Ryobi JM82 User Manual

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

BISCUIT JOINER

DOUBLE INSULATED
JM82

Your biscuit joiner has been engineered and manufactured to Ryobi’s high standard 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 Ryobi product.

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

n Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 2

�n General Safety Rules....................................................................................................................................................... 3

�n Specific Safety Rules....................................................................................................................................................... 4

�n Symbols........................................................................................................................................................................ 5-6

��n Electrical.......................................................................................................................................................................... 7

��n Features........................................................................................................................................................................ 8-9

��n Assembly....................................................................................................................................................................... 10

�n Operation.................................................................................................................................................................. 11-19

n Adjustments................................................................................................................................................................... 20

�n Maintenance............................................................................................................................................................. 20-23

n Accessories ................................................................................................................................................................... 24

n Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................................................. 24

�n Parts Ordering / Service ................................................................................................................................................ 26

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.

2 3

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 atmospheres,

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.

n

Av oid accidental star ting . Be sure switch is off
before plugging in. Carrying tools with your finger on

the switch or plugging in tools that have 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 enables better

control of the tool in unexpected situations.

n Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection.

Dust mask, nonskid 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.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

n Double insulated tools are equipped with a polarized

plug (one blade is wider than the other). This plug will
fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does
not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still
does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install a
polarized outlet. Do not change the plug in any way.

Double insulation
wire grounded power cord and grounded power supply
system.

n Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces such as

pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators. There is an

increased risk of electric shock if your body is grounded.

n Don’t expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.

Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric
shock.

n Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord to carry the

tools or pull the plug from an outlet. Keep cord away
from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts. Replace
damaged cords immediately. Damaged cords increase

the risk of electric shock.

n

When operating a power tool outside, use an outdoor
extension cord marked “W-A” or “W”. These cords

are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk of electric
shock.

eliminates the need for the three-

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.

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 appli-

cation. 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.

Any tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is
dangerous and must be repaired.

n Disconnect the plug from power source 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 the reach of children and other

untrained persons. Tools are dangerous in the hands of

untrained users.

n Maintain tools with care. Keep cutting tools sharp

and clean. Properly maintained tools 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 become hazardous 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 clean-

ing. Never use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based
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.

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 or its own cord. Contact with a

“live” wire will make exposed metal parts of the cutting
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. Everyday eyeglasses

have only impact-resistant lenses; they are NOT
safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce the risk

of serious personal 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 Inspect tool cords periodically and, if damaged, have

repaired at your nearest Authorized Service Center.
Constantly stay aware of cord location. Following this

rule will reduce the risk of electric shock or fire.

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 Check damaged parts. Before further use of the

tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should
be carefully checked to determine that it will operate
properly and perform its intended function. Check for
alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts, mounting, and any other conditions
that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that
is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced
by an authorized service center. Following this rule will

reduce the risk of shock, fire, or serious injury.

n Make sure your extension cord is in good condition.

When using an extension cord, be sure to use one
heavy enough to carry the current your product will
draw. A wire gauge size (A.W.G.) of at least 14 is
recommended for an extension cord 50 feet or less
in length. A cord exceeding 100 feet is not recom­mended. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The
smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord. An

undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting
in loss of power and overheating.

n Inspect for and remove all nails from lumber before

using this tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of

serious 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.

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.

4 5

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.

SYMBOLS

The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this product.

SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING

DANGER: Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will

result in death or serious injury.

WARNING: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could

result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION: Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may

result in minor or moderate injury.

CAUTION: (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:

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

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.

6 7

ELECTRICAL

DOUBLE INSULATION

Double insulation is a concept in safety in electric power
tools, which eliminates the need for the usual three­wire grounded power cord. All exposed metal parts are
isolated from the internal metal motor components with
protecting insulation. Double insulated tools do not need
to be grounded.

WARNING:

The double insulated system is intended to protect the
user from shock resulting from a break in the tool’s in­ternal insulation. Observe all normal safety precautions
to avoid electrical shock.

NOTE: Servicing of a tool with double insulation requires
extreme care and knowledge of the system and should be
performed only by a qualified service technician. For service,
we suggest you return the tool to your nearest authorized
service center for repair. Always use original factory replace­ment parts when servicing.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTION

This tool has a precision-built electric motor. It should be
connected to a power supply that is 120 volts, 60 Hz, AC
only (normal household current). Do not operate this tool
on direct current (DC). A substantial voltage drop will cause
a loss of power and the motor will overheat. If your tool does
not operate when plugged into an outlet, double-check the
power supply.

EXTENSION CORDS

When using a power tool at a considerable distance from
a power source, be sure to use an extension cord that has
the capacity to handle the current the tool will draw. An un­dersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting in
overheating and loss of power. Use the chart to determine
the minimum wire size required in an extension cord. Only
round jacketed cords listed by Underwriter’s Laboratories
(UL) should be used.

