservoir is filled with appropriate chain oil before each use. The reservoir has MIN/MAX indicators.

Figure 6: Pole saw oil reservoir with MIN/MAX indicators. Keep the reservoir filled for optimal chain lubrication.

• Operation: Hold the tool firmly with both hands. Engage the safety switch and press the trigger to start the chain. Allow the chain to reach full speed before making contact with the branch.
• Cutting Technique: Make a small undercut first, then complete the cut from the top to prevent pinching.

Figure 7: Close-up of the pole saw's 20 cm Oregon bar and chain. This image highlights the cutting mechanism.

5.3 Using the Hedge Trimmer Attachment

The hedge trimmer features a 41 cm double-action blade with a 16 mm cutting capacity, suitable for dense bushes and thicker twigs.

• Pivoting Head: The trimmer head can be adjusted to 7 different positions to suit various hedge angles. To adjust, press the pivot button and rotate the head to the desired angle, then release the button to lock it.
• Operation: Hold the tool firmly with both hands. Engage the safety switch and press the trigger. Move the trimmer smoothly along the hedge, avoiding contact with hard objects.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your tool. Always remove the battery before performing any maintenance.

6.1 Cleaning

• After each use, clean the tool housing with a damp cloth.
• Remove any debris, sap, or dirt from the pole saw bar and chain, and the hedge trimmer blades.
• Lubricate the hedge trimmer blades with a light machine oil after cleaning to prevent rust.

6.2 Pole Saw Chain Maintenance

• Chain Tension: Check chain tension regularly. The tool features a tool-free chain tensioning system for quick and easy adjustment. Turn the tensioning knob until the chain is snug but can still be pulled freely around the bar.
• Chain Sharpening: A dull chain can reduce cutting efficiency and increase kickback risk. Sharpen the chain as needed or replace it if severely damaged. Refer to the full user manual for detailed sharpening instructions.

6.3 Battery Care

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Do not store batteries in a discharged state for extended periods. Charge them periodically.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

• Model: IQ18PSHK 1688106
• Power Source: 18V Li-Ion Battery (Briggs & Stratton)
• Battery Capacity: 5.0 Ah (included)
• Pole Saw Bar Length: 20 cm (Oregon)
• Pole Saw Chain Pitch: 9.5 mm (3/8") Low Profile
• Pole Saw Max Cutting Diameter: 15 cm
• Hedge Trimmer Blade Length: 41 cm
• Hedge Trimmer Cutting Capacity: 16 mm
• Hedge Trimmer Head Positions: 7
• Telescopic Pole Extension (Hedge Trimmer): Up to 290 cm
• Telescopic Pole Extension (Pole Saw): Up to 260 cm
• No-Load Speed: 4500 rpm
• Material: Aluminum
• Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 318.4 x 18.5 x 31.9 cm
• Weight: 7.53 kg (with battery and attachment)
• Manufacturer: Briggs & Stratton
• Country of Origin: USA

9. Warranty and Support

The Murray IQ18PSHK 1688106 tool is backed by a 5-year limited consumer warranty. The included Briggs & Stratton 18V 5.0 Ah Li-Ion battery and charger are covered by a 3-year limited consumer warranty.

These warranties apply to residential use only. For complete details regarding warranty coverage, limitations, and how to make a claim, please refer to the full user manual provided with your product or visit the official Murray website.

For technical support, spare parts, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized Murray dealer or the Briggs & Stratton customer service department.