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OPERATOR’S MANUAL
18 VOLT JIG SAW
ORBITAL / VARIABLE SPEED
R843
Your cordless jig saw has been engineered and manufactured to our high standards for dependability, ease of operation,
and operator safety. When properly cared for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free performance.
WARNING:
To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the operator’s manual before using this product.
Thank you for buying a RIDGID product.
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
n Introduction .....................................................................................................................................................................2
n General Safety Rules ................................................................................................................................................... 3-4
n Specific Safety Rules.......................................................................................................................................................4
n Safety Rules for Charger .................................................................................................................................................5
n Symbols....................................................................................................................................................................... 6-7
n Features....................................................................................................................................................................... 8-9
n Assembly .......................................................................................................................................................................10
n Operation................................................................................................................................................................. 11-16
n Maintenance ..................................................................................................................................................................17
n Warranty ........................................................................................................................................................................19
n Customer Service Information.......................................................................................................................................20
INTRODUCTION
This tool has many features for making its use more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety, performance, and dependability have
been given top priority in the design of this product making it easy to maintain and operate.
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING!
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
Failure to follow all instructions listed below, may
result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal
injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WORK AREA
n Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
benches and dark areas invite accidents.
n Do not operate power tools in explosive atmo-
spheres, such as in the presence of flammable
liquids, gases, or dust. Power tools create sparks which
may ignite the dust or fumes.
n Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to
lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
n A battery operated tool with integral batteries or a
separate battery pack must be recharged only with
the specified charger for the battery. A charger that
may be suitable for one type of battery may create a risk
of fire when used with another battery.
n Use battery operated tool only with specifically
designated battery pack. Use of any other batteries may
create a risk of fire.
n Use battery only with charger listed.
MODEL BATTERY PACK CHARGER
R843 130254003, 130252004 140276001
140276002
n Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord to carry
the charger. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp
edges, or moving parts. Replace damaged cords
immediately. Damaged cords may create a fire.
PERSONAL SAFETY
n Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use
common sense when operating a power tool. Do not
use tool while tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention while
operating power tools may result in serious personal
injury.
n Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry.
Contain long hair. Keep your hair, clothing, and gloves
away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long
hair can be caught in moving parts.
n Avoid accidental starting. Be sure switch is in the
locked or off position before inserting battery pack.
Carrying tools with your finger on the switch or inserting
the battery pack into a tool with the switch on invites
accidents.
n Remove adjusting keys or wrenches before turning
the tool on. A wrench or a key that is left attached to a
rotating part of the tool may result in personal injury.
n Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times. Proper footing and balance enable better
control of the tool in unexpected situations.
n Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection.
Dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing
protection must be used for appropriate conditions.
n Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long
hair. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be drawn
into air vents.
n Do not use on a ladder or unstable support. Stable
footing on a solid surface enables better control of the
tool in unexpected situations.
TOOL USE AND CARE
n Use clamps or other practical way to secure and
support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding
the work by hand or against your body is unstable and
may lead to loss of control.
n Do not force tool. Use the correct tool for your
application. The correct tool will do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it is designed.
n Do not use tool if switch does not turn it on or off.
A tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is
dangerous and must be repaired.
n Disconnect battery pack from tool or place the switch
in the locked or off position before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the tool. Such
preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the
tool accidentally.
n Store idle tools out of reach of children and other
untrained persons. Tools are dangerous in the hands
of untrained users.
n 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 sparks, burns,
or a fire.
n Maintain tools with care. Keep cutting tools sharp
and cle an. Properly maintained too ls with sharp
cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to
control.
n Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts, and any other condition that may
affect the tool’s operation. If damaged, have the tool
serviced before using. Many accidents are caused by
poorly maintained tools.
n Use only accessories that are recommended by the
manufacturer for your model. Accessories that may be
suitable for one tool may create a risk of injury when used
on another tool.
n Keep the tool and its handle dry, clean and free
from oil and grease. Always use a clean cloth when
cleaning. Never use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleumbased products, or any strong solvents to clean your tool.