When working outdoors with a tool, use an extension cord
that is designed for outside use. This type of cord is desig­nated with “WA” on the cord’s jacket.

Before using any extension cord, inspect it for loose or ex­posed wires and cut or worn insulation.

**Ampere rating (on tool faceplate)

0-2.0 2.1-3.4 3.5-5.0 5.1-7.0 7.1-12.0 12.1-16.0

Cord Length Wire Size (A.W.G.)

25' 16 16 16 16 14 14

50' 16 16 16 14 14 12

100' 16 16 14 12 10 —

**Used on 12 gauge - 20 amp circuit.

NOTE: AWG = American Wire Gauge

WARNING:

Keep the extension cord clear of the working area. Po­sition the cord so that it will not get caught on lumber,
tools or other obstructions while you are working with a
power tool. Failure to do so can result in serious personal
injury.

WARNING:

Check extension cords before each use. If damaged re­place immediately. Never use tool with a damaged cord
since touching the damaged area could cause electrical
shock resulting in serious injury.

FEATURES

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

Fence Angle Adjustments ....................................... 0-135°

Depth of Cut........................................................0-9/16 in.

Cord Length ...............................................................10 ft.

Blade ........................................................................... 4 in.

HEIGHT

HEIGHT

ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

WIDTH OF CUT

SCALE

SETTING

SCALE

No Load Speed ............................................... 10,000/min.

Input ...............................120 V, 60 Hz, AC only, 6.0 Amps

Net Weight.............................................................. 8.4 lbs.

DUAL GRIP

SWITCH

TRIGGER

HANDLE

CENTERLINE/LINE

OF CUT INDICATOR

ADJUSTABLE

FENCE

NON-SKID

SURFACE

ANGLE

SETTING

SCALE

DUST

BAG

DEPTH

ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

LOCKING

KNOB

Fig. 1

8 9

FEATURES

KNOW YOUR BISCUIT JOINER

See Figure 1.

Before attempting to use this product, familiarize yourself
with all operating features and safety rules.

SWITCH TRIGGER

The biscuit joiner has a conveniently located ON/OFF switch
trigger on the underside of the dual grip handle.

CARBIDE-TIPPED BLADE

The biscuit joiner has an 8-tooth carbide-tipped blade for
cutting biscuit slots.

NON-SKID SURFACE

The fence on the biscuit joiner has a non-skid surface to help
prevent misalignment caused by skidding during use. It also
prevents marring of the workpiece when making cuts.

DEPTH ADJUSTMENT KNOB

A spring-loaded depth adjustment knob makes it possible to
make proper settings for three standard size biscuits.

HEIGHT SETTING SCALE

A scale on each side of the fence indicates the height of the
fence from the center of the blade.

HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT KNOB

The height adjustment knob moves the adjustable fence up
or down to adjust the height of the fence from the center
of the blade.

LOCKING KNOB

The locking knob loosens the adjustable fence and allows
movement of the height adjustment knob.

ANGLE SETTING SCALE

The adjustable fence on the biscuit joiner can be set at
angles from 0° to 135°.

DUAL GRIP HANDLE

The dual grip handle offers a choice of two grip positions
for operator comfort.

DUST COLLECTION

Wood particles are drawn up through a tunnel in the base
and collect in the dust bag during cutting operations. The
dust bag can be removed and a 1-1/4 in. vacuum can be
attached to the dust port.

LINE OF CUT INDICATOR

Centerline and cut indicator marks help the operator make
more accurate cuts.

ADJUSTABLE FENCE

The biscuit joiner has an adjustable fence for setting the
angle from 0° to 135°, with positive stop settings in incre­ments of 45°. The height of the fence can be set between
0 in. - 2 in.

The adjustable fence should always be used to guide and
balance the biscuit joiner, providing ease of operation and
maintaining control.

BISCUITS

Biscuits swell rapidly upon contact with water-based wood­working glues. They are available in three standard sizes:

#0 (5/8 in. x 1-13/16 in.)

#10 (13/16 in. x 2-1/16 in.)

#20 (15/16 in. x 2-5/16 in.)

This biscuit joiner is packaged with 20 #10 biscuits.

ASSEMBLY

UNPACKING

This product requires assembly.

n Carefully remove the tool and any accessories from the

box. 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

1-800-525-2579 for assistance.

PACKING LIST

Biscuit Joiner

#10 Biscuits (20)

Carrying Case

Operator’s Manual

Warranty Registration Card

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.

INSTALLING/REMOVING THE DUST BAG

See Figure 2.

The dust bag located on the rear of the biscuit joiner pro­vides a dust collection system. Wood particles are drawn up
through the base and collect in the dust bag during cutting
operations. For more efficient operation, empty the dust bag
when half full.

