Benchmark 60V Brushless Lawn Trimmer Owner's Manual

Product Specifications

Safety Symbols

Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the product effectively and safely.

Safety Warnings & Instructions

General Power Tool Safety Warnings

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, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
3. Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.

Electrical Safety

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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

1. 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.
2. 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.
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 power tools with your finger on the switch or energising power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
4. 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.
5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
6. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in moving parts. Wear proper footwear.
7. 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.

Power Tool Use and Care

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack 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.
4. 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.
5. Maintain power tools. 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.
6. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
7. 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.

Battery Tool Use and Care

1. Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.
2. Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
3. When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
4. Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
5. Use only with the battery packs and chargers listed below:
   • Battery pack: 5350-018, 5350-019
   • Charger: 5350-020, 5350-021

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.

Cordless Grass Trimmer Safety Warnings

1. Read the instructions carefully.
2. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the equipment.
3. Wear protective glasses or goggles.
4. Never allow children or people unfamiliar with the instructions to use the machine.
5. Stop using the machine while people, especially children or pets, are nearby.
6. Only use the machine in daylight or good artificial light. Never use when visibility is bad.
7. Before using the machine and after any impact, check for the signs of wear or damage and repair as necessary.
8. Never operate the machine with damaged guards or without the guards in place.
9. Keep hands and feet away from the cutting means at all times and especially when switching on the motor.
10. Take care against injury from any device fitted for trimming the filament line length. After extending new cutter line always return the machine to its normal operating position before switching on.
11. Never fit metal cutting elements. Only use 2.4mm / 0.095" or 2mm / 0.08" rounded nylon line.
12. Never use replacement parts or accessories not provided or recommended by the manufacturer.
13. Ensure that the battery pack has been removed before checking, cleaning or working on the machine and when it is not in use.
14. Always ensure that ventilation openings are kept clear of debris.
15. During assembly take great care when fitting the guard as this has a very sharp cutting edge on one side for cutting the nylon line.
16. Never hold the cutter head above foot height or point it towards people or animals when in use.
17. If the trimmer starts to vibrate excessively switch off immediately and have it checked by a qualified service engineer. CAUTION: The cutting head continues to rotate for a few seconds after switching off.
18. Always remove any sticks and stones etc. before using the trimmer.
19. Do not cross roads or gravel paths while operating trimmer.
20. On steep slopes cut across the slope, never in an up and down direction. Never run while using the trimmer.
21. Never use the trimmer while it is raining or in damp weather.
22. Do not overreach, keep proper footing and balance at all times.
23. Use only genuine spare parts. Only these spare parts are designed and suitable for the product. The use of other spare parts not only voids the warranty, but also endangers yourself and your environment.
24. Never use of appliance for edging operation.

Special Operation Safety for the Charger

1. Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. Do not use the original charger on other li-ion batteries or on any other type of battery—fire or explosion may occur.
2. Check the battery charger, cable and plug each time before using. Do not use the battery charger when defects are detected. Do not open the battery charger yourself and have it repaired only by qualified personnel using original spare parts.
3. The charger is designed to use standard household 100~240 V, 50/60 Hz power source. The charger's plug must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
4. Do not abuse the cord of charger. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the charger. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
5. Make sure the charger cord is located so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over, or otherwise subjected to damage or stress.
6. Keep the battery charger clean. Contamination may cause the danger of electric shock.
7. Protect the battery charger away from rain and moisture. The penetration of water in a battery charger increases the risk of electric shock.
8. Do not operate the battery charger on easily inflammable surfaces (e.g. paper, textiles, etc.) or in combustible environments. There is danger of fire due to the heating of the battery charger during charging.
9. The temperature range over which the battery pack can be charged is typically 5 °C / 41 °F - 45 °C / 113 °F. Therefore, charging efforts outside the prescribed temperature range may automatically be blocked by the protection circuitry of the battery pack. Longest life and best performance can be obtained if the battery pack is charged in the normal room condition.
10. Disconnect charger from the power supply when not in use. This will reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to the charger if metal items should fall into the opening.
11. The charger is for indoor use only.

