Makita Cordless Grass Trimmer

Specifications

Due to continuing research and development, specifications are subject to change without notice. Specifications may differ by country. Weight may differ depending on attachments, including battery cartridge.

Applicable battery cartridge, battery adapter and charger

• Battery cartridge: BL1815N / BL1820 / BL1820B / BL1830 / BL1830B / BL1840 / BL1840B / BL1850 / BL1850B / BL1860B
• Battery Adapter: BAP182 / BL36120A
• Charger: DC18RC / DC18RD / DC18RE / DC18SD / DC18SE / DC18SF / DC18SH

WARNING: Only use the listed battery cartridges, adapters, and chargers. Use of others may cause injury or fire.

Noise

Applicable standard: ISO22868

WARNING: Wear ear protection. Sound pressure levels may exceed 80 dB(A) during use. Note that declared noise emission values are measured by standard test methods and may be used for comparison or preliminary exposure assessment.

Vibration

Applicable standard: ISO22867

WARNING: Vibration emission during actual use can differ. Be sure to identify safety measures based on exposure estimation, including tool off-times and idle times.

Symbols

The following symbols are used for the equipment:

• ? Take particular care and attention.
• ? Read instruction manual.
• ? Keep distance at least 15 m (50 ft).
• ⚠️ Danger: be aware of thrown objects.
• ⚠️ Caution: kickback.
• ⛑️ Wear a helmet, goggles and ear protection.
• ? Wear protective gloves.
• ? Wear sturdy boots with nonslip soles. Steel-toed safety boots recommended.
• ? Do not expose to moisture.
• For EU countries: Do not dispose of electric equipment or battery pack with household waste. Follow European Directives for separate collection and recycling.

EC Declaration of Conformity: Included as Annex A.

Safety Warnings

General Power Tool Safety Warnings

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

Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

Work Area Safety

1. Keep work area clean and well lit.
2. Do not operate in explosive atmospheres (flammable liquids, gases, dust). Power tools create sparks.
3. Keep children and bystanders away.

Electrical Safety

1. Match power tool plugs to outlets; do not modify plugs.
2. Avoid body contact with earthed surfaces.
3. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
4. Do not abuse the cord; keep it away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.
5. Use outdoor extension cords for outdoor operation.
6. Use RCD-protected supply in damp locations.
7. Power tools produce EMF; users with pacemakers should consult their doctor.

Personal Safety

1. Stay alert, use common sense; do not use when tired or under the influence of drugs/alcohol/medication.
2. Use personal protective equipment (eye protection, dust mask, safety shoes, hard hat, hearing protection).
3. Prevent unintentional starting: ensure the switch is off before connecting power or battery, picking up, or carrying the tool.

Power Tool Use and Care

1. Use the correct power tool for the application.
2. Do not use if the switch does not operate correctly.
3. Disconnect power/remove battery before adjustments, accessory changes, or storage.
4. Store idle tools out of reach of children and untrained users.
5. Maintain tools and accessories; check for misalignment, binding, or breakage. Have damaged tools repaired.
6. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean.
7. Use tools and accessories according to instructions, considering working conditions.
8. Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry and clean.
9. Do not wear cloth work gloves that can be entangled in moving parts.

Battery Tool Use and Care

1. Recharge only with the specified charger.
2. Use only with designated battery packs.
3. Keep battery packs away from metal objects when not in use to prevent shorting.
4. Avoid contact with battery liquid; flush with water if contact occurs. Seek medical help for eye contact.
5. Do not use damaged or modified battery packs.
6. Do not expose battery packs or tools to fire or excessive temperature (above 130°C).
7. Follow charging instructions and charge within specified temperature ranges.

Service

1. Have tools serviced by qualified personnel using identical replacement parts.
2. Never service damaged battery packs yourself.
3. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.

Important Safety Instructions for the Tool

WARNING: Read all warnings and instructions. Failure to follow may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.

Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

Intended Use

This tool is intended for cutting grass, weeds, bushes, and undergrowth only. Do not use for edging or hedge cutting.