To install, slide the dust bag adaptor onto the dust port on
the biscuit joiner. To remove the dust bag, grasp the adaptor
and pull the dust bag away from the biscuit joiner.

DUST BAG

TO INSERT

ADAPTOR

TO REMOVE

DUST BAG

Fig. 2

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:

Do not connect to power supply until assembly is
complete. Failure to comply could result in accidental
starting and possible serious personal injury.

ATTACHING THE BISCUIT JOINER TO A
VACUUM

See Figure 3.

The dust bag can be removed and a 1-1/4 in. vacuum can
be attached to the dust port.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.
n Remove the dust bag.
n Attach a vacuum hose to the dust port.
n

Connect the biscuit joiner and the vacuum to a power
supply.

WARNING:

When the tool is not connected to vacuum, always re­install the dust bag back onto the tool. Failure to do so
could cause dust or foreign objects to be thrown into
your face or eyes which could result in possible serious
injury.

Fig. 3

10 11

OPERATION

WARNING:

Do not allow familiarity with tools to make you careless.
Remember that a careless fraction of a second is suf­ficient to inflict serious injury.

WARNING:

Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating power tools. Failure to do so
could result in objects being thrown into your eyes re­sulting in possible serious injury.

APPLICATIONS

You may use this tool for the purposes listed below:

n Cutting precise mating oval slots in hard wood, soft wood,

plywood and particle board

SPLINE JOINERY

Spline joinery is one of the strongest methods of joinery used
in woodworking. When glue is properly applied to a spline
and to the joint area of the wood pieces being connected,
a large surface area receives the adhesion properties of the
glue. This forms a strong joint.

Traditional spline joinery requires cutting slots with a router
or table saw. Small, thin strips of wood must then be cut to
fit inside the slots and act as splines.

Newer methods of spline joinery use a plate or biscuit joiner
to cut precise mating oval slots in adjoining boards. This
biscuit joiner is a fast, simple, and accurate plunge-cutting
tool that can be used to cut slots in hardwood, softwood,
plywood, particle board, and other pressed woods.

Football shaped wafers, called biscuits, are then placed
inside the slots with glue and used to help line up adjoining
surfaces. When a water based glue is used, the biscuits swell
in the joint, making an extremely strong and firm bond. White
glue, yellow glue, carpenters glue, hide glue and aliphatic
resin glue are examples of water-based glues.This bonding
technique has traditionally been limited to making edge-to­edge joints. However, with the use of your new biscuit joiner,
biscuits can now be easily used to connect butt, miter, and
T-joints. Biscuit joining can be as strong as mortise and tenon,
tongue and groove, standard spline, and doweled joints. In
most cases the material around the biscuit will break before
the biscuit itself will break. A greater surface area is exposed
to glue in a biscuit joint, making the seams stronger.

A variety of spline joints can be made using the biscuit joiner.
The number and size biscuits needed for each joint depends
on the thickness of the wood and the length of the joint. In
general, the small #0 biscuits should be used for miter cuts
in 3/4 in. materials. The larger biscuits should be used for
edge-to-edge joinery.

When joining 1-1/2 in. thick materials, stack two biscuits, one
above the other. For example, use this method when joining 2
in. x 4 in. dressed lumber. When joining even thicker materi­als, use additional biscuits, stacked above each other.

When making edge-to-edge joints for tabletops, work­benches, cutting boards, etc. the more biscuits you use,
the stronger the joint will be.

TURNING ON/OFF THE BISCUIT JOINER

See Figure 4.

To turn on the biscuit joiner, depress the switch trigger. Re­lease the switch trigger to turn the biscuit joiner off.

When operating the biscuit joiner, hold the tool with both
hands. Keep one hand on the rear handle and place your
other hand on the fence to hold the tool steady against the
workpiece.

This tool has a dual grip rear handle that allows the operator
to choose from two different hand positions and use the one
that is more comfortable.

Fig. 4

OPERATION

DEPTH OF CUT

The biscuit joiner can be adjusted to three standard cutting
depths to accommodate three standard size biscuits — #0,
#10, and #20. Adjustments are made by engaging slots on
the depth adjustment knob with tabs on the rear base as­sembly. For example, when using a #0 size biscuit, rotate
the depth adjustment knob to the slot marked 0. When using
a #10 size biscuit, rotate the depth adjustment knob to the
slot marked 10, and when using a #20 size biscuit rotate the
depth adjustment knob to the slot marked 20.

SETTING DEPTH OF CUT

See Figure 5.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Select the correct depth of cut setting for the biscuit size

you plan to use. To select depth of cut, pull the knurled
adjustment knob and jam nut in the direction of the arrow
in figure 5.

NOTE: The knob and jam nut are spring loaded. Pulling

them in the direction of the arrow puts pressure on the
spring and releases pressure from the depth adjustment
knob.

n Rotate the depth adjustment knob until the desired slot

setting aligns with the tabs on the rear base assembly.