Following this rule will reduce the risk of loss of control
and deterioration of the enclosure plastic.
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
SERVICE
n Tool service must be performed only by qualified
repair personnel. Service or maintenance performed by
unqualified personnel may result in a risk of injury.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
n Hold tool by insulated gripping surfaces when
performing an operation where the cutting tool may
contact hidden wiring. Contact with a “live” wire will
also make exposed metal parts of the tool “live” and
shock the operator.
n Know your power tool. Read operator’s manual care-
fully. Learn its applications and limitations, as well
as the specific potential hazards related to this tool.
Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock,
fire, or serious injury.
n Always wear safety glasses with side shields.
Everyday glasses have only impact resistant lenses. They
are NOT safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce
the risk of eye injury.
n Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the
operation is dusty. Following this rule will reduce the
risk of serious personal injury.
n Protect your hearing. Wear hearing protection during
extended periods of operation. Following this rule will
reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
n Battery tools do not have to be plugged into an
elect rical outlet; therefore, they are always in
operating condition. Be aware of possible hazards
when not using your battery tool or when changing
accessories. Following this rule will reduce the risk of
electric shock, fire, or serious personal injury.
n Do not place battery tools or their batteries near
fire or heat. This will reduce the risk of explosion and
possibly injury.
n When servicing a tool, use only identical replacement
parts. Follow instructions in the Maintenance section
of this manual. Use of unauthorized parts or failure to
follow Maintenance Instructions may create a risk of
shock or injury.
n Never use a battery that has been dropped or
received a sharp blow. A damaged battery is subject to
explosion. Properly dispose of a dropped or damaged
battery immediately.
n Batteries vent hydrogen gas and can explode in the
presence of a source of ignition, such as a pilot light.
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, never use
any cordless product in the presence of open flame. An
exploded battery can propel debris and chemicals. If
exposed, flush with water immediately.
n Do not charg e battery tool in a damp or wet
location. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric
shock.
n For best results, your battery tool should be charged
in a location where the temperature is more than
50°F but less than 100°F. Do not store outside or in
vehicles.
n Under extreme usage or temperature conditions,
battery leakage may occur. If liquid comes in contact
with your skin, wash immediately with soap and water,
then neutralize with lemon juice or vinegar. If liquid
gets into your eyes, flush them with clean water for
at least 10 minutes, then seek immediate medical
attention. Following this rule will reduce the risk of seri-
ous personal injury.
n Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and
use them to instruct others who may use this tool. If you
loan someone this tool, loan them these instructions
also.
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SAFETY RULES FOR CHARGER
WARNING!
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
Failure to follow all instructions listed below, may
result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal
injury.
n Before using battery charger, read all instructions and
cautionary markings in this manual, on battery charger,
battery, and product using battery to prevent misuse of
the products and possible injury or damage.
CAUTION:
To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage
to the charger and battery, charge only nickelcadmium rechargeable batteries as specifically
designated on your charger. Other types of
batteries may burst, causing personal injury or
damage.
n Do not use charger outdoors or expose to wet or damp
conditions. Water entering charger will increase the risk
of electric shock.
n Use of an attachment not recommended or sold by the
battery charger manufacturer may result in a risk of
fire, electric shock, or injury to persons. Following this
rule will reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or serious
personal injury.
n Do not abuse cord or charger. Never use the cord to
carry the charger. Do not pull the charger cord rather than
the plug when disconnecting from receptacle. Damage
to the cord or charger could occur and create an electric
shock hazard. Replace damaged cords immediately.
n Make sure cord is located so that it will not be stepped
on, tripped over, come in contact with sharp edges
or moving parts or otherwise subjected to damage or
stress. This will reduce the risk of accidental falls, which
could cause injury, and damage to the cord, which could
result in electric shock.