General Instructions

1. Do not allow inexperienced or untrained individuals (including children) to use the tool. Supervise children.
2. Read the manual before starting the tool.
3. Do not lend the tool to someone with insufficient experience.
4. Always attach the instruction manual when lending the tool.
5. Handle the tool with care and attention.
6. Never use the tool after consuming alcohol or drugs, or if feeling tired or ill.
7. Never attempt to modify the tool.
8. Follow local regulations for handling brushcutters and string trimmers.

Personal Protective Equipment

1. Wear safety helmet, protective goggles, and protective gloves for protection from flying debris or falling objects.
2. Wear ear protection (ear muffs) to prevent hearing loss.
3. Wear proper clothing and sturdy, non-slip shoes. Avoid loose clothing, jewelry, or long hair that can get caught in moving parts.
4. Wear protective gloves when handling cutting blades.

Work Area Safety

1. Operate only in good visibility and daylight.
2. Do not operate in explosive atmospheres.
3. Ensure secure footing, especially on slopes or in icy conditions.
4. Keep bystanders and animals at least 15 m away. Stop the tool if someone approaches.
5. Never operate near people, children, or pets.
6. Examine the work area for stones or solid objects that could cause kickback or be thrown.
7. WARNING: Product use may create dust containing chemicals from pesticides, insecticides, fertilizers, or herbicides. To reduce exposure, work in a well-ventilated area and use approved safety equipment, such as dust masks for microscopic particles.

Electrical and Battery Safety

1. Do not expose the tool to rain or wet conditions.
2. Do not use if the switch does not operate correctly.
3. Prevent unintentional starting by ensuring the switch is off before connecting power or battery.
4. Do not dispose of batteries in fire; they may explode. Check local disposal instructions.
5. Do not open or mutilate batteries; electrolyte is corrosive and toxic.
6. Do not charge batteries in rain or wet locations.

Putting into Operation

1. Remove the battery cartridge before assembly or adjustment.
2. Wear protective gloves before handling the cutter blade.
3. Inspect the tool for damage, loose parts, or improper assembly before installing the battery cartridge. Sharpen or replace blunt/bent/damaged cutter blades. Check controls and switches.
4. Never switch on a damaged or incomplete tool.
5. Adjust the shoulder harness and hand grip to suit the operator's size.
6. Keep the cutting attachment clear of your body and objects when inserting the battery cartridge.
7. Remove any adjusting key, wrench, or blade cover before turning the tool on.
8. Ensure the cutting tool is equipped with a guard. Never run the tool without guards.
9. Make sure there are no hidden electrical cables, water pipes, or gas pipes that could be damaged by the tool.

Operation

1. In an emergency, switch off the tool immediately.
2. If unusual conditions (noise, vibration) occur, switch off the tool, remove the battery, and do not use until the cause is resolved.
3. The cutting attachment continues to rotate briefly after switching off. Do not touch it immediately.
4. Use the shoulder harness during operation and keep the tool on your right side.
5. Do not overreach; maintain proper footing and balance. Watch for hidden obstacles.
6. Ensure secure footing on slopes.
7. Walk, do not run, while operating.
8. Never work on a ladder or tree.
9. If the tool impacts heavily or falls, check its condition, controls, and safety devices. Seek authorized service if damaged or in doubt.
10. Take regular rests (10-20 minutes per hour) to prevent fatigue-induced loss of control.
11. Always remove the battery cartridge when leaving the tool, even for a short time.
12. If grass or branches get caught, turn off the tool and remove the battery cartridge before cleaning.
13. Never touch moving parts until they have completely stopped and the battery cartridge is removed.
14. If the cutting attachment hits stones or hard objects, turn off the tool, remove the battery, and inspect the attachment.
15. Frequently check the cutting attachment for cracks or damage. Replace damaged attachments immediately.
16. Never cut above waist height.
17. Wait for the cutting attachment to reach constant speed before starting operation.
18. When using a cutting blade, swing the tool evenly in a half-circle from right to left.
19. Hold the tool by insulated gripping surfaces only, as the blade may contact hidden wiring.
20. Do not start the tool if the cutting tool is tangled with cut grass.
21. Ensure the cutting tool is not touching the ground or other obstacles before starting.
22. Always hold the tool with both hands during operation.