MAKING FINE ADJUSTMENTS

See Figure 6.

Make a test cut in a scrap piece of wood. Fit the correct size
biscuit into the biscuit slot. The biscuit slot should be deep
enough to allow slightly more than one-half of the biscuit
into the slot. This extra room allows for proper alignment of
the wood being joined.

If the biscuit slot is too deep or too shallow, fine adjust­ments to the depth setting can be made by loosening the
knurled adjustment knob and making fine adjustments with
the jam nut.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Loosen the knurled adjustment knob. This knob is used

as a lock nut only. Loosen by twisting it in the opposite
direction away from the jam nut.

n Rotate the jam nut to the right for a more shallow cut, or

to the left for a deeper cut.

n Once desired depth of cut is reached, hold the jam nut

so that it will not move out of adjustment. Next, tighten
the knurled adjustment knob against jam nut.

n Recheck the depth setting by making a test cut in a scrap

piece of wood. Also periodically check the depth setting
for accuracy. Rotating the jam nut to the right will cut
shallow biscuit slots. Rotating the jam nut to the left will
cut deeper biscuit slots.

TABS

DEPTH

ADJUSTMENT KNOB

JAM NUT

KNURLED

ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

Fig. 5

KNURLED

ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

Fig. 6

12 13

OPERATION

FENCE HEIGHT

The adjustable fence on the biscuit joiner can be moved
up or down to adjust the position of the blade in relation to
the top of the workpiece. A scale on each side of the fence
indicates the height of the fence from the center of the blade.
The fence can be positioned up to two inches from the center
of the blade. However, the scale and indicator point can only
be set up to 2 in. from the center of the blade. Scale marks
are in increments of 1/16 in.

INDICATOR

POINT

HEIGHT

ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

HEIGHT SETTING

SCALE

SETTING THE FENCE HEIGHT

See Figure 7.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Loosen the locking knob approximately one turn.

n Move the fence up or down by rotating the height adjust-

ment knob until the indicator point is aligned with the
desired dimension on the scale.

n Tighten the locking knob securely.

FENCE ANGLE

The adjustable fence on the biscuit joiner can be set at angles
ranging from 0° to 135°, with accurate positive stops set
in 45° increments. A scale is located on each side of the
adjustable fence for identifying these positive stop angles.
Each stop reached when rotating the adjustable fence from
one angle setting to another equals a 45° positive stop angle
change.

SETTING THE FENCE ANGLE

See Figure 8.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Loosen the locking knob approximately one turn.

n Rotate the fence to the desired angle.

n Tighten the locking knob securely.

TO LOWER

TO RAISE

ADJUSTABLE

FENCE

ANGLE SETTING

SCALE

ROTATE ADJUSTABLE FENCE

TO DESIRED ANGLE SETTING

TO

TIGHTEN

TO

LOOSEN

LOCKING

KNOB

Fig. 7

TO TIGHTEN

TO LOOSEN

Fig. 8

OPERATION

MAKING EDGE-TO-EDGE JOINTS

See Figures 9 - 10.

Edge-to-edge joinery is one of the most basic and easily­constructed joints.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Prepare the workpieces by laying them side by side

on a workbench in the order in which they will be as­sembled.

n Using a square, determine the location of each biscuit

spline joint and mark the center of each joint by drawing
a line across each workpiece.

NOTE: Mark the edges 2 in. from the ends of the work-

pieces. The joint will be stronger if you use multiple bis­cuits placed close together.

n Loosen the locking knob approximately one turn and set

the fence angle at 90°.

n Set the fence height at the desired dimension on the scale

by rotating the height adjustment knob.

NOTE: The scale indicates the height of the fence from

the center of the blade.

n Tighten the locking knob securely.

n Select the correct depth of cut setting to match the biscuit

size you are planning to use. Make a test cut in a scrap
piece of wood from the same workpiece if possible.

n Clamp the workpiece securely so that it will not move

during the cut.

n Plug the biscuit joiner into the power supply and prepare

to make the first cut. Grasp and hold the biscuit joiner
securely with both hands.

n Place the fence against the board and align the indica-

tor marks on the fence with the centerline mark(s) on the
board.

n Depress the switch trigger to turn on the biscuit joiner,

then push it forward to extend the blade into the wood.

n When the base assembly bottoms out against the depth

of cut adjustment knob setting, pull back, releasing pres­sure on the spring. The blade will retract from the biscuit
slot.

n Repeat this procedure for all desired biscuit slots.

n Once all biscuit slots have been cut, place a biscuit in

each joint and dry-assemble the workpiece. Make sure
each joint lines up and fits.

n Finally, disassemble the workpieces and place a bead

of glue in each slot. Also, spread a bead of glue over the
entire surface of the joint. Reinsert the biscuits and as­semble the workpieces.

n Clamp workpieces together until the glue sets up.