n Ke e p cord and charge r fr om heat to preve n t
damage to housing or internal parts.
n Do not let gasoline, oils, petroleum-based products,
etc. come in contact with plastic parts. They con-
tain chemicals that can damage, weaken, or destroy
plastic.
n An extensio n cor d sho uld not be used unle ss
absolutely necessary. Use of improper extension
cord could result in a risk of fire and electric shock. If
extension cord must be used, make sure:
a. That pins on plug of extension cord are the
same number, size and shape as those of
plug on charger.
b. That extension cord is properly wired and in
good electrical condition; and
c. That wire size is large enough for AC ampere
rating of charger as specified below:
Cord Length (Feet) 25' 50' 100'
Cord Size (AWG) 16 16 16
NOTE: AWG = American Wire Gauge
n Do not operate charger with a damaged cord or
plug, which could cause shorting and electric shock. If
damaged, have the charger replaced by an authorized
serviceman.
n Do not operate charger if it has received a sharp blow,
been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way. Take
it to an authorized serviceman for electrical check to
determine if the charger is in good working order.
n Do not disassemble charger. Take it to an authorized
serviceman when service or repair is required. Incorrect
reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock or fire.
n Unplu g charge r from outlet before attempt ing
any maintenance or cleaning to reduce the risk of
electric shock.
n 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. It also will help prevent damage to the charger
during a power surge.
n Risk of electric shock. Do not touch uninsulated portion
of output connector or uninsulated battery terminal.
n Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and
use them to instruct others who may use this tool. If you
loan someone this tool, loan them these instructions also
to prevent misuse of the product and possible injury.
WARNING:
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
• lead from lead-based paints,
• crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
• arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure
to these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust
masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.
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SYMBOLS
Some of the following symbols may be used on this tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and safer.
SYMBOL NAME DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION
V Volts
A Amperes
Hz Hertz
W Watt
min Minutes
Alternating Current
Direct Current
n
o
.../min
No Load Speed
Class II Construction
Per Minute
Wet Conditions Alert
Voltage
Current
Frequency (cycles per second)
Power
Time
Type of current
Type or a characteristic of current
Rotational speed, at no load
Double-insulated construction
Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits etc., per minute
Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
Read The Operator’s Manual
Eye Protection
Safety Alert
No Hands Symbol
No Hands Symbol
No Hands Symbol
No Hands Symbol
Hot Surface
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand
operator’s manual before using this product.
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
and a full face shield when operating this product.
Precautions that involve your safety.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
To reduce the risk of injury or damage, avoid contact with
any hot surface.
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SYMBOLS
The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this product.
SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING
DANGER:
WARNING:
CAUTION:
CAUTION:
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury.
(Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in
property damage.
SERVICE
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge and should
be performed only by a qualified service technician. For
service we suggest you return the product to your nearest
AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER for repair. When servicing, use only identical replacement parts.
WARNING:
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury, do not attempt
to use this product until you read thoroughly and
understand completely the operator’s manual.
Save this operator’s manual and review frequently
for continuing safe operation and instructing others
who may use this product.
The operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which can result
in severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation, always wear safety goggles or safety glasses
with side shields and a full face shield when needed. We recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over
eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side shields. Always use eye protection which is marked to
comply with ANSI Z87.1.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
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FEATURES
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Motor......................................................................................................................................................................18 Volt DC
Switch..............................................................................................................................................................Variable Speed
No Load Speed ................................................................................................................................................... 0-2200/min.
Stroke Length.................................................................................................................................................. 1 in. (25.4 mm)
Charger Input .......................................................................................................................................120 V, 60 Hz, AC only
Charge Rate .......................................................................................................................................................... 30 minutes
SWITCH TRIGGER
HEX KEY STORAGE
TRIGGER LOCK
CHIP GUARD
BLADE GUARD
SAW BLADE
BATTERY PACK
BASE
ORBITAL
ADJUSTMENT KNOB
ANTI-SPLINTERING
INSERT
Fig. 1
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FEATURES
KNOW YOUR JIG SAW
See Figure 1.