Cutting Tools

• Use only recommended cutting tools.
• Use the appropriate attachment for the job: Nylon cutting heads/plastic blades for lawn grass; cutting blades for weeds, bushes, etc.
• Never use metal chains or flail blades.
• Use cutting tools marked with a speed equal to or higher than the tool's speed rating.
• Keep hands, face, and clothes away from the rotating cutting tool.

Kickback (Blade Thrust)

Kickback is a sudden reaction to a caught or bound cutting blade, throwing the tool sideways or towards the operator with great force, potentially causing serious injury.

Kickback is more likely when applying the blade segment between 12 and 2 o'clock to solids, bushes, or trees with a diameter of 3 cm or larger.

To avoid kickback:

• Apply the segment between 8 and 11 o'clock.
• Never apply the segment between 12 and 2 o'clock.
• Avoid segments between 11 and 12 o'clock and 2 and 5 o'clock unless well-trained and experienced.
• Never use cutting blades close to solids like fences, walls, tree trunks, or stones.
• Never use cutting blades vertically for edging or trimming hedges.
• Always use the correct cutting attachment guard.
• When using cutting blades, avoid kickback and prepare for it.
• When not in use, attach the blade cover onto the blade. Remove it before operation.

Vibration

Exposure to excessive vibration may cause injury to blood vessels or the nervous system, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, or pain in fingers, hands, or wrists. Consult a physician if symptoms occur.

To reduce the risk of "white finger disease", keep hands warm and maintain the tool and accessories.

Transport

1. Turn off the tool and remove the battery cartridge before transporting. Attach the blade cover.
2. Carry the tool horizontally by holding the shaft.
3. Secure the tool properly in a vehicle to prevent turnover.

Maintenance

1. Have the tool serviced by an authorized service center using genuine replacement parts.
2. Turn off the tool and remove the battery cartridge before any maintenance or cleaning.
3. Always wear protective gloves when handling the cutting blade.
4. Clean dust and dirt off the tool. Do not use gasoline, benzine, thinner, or alcohol, as this can cause discoloration or cracks.
5. Tighten all screws and nuts after each use.
6. Do not attempt maintenance not described in the manual; consult an authorized service center.
7. Always use genuine spare parts and accessories.
8. Request regular inspection and maintenance from an authorized service center.
9. Keep the tool in good working condition.

Storage

1. Perform full cleaning and maintenance before storing. Remove the battery cartridge and attach the blade cover.
2. Store the tool in a dry, high, or locked location out of reach of children.
3. Do not prop the tool against a wall, as it may fall and cause injury.

First Aid

1. Always have a first-aid kit available and replace items immediately.
2. When asking for help, provide information on the place, what happened, number of injured, nature of injury, and your name.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

WARNING: Do not let familiarity replace strict adherence to safety rules. Misuse may cause serious personal injury.

Important Safety Instructions for Battery Cartridge

1. Read all instructions and markings on the charger, battery, and product before use.
2. Do not disassemble the battery cartridge.
3. If operating time becomes excessively shorter, stop immediately due to risk of overheating, burns, or explosion.
4. If electrolyte gets into eyes, rinse with water and seek medical attention.
5. Do not short the battery cartridge terminals. Avoid storing with metal objects. Do not expose to water or rain. Shorting can cause overheating, burns, or breakdown.
6. Do not store the tool or battery cartridge in locations exceeding 50°C (122°F).
7. Do not incinerate battery cartridges; they can explode.
8. Be careful not to drop or strike the battery.
9. Do not use a damaged battery.
10. Lithium-ion batteries are subject to Dangerous Goods Legislation. Follow special requirements for commercial transport.

Tape off open contacts and secure the battery in packaging.

Dispose of battery cartridges according to local regulations.

Use batteries only with specified Makita products.

Remove the battery if the tool is not used for a long period.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

CAUTION: Use only genuine Makita batteries. Non-genuine batteries may cause fire, injury, damage, and void the warranty.

Tips for Maintaining Maximum Battery Life

1. Charge before complete discharge; stop operation when power is low.
2. Never recharge a fully charged battery; overcharging shortens service life.
3. Charge at room temperature (10°C - 40°C / 50°F - 104°F). Let hot batteries cool before charging.
4. Charge if not used for more than six months.

Parts Description

Diagrams illustrate the parts of the DUR368L and DUR368A models.

NOTE: Protector supplied may vary by country.

Functional Description

WARNING: Ensure the tool is switched off and battery removed before any adjustments or checks to prevent accidental start-up.

Tool / Battery Protection System

This system automatically cuts off power to extend tool and battery life. The tool stops automatically under conditions of overload, overheat, or over-discharge.

• Overload Protection: Speed indicators 2 and 3 blink; tool stops. Turn off, address overload cause, then restart.
• Overheat Protection: All speed indicators blink (tool overheat) or indicator 1 blinks (battery overheat); tool stops. Let cool down before restarting.
• Overdischarge Protection: Battery capacity low; tool stops, indicator 1 blinks. Remove and charge batteries.

Installing or Removing Battery Cartridge

CAUTION: Switch off the tool before installing/removing the battery. Hold tool and battery firmly to prevent slips and damage.

Diagram shows battery removal (slide button) and installation (align tongue with groove). Ensure the battery is fully locked (red indicator not visible).

CAUTION: Install battery fully. Do not force insertion if it does not slide easily.

Main Power Switch

Tap the main power button to turn on. Press and hold to turn off.

Diagram shows Speed indicator (1), Main power button (2), Power lamp (3).

NOTE: Tool turns off automatically after a period of inactivity.

Switch Action

WARNING: The tool has a lock-off lever to prevent unintended starting. NEVER use the tool if it runs when the trigger is pulled without the lock-off lever engaged. Return for repair.

WARNING: NEVER tape down or defeat the lock-off lever.

CAUTION: Before installing battery, check that the switch trigger actuates properly and returns to OFF. Improper switch function can lead to loss of control.

CAUTION: Do not put fingers on the main power button or switch trigger when carrying the tool.

NOTICE: Do not pull the switch trigger hard without pressing the lock-off lever to prevent switch breakage.

To start: depress lock-off lever, then pull switch trigger. Speed increases with trigger pressure. Release trigger to stop.

Speed Adjusting

Tap the main power button to adjust speed. The speed level changes with each tap.

Diagram shows Speed indicator (1), Main power button (2).

Automatic Torque Drive Technology (ADT)

ADT runs the tool at optimum speed and torque for the cutting condition.

To start ADT: press and hold the reverse button until the ADT indicator turns on. Tap the main power button to select the cutting tool (blade/plastic blade or nylon cutting head).

To stop ADT: press and hold the reverse button until the ADT indicator turns off.

Diagram shows ADT indicator (3), Main power button (4), Reverse button (5).

Assembly

WARNING: Ensure the tool is switched off and battery removed before any work. Failure to do so may result in serious personal injury.

WARNING: Never start the tool unless completely assembled.

Installing the Handle

For DUR368A:

1. Insert the handle shaft into the grip, aligning screw holes. Tighten the screw.
2. Place the handle between the clamp and holder. Adjust for a comfortable position and secure with hex socket head bolts.

Diagrams show handle installation steps and parts.

For DUR368L:

1. Attach upper and lower clamps to the damper.
2. Place the handle on the upper clamp and fix with hex socket head bolts.

Diagrams show handle installation steps and parts.

CAUTION: Do not remove or shrink the spacer; it affects tool balance and safety.

Hex Wrench Storage

Store the hex wrench in the designated location to prevent loss or injury.

Diagrams show hex wrench storage.

Attaching the Barrier

If included, attach the barrier to the handle using the screw.

Diagram shows barrier attachment.

CAUTION: Do not remove the barrier; it is a safety part.

Correct Combination of Cutting Tool and Protector

CAUTION: Always use the correct combination of cutting tool and protector for safety and proper function.

Diagrams show correct combinations: Cutter blade with specific protector; Nylon cutting head with specific protector; Plastic blade with specific protector.

Installing the Protector

WARNING: Never use the tool without the guard illustrated in place.

Attach the protector to the clamp using bolts.

Diagrams show protector attachment for cutter blades and for nylon cutting head/plastic blade.

Installing the Cutting Tool

CAUTION: Use the supplied wrench(es) to install/remove cutting tools. Remove the hex wrench from the tool head after installation.

Cutter Blade:

• CAUTION: Wear gloves and use the blade cover when handling cutter blades.
• Ensure the blade is well-polished and free of cracks. Check the blade after hitting a stone.
• Replace the fastening nut and spring washer if worn.
• Maximum outside diameter for blades: 3-tooth, 4-tooth, 8-tooth blades: 230 mm.

Diagrams show cutter blade installation, including nut tightening (16-23 N•m).

Nylon Cutting Head:

• Use genuine Makita nylon cutting heads.

Diagrams show nylon cutting head installation, including locking the shaft with the hex wrench and tightening by hand.

Plastic Blade:

• Use genuine Makita plastic blades.

Diagrams show plastic blade installation, aligning arrows and tightening by hand.

Operation

Attaching the Shoulder Harness

CAUTION: Always use the shoulder harness. Adjust it for user size to prevent fatigue. Ensure it is properly attached to the hanger.

Diagrams show wearing the harness, clasping the hook, and quick release mechanism.

Adjusting the Hanger Position

Adjust the hanger position for comfortable handling. Diagrams show recommended positions relative to the ground and cutting tool.

Loosen the hex socket head bolt on the hanger, move it, and tighten the bolt.

Correct Handling of the Tool

WARNING: Always position the tool on your right-hand side for maximum control and to reduce kickback risk.

WARNING: Maintain control at all times. Do not let the tool deflect towards yourself or others. Failure to do so can result in serious injury.

WARNING: Maintain at least 15m (50 ft) distance between operators. Stop operation if someone or an animal enters the working area.

CAUTION: If the cutting tool impacts a rock or hard object, stop the tool and inspect for damage. Replace damaged tools immediately.

CAUTION: Remove the blade cover when cutting grass.

Correct positioning and handling allow optimum control and reduce injury risk from kickback.

Replacing the Nylon Cord

WARNING: Use only the specified nylon cord diameter. Do not use heavier line, metal wire, or rope.

WARNING: Remove the nylon cutting head from the tool when replacing the cord.

WARNING: Ensure the nylon cutting head cover is secured properly to prevent it from flying apart.

Replace the nylon cord when it is no longer fed. Methods vary by nylon cutting head type.

Diagrams show nylon cord replacement procedures for different head types (95-M10L, B&F ECO 4L, Ultra Auto 4, UN-74L) and manual feed type.

NOTICE: Bump feed requires the nylon cutting head to be rotating.

NOTE: If cord does not feed, rewind/replace it per maintenance section.

Maintenance

WARNING: Ensure the tool is switched off and battery removed before inspection or maintenance.

NOTICE: Do not use gasoline, benzine, thinner, or alcohol.

Repairs, maintenance, and adjustments should be performed by Makita Authorized or Factory Service Centers using genuine Makita replacement parts.

Troubleshooting

Optional Accessories

WARNING: Use only recommended accessories or attachments.

CAUTION: Use accessories only for their stated purpose.

Recommended accessories include: Cutter blade, Nylon cutting head, Nylon cord, Plastic blade, Protector, Makita genuine battery and charger.

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

Company Information

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

Document Number: 885716A222 EN 20190325