CENTERLINE

MARK(S)

BISCUIT(S)

EDGE-TO-EDGE JOINTS

CENTERLINE

MARKS

BISCUIT
SLOT(S)

Fig. 9

LINE OF CUT

INDICATOR

Fig. 10

14 15

OPERATION

BUTT JOINTS

A butt joint is made by mating the end grain of one board
with the edge grain of another. The bonding of glue on this
type of surface is poor. However, by using biscuits you can
create a strong joint that gives a mortise-and-tenon effect.

MAKING BUTT JOINTS

See Figures 11 - 12.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Place the two pieces of wood to be joined on a level

workbench. Align them against each other in the arrange­ment in which they will be assembled.

n Using a square, determine the location of each biscuit

spline joint and mark the center of each joint by drawing
a line across the edges of the two boards.

n Loosen the locking knob and set the fence angle at

90°.

n Set the fence height at the desired dimension on the scale

by rotating the height adjustment knob.

NOTE: The scale indicates the height of the fence from

the center of the blade.

n Tighten the locking knob securely.

n Select the correct depth of cut setting to match the biscuit

size you are planning to use. Make a test cut in a scrap
piece of wood from the same workpiece if possible.

n Clamp the workpiece securely so that it will not move

during the cut.

n Plug the biscuit joiner into a power supply and prepare

to make your first cut. Grasp and hold the biscuit joiner
securely with both hands.

n Place the fence against the board and align the indicator

marks on the fence with the centerline mark(s) on the
board.

n Depress the switch trigger to turn on the biscuit joiner,

then push it forward to extend the blade into the wood.

n When the base assembly bottoms out against the depth

of cut adjustment knob setting, pull back to release pres­sure on the spring. The blade will retract from the biscuit
slot.

n Repeat this procedure for cutting the slot in the mating

workpiece.

n Once all biscuit slots have been cut, place a biscuit in

each joint and dry-assemble the workpieces. Make sure
each joint lines up and fits.

n Finally, disassemble the workpieces and place a bead

of glue in each slot. Also, spread a bead of glue over the
entire surface of the joint. Reinsert the biscuits and as­semble the workpieces as shown in figure 10.

n Clamp the workpieces together until the glue sets up.

BUTT JOINTS

BISCUIT
SLOT(S)

BISCUIT(S)

CENTERLINE

MULTIPLE

BISCUITS STACKED

OFFSET BUTT JOINTS

CENTERLINE

MARK(S)

MARK(S)

Fig. 11

BISCUIT

SLOT

BISCUIT

Fig. 12

OFFSET BUTT JOINTS

See Figure 12.

The rails of a table or workbench are often offset from the
front of the table legs. When offsets are required, it is neces­sary to cut the slots in the rails first, then readjust the fence
to cut the slots in the legs.

Keeping this one exception in mind, the procedure for cut­ting offset butt joints is identical to the procedure for cutting
butt joints.

For example, if a 1/4 in. offset is desired, you would mark
the centerlines for cutting a butt joint as mentioned in the
procedures for cutting butt joints, and cut the slots in the
ends of the rails. Next you would raise the fence 1/4 in. to
the desired offset and cut the slots in the legs.

OPERATION

T- JOINTS

See Figure 13.

A T-joint is used when the end of a board is joined to the face
of another board as shown in figure 12. Attaching shelves to
bookcases and inner support braces to frames are typical
applications. Actual cutting of a T-joint is as simple as any
other cut. However, it is critical that you mark the centerlines,
mark the intersection points for each slot, and cut each slot
correctly.

MAKING T- JOINTS

See Figures 14 - 15.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Place the two pieces of wood to be joined on a level

workbench. The inside face of the vertical board should
be facing up.

n Determine the location of each biscuit joint and mark

the centerlines on each board. The centerlines for both
boards must line up with each other. Measure carefully;
these measurements must be accurate and precise.

NOTE: Measure twice and cut once. In addition to the

centerlines lining up, the spacing of the biscuit slots from
side-to-side must also match.

n Plug the biscuit joiner into the power supply and cut slots

in

all boards that require end slots.

Follow the procedures explained in “Edge-To-Edge
Joints.”

n Set the fence angle at 90°

n Set the fence height at the desired dimension on the

scale.

n Select the correct depth of cut setting for the biscuit size

you plan to use.

n Clamp the workpiece securely, then cut each slot at the

marked centerline intersection.

Next, you must adjust the fence on the biscuit joiner in order
to cut slots into the face of the vertical board.

