Cordless String Trimmer Instruction Manual

Specifications

• Specifications are subject to change without notice due to ongoing research and development.
• Specifications and battery cartridges may vary by country.
• Weight, with battery cartridge, is according to EPTA-Procedure 01/2003.

Important Safety Instructions

Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

General Instructions

1. Do not allow persons unfamiliar with the string trimmer or these instructions to operate the tool. String trimmers are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
2. Ensure anyone operating the string trimmer has first read the instruction manual.
3. Use the string trimmer with the utmost care and attention.
4. Operate the string trimmer only if in good physical condition. Perform all work calmly and carefully. The operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or their property.
5. Never operate the string trimmer when tired, feeling ill, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
6. Avoid accidentally starting:
   • Ensure the switch is in the off position before installing the battery pack. Inserting the battery pack with the switch on invites accidents.
   • Carrying the string trimmer with your finger on the switch invites accidents.
7. The string trimmer should be switched off immediately if it shows any signs of abnormal operation.
8. Disconnect the battery from the string trimmer before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing. These preventive safety measures reduce the risk of accidental starting.
9. Do not force the tool. It will perform better and with less likelihood of injury at its designed rate.
10. Do not overreach. Maintain proper footing and balance at all times.

Intended Use of the Tool

1. Use the right tool. The cordless string trimmer is only intended for cutting grass and light weeds. It should not be used for other purposes such as edging or hedge cutting, as this may cause injury.

Personal Protective Equipment

1. Dress Properly. Clothing should be functional and appropriate (tight-fitting but not hindering). Do not wear jewelry or clothing that could become entangled with bushes or shrubs. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
2. To avoid head, eye, hand, or foot injuries, and to protect hearing, the following protective equipment and clothing must be used during operation:
   • Helmet: Always wear a helmet where there is a risk of falling objects. Check regularly for damage and replace at least every five years. Use only approved protective helmets.
   • Visor/Goggles: The helmet's visor (or goggles) protects the face from flying debris and stones. Always wear goggles or a visor to prevent eye injuries.
   • Noise Protection: Wear adequate noise protection equipment (ear muffs, ear plugs, etc.) to avoid hearing impairment.
   • Work Overalls: Work overalls protect against flying stones and debris. It is strongly strongly recommended to wear work overalls.
   • Gloves: Special gloves made of thick leather are part of the prescribed equipment and must always be worn.
   • Sturdy Shoes: Always wear sturdy shoes with a non-slip sole. This protects against injuries and ensures good footing.

Electrical and Battery Safety

1. Avoid dangerous environments. Do not use the tool in damp or wet locations or expose it to rain. Water entering the tool increases the risk of electric shock.
2. Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger suitable for one type of battery pack may create a fire risk when used with another.
3. Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
4. When the battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects (paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws, etc.) that could short the terminals. Shorting battery terminals may cause burns or fire.
5. Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, seek medical help. Ejected liquid may cause irritation or burns.
6. Do not dispose of battery(ies) in fire. The cell may explode. Check local codes for disposal instructions.
7. Do not open or mutilate battery(ies). Released electrolyte is corrosive and may cause damage to eyes or skin. It may be toxic if swallowed.

Starting Up the Tool

1. Ensure no children or other people are within a 15-meter (50 ft) working range. Also, pay attention to any animals in the vicinity. Otherwise, stop using the tool. (Depiction: A person operating the trimmer with a 15m (50ft) radius safety zone around them.)
2. Before use, always check that the tool is safe for operation. Check the security of the nylon cutting head and the guard, and the switch trigger/lever for easy and proper action. Check for clean and dry handles and test the on/off function of the switch.
3. Check damaged parts before further use. A damaged guard or part should be carefully checked to ensure proper operation. Check for alignment, binding, breakage, mounting, and any other condition affecting operation. A damaged guard or part should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service center unless otherwise indicated in this manual.
4. Switch on the motor only when hands and feet are away from the nylon cutting head.
5. Before starting, ensure the nylon cutting head has no contact with hard objects such as branches, stones, etc., as it will revolve when starting.

Method of Operation

1. Only use the tool in good light and visibility. During winter, beware of slippery or wet areas, ice, and snow (risk of slipping). Always ensure safe footing.
2. Take care to avoid injury to feet and hands from the nylon cutting head.
3. Never cut above waist height.
4. Never stand on a ladder and run the tool.
5. Never climb into trees to perform cutting operations.
6. Never work on unstable surfaces.
7. Remove sand, stones, nails, etc., from the working range. Foreign particles may damage the nylon cutting head.
8. Should the nylon cutting head hit stones or other hard objects, immediately switch off the motor and inspect the nylon cutting head.
9. Before commencing cutting, the nylon cutting head must have reached full working speed.
10. During operation, always hold the tool with both hands. Never hold the tool with one hand. Always ensure safe footing.
11. The nylon cutting head must be equipped with the guard. Never run the tool with damaged guards or without guards in place!
12. All protective equipment, such as guards supplied with the string trimmer, must be used during operation.
13. Except in case of emergency, never drop or cast the tool to the ground, as this may severely damage it.
14. Never drag the tool on the ground when moving from place to place, as this may damage it.
15. Always remove the battery cartridge from the tool:
    • whenever leaving the tool unattended;
    • before clearing a blockage;
    • before checking, cleaning, or working on the tool;
    • whenever the tool starts vibrating abnormally;
    • whenever transporting the tool.
16. Always ensure that the ventilation openings are kept clear of debris.

