Makita Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer

SPECIFICATIONS

Specifications are subject to change without notice and may differ by country. Weight may differ depending on attachments.

Applicable battery cartridge and charger

WARNING: Only use the battery cartridges and chargers listed above. Use of any other battery cartridges and chargers may cause injury and/or fire.

Symbols

The following symbols may be used for the equipment. Understand their meaning before use:

Guaranteed sound power level according to EU Outdoor Noise Directive.

Sound power level according to Australia NSW Noise Control Regulation.

Intended use

The tool is intended for trimming hedges.

Noise

The typical A-weighted noise level is determined according to EN62841-4-2:

• Sound pressure level (LpA): 74 dB(A)
• Uncertainty (K): 3 dB(A)

The noise level under working may exceed 80 dB(A).

NOTE: Declared noise emission values are measured according to standard test methods and may be used for comparison.

NOTE: Declared noise emission values may also be used in a preliminary assessment of exposure.

WARNING: Wear ear protection.

WARNING: Noise emission during actual use can differ from declared values depending on how the tool is used and the workpiece.

WARNING: Identify safety measures to protect the operator based on exposure estimation during actual use.

Vibration

Applicable standard: EN62841-4-2

NOTE: Declared vibration total values are measured according to standard test methods and may be used for comparison.

NOTE: Declared vibration total values may also be used in a preliminary assessment of exposure.

WARNING: Vibration emission during actual use can differ from declared values depending on how the tool is used and the workpiece.

WARNING: Identify safety measures to protect the operator based on exposure estimation during actual use.

EC Declaration of Conformity

For European countries only. The EC declaration of conformity is included as Annex A to this instruction manual.

SAFETY WARNINGS

General power tool safety warnings

WARNING: Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

The term "power tool" refers to your mains-operated (corded) or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.

Work area safety

1. Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
2. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres (e.g., presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust). Power tools create sparks that may ignite dust or fumes.
3. Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause loss of control.

Electrical safety

1. Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug. Do not use adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets reduce the risk of electric shock.
2. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces (pipes, radiators, ranges, refrigerators). Increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
3. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool increases the risk of electric shock.
4. Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling, or unplugging. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
5. When operating outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
6. If operating in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD) protected supply.
7. Power tools can produce electromagnetic fields (EMF). Users of pacemakers and similar medical devices should contact their device maker and/or doctor for advice before operating.

Personal safety

1. Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use common sense. Do not use a power tool while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication.
2. Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment like dust masks, non-skid shoes, hard hats, or hearing protection reduces personal injuries.
3. 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 tools with a finger on the switch invites accidents.
4. Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or key left attached to a rotating part may result in personal injury.
5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times for better control in unexpected situations.

6. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep hair and clothing away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery, or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
7. If dust extraction facilities are provided, ensure they are connected and properly used. Dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
8. Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use lead to complacency. A careless action can cause severe injury.
9. Always wear protective goggles to protect your eyes. Goggles must comply with ANSI Z87.1 (USA), EN 166 (Europe), or AS/NZS 1336 (Australia/New Zealand). In Australia/New Zealand, a face shield is legally required.

It is an employer's responsibility to enforce the use of appropriate safety protective equipment by operators and others in the work area.

Power tool use and care

1. Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application.
2. Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Dangerous tools must be repaired.
3. Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or remove the battery pack before making adjustments, changing accessories, or storing.
4. Store idle power tools out of children's reach. Do not allow persons unfamiliar with the tool or instructions to operate it.
5. Maintain power tools and accessories. Check for misalignment, binding, breakage, or other conditions affecting operation. Have damaged tools repaired before use.

Battery tool use and care

1. Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer.
2. Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs.
3. When the battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects (paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws) that can connect terminals. Shorting terminals may cause burns or fire.
4. Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. Flush with water if contact occurs. Seek medical help if liquid contacts eyes.
5. Do not use a damaged or modified battery pack or tool.
6. Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive temperature (above 130 °C / 266 °F).
7. Follow all charging instructions and do not charge outside the specified temperature range.

Service

1. Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts.
2. Never service damaged battery packs. Service should only be performed by the manufacturer or authorized service providers.
3. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.

Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer Safety Warnings

1. Keep all parts of the body away from the blade. Do not remove cut material or hold material to be cut when blades are moving. Blades continue to move after the switch is turned off.
2. Carry the hedge trimmer by the handle with the blade stopped, taking care not to operate any power switch.
3. When transporting or storing, always fit the blade cover.
4. When clearing jammed material or servicing, ensure all power switches are off and the battery pack is removed or disconnected.
5. Hold the hedge trimmer by insulated gripping surfaces only, as the blade may contact hidden wiring.
6. Keep all power cords and cables away from the cutting area.
7. Do not use the hedge trimmer in bad weather conditions, especially when there is a risk of lightning.
8. To reduce the risk of electrocution, never use the pole hedge trimmer near any electrical power lines.
9. Always use two hands when operating the pole hedge trimmer.
10. Always use head protection when operating the pole hedge trimmer overhead.

Additional Safety Instructions

Preparation

1. THIS HEDGE TRIMMER CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES. Read instructions carefully for correct handling, preparation, maintenance, starting, and stopping. Become familiar with all controls and proper use.
2. Check hedges and bushes for foreign objects (wire fences, hidden wiring) before operating.
3. The tool must not be used by children or young persons under 18 years of age. Young persons over 16 may be exempted if undergoing supervised training.

4. In the event of an emergency, switch off the tool and remove the battery cartridge immediately.
5. DANGER - Keep hands away from blade. Contact with blade will result in serious personal injury.
6. First-time users should have an experienced user show them how to use the tool.
7. Before operation, examine the work area for wire fences, stones, or other solid objects that can damage the blades.
8. Use the tool only if you are in good physical condition. Be especially careful at the end of a working day. Perform all work calmly and carefully. The user is responsible for damages to third parties.
9. Before starting work, check that the tool is in good and safe working order. Ensure guards are fitted properly. The tool must be fully assembled.
10. Avoid dangerous environments. Don't use the tool in damp or wet locations or expose it to rain.

Personal protective equipment

1. Work gloves of stout leather are basic equipment; wear them. Also wear sturdy shoes with anti-skid soles.
2. Wear ear protection (ear muffs) to prevent hearing loss.
3. Wear protective goggles, safety helmet, and protective gloves to protect yourself from flying debris or falling objects.
4. When touching blades or adjusting the blade angle, wear protective gloves. Blades can cut bare hands severely.

Operation

1. Always use two hands to operate the tool. Using one hand could cause loss of control and result in serious personal injury.
2. Ensure your operating position is safe and secure. Overreaching, particularly from a ladder, is extremely dangerous. Do not work from anything wobbly or infirm.
3. Do not simultaneously wear multiple belt harnesses and/or shoulder harnesses.
4. Keep bystanders or animals at least 15 m away. Stop the tool as soon as someone approaches.
5. If the cutting tool strikes any object or the tool starts making unusual noise or vibration, switch off the tool and remove the battery cartridge immediately. Then: inspect for damage, check and tighten loose parts, or have damaged parts replaced/repaired with genuine spare parts.

6. Only use the tool for its intended purpose.
7. Switch off the tool and remove the battery cartridge before: cleaning, clearing a blockage, checking, maintenance, working on the tool, adjusting the working position of shear blades, or leaving the tool unattended.
8. Ensure the tool is correctly located in a designated working position before starting.
9. Do not operate the tool with damaged or excessively worn shear blades.
10. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert for possible hazards due to the tool's noise.
11. Be careful not to accidentally contact a metal fence or other hard objects. The blade will break and may cause serious injury.
12. Avoid unintentional starting. Do not carry the tool with the battery cartridge installed and finger on the switch. Ensure the switch is off when installing the battery cartridge.
13. Do not grasp the exposed cutting blades or cutting edges when picking up or holding the tool.
14. Do not force the tool. It will do the job better and with less likelihood of injury at its designed rate.
15. Do not use the tool in the rain or in wet or very damp conditions. The electric motor is not waterproof.
16. Hold the tool firmly when using it.
17. Do not operate the tool at no-load unnecessarily.
18. Before checking shear blades, taking care of faults, or removing foreign objects, always switch off the tool and remove the battery cartridge.
19. Never point the shear blades to yourself or others.
20. If blades stop moving due to foreign objects, switch off, remove battery, and remove objects with pliers. Removing by hand may cause injury.

Electrical and battery safety

1. Avoid dangerous environments. Don't use the tool in damp or wet locations or expose it to rain.
2. Do not dispose of the battery(ies) in a fire. The cell may explode. Check local codes for disposal instructions.
3. Do not open or mutilate the battery(ies). Released electrolyte is corrosive and may cause damage to eyes or skin. It may be toxic if swallowed.
4. Do not charge battery in rain, or in wet locations.
5. Do not charge the battery outdoors.
6. Do not handle charger, including plug and terminals, with wet hands.