Before attempting to use this product, familiarize yourself
with all operating features and safety rules.
SWITCH TRIGGER
The jig saw has a variable speed switch trigger that delivers
higher speed with increased trigger pressure.
TRIGGER LOCK
The trigger lock prevents the saw from accidental starting.
Depress the trigger lock from either side of the handle to
engage the switch trigger. The trigger lock automatically
resets when the switch trigger is released.
RAPID CHANGE BLADE CLAMP
There is a convenient lever on the blade clamp for changing
saw blades without the need for seperate tools.
BEVELING BASE
The base can be angled 45° left or right for a bevel cut. The
base features positve stops at every 15°.
HEX KEY STORAGE
The jig saw has onboard hex key storage for adjusting the
bevel angle of the base.
RECESSED BLADE-SUPPORT ROLLER
Recessed blade-support roller ensures accurate cutting.
Five-position adjustable orbital saw-blade movement to
ensure high cutting performance. Hard-wearing die-cast
aluminum casing with good heat dissipation properties to
protect against overheating.
CHIP GUARD
A clear plastic chip shield has been provided on the front
of your saw for protection against flying dust and chips. It
is designed to fit the front opening of your saw. For your
protection, do not use saw without chip shield properly
in place.
ORBITAL ADJUSTMENT KNOB
The jig saw has an orbital feature for more aggressive cutting.
There are 5 settings from (0) to the most aggressive cutting
(4).
BLADE GUARD
The wire blade guard is used to protect the operator from
accidental contact with the saw blade. For your protection,
do not use saw without blade guard properly in place.
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ASSEMBLY
UNPACKING
This product requires assembly.
n Carefully remove the tool and any accessories from the
box.
n Make sure that all items listed in the packing list are
included.
n Inspect the tool carefully to make sure no breakage or
damage occurred during shipping.
n Do not discard the packing material until you have care-
fully inspected and satisfactorily operated the tool.
n If any parts are damaged or missing, please call
1-866-539-1710 for assistance.
PACKING LIST
Jig Saw
Battery Pack
Charger
Hex Key
Anti-splintering insert
Saw blades (3)
Operator's Manual
BLADE GUARD
Fig. 2
WARNING:
If any parts are missing do not operate this tool
until the missing parts are replaced. Failure to
do so could result in possible serious personal
injury.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to modify this tool or create
accessories not recommended for use with this
tool. Any such alteration or modification is misuse
and could result in a hazardous condition leading
to possible serious personal injury.
WARNING:
To prevent accidental starting that could cause
serious personal injury, always remove the battery
pack from the tool when assembling parts.
TO INSTALL BLADES
See Figures 2 - 3.
n Remove battery pack.
n Flip blade guard up and out of the way.
n Push the clamping lever on the rapid-change clamp until
it stops.
n Holding the clamping lever open, insert the saw blade as
far as possible into the slot in the saw bar.
BLADE CLAMP
LEVER
SAW BLADE
Fig. 3
n Check to make sure the back of the saw blade is centered
in the groove of the roller guide.
n Release the clamping lever. Make sure the blade is
securely in place.
n Lower the blade guard and snap into place. Replace the
splinter guard, if applicable.
n Replace battery pack.
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OPERATION
WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with your tool to make you
careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a
second is sufficient to inflict severe injury.
WARNING:
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with
side shields when operating tools. Failure to do so
could result in objects being thrown into your eyes
resulting in possible serious injury.
WARNING:
Do not use any attachments or accessories
not recommended by the manufacturer of this
tool. The use of attachments or accessories not
recommended can result in serious personal
injury.