Special Operation Safety for the Battery Pack

1. The Li-ion battery pack is not fully charged at the factory. It must be fully charged before its' first use.
2. The battery pack should be recharged when it fails to produce sufficient power on jobs which were easily done previously. DO NOT CONTINUE using product with its battery in a depleted condition.
3. Do not charge the battery in an air temperature below 5 °C / 41 °F or above 45 °C / 113 °F. This is important and will prevent serious damage to the battery. Longest life and best performance can be obtained if the battery is charged when air temperature is about 20 °C / 68 °F. Do not store batteries in a garage or shed over the winter as it will damage battery life.
4. When the machine continues to be used and the battery temperature is above 45 °C / 113 °F, the battery cannot be charged, even if placed on the charger. Let the machine cool off for some time and wait for the temperature to go down, then it can be charged again.
5. Protect the battery pack against heat, e.g. including against continuous sun exposure and fire. There is a danger of explosion.
6. Do not carry individual battery packs in pockets or bags, as they could short-circuit against other metal items.
7. If an exposed Li-ion battery pack does start a fire, it will burn even more violently if it comes into contact with water or even the moisture in the air. DO NOT throw water on a burning Li-ion battery! A fire extinguisher must be used.
8. If the battery pack becomes too hot to the touch during charging, disconnect and switch off immediately. Contact Service Centre directly.
9. Do not open the battery yourself. There is danger of a short circuit.
10. When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paperclips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
11. This tool is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
12. Cleaning and user maintenance of the battery pack shall not be made by children without supervision.
13. Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.
14. Do not use a battery pack or appliance that is damaged or modified. Damaged or modified batteries may exhibit unpredictable behavior resulting in fire, explosion or risk of injury.
15. Do not expose a battery pack or appliance to fire or excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or temperature above 130°C (266°F) may cause explosion. The temperature of 130°C can be replaced by the temperature of 266°F.
16. Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or appliance outside of the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside of the specified range may damage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
17. Have servicing preformed by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the product is maintained.
18. Do not modify or attempt to repair the appliance or the battery pack (as applicable) except as indicated in the instructions for use and care.

Battery Pack Operation, Maintenance, and Disposal

Operation

A diagram (Page 24) shows the battery pack being inserted into a charger.

1. When the power indicator button is pushed, the green LED lights will show the power remaining.
2. Once the battery pack is correctly located in the charger, the 4 green LED lights of the battery pack will continuously be lit to indicate the charging process. At the same time the green LED light of the charger will flash continuously during normal charging.

To Obtain the Best Life From the Battery

• Avoid the battery from discharging completely. If the battery is to be unused for a long period, charge it to 80% capacity at least before storage.
• Avoid carrying out short battery charges. Make sure that the battery is fully charged every time by allowing the charger to complete its full charging cycle.
• Avoid allowing loose items like screws or nails etc. to be stored with battery packs as these or similar items can make the battery packs short-circuited which causes a fire or explosion.
• Always unplug the charger when not in use and store in a dry secure place.
• Avoid charging or storing your battery in temperatures below 32°F (0°C) and above 113°F (45°C).
• Cool down hot battery pack from a just-operated tool for approximately 30 minutes before attempting to recharge.
• Do not store batteries in a garage or shed over the winter as it will damage battery life.

Maintenance and Service

• Occasionally clean the battery using a soft, clean and dry brush.

Disposal

Battery packs, accessories and packaging should be sorted for environmentally-friendly recycling. Do not dispose of battery chargers into household waste!

Battery Latch Notice

This Hand-held tool has a 2-step battery latch.

A diagram (Page 26) shows the battery pack with two latch positions indicated as Latch #1 and Latch #2.Installation

The battery latch has 2 positions. Press down firmly until the battery is fully inserted. If the battery is not fully inserted and secured in the deepest position #2 the tool will not run.

Removal

Press the release button once, the battery will release from the first latch position. Then hold the battery firmly, press the release button again and pull the battery out.

Battery Charger Product Specifications & Safety

Battery Charger Product Specifications

Product Features

A diagram (Page 27) shows the battery charger with its key features:

• 1. Battery pack guide groove
• 2. Battery pack connect terminals
• 3. Green LED indicator
• 4. Red LED indicator

Intended Use

The Benchmark 60V Lithium-Ion Battery Charger is designed exclusively for the Benchmark 60V Lithium-Ion Battery Pack.Product Description and Specifications

1. Before using battery charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on battery charger, battery, and product using battery.
2. CAUTION: To reduce risk of injury, charge only Benchmark 60V Lithium-Ion Batteries. Other types of batteries may burst causing personal injury and damage.

Safety Notes for Battery Charger

1. Use only Benchmark 60V Lithium-Ion battery pack. Do not use the original charger on other Li-ion batteries or on any other type of battery—fire or explosion may occur.
2. Check the battery charger, cable and plug each time before using. Do not use the battery charger when defects are detected. Do not open the battery charger yourself and have it repaired only by qualified personnel using original spare parts.
3. The charger is designed to use standard household 100-240 V~50/60Hz power source. The charger's plug must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in anyway. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
4. Do not abuse the cord charger. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the charger. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
5. Make sure the charger cord is located so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over, or otherwise subjected to damage or stress.
6. Keep the battery charger clean. Contamination may cause the danger of electric shock.
7. Protect the battery charger away from rain and moisture. The penetration of water in a battery charger increases the risk of electric shock.
8. Do not operate the battery charger on easily inflammable surfaces (e.g. paper, textiles, etc.) or in combustible environments. There is danger of fire due to the heating of the battery charger during charging.
9. The temperature range over which the battery pack can be charged is typically from 32°F (0°C) to 113°F (45°C). Therefore, charging efforts outside the prescribed temperature range may automatically be blocked by the protection circuitry of the battery pack. Longest life and best performance can be obtained if the battery pack is charged in the normal room condition.
10. Disconnect charger from the power supply when not in use. This will reduce the risk of electric shock or damage to the charger if metal items should fall into the opening.
11. This tool is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
12. Cleaning and user maintenance of the battery charger shall not be made by children without supervision.

Battery Charger Operation, Maintenance, and Disposal

Operation

A diagram (Page 28) shows the battery pack being inserted into the charger.

1. Connect the charger to a power supply, the red and green LED lights will flash alternately for about 2 seconds. And then the red LED light on the charger will be on.
2. To insert the battery pack into the charger, align the grooves on the battery pack with the raised ribs in the opening of the charger. Then press the battery pack downward with a moderate force.
3. Once the battery pack is correctly located in the charger, the green LED light of the charger will flash continuously during normal charging.
4. When charging is complete, green LED light of the charger will be on.
5. If you encounter one of following kind of situations, the red LED light of charger will flash.
   • Wrong communication. It refers to poor connection between charger and battery pack.
   • Faulty with battery pack. The battery pack need to be repaired by the customer service center.
6. The charger has over-temperature protection. When the red and green LEDs flash alternately for more than 3 seconds, please wait until the red LED lights up, and then the charger resumes normal work.

Maintenance and Service

• Occasionally clean the charger using a soft, clean and dry brush.

Disposal

Battery chargers, accessories and packaging should be sorted for environmentally-friendly recycling. Do not dispose of battery chargers into household waste!

Troubleshooting (Charger)

Warranty

Benchmark Brushless Lawn Trimmer Warranty

If this Benchmark tool fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within five years from the date of purchase, return it to any Home Hardware store with the original bill of sale for exchange. The battery and charger have a three-year warranty.

This warranty does not include expendable parts including but not limited to blades, brushes, belts, light bulbs and/or batteries. This warranty covers defects in material or workmanship only. It does not cover normal wear and tear, failure due to abuse/misuse, or defects caused by careless or accidental mishandling. If this Benchmark product is used for commercial or rental purposes, this warranty does not apply. It is intended for use at the consumer level and is not for industrial or commercial applications.