Maintenance and storage

1. When the tool is stopped for servicing, inspection, or storage, switch off the tool and remove the battery cartridge. Ensure all moving parts have stopped. Allow the tool to cool before making inspections or adjustments.
2. Always allow the tool to cool down before storing.
3. When not in use, attach the blade cover and store the tool indoors in a dry, locked-up place, out of reach of children.
4. Maintain the tool with care. Keep cutting edge sharp and clean for best performance and to reduce injury risk. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories. Keep grips dry, clean, and free from oil and grease.
5. Check damaged parts. Before further use, any damaged part should be checked to ensure proper operation. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding, breakage, mounting, and any other condition affecting operation. Damaged guards or parts should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service center.
6. Use genuine spare parts only.
7. When moving the tool, always remove the battery cartridge and put on the blade cover. Never carry or transport the tool with blades running. Never grasp the blades with your hands.
8. Clean the tool and shear blades after use, before storage. Lightly oil shear blades and put on blade cover.
9. Do not dispose of battery(ies) in fire.
10. Do not open or mutilate battery(ies).
11. Do not charge battery in rain, or in wet locations.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

WARNING: DO NOT let comfort or familiarity replace strict adherence to safety rules. MISUSE or failure to follow safety rules may cause serious personal injury.

Important safety instructions for battery cartridge

1. Before using battery cartridge, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) battery charger, (2) battery, and (3) product using battery.
2. Do not disassemble or tamper with the battery cartridge. It may result in fire, excessive heat, or explosion.
3. If operating time has become excessively shorter, stop operating immediately. It may result in overheating, possible burns, and even an explosion.
4. If electrolyte gets into your eyes, rinse them out with clear water and seek medical attention right away. It may result in loss of eyesight.
5. Do not short the battery cartridge: (1) Do not touch terminals with conductive material. (2) Avoid storing battery cartridge in a container with other metal objects. (3) Do not expose battery cartridge to water or rain. A battery short can cause large current flow, overheating, burns, and breakdown.
6. Do not store and use the tool and battery cartridge where temperature may reach or exceed 50 °C (122 °F).
7. Do not incinerate the battery cartridge even if severely damaged. It can explode in a fire.
8. Do not nail, cut, crush, throw, drop, or hit the battery cartridge. Such conduct may result in fire, excessive heat, or explosion.
9. Do not use a damaged battery.
10. Lithium-ion batteries are subject to Dangerous Goods Legislation requirements for commercial transport. Consult an expert for hazardous material requirements. Tape or mask off open contacts and pack the battery so it cannot move in the packaging.
11. When disposing, remove the battery cartridge from the tool and dispose of it safely, following local regulations.
12. Use batteries only with products specified by Makita. Installing in non-compliant products may result in fire, excessive heat, explosion, or electrolyte leak.
13. If the tool is not used for a long period, remove the battery.
14. During and after use, the battery cartridge may get hot, causing burns. Pay attention to handling hot battery cartridges.
15. Do not touch the tool's terminal immediately after use as it may be hot enough to cause burns.
16. Do not allow chips, dust, or soil to stick into terminals, holes, and grooves of the battery cartridge.
17. Unless the tool supports use near high-voltage electrical power lines, do not use the battery cartridge near them.
18. Keep the battery away from children.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

CAUTION: Only use genuine Makita batteries. Use of non-genuine Makita batteries, or batteries that have been altered, may result in the battery bursting, causing fires, personal injury, and damage. It will also void the Makita warranty.

Tips for maintaining maximum battery life

1. Charge the battery cartridge before it is completely discharged. Stop operation and charge when you notice less tool power.
2. Never recharge a fully charged battery cartridge. Overcharging shortens service life.
3. Charge the battery cartridge at room temperature (10 °C - 40 °C / 50 °F - 104 °F). Let a hot battery cartridge cool down before charging.
4. When not using the battery cartridge, remove it from the tool or the charger.

PARTS DESCRIPTION

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool is switched off and the battery cartridge is removed before adjusting or checking function on the tool.

Installing or removing battery cartridge

CAUTION: Always switch off the tool before installing or removing of the battery cartridge.

CAUTION: Hold the tool and the battery cartridge firmly when installing or removing. Failure to do so may cause them to slip, resulting in damage and personal injury.

CAUTION: Always install the battery cartridge fully until the red indicator cannot be seen. If not, it may accidentally fall out, causing injury.

CAUTION: Do not install the battery cartridge forcibly. If it does not slide in easily, it is not being inserted correctly.

Indicating the remaining battery capacity

Only for battery cartridges with the indicator

A diagram shows a battery cartridge with an indicator button and lamps.