Maintenance Instructions

1. The condition of the nylon cutting head and protective devices must be checked before commencing work.
2. Turn off the motor and remove the battery cartridge before carrying out maintenance, replacing the nylon cutting head or nylon cord, and cleaning the tool.
3. Check for loose fasteners and damaged parts such as cracks in the nylon cutting head.
4. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories if applicable.
5. When not in use, store the equipment in a dry location that is locked up or out of children's reach.
6. Use only the manufacturer's recommended replacement parts and accessories.
7. Inspect and maintain the tool regularly, especially before/after use. Have the tool repaired only by an authorized service center.
8. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease.

Symbols

The following symbols are used for the tool:

Important Safety Instructions for Battery Cartridge

1. Before using the battery cartridge, read all instructions and cautionary markings on (1) battery charger, (2) battery, and (3) product using battery.
2. Do not disassemble the battery cartridge.
3. If operating time has become excessively shorter, stop operating immediately. This 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. This may result in loss of eyesight.
5. Do not short the battery cartridge:
   • Do not touch the terminals with any conductive material.
   • Avoid storing the battery cartridge in a container with other metal objects such as nails, coins, etc.
   • Do not expose the battery cartridge to water or rain.
   A battery short can cause a large current flow, overheating, possible burns, and even a breakdown.
6. Do not store the tool and battery cartridge in locations where the temperature may reach or exceed 50°C (122°F).
7. Do not incinerate the battery cartridge even if it is severely damaged or completely worn out. The battery cartridge can explode in a fire.
8. Be careful not to drop or strike the battery.
9. Do not use a damaged battery.
10. Follow local regulations relating to battery disposal.

Tips for Maintaining Maximum Battery Life

1. Charge the battery cartridge before it is completely discharged. Always stop tool operation and charge the battery cartridge when you notice less tool power.
2. Never recharge a fully charged battery cartridge. Overcharging shortens battery 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 it.
4. Charge the battery cartridge once every six months if not used for a long period.

Parts Description

The cordless string trimmer consists of the following main parts:

1. Indication lamp
2. Switch trigger
3. Battery cartridge
4. Front grip
5. Clamping nut
6. Lock grip
7. Guard
8. Nylon cutting head

(Depiction: An illustration of the string trimmer with numbered callouts pointing to each of the listed parts.)

Functional Description

Installing or Removing Battery Cartridge

• Always switch off the tool before installing or removing the battery cartridge.

To remove the battery cartridge, slide it from the tool while sliding the button on the front. To install, align the tongue on the battery cartridge with the groove in the housing and slip it into place until it locks with a click. If the red indicator on the upper side of the button is visible, it is not locked completely. Install fully until the red indicator cannot be seen, otherwise it may accidentally fall out, causing injury.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the battery cartridge being inserted/removed, with callouts for 1. Red indicator, 2. Button, 3. Battery cartridge.)

Battery Protection System (Lithium-ion battery with star marking)

Lithium-ion batteries with a star marking are equipped with a protection system that automatically cuts off power to extend battery life. The tool will automatically stop if overloaded or has low battery voltage.

(Depiction: An illustration of a battery with a star marking.)

• Overloaded: If the tool draws abnormally high current, release the trigger switch, stop the application, then pull the trigger switch again to restart. If the tool does not start, the battery may be overheated; let it cool before restarting.
• Low battery voltage: If remaining battery capacity is too low, the tool will not operate. Remove and recharge the battery.

Power Switch Action

A lock-off button is provided to prevent accidental pulling of the switch trigger. To start, move the lock-off button forward and pull the switch trigger. Release the switch trigger to stop.

(Depiction: An illustration of the switch trigger assembly with callouts for 1. Lock-off button, 2. Switch trigger.)

Indication Lamp

The indication lamp shows the battery cartridge capacity status. When overloaded and stopped, the lamp lights up red. Refer to the table below for status and action.

(Depiction: An illustration of the handle with a light indicator.)

Adjusting the Shaft Length

To adjust the shaft length, turn the grip counterclockwise until the shaft is unlocked, then pull out or push in to the desired length.

(Depiction: An illustration of the string trimmer showing the shaft and grip, with callouts for 1. Shaft, 2. Grip.)

Nylon Cutting Head

The nylon cutting head is a single string trimmer head with a bump & feed mechanism. To feed out the nylon cord, bump the cutting head against the ground while the tool is running. As the cord feeds out, it is automatically cut to the proper length by the cutter on the guard.

(Depiction: An illustration of the nylon cutting head in operation, with a callout for 1. Nylon cutting head.)