APPLICATIONS
You may use this tool for the purposes listed below:
n Cutting wood surfaces
n Cutting thin sheet metal
n Cutting plastics and laminates
CAUTION:
To prevent damage to the battery pack, remove
the battery pack from the charger immediately if
no LED comes on. Return the battery pack and
charger to your nearest service center for checking
or replacing. Also, if you are removing the battery
pack from the charger and no LEDs are on, return
both the battery pack and the charger to your
nearest service center. Do not insert another
battery pack into the charger. A damaged charger
may damage a battery pack.
CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK
See Figure 4.
The battery pack for this tool has been shipped in a low
charge condition to prevent possible problems. Therefore,
you should charge it until the light on front of charger changes
from flashing green to continuous green.
NOTE: Batteries will not reach full charge the first time they
are charged. Allow several cycles (operation followed by
recharging) for them to become fully charged. This is normal
for nickel-cadmium batteries.
TO CHARGE
n Charge the battery pack only with the charger provided.
�n Make sure the power supply is normal house voltage,
120 volts, 60 Hz, AC only.
n Connect the charger to a power supply.
Fig. 4
n Attach the battery pack to the charger by aligning the
raised ribs on the battery pack with the grooves in the
charger, then slide the battery pack onto the charger.
n After normal usage, 30 minutes of charging time is
required to be fully charged.
n The battery pack will become slightly warm to the touch
while charging. This is normal and does not indicate a
problem.
n Do not place the charger in an area of extreme heat or
cold. It will work best at normal room temperature.
n When the batteries become fully charged, unplug the
charger from the power supply and remove the battery
pack.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR RECHARGING A HOT BATTERY PACK
When using the saw continuously, the batteries in the
battery pack will become hot. You should let a hot
battery pack cool down for approximately 20 minutes before
attempting to recharge. When the battery pack becomes
discharged and is hot, the green LED will be off and the red
LED will begin flashing.
When the battery pack cools down to approximately 104°F
(40°C), the charger will automatically begin fast charge
mode.
If the Red LED continues to flash for more than 90 minutes,
and the green LED remains off, this may indicate a damaged
battery that will not charge.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR RECHARGING A COOL BATTERY PACK
If the battery pack is below normal temperature range, the
red LED will begin flashing and the green LED will be off.
When the battery warms to a temperature of more than
41°F (5°C), the charger will automatically begin fast charge
mode.
NOTE: Refer to “CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK” for
normal recharging of batteries. If the charger does not charge
your battery pack under normal circumstances, return both
the battery pack and charger to your nearest repair center
for electrical check. For the location of your nearest repair
center, please call 1-866-539-1710.
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OPERATION
LED FUNCTION OF CHARGER
See Figure 5.
LED
INDICATOR
Power
Evaluate
Evaluate
Evaluate
Evaluate
Charging
BATTERY
PACK
Without battery pack
Hot battery pack
Cold battery pack
Deeply discharged
Thermistor shorted
or open
Fast charging
RED
LED
ON
Flashing
Flashing
Flashing
Flashing
ON
GREEN
LED
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
OFF
Flashing
ACTION
Ready to charge battery pack
When battery pack reaches cooled
temperature, charger begins fast
charge mode
Whe n bat t e ry pa ck reaches
wa rmed temperature, charger
begins fast charge mode
Charger pre-charges battery until
normal voltage is reached, then
begins fast charge mode
If red LED continues flashing for
more than 90 minutes, and green
LED remains off, this may
indicate a damaged battery
Fast charges in 30 minutes
INDICATOR
EVALUATE
INDICATOR
CHARGING
INDICATOR
POWER
Full
FULL
INDICATOR
Slow charging
OFF
ON
Fast charging is complete.
Charger maintains charge mode.
Note: The 9.6 Volt, 12 Volt, and 14.4
Volt battery packs will not slide all the
way down onto the charger port. Insert
9.6 Volt, 12 Volt, and 14.4 Volt battery
packs until they click into place and
are aligned with the line on the charger,
shown at left.