1. Red indicator
2. Button
3. Battery cartridge

Press the check button to indicate the remaining battery capacity. Indicator lamps light up for a few seconds.

A chart shows indicator lamps and remaining capacity:

• 2 Lamps Lighted: 75% to 100%
• 1 Lamp Lighted: 50% to 75%
• 1 Lamp Lighted: 25% to 50%
• 0 Lamps Lighted: 0% to 25%

NOTE: Indication may differ slightly from actual capacity depending on use conditions and ambient temperature.

Tool / battery protection system

The machine has a battery protection system that automatically cuts off power to the motor to extend battery life.

The machine stops during operation if:

• Overloaded: Tool draws abnormally high current. Turn off the tool and stop the application. If the tool does not start, the battery is overheated; let it cool before turning on again.
• Low battery voltage: Remaining capacity is too low. The motor runs again but stops soon. Remove and recharge the battery.

Switch action

WARNING: Before installing the battery cartridge, check that the switch trigger actuates properly and returns to the "OFF" position.

WARNING: This tool has a lock-off button to prevent unintended starting. Never use the tool if it starts when you pull the switch trigger without pressing the lock-off button. Ask your local Makita Service Center for repairs.

WARNING: Never disable the lock function or tape down the lock-off button.

NOTICE: Do not pull the switch trigger forcibly without pressing the lock-off button. The switch may break.

A diagram shows the lock-off button and switch trigger.

To start the tool, press the lock-off button and pull the switch trigger. Release the switch trigger to stop. The lock-off button can be pressed from either side.

Adjusting the cutting angle

CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool is switched off before folding or unfolding the head.

CAUTION: When folding the head for carrying or after use, be sure to attach the blade cover.

CAUTION: When folding the head, be careful not to pinch your fingers between the head and the tool body.

The angle of the head can be adjusted in 10 steps.

1. Hold the head and the tool body as shown in the figure.
2. Adjust the angle of the head while holding down the angle adjustment button, then release the button.
3. Move the head slightly until it locks with a click.

NOTE: Make sure that the head is securely locked before operating the tool.

Adjusting the pipe length

CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool is switched off before adjusting the pipe length.

CAUTION: When adjusting the pipe length, be sure to attach the blade cover.

CAUTION: When adjusting the pipe length, be careful not to pinch your fingers.

CAUTION: Make sure that the lock-lever is locked securely.

Loosen the lock-lever, then adjust the length of the pipe, and then lock the lock-lever.

A diagram shows the lock-lever mechanism.

Adjusting the front grip position

CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool is switched off before adjusting the position of the front grip.

CAUTION: When adjusting the position of the front grip, be careful not to pinch your fingers.

CAUTION: Make sure that the thumb nut is tightened securely.

CAUTION: Do not move the front grip beyond the arrow mark.

To adjust the position of the front grip, loosen the thumb nut counterclockwise, then adjust the position, and then tighten the thumb nut clockwise.

A diagram shows the thumb nut and arrow mark.

ASSEMBLY

CAUTION: Always be sure that the tool is switched off and the battery cartridge is removed before carrying out any work on the tool.

CAUTION: When replacing the shear blades, always wear gloves so that your hands do not directly contact the blades.

Installing or removing the shear blades

CAUTION: Attach the blade cover before removing or installing the shear blades.

NOTICE: When replacing the shear blades, do not wipe off grease from the gear and crank.

NOTE: Before installing or removing, unfold the head so it is straight to the tool body.

1. Place the tool upside down.
2. Remove 4 screws with a screwdriver and remove the shear blades.

A diagram shows screws being removed.

3. Remove the crank from the shear blades.

A diagram shows the crank being removed.

4. Prepare the crank and new shear blades.

A diagram shows the crank and shear blades.

5. Remove the blade cover, and then attach it to the new shear blades.
6. Apply a small amount of grease to the periphery of the crank. Attach the washer, gear, and the crank to the pin in order.

A diagram shows the crank, gear, washer, and pin assembly.

7. Adjust the crank so that the 2 small holes on the crank are lined up on the alignment line as shown in the figure.

A diagram shows the alignment line and small holes on the crank.

8. Slide the shear blades so that the hole on the guide plate is positioned at the center of the rings of blades.

A diagram shows the guide plate.

9. Insert the screw removed in step 2 into the hole on the shear blades through the hole on the blade cover.

A diagram shows the screw insertion point.

10. Attach the shear blades to the tool, and then tighten 3 screws with the screwdriver.

A diagram shows screws being tightened.

11. Remove the screw inserted into the hole on the shear blades in step 9, and then tighten it to fix the shear blades.

NOTICE: If the shear blades do not operate properly, the blades are not engaging the crank properly. Remove and install them again.

NOTICE: If parts other than the shear blades, such as the crank, are worn out, ask Makita Authorized Service Centers for parts replacement or repairs.

Installing or removing the chip receiver

Optional accessory

CAUTION: When installing or removing the chip receiver, always wear gloves so that your hands do not directly contact the shear blades.

CAUTION: Attach the blade cover before installing or removing the chip receiver.

The chip receiver gathers discarded leaves and makes clean-up easier. It can be installed on either side of the tool.

1. Align the holes on the chip receiver with the nuts on the shear blades.

A diagram shows nuts on the shear blades.

2. Hook the claws of the chip receiver to the groove on the shear blades.

A diagram shows claws and groove.

3. Press the levers on the chip receiver, and then hook the claws on the other side to the groove on the shear blades.

A diagram shows levers being pressed.

To remove the chip receiver, press the levers to release the claws.

A diagram shows levers being pressed for removal.

NOTICE: Never try to remove the chip receiver by excessive force with its claws locked in the grooves.

NOTICE: Do not cut down dead trees or similar hard objects. Doing so may damage the tool.

NOTICE: Do not trim grass or weeds with shear blades. They may become tangled.

OPERATION

Operating the tool

WARNING: Do not use the tool near any electrical power lines. Contacting power lines may cause serious injury or electric shock resulting in death.

WARNING: Keep hands away from shear blades.

WARNING: Be extremely careful to maintain control of the tool at all times. Do not allow the tool to be deflected toward you or anyone in the work vicinity. Failure to keep control could result in serious injury.

CAUTION: Avoid operating in very hot weather. Be careful of your physical condition.

CAUTION: Be careful not to accidentally contact a metal fence or other hard objects while trimming. The shear blades may break and cause injury.

CAUTION: Be careful not to allow the shear blades to contact the ground. The tool may recoil and cause injury.

CAUTION: Overreaching, particularly from a ladder, is extremely dangerous. Do not work from anything wobbly or infirm.

NOTICE: Do not attempt to cut branches thicker than 10 mm in diameter. Cut branches to 10 cm lower than the cutting height using branch cutters first.

A diagram shows cutting height and a 10 cm reference.

Hold the tool with both hands by holding the front grip and the rear grip.

A diagram shows how to hold the tool.

Pull the switch trigger while pressing the lock-off button, and then move the tool forward.

A diagram shows the 15m safety distance.

For basic operation, tilt the shear blades toward the trimming direction and move it calmly and slowly at a speed of 3 to 4 seconds per meter.

A diagram shows trimming direction.

To cut a hedge side evenly, cut from the bottom to top.

Diagrams show hedge cutting techniques.

Cleaning the tool

Clean the tool by wiping off dust with a dry cloth or one dipped in soapy water and wrung out.

NOTICE: Never use gasoline, benzine, thinner, alcohol, or the like. Discoloration, deformation, or cracks may result.

Shear blade maintenance

Before operation or once per hour during operation, apply low-viscosity oil (machine oil or spray-type lubricating oil) to the shear blades.

Diagrams show oil application and blade cleaning.

After operation, remove dust from both sides of the shear blades with a wired brush, wipe it off with a cloth, and then apply low-viscosity oil.

NOTICE: Do not wash the shear blades in water. Doing so may cause rust or damage.

NOTICE: Dirt and corrosion cause excessive blade friction and shorten operating time per battery charge.

Storage

Attach the blade cover to the shear blades so they are not exposed. Store the tool out of the reach of children. Store the tool in a place not exposed to moisture or rain.

To maintain product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs and maintenance should be performed by Makita Authorized or Factory Service Centers, using Makita replacement parts.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Before asking for repairs, conduct your own inspection. If a problem is not explained, do not attempt to dismantle the tool. Ask Makita Authorized Service Centers, using Makita replacement parts.

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES

CAUTION: These accessories or attachments are recommended for use with your Makita tool. Use of any other accessories or attachments might present a risk of injury. Only use accessory or attachment for its stated purpose.

If you need assistance, ask your local Makita Service Center.

• Shear blade assembly
• Chip receiver
• Grease vessel
• Makita genuine battery and charger

NOTE: Some items may be included as standard accessories and may differ by country.

Makita Europe N.V. Jan-Baptist Vinkstraat 2, 3070 Kortenberg, Belgium

Makita Corporation 3-11-8, Sumiyoshi-cho, Anjo, Aichi 446-8502 Japan

www.makita.com