Assembly

Installing the Front Grip

Put the front grip on the front grip holder and secure it with a hex bolt and clamping nut. The hex bolt should be installed from the side with the lock port, and the clamping nut from the opposite side.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the front grip assembly, with callouts for 1. Front grip, 2. Clamping nut, 3. Hex bolt.)

Installing the Guard

Mount the guard by fitting it onto the motor housing so the Nylon cord is not pinched, then secure it with two screws. Before starting the trimmer, remove the cutter cover from the cord cutter.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the guard assembly, with callouts for 1. Guard, 2. Screws, 3. Cutter cover.)

Installing or Removing the Nylon Cutting Head

To remove the Nylon cutting head (spool and spool cover), press the latches forcefully on both sides of the spool cover and raise it.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the removal of the nylon cutting head.)

To install a cord-newly-wound Nylon cutting head (spool and spool cover), align the Nylon cord eyehole with the notch of the nylon cutting head installation port on the trimmer and press in until a click is heard.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the components of the nylon cutting head: 1. Nylon cord eyehole, 2. Notch of the nylon cutting head installation port, 3. Spring, 4. Spool holder.)

Winding a New Nylon Cord on the Spool

Remove the spool from the spool cover and take off the remaining used Nylon cord from the spool.

(Depiction: An illustration of the spool and spool cover separated.)

Insert a Nylon cord into the retainer.

(Depiction: An illustration showing a nylon cord being inserted into the spool retainer, with callouts for 1. Nylon cord, 2. Retainer for nylon cord end.)

Wind it tightly flat around the spool in the direction of the arrow on the spool so that the wound Nylon cord surface appears uniform over the winding area.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the nylon cord being wound onto the spool.)

Temporarily fix a Nylon cord at the notch.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the nylon cord temporarily fixed at the notch.)

Bring the Nylon cord through the Nylon cord eyehole in the spool cover.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the nylon cord being threaded through the spool cover eyehole.)

After installing the Nylon cutting head, ensure the Nylon cord comes out by pressing the spool and pulling the Nylon cord.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the nylon cutting head installed, with callouts for 1. Spool, 2. Nylon cord.)

Operation

Attachment of Shoulder Strap

Hook the shoulder strap into a hole in the front grip.

(Depiction: An illustration of the string trimmer with a shoulder strap attached, with callouts for 1. Shoulder strap, 2. Hook.)

Cutting Grass

(Depiction: An illustration showing the trimmer cutting grass without the spool touching the ground.)

(Depiction: An illustration showing the trimmer cutting dense grass.)

(Depiction: An illustration showing the trimmer being used to dig into the ground, which is not recommended.)

Cutting the Grass Near a Tree, Concrete Block, Brick, or Garden Stone

Hold the trimmer tilted so it does not contact the ground surface and cut the grass using the Nylon cord tip like knocking the ground. Smooth feeding is needed as the Nylon cord wears more quickly than usual.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the trimmer cutting grass near an obstacle.)

Using the Tool as an Edger

Using the tool as an edger allows cutting along the edge of concrete blocks, bricks, etc.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the trimmer being used as an edger.)

To use as an edger, hold the shaft with one hand and turn the grip counterclockwise to loosen the shaft. Rotate the shaft with the motor housing 180° and tighten the grip clockwise until it locks.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the trimmer being adjusted for edging, with callouts for 1. Motor housing, 2. Grip.)

To obtain a good finish, move the tool parallel to the edge being trimmed.

(Depiction: An illustration of a person using the trimmer as an edger.)

Cutting the Grass in a Tight Place or on a Slope

To ease work in tight, height-restricted places (e.g., under a wood deck), push the lock button and bend down the cutting head so the shaft is parallel to the ground. Adjusting the cutting head angle properly helps cut grass on a slope.

(Depiction: An illustration showing the trimmer head bent for cutting in tight spaces, with a callout for 1. Lock button.)

Maintenance

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

Optional Accessories

If you need assistance or more details regarding these accessories, ask your local Makita Service Center.

• Nylon cutting head
• Nylon cords
• Shoulder strap
• Goggles
• Various types of Makita genuine batteries and chargers

Makita Limited One Year Warranty

Warranty Policy

Every Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. It is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers. If inspection shows the trouble is caused by defective workmanship or material, Makita will repair (or at its option, replace) without charge.

This Warranty does not apply where:

• repairs have been made or attempted by others;
• repairs are required due to normal wear and tear;
• the tool has been abused, misused, or improperly maintained;
• alterations have been made to the tool.

IN NO EVENT SHALL MAKITA BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FROM THE SALE OR USE OF THE PRODUCT. THIS DISCLAIMER APPLIES BOTH DURING AND AFTER THE TERM OF THIS WARRANTY.

MAKITA DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF "MERCHANTABILITY" AND "FITNESS FOR A SPECIFIC PURPOSE," AFTER THE ONE YEAR TERM OF THIS WARRANTY.

This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. Some states do not allow limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.