Allow up to 5 seconds for the “charge”
light to come on after the battery pack
is inserted.
Fig. 5
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OPERATION
TO INSTALL BATTERY PACK
See Figure 6.
n Place battery pack in the saw. Align raised rib on battery
pack with the groove inside the saw.
n Make sure the latches on each side of your battery pack
snap in place and battery pack is secured in the saw
before beginning operation.
CAUTION:
When placing battery pack in the tool, be sure
raised rib on battery pack aligns with the bottom of
the saw and latches into place properly. Improper
installation of the battery pack can cause damage
to internal components.
TO REMOVE BATTERY PACK
See Figure 7.
n Locate latches on side of battery pack and depress to
release battery pack from the saw.
n The battery pack will automatically disconnect in
direction to be removed when buttons are depressed.
n Remove the battery pack from your saw.
BATTERY PACK
Fig. 6
13
BATTERY
LATCHES
Fig. 7
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OPERATION
WARNING:
Battery tools are always in operating condition.
Therefore, switch should always be locked when
not in use or carrying at your side.
STARTING / STOPPING THE SAW
To turn the saw ON, depress the lock-off button and pull
the switch trigger. Release the switch trigger to turn the
saw OFF.
GENERAL CUTTING
See Figure 8.
Rest the front of the saw base on the workpiece and align
cutting edge of the blade with the line on your workpiece.
Start the saw and move it forward on the work surface. Apply downward pressure to keep the saw steady and only
enough forward pressure to keep the blade cutting. Do not
force the saw. Forcing the saw may overheat the motor and
break saw blades. Broken saw blades must be replaced
with new saw blades.
Fig. 8
ORBITAL MOTION
See Figure 9.
The blade of the saw cuts in orbital motion. This feature is
adjustable and provides faster, more efficient cutting. With
orbital motion the blade cuts through your work in the upstroke but does not drag across your work in the downstroke.
The higher settings should be used when fast cutting in soft
material is desired. The lower settings should be used when
cutting materials with more resistance.
STRAIGHT CUTTING
See Figure 9.
A straight cut can be made by clamping a piece of wood or
straightedge to the workpiece and guiding the edge of the
saw against it. Make the cut from one direction only; don't
cut halfway and complete the cut from the opposite end.
SCROLL CUTTING
See Figure 8.
Scroll cuts can be made with the jig saw by guiding the
direction of the cut with applied pressure on the handle as
shown.
WARNING:
Excessive side pressure to the blade could result
in broken blades or damage to the material being
cut.
TO INCREASE
ORBITAL
SETTING
TO DECREASE
ORBITAL
SETTING
Fig. 9
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OPERATION
ANGLE CUTTING (BEVEL CUTTING)
See Figures 10 - 11.
Bevel cutting angles may be adjusted from 0° to 45° right
or left. Angles for cuts from 0° to 45° in 15° increments are
marked on a scale on both the left and right side of the base.
Notches on the rear of the base provide positive stops at
each of the above mentioned 15° increments. A protractor
is recommended when accurate cuts are required.
n Using the hex key provided, loosen the base pivot screw
until the base can be moved.
n Slide base forward until base pivot screws can move
freely in slots in base.
n Align the mark, on the base, of the desired angle with the
edge of the motor housing.
n Once the desired angle is reached, slide base back until
tab on motor housing aligns with the appropriate notch
on rear of base.
NOTE: When making a set-up for accurate cuts with a
protractor, or for angles other than the preset 15° increments, the positive stop notches on the rear of the base
are not used.
n Tighten the base pivot screw securely.
n Return hex key to storage compartment.
NOTE: The wide slot in the base must be used when making bevel cuts, scroll cuts, plunge cuts, and when cutting
metal.
BASE PIVOT
SCREW
HEX KEY
Fig. 10
BASE
Fig. 11
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OPERATION
PLUNGE CUTTING
See Figure 12.