BISCUIT SLOT(S)

VERTICAL BOARD

HORIZONTAL

BOARD

T-JOINT

CENTERLINE

MARK(S)

BISCUIT(S)

Fig. 13

BISCUIT SLOTS/

CENTERLINE

MARKS

BOARD

CENTERLINES

Fig. 14

TO CUT ENDS SLOTS IN HORIZONTAL BOARD

HORIZONTAL

BOARD

CLAMP

16 17

Fig. 15

OPERATION

CUTTING VERTICAL BOARDS

See Figures 16 - 17.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Loosen the locking knob and set the fence angle at 0°.

n Set the fence height at the desired dimension on the scale

by rotating the height adjustment knob.

n Retighten the locking knob.

n Select the correct depth of cut setting for the biscuit size

you plan to use.

n Clamp the workpiece securely.

n Cut each slot at the marked centerline intersection.

n Place the biscuit joiner on a vertical board and align the

indicator marks on the base assembly with the centerline
on the vertical board.

n Place a straight piece of wood on the vertical board and

securely clamp it flush against the base assembly. This
piece of wood is used for a fence or guide. It must be
square with the sides of the vertical board and parallel
with the centerline.

n Align the centerline on the bottom of the base assembly

with marked intersection for biscuit slot.

n Plug the biscuit joiner into the power supply and prepare

to cut the slot.

n Depress the switch trigger to turn on the biscuit joiner,

then push it down to extend the blade into the wood.

n When the base assembly bottoms out against the depth

of cut adjustment knob setting, pull back, releasing pres­sure on the spring. The blade will retract from the biscuit
slot.

n Repeat this procedure for cutting all required slots in

vertical boards.

n Once all slots have been cut, place a biscuit in each joint

and dry-assemble the workpieces. Make sure each joint
lines up and fits.

n Finally, disassemble the workpieces and place a bead

of glue in each slot. Also, spread a bead of glue over the
entire surface of the joint. Reinsert the biscuits and as­semble the workpieces.

n Clamp the workpieces together until the glue sets up.

HEIGHT

ADJUSTMENT

KNOB

ADJUSTABLE

FENCE

TO CUT SLOTS IN VERTICAL BOARD

BOTTOM SIDE OF

BASE ASSEMBLY

HORIZONTAL

BOARD

LOCKING

KNOB

Fig. 16

INDICATOR

MARK

CENTERLINE

MARK ON

WORKPIECE

CLAMP

VERTICAL

BOARD

Fig. 17

OPERATION

MITER JOINTS

See Figures 18 - 21.

There are two types of miter joints that can be made using
biscuits: flat miters and edge miters. Flat miters are used
when making picture frames. Edge miters are used when
making boxes or things where you don’t want to show the
end grain of the wood.

MAKING FLAT MITER JOINTS

See Figure 18.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Place the pieces of wood to be joined on a level work-

bench.

n Using a combination square, draw a line through the cen-

ter of each joint perpendicular to the mitered edges.

n Set the fence angle at 90°, set the fence height at the

desired dimension on the scale, select the correct depth
of cut setting for the biscuit size you plan to use, and
clamp the workpiece securely.

n Align the indicator mark on the fence with the centerline

on the workpiece.

n Plug the biscuit joiner into the power supply and prepare

to cut the slot.

n Depress the switch trigger to turn on the biscuit joiner,

then push it forward to extend the blade into the wood.

n When the base assembly bottoms out against the depth

of cut adjustment knob setting, pull back, releasing pres­sure on the spring. The blade will retract from the biscuit
slot.

n Repeat this procedure for cutting the mating slot and all

required miter joint slots.

n Once all slots have been cut, place a biscuit in each joint

and dry assemble the workpieces. Make sure each joint
lines up and fits.

n Finally, disassemble the workpieces and place a bead

of glue in each slot. Also, spread a bead of glue over the
entire surface of the joint. Reinsert the biscuits and as­semble the workpieces.

n Clamp the workpieces together until the glue sets up.

CENTERLINE

MARK(S)

CENTERLINE

MARK(S)

BISCUIT

SLOT

BISCUIT

Fig. 18

BISCUIT

SLOT

BISCUIT

Fig. 19

18 19

OPERATION

MAKING EDGE MITER JOINTS

See Figures 19 - 21.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Place the pieces of wood to be joined on a level work-

bench.

n Mark the centerline of the joint on each board.

n When making edge miter joints with workpieces that

have different thicknesses, clamp the pieces securely to
a workbench with the long sides up. This will assure that
the outside surfaces will match.

n Loosen the locking knob and set the fence angle at

135°.

n Set the fence height at the desired dimension on the scale

by rotating the height adjustment knob.

n Tighten the locking knob securely.

n Place the biscuit joiner on the workpiece with the adjust-

able fence resting on the long side of workpiece. The base
or vertical fence should be against the mitered edge of
the workpiece.

n Recheck the fence height setting to make sure it will not

cut through the workpiece.

n Align the indicator mark on the fence with the centerline

on the workpiece. Make sure the base or vertical fence is
pressed flat against the mitered edge of the workpiece.

n Plug the biscuit joiner into the power supply and prepare

to cut the slot.

n Depress the switch trigger to turn on the biscuit joiner,

then push it forward to extend the blade into the wood.

n When the base assembly bottoms out against the depth

of cut adjustment knob setting, pull back, releasing pres­sure on the spring. The blade will retract from the biscuit
slot.

n Repeat this procedure for cutting the mating slot and all

required miter joint slots.

n Once all slots have been cut, place a biscuit in each joint

and dry-assemble the workpieces. Make sure each joint
lines up and fits.

n Finally, disassemble workpieces and place a bead of glue

in each slot. Also, spread a bead of glue over the entire
surface of the joint. Reinsert the biscuits and assemble
workpieces.

n Clamp workpieces together until the glue sets up.

If the workpieces are of the same thickness, clamp them

securely to a workbench with the short sides up. Set
the fence angle at 45°. Place the biscuit joiner on the
workpiece with the adjustable fence resting on the short
side of the workpiece and the base or vertical fence
against the mitered edge of the workpiece. Follow steps
above to cut required slots.

CUTTING EDGE MITER SLOT

FROM LONG SIDE OF WORKPIECE

Fig. 20

CUTTING EDGE MITER SLOT

FROM SHORT SIDE OF WORKPIECE

Fig. 21

NOTE: Before cutting slots, make sure the blade will not

cut through the workpiece and that both the vertical and
horizontal fences are pressed flat against the mitered
edge and face of the workpiece.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING:

When servicing, use only identical Ryobi 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.

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, petroleum­based products, penetrating oils, etc., come in contact
with plastic parts. Chemicals can damage, weaken or
destroy plastic which may result in serious personal
injury.

REPLACING THE BLADE

See Figures 22 - 24.

After extended use, the blade on your biscuit joiner may
become dull and need replacing. If you accidentally hit a nail
or other blunt object, it will break the carbide tips, which will
require replacing the blade.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Remove the dust bag.

n Place the biscuit joiner upside down on a workbench.

n With a screwdriver, remove the four screws and washers

that connect the shoe to the front and rear assemblies.
Remove the shoe.

SHOWN WITHOUT DUST BAG

SCREW(S)

SHOE

Electric tools used on fiberglass material, wallboard, spackling
compounds, or plaster are subject to accelerated wear and
possible premature failure because the fiberglass chips and
grindings are highly abrasive to bearings, brushes, commu­tators, etc. Consequently, we do not recommended using this
tool for extended work on these types of materials. However,
if you do work with any of these materials, it is extremely
important to clean the tool using compressed air.

LUBRICATION

All of the bearings in this tool are lubricated with a sufficient
amount of high grade lubricant for the life of the unit under
normal operating conditions. Therefore, no further lubrica­tion is required.

Fig. 22

20 21

MAINTENANCE

n Place a screwdriver in the hole provided in the bearing

plate.

n Place one of the non-cutting teeth located behind each

carbide-tipped cutting tooth against the screwdriver or
pin and lock the blade to prevent it from rotating. DO NOT
lock the blade against one of the cutting teeth. Carbide
tips will break.

n Using a 3/16 in. hex key, remove the blade screw.

NOTE: Turn the blade screw counterclockwise to remove

the blade.

n Remove the outer blade washer, blade and inner blade

washer.

n Clean wood particles and resin from the blade wash-

ers, dust bag area, base assembly, and all surrounding
parts.

n Place the inner blade washer on the gear spindle.

n Place the new blade onto the shoulder of the blade washer

and secure with the outer blade washer and the blade
screw.

NOTE: The blade screw fits into the cupped side of the

outer blade washer.

NOTE: The blade teeth point toward the right of the tool

when held in normal operating position. The direction of
rotation is marked on the joiner blade. An arrow on the
bottom of the front base assembly also indicates direction
of rotation.

n Place a screwdriver or pin in one of the two holes provided

in the bearing plate and lock the blade to prevent it from
rotating.

n Turn the blade screw clockwise and tighten securely with

the hex key.

n Replace the shoe.

n Replace the washers and screws and tighten securely

with a screwdriver.

n Replace the dust bag.

SCREWDRIVER

OUTER
BLADE

WASHER

BLADE

INNER BLADE

WASHER

BLADE

NON-CUTTING

TOOTH BEHIND

CARBIDE-TIPPED

CUTTING TOOTH

BLADE

SCREW

HEX KEY

Fig. 23

BLADE

SCREW

GEAR

SPINDLE

Fig. 24

MAINTENANCE

CLEANING THE BASE ASSEMBLY AND DUST
PATH

See Figures 25 - 27.

After extended use, wood particles and resin may build up
inside the base assembly of your biscuit joiner and clog the
path for wood particles going into dust bag. Wood particles
packing up in this area not only defeats the dustless feature
of your biscuit joiner, it also makes cutting biscuit slots more
difficult.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Remove the dust bag.

n Place the biscuit joiner upside down on a workbench.

n Using a screwdriver, remove the four screws and washers

securing the shoe. Remove the shoe.

n Remove the blade. See “Replacing the Blade.”

n With the blade removed, place the biscuit joiner right side

up. Using a pair of needle nose pliers, stretch and release
the springs from the tabs on the bearing plate.

SCREW(S)

DUST BAG

PORT

SHOWN WITHOUT DUST BAG

SHOE

SPRING

Fig. 25

PLIERS

Fig. 26

22 23

MAINTENANCE

n Using a screwdriver, remove the two screws that connect

the front and rear base assemblies.

n Carefully separate the front base assembly from the rear

base assembly. Remove the front base assembly.

NOTE: These pieces are tightly joined. It may be helpful to

use a mallet to lightly tap the area where the assemblies
meet.

n Remove the rear base assembly.

n With the assemblies separated, clean wood particles and

resin from the blade area, dust bag port, front and rear
assemblies and all surrounding areas.

n Apply a thin coat of general purpose grease in slots or

tracks on the bearing plate where the base slides.

n Replace the rear base assembly.

n Replace the front base assembly. Replace and tighten

the screws that connect the front and rear base assem­blies.

n Replace the springs.

n Reinstall or replace the blade.

n Secure the shoe with the washers and screws.

n Replace the dust bag.

TRACK(S)

FRONT BASE

ASSEMBLY

SLOT(S)

SCREWS

REAR BASE

ASSEMBLY

Fig. 27

CLEANING THE DUST BAG

See Figure 28.

n Unplug the biscuit joiner.

n Remove the dust bag.

n Slide the clip off the end of the dust bag.

n Thoroughly clean the dust bag by shaking out all

debris.

n Replace the clip.

n Replace the dust bag.

Fig. 28

ACCESSORIES

The following recommended accessories are currently available at retail stores:

n Biscuits 100 pieces ................................................................................................................................................. Size 0

n Biscuits 100 pieces ............................................................................................................................................... Size 10

n Biscuits 100 pieces ............................................................................................................................................... Size 20

n Biscuit Assortment .................................................................................................................................. 400 pieces total

Size 0................................................................................................................................................................100 pieces

Size 10..............................................................................................................................................................100 pieces

Size 20..............................................................................................................................................................200 pieces

WARNING:

Current attachments and accessories available for use with this tool are listed above. 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.

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM SOLUTION

1. Biscuits do not fit the slots. Biscuits not
fitting slots may also cause misalign­ment of the boards being joined.

2. Wood particles begin to back up on the
front of the unit.

3. Blade becomes difficult to push in when
cutting slots. Blade does not retract
properly when cutting slots.

A. Biscuit slots are too deep or too shallow. Make fine adjustments to depth

setting. See “MAKING FINE ADJUSTMENTS”.

B. Biscuit thickness may be out of tolerance. Compress biscuits in a vise

if they are too thick.

C. Check to see if biscuits are the correct size for the size slots that have

been cut: #0, #10, or #20.

D. Check to see if biscuits have gotten wet and have swelled.

A. The dust collection system is not functioning properly. The dust bag

may be full. Empty the dust bag often. See “INSTALLING/REMOVING
DUST BAG”.

B. The dust port may be clogged, preventing wood particles from being

drawn into the dust bag. Remove the front and rear base assemblies
and clean blade, bearing plate, base assembly slots, and surrounding
areas. See “CLEANING THE BASE ASSEMBLY AND DUST PATH”.

A. Wood particles and resin have built up on base assembly slots and sur-

rounding areas. Remove front and rear base assemblies and clean blade,
bearing plate, base assembly slots and surrounding areas. Apply a thin
coat of general purpose grease in slots or on bearing plate where base
slides. See “CLEANING THE BASE ASSEMBLY AND DUST PATH”.

4. Cutting performance is poor and there
is a loss of power or stalling of motor
when cutting slots.

A. Blade is dull. Replace the blade. See “REPLACING THE BLADE”.

B. Resin has built up on the blade. Remove the blade and clean blade with

gum and pitch remover. See “REPLACING THE BLADE”.

24 25

NOTES

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

BISCUIT JOINER

DOUBLE INSULATED
JM82

• SERVICE

Now that you have purchased your tool, should a need ever exist for repair parts or
service, simply contact your nearest Ryobi Authorized Service Center. Be sure to provide
all pertinent facts when you call or visit. Please call 1-800-525-2579 for your nearest Ryobi
Authorized Service Center. You can also check our web site at www.ryobitools.com for a
complete list of Authorized Service Centers.

• MODEL NO. AND SERIAL NO.

The model number of this tool will be found on a plate attached to the motor housing.
Please record the model number and serial number in the space provided below.

• HOW TO ORDER REPAIR PARTS

When ordering repair parts, