HiKOKI CG 36DB / CG 36DB(L) Cordless Grass Trimmer

Introduction

This document provides handling instructions for the HiKOKI CG 36DB and CG 36DB(L) Cordless Grass Trimmers. It covers safety precautions, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure safe and effective use of the product.

Symbols and Key Components

Symbols

WARNING: The following symbols are used on the machine. Please understand their meaning before use.

• ⚠️: To reduce the risk of injury, user must read instruction manual.
• ?️: Always wear eye protection.
• ?: Always wear hearing protection.
• ?️: Do not use a power tool in the rain and moisture or leave it outdoors when it is raining.
• ?: Keep bystanders away.
• ?: Remove battery before adjusting or cleaning and before leaving the machine unattended for any period.
• ❗: It is important that you read, fully understand and observe the following safety precautions and warnings. Careless or improper use of the unit may cause serious or fatal injury. Read, understand and follow all warnings and instructions in this manual and on the unit.
• ?: Prohibited action.
• ?️: Always wear eye, head and ear protectors when using this unit.
• ↔️ 15m: Keep all children, bystanders and helpers 15 m away from the unit. If anyone approaches you, stop the unit and cutting attachment immediately.
• ?: Be careful of thrown objects.
• RPM: Shows maximum shaft speed. Do not use the cutting attachment whose max rpm is below the shaft rpm.
• ?: Gloves should be worn when necessary, e.g., when assembling cutting equipment.
• ?: Use anti-slip and sturdy footwear.
• ?: Blade thrust may occur when the spinning blade contacts a solid object in the critical area. A dangerous reaction may occur causing the entire unit and operator to be thrust violently. This reaction is called blade thrust. As a result, the operator may lose control of the unit which may cause serious or fatal injury. Blade thrust is more likely to occur in areas where it is difficult to see the material to be cut.

What is What? (Fig. 1)

• A: Lever: Trigger for activating the unit.
• B: Lock lever: Lever that prevents the accidental operation of the trigger.
• C: Motor: Battery-driven motor.
• D: Guard: Protects operator from flying debris.
• E: Battery (sold separately): Power source to drive the unit.
• F: Power switch: Switch for switching the unit's power ON or OFF.
• G: Mode switch: Switch for adjusting the speed of the motor.
• H: Handle right: Handle with lever located on the right side of the unit.
• I: Handle left: Handle located on the left side of the unit.
• J: Handle fixture: Secures the handles to the unit.
• K: Hanger: Used for attaching a shoulder belt to the unit.
• L: Loop handle
• M: Shoulder belt: Harness with release mechanism.

Power Switch and Mode Indicators

• Power switch: Turns the tool ON/OFF.
• Power lamp: Indicates the tool's status.
• Mode switch: Selects Power, Normal, or Eco mode.
• Mode Indicator lamp: Shows the selected mode.

General Power Tool Safety Warnings

1) Work area safety

• Keep work area clean and well lit.
• Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres.
• Keep children and bystanders away while operating.

2) Electrical safety

• Ensure power tool plugs match the outlet.
• Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces.
• Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
• Do not abuse the cord; keep it away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.
• Use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
• Use a residual current device (RCD) protected supply in damp locations.

3) Personal safety

• Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and use common sense.
• Use personal protective equipment (eye protection, dust mask, safety shoes, hard hat, hearing protection).
• Prevent unintentional starting by ensuring the switch is off before connecting to power or battery.
• Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the tool on.
• Do not overreach; maintain proper footing and balance.
• Dress properly; avoid loose clothing, jewelry, and keep hair away from moving parts.
• Ensure dust extraction facilities are connected and used if provided.

4) Power tool use and care

• Do not force the power tool; use the correct tool for the application.
• Do not use the tool if the switch does not operate correctly.
• Disconnect from power source/battery before making adjustments or storing.
• Store idle power tools out of reach of children and untrained users.
• Maintain power tools; check for misalignment, binding, or broken parts. Have damaged tools repaired.
• Keep cutting tools sharp and clean.
• Use the tool, accessories, and bits in accordance with instructions, considering working conditions.

5) Battery tool use and care

• Recharge only with the specified charger.
• Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs.
• Keep battery pack away from metal objects when not in use.
• Avoid contact with ejected battery liquid; flush with water if contact occurs.

6) Service

• Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts.

PRECAUTION: Keep children and infirm persons away. Store tools out of reach of children and infirm persons when not in use.

Cordless Grass Trimmer Safety Warnings

Safe operation practices

• Training: Read instructions carefully, be familiar with controls, and do not allow unfamiliar people or children to use the machine.
• Preparation: Check cords for damage, visually inspect the machine for damaged guards, never operate near people or pets, and never replace nylon head with metal cutting means.
• Operation: Wear eye protection, stout shoes, and long trousers. Avoid bad weather, rain, steep slopes, and keep the nylon head away from feet and body. Switch on the motor only when hands and feet are clear of the cutting means. Disconnect power when leaving the tool, clearing blockages, or performing maintenance.

Precautions for Cordless Grass Trimmer

1. Exercise patience and dress properly.
2. Plan all work ahead to prevent accidents.
3. Do not operate in poor visibility, rain, or on slippery ground.
4. Inspect the nylon head for cracks, scars, or bends, and ensure it is properly attached.
5. Be sure to attach the guard and handle before starting work.
6. Take care when starting the motor; place the tool on level ground and keep people/animals at least 15m away. Ensure the nylon head does not contact the ground or plants.
7. Do not secure the lock lever.
8. Turn off the power switch before leaving the tool.
9. Operate with care near electric cables, gas pipes, and similar installations.
10. Look out for and remove obstacles like cans, wire, stones, or tree roots.
11. Never touch the nylon head during operation or allow it to contact hair or clothes.
12. Turn off the motor and ensure the nylon head has stopped rotating before moving the tool, removing debris, or laying it down.
13. Do not use the tool within 15m of another person; maintain distance when working with others.
14. When grass/objects become entangled, turn off the motor and ensure the nylon head has stopped before removing them.
15. If the tool operates poorly (strange noise, vibrations), turn off the motor immediately and contact a dealer.
16. If the tool is dropped or bumped, inspect for damage, cracks, or deformation.
17. Secure the tool during vehicle transport.
18. Be aware of the strong permanent magnet in the motor and its effect on electronic devices.
19. Do not use if the tool or battery terminals are deformed.
20. Keep tool terminals free of swarf and dust.

CAUTION

• Do not place the tool on workbenches with metal chips.
• If chips adhere to the tool, remove them with a brush.
• If you use a pacemaker or other electronic medical device, do not operate or approach the tool.
• Do not use the tool near precision devices like cell phones or magnetic cards.

CAUTION (Specific)

• Do not use the nylon head for cutting objects other than grass.
• Do not operate in water puddles or allow soil contact with the nylon head.
• The tool contains precision parts; do not drop, expose to impact or water.
• Remove the nylon head when storing or transporting the tool.
• Do not expose the tool to insecticide and other chemicals.
• Replace warning labels if they become illegible.
• Do not touch the motor immediately after use as it may be hot.

Precautions for Battery and Charger

Battery and Charger Precautions

1. Charge the battery at ambient temperatures between -10°C and 40°C. The ideal charging temperature is 20°C-25°C.
2. Do not use the charger continuously; allow a 15-minute break between charges.
3. Do not allow foreign matter into the battery connection hole.
4. Never disassemble the rechargeable battery or charger.
5. Never short-circuit the rechargeable battery.
6. Do not dispose of the battery in fire; it may explode.
7. Using an exhausted battery will damage the charger.
8. Return batteries with significantly reduced life to the shop of purchase.
9. Do not insert objects into the charger's air ventilation slots.

CAUTION on Lithium-Ion Battery

The lithium-ion battery has a protection function that stops the output to prevent damage. The motor may stop if:

• Battery power runs out.
• The tool is overloaded.
• The battery is overheated under overload work.

WARNING (Battery Handling)

• Prevent battery leakage, heat generation, smoke emission, explosion, and ignition.
• Ensure swarf and dust do not collect on the battery.
• Do not pierce the battery with sharp objects, strike with a hammer, step on, throw, or subject it to severe physical shock.
• Do not use a damaged or deformed battery.
• Do not use the battery in reverse polarity.
• Do not connect directly to electrical outlets or car cigarette lighter sockets.
• Do not use the battery for purposes other than specified.
• If charging fails to complete, stop recharging immediately.
• Do not expose the battery to high temperatures or high pressure (microwave, dryer, high-pressure container).
• Keep away from fire immediately if leakage or foul odor is detected.
• Do not use in locations with strong static electricity.
• If battery leakage, foul odor, heat, discoloration, or deformation occurs, stop use immediately.
• Do not immerse the battery or allow fluids to flow inside. Store in a cool, dry place away from combustible items.

CAUTION (Battery Leakage)

• If battery liquid gets into eyes, wash thoroughly with clean water and seek medical attention.
• If battery liquid leaks onto skin or clothes, wash well with clean water.
• If rust, foul odor, overheating, discoloration, or deformation is found, do not use and return to the vendor.

WARNING (Short-Circuit Prevention)

• Do not place conductive materials (cuttings, nails, wire) in the battery storage case.
• Install the battery in the power tool or store it securely in the battery cover to prevent short-circuits.

Regarding Lithium-Ion Battery Transportation

• Notify the transporting company about the lithium-ion battery and its power output.
• Batteries exceeding 100 Wh are considered Dangerous Goods and require special procedures.
• Comply with international law and destination country regulations for transportation abroad.

Specifications

* The data in the above table is provided only as an example. Since ambient temperature, rechargeable battery characteristics, etc. can vary widely the above should only be used as a rough guideline.

** AC/DC Adapter (ET36A) cannot be used. Existing batteries (BSL3660/3626X/3626/3625/3620, BSL18.... and BSL14.... series) cannot be used with this tool.

Description of Numbered Items (Fig. 2 – Fig. 25)

• 1 Battery
• 2 Latch
• 3 Battery cover
• 4 Terminals
• 5 Ventilation holes
• 6 Push
• 7 Insert
• 8 Pull out
• 9 Battery level indicator switch
• 10 Battery level indicator lamp
• 11 Main pipe
• 12 Housing side
• 13 Loop handle
• 14 Handle fixture (loop handle type)
• 15 M6 x 43 bolts
• 16 M6 nuts
• 17 Handle location label
• 18 Handle right
• 19 Lever
• 20 Handle left
• 21 Handle fixture (bike handlebars type)
• 22 M5 x 25 hex. Socket bolts
• 23 Guard
• 24 M6 x 25 hex. Socket button bolts
• 25 Cover bracket
• 26 Gear case
• 27 Knife
• 28 Shoulder belt
• 29 Quick-release belt
• 30 Hanger
• 31 Bracket
• 32 Hook
• 33 Quick-release bracket
• 34 Nylon head
• 35 Button
• 36 Wear limit mark (2 marks)
• 37 Cutter holder
• 38 Hex. bar wrench 4 mm
• 39 25 mm diameter boss
• 40 Threaded fastener of the gear case
• 41 Nylon head tightening direction (left rotation)
• 42 Nylon line
• 43 Tap
• 44 Extends in 30 mm increments
• 45 Tap/release
• 46 Appropriate length 90-110 mm
• 47 Cover
• 48 Case
• 49 Hook
• 50 Press tabs (2 areas)
• 51 Reel
• 52 Groove
• 53 Fold back the middle part
• 54 Hook on the reel
• 55 Direction to wind nylon cord
• 56 Eyelet line guide
• 57 While holding the reel
• 58 String the line through the eyelet line guide
• 59 Locking holes of cover (2 holes)
• 60 Tabs of case (2 tabs)
• 61 Power switch
• 62 Power lamp
• 63 Mode switch
• 64 Mode Indicator lamp
• 65 Lock lever
• 66 Grip

Applications

Trimming, scaling, and mowing of weed.

Battery Removal/Installation

Battery removal

Hold the housing tightly and push the battery latches to remove the battery (See Fig. 3).

CAUTION: Never short-circuit the battery.

Battery installation

Insert the battery while observing its polarities (See Fig. 3).

Charging

Battery and battery charger are not included with this product. For rechargeable batteries, please charge according to the handling instructions of the charger being used.

Remaining Battery Indicator

You can check the battery's remaining capacity by pressing the remaining battery indicator switch to light the indicator lamp (Fig. 4, Table 1). The indicator will shut off approximately 3 seconds after the switch is pressed. The indicator serves as a guide, but slight differences may occur due to ambient temperature and battery condition. The indicator may also vary from tools or chargers.

NOTE: Do not give a strong shock to the switch panel or break it.

Prior to Operation

CAUTION: Pull out battery before doing any assembly.

1. Installing the bike handlebars (Fig. 6) (CG36DB only)

1. Using the 4 mm hex wrench, remove the four temporary bolts from the handle fixture.
2. Attach the handle right (with lever) and handle left, then secure the handle fixture with the four bolts. Tighten bolts alternately, increasing torque gradually, ensuring they are tightened uniformly (e.g., 1→2→3→4).
3. Secure the handles for a good grip.

CAUTION: Install handles properly and securely. Improper installation may lead to injury.

2. Installing the loop handle (Fig. 5) (CG36DB(L) only)

1. Remove the M6 x 43 bolts (2 pcs.).
2. Install the loop handle on the main pipe, leaning against the housing.
3. Place the handle fixture at the lower end of the main pipe and secure firmly using M6 x 43 bolts (2 pcs.) and M6 nuts (2 pcs.). Tighten bolts alternately, increasing torque gradually, ensuring they are tightened uniformly (e.g., 1→2→1→2…).

CAUTION: Install loop handle properly and securely. Improper installation may lead to injury.

3. Installing guard (Fig. 7)

WARNING: Be sure to install the guard in its designated location. Failure to do so may result in injury from flying stones.

1. Align the two holes in the cover bracket (installed in the gear case) and the guard. Insert two M6 x 25 hex. socket button bolts.
2. Use the 4 mm hex wrench to alternately tighten the bolts, ensuring uniform tightening (e.g., 1→2→1→2…).

CAUTION: Be careful of the knife inside the guard. Install the guard properly and securely. Check the guard for damage before use.

4. Installing the shoulder belt

WARNING: Attach the shoulder belt correctly for proper carrying. If the tool operates abnormally, turn off the motor, remove the quick-release bracket, and remove the tool.

CAUTION: Support the tool when pulling the quick-release belt to prevent it from falling. Ensure the quick-release function operates normally. Check the belt for cuts or fraying, and the hook/hanger for damage. Gently pull the belt to confirm it is properly attached.

1. Place the shoulder belt on the shoulder and engage it with the hanger. Adjust to a suitable length.
2. To remove the tool, support it with one hand and pull the quick-release belt with the other.
3. To strap on the tool, insert the bracket into the hook and the quick-release bracket over the hook and into the wide opening of the bracket (Fig. 10).

Nylon Head Installation

1. Function

The semi-auto nylon head automatically feeds more nylon cutting line when tapped.

Specifications

• Type of attaching screw: Female screw
• Code No.: 335234
• Direction of rotation: Counterclockwise
• Size of attaching screw: M10 x P1.25-LH
• Applicable nylon cord: Cord diameter: Fig. 11-a, Length: 4 m

CAUTION

• Ensure the case is securely attached to the cover.
• Check the cover, case, and other components for cracks or damage.
• Check the case and button for wear. Replace parts if the wear limit mark is no longer visible or if there is a hole in the button (Fig. 11-b).
• The nylon head must be securely mounted to the threaded fastener of the gear case.
• Use HiKOKI nylon cutting line only. Never use wire or other materials that could become a projectile.
• If the nylon head does not feed line properly, check installation. Contact your HiKOKI dealer if needed.

2. Installation (Fig. 12)

1. Insert into the gear case so the 25 mm diameter boss on the cutter holder engages with the nylon head. Ensure protrusions and indentations align.
2. Lock the spindle by inserting the 4 mm hex bar wrench into the gear case hole and one of the cutter holder holes.
3. Screw the nylon head directly to the threaded fastener of the gear case. The mounting nut is left-hand-threaded (turn clockwise to loosen, counterclockwise to tighten).

CAUTION: Install the nylon head properly and securely. Improper installation may lead to injury.

3. Adjustment of line length

Rotate and tap the nylon head on the ground to extend line about 30 mm (Fig. 13). You can also extend line by hand with the motor completely stopped. Confirm line extension by tapping and releasing the button while pulling the line ends (Fig. 14).

Appropriate Length of Nylon Line: The appropriate length of the line when in use is 90-110 mm. Extend the line to this length.

4. Nylon line replacement

1. Prepare 4 m of genuine nylon line (Code No. 335235).
2. Press the opposing tabs and remove the cover from the case (Fig. 15).
3. Remove the reel from the case (Fig. 16). If nylon line remains, hook it in the grooves.
4. If the nylon line does not extend or needs replacement, wind it as follows: Release about 150 mm of cord from both ends, fold the middle part, and attach to the reel's hook. Wind the cord in the direction of the arrow, avoiding crisscrossing (Fig. 17, 18).
5. Leave about 100-150 mm of cord unwound, hook, and secure it in the groove (Fig. 19).
6. Align the stopper and eyelet line guide, then insert the button through the case. Release the line from the stopper while holding the reel lightly, and thread it through the eyelet line guide (Fig. 20).
7. Press and snap the case tabs into the locking holes of the cover (Fig. 21).

WARNING: Ensure tabs are firmly snapped. Improperly secured parts may lead to accidents or injury.

8. Pull the line taut and cut it to an extended length of 90-110 mm with scissors (Fig. 22).

About Power Lamp

The power lamp indicates the tool's status (Fig. 23). Refer to Table 2 for status details.

Operation

Trimming grass

WARNING: Do not operate in poor visibility, rain, or on slippery ground. Wear proper footwear. Do not use on steep slopes. Trim towards the ridge on slopes. Keep the nylon head away from feet and body. Do not raise the nylon head above your knee.

• Do not use the tool where the nylon head may contact stones or obstacles.
• Ensure the nylon head has stopped spinning before setting the unit down.
• Do not use the tool within 15m of another person.

Steps:

1. Insert the battery, observing polarities.
2. Turn on the tool by pressing the power switch (Fig. 23-a). The power lamp will light red. Pressing the switch again turns the power off.
3. Auto power off: If the lever is not used for one minute after turning the power on, the tool automatically turns off. Press the power switch again to turn it on.
4. WARNING: Never leave the tool with the power on.
5. Lever operation and brake (Fig. 24): To start rotation, pull the lever while pressing the lock lever. When the lever is released, the brake engages in 1-3 seconds, stopping rotation. Ensure the brake operates normally before use.
6. Mode switch (Fig. 23-b): Select Power, Normal, or Eco mode.

Work Capacity on a Full Charge

Estimated work time (under no load) with BSL36B18 battery:

Trimming grass techniques

• Grip the handle, press the lock lever, and pull the lever to start cutting head rotation (Fig. 24 a-1, a-2).
• Release the lever to stop the motor when finished.
• Maintain a posture that makes movement easy.
• Do not swing the pipe; use hips to move the nylon head horizontally in an arc while moving forward, using the right side of the nylon head for cutting (Fig. 25).

5. Carrying the tool

CAUTION: Remove the storage battery (Fig. 3). Carry the tool holding with hands.

Operational Cautions

The tool has a function to safeguard electronic components. If an overload occurs (e.g., nylon head locks up), the motor stops and the power lamp flashes. Take corrective action by reducing the load (e.g., cutting depth). Before clearing vegetation, turn off power and remove the battery.

Power Lamp Flashing Status

NOTE: If the power lamp continues to flash after corrective action, the tool may be damaged or defective. Contact the retail outlet for repairs.

Maintenance and Inspection

CAUTION: Pull out battery before doing any inspection or maintenance.

1. Checking the condition of the nylon head

Check regularly. Worn or broken nylon heads can slip or reduce motor efficiency. Replace worn nylon heads with new ones.

CAUTION: Using a worn or broken nylon head is dangerous.

2. Check the Screws

Loose screws are dangerous. Inspect regularly and ensure they are tight.

CAUTION: Using the tool with loosened screws is extremely dangerous.

3. Inspection of terminals (tool and battery)

Check that swarf and dust have not collected on the terminals. Check before, during, and after operation.

CAUTION: Remove any swarf or dust from terminals. Failure to do so may result in malfunction.

4. Cleaning of the outside

Wipe with a soft dry cloth or a cloth moistened with soapy water. Do not use chloric solvents, gasoline, or paint thinner, as they melt plastics.

5. Storage

Store the grass trimmer in a place with temperatures below 40°C and out of reach of children.

NOTE: Storing Lithium-ion Batteries

Ensure batteries are fully charged before storage. Prolonged storage (3+ months) with low charge may reduce performance. Repeated charging/use may recover performance. If battery life remains extremely short, consider the batteries dead and purchase new ones.

CAUTION: Observe safety regulations and standards prescribed in each country for operation and maintenance.

Important notice on batteries

Always use designated genuine batteries. HiKOKI cannot guarantee safety or performance with other batteries or if the battery is disassembled/modified.

NOTE: Specifications are subject to change without prior notice due to HiKOKI's continuous R&D program.

Troubleshooting

Consult your dealer or HiKOKI Authorized Service Center if problems persist.

Standard Accessories

In addition to the main unit, the package contains accessories listed on page 18. Standard accessories are subject to change without notice.

Optional Accessories (sold separately)

Optional accessories are subject to change without notice. See page 19 for details.

Standard Accessories List (Page 18)

• Hex. bar wrench (6684813)
• Hex. bar wrench (6684764)
• Shoulder belt (330787)
• Guard (377266)
• Nylon head reel (335234)
• Nylon line reel (335235)
• Safety glasses (875769)

Optional Accessories List (Page 19)

• Battery BSL36A18
• Battery BSL36B18
• Charger UC18YSL3
• Other accessories with part numbers like 329897, 14115117.