WARNING:
To avoid loss of control, broken blades, or damage
to the material being cut, always use extreme
caution when making plunge cuts. We do not
recommend plunge cutting on materials other
than wood.
n Mark the line of cut clearly on the workpiece.
n Set the cutting angle at 0°.
n Tilt the saw forward so that it rests on the front edge
of the base and blade will not come in contact with the
workpiece when the saw is turned on.
n Make sure the blade is inside the area to be cut.
n Using high speed, start your saw and slowly lower the
blade into the workpiece until the blade cuts through the
wood.
n Continue lowering the blade into the workpiece until the
base rests flat on the work surface, then move the saw
forward to complete the opening.
n Use only the 7 teeth per inch blade for this type of cut.
Fig. 12
SPLINTER-FREE CUTTING
See Figure 13.
This saw has an anti-splinter insert to permit splinter-free
cutting. It is especially useful when cutting plywood. This
feature should only be used when making straight cuts or
circle cuts. It is not for bevel cutting or plunge cutting.
NOTE: The non-orbital setting also helps reduce splintering
when cutting plywood.
n Remove the battery pack.
n Set the cutting angle at 0°.
n Attach the anti-splinter insert in the front of the base as
shown. Make sure it snaps securely into place.
n Replace the battery pack.
ANTI-SPLINTER
INSERT
Fig. 13
16
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MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
When servicing use only identical RIDGID
replacement parts. Use of any other parts may
create a hazard or cause product damage.
WARNING:
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with
side shields during power tool operation or when
blowing dust. If operation is dusty, also wear a
dust mask.
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury, always remove
the battery pack from the tool when cleaning or
performing any maintenance.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most
plastics are susceptible to damage from various types of
commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. Use
clean cloths to remove dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.
WARNING:
Do not at any time let brake fluids, gasoline,
petroleum-based products, penetrating oils, etc.,
come in contact with plastic parts. Chemicals can
damage, weaken or destroy plastic which may
result in serious personal injury.
Only the parts shown on the parts list are intended to be
repaired or replaced by the customer. All other parts should
be replaced at a RIDGID authorized service center.
KEEPING THE CHARGER VENTS CLEAN
The fan in this charger will perform more efficiently if the air
vents and ports are kept clean and dust-free. Periodically
check the air vents for dust or other debris.
To clean the vents, unplug the charger. Using a fine nylon
bristle brush, whisk dust or debris away from the air vents
and ports.
The battery pack has intake and exhaust vents that should
also be kept free of dust and debris. Clean the battery pack
vents by using a fine nylon-bristle brush to whisk away dust
or debris.
When cleaning, do not allow metal to come into contact
with any of the vents or ports of the charger or battery
pack.
BATTERIES
The battery pack for this tool is equipped with nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries. Length of service from each
charging will depend on the type of work you are doing.
The batteries in this tool have been designed to provide
maximum trouble-free life. However, like all batteries, they
will eventually wear out. Do not disassemble battery pack
and attempt to replace the batteries. Handling of these
batteries, especially when wearing rings and jewelry, could
result in a serious burn.
To obtain the longest possible battery life, we suggest the
following:
n Remove the battery pack from the charger once it is fully
charged and ready for use.
For battery pack storage longer than 30 days:
n Store the battery pack where the temperature is below
80°F.
n Store battery packs in a "discharged" condition.
BATTERY PACK REMOVAL AND
PREPARATION FOR RECYCLING
To preserve natural resources, please
re cycle or dispose of batteries
properly.
This product contains nickel-cadmium
batteries. Local, state or federal laws
may prohibit disposal of nickelcadmium batteries in ordinary trash.
Consult your local waste authority for information regarding
available recycling and/or disposal options.
WARNING:
Upon removal, cover the battery pack’s terminals
with heavy-duty adhesive tape. Do not attempt
to destroy or disassemble battery pack or
remove any of its components. Nickel-cadmium
batteries must be recycled or disposed of properly.
Also, never touch both terminals with metal objects
and/or body parts as short circuit may result. Keep
away from children. Failure to comply with these
warnings could result in fire and/or serious injury.
17
Page 18
NOTES
18
Page 19
WARRANTY
RIDGID® HAND HELD AND STATIONARY POWER TOOL
3 YEAR LIMITED SERVICE WARRANTY
Proof of purchase must be presented when requesting warranty service.
Limited to RIDGID® hand held and stationary power tools
purchased 2/1/04 and after. This product is manufactured
by One World Technologies, Inc. The trademark is licensed
from RIDGID, Inc. All warranty communications should be
directed to One World Technologies, Inc., attn: RIDGID Hand
Held and Stationary Power Tool Technical Service at (toll
free) 1-866-539-1710.
90-DAY SATISFACTION GUARANTEE POLICY
During the first 90 days after the date of purchase, if you are
dissatisfied with the performance of this RIDGID® Hand Held
and Stationary Power Tool for any reason you may return
the tool to the dealer from which it was purchased for a full
refund or exchange. To receive a replacement tool you must
present proof of purchase and return all original equipment
packaged with the original product. The replacement tool
will be covered by the limited warranty for the balance of
the 3 YEAR service warranty period.
WHAT IS COVERED UNDER THE 3 YEAR
LIMITED SERVICE WARRANTY
This warranty on RIDGID® Hand Held and Stationary Power
Tools covers all defects in workmanship or materials and normal wear items such as brushes, chucks, motors, switches,
cords, gears and even cordless batteries in this RIDGID
tool for three years following the purchase date of the tool.
Warranties for other RIDGID® products may vary.
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE
To obtain service for this RIDGID® tool you must return it;
freight prepaid, or take it in to an authorized service center
for RIDGID® branded hand held and stationary power tools.
You may obtain the location of the authorized service center
nearest you by calling (toll free) 1-866-539-1710 or by logging on to the RIDGID® website at www.ridgid.com. When
requesting warranty service, you must present the original
dated sales receipt. The authorized service center will repair any faulty workmanship, and either repair or replace
any part covered under the warranty, at our option, at no
charge to you.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED
This warranty applies only to the original purchaser at retail
and may not be transferred. This warranty only covers defects arising under normal usage and does not cover any
malfunction, failure or defect resulting from misuse, abuse,
neglect, alteration, modification or repair by other than an
authorized service center for RIDGID® branded hand held
and stationary power tools. Consumable accessories provided with the tool such as, but not limited to, blades, bits
and sand paper are not covered.
RIDGID, INC. AND ONE WORLD TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
MAKE NO WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS OR
PROMISES AS TO THE QUALITY OR PERFORMANCE
OF ITS POWER TOOLS OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFICALLY STATED IN THIS WARRANTY.
ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS
To the extent permitted by applicable law, all implied warranties, including warranties of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, are disclaimed. Any
implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability
or fitness for a particular purpose, that cannot be disclaimed
under state law are limited to three years from the date of
purchase. One World Technologies, Inc. and RIDGID, Inc.
are not responsible for direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages. Some states do not allow limitations on
®
how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you. This
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also
have other rights which vary from state to state.
One World Technologies, Inc.
P.O. Box 35, Hwy. 8
Pickens, SC 29671
19
Page 20
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
18 VOLT JIG SAW
ORBITAL / VARIABLE SPEED
R843
983000-556
3-24-06 (REV:01)
Customer Service Information:
For parts or service, contact your nearest RIDGID authorized service center. Be
sure to provide all relevant information when you call or visit. For the location of
the authorized service center nearest you, please call 1-866-539-1710 or visit us
online at www.ridgid.com.
The model number of this tool is found on a plate attached to the motor housing.
Please record the serial number in the space provided below. When ordering repair
parts, always give the following information:
Model No.
Serial No.
R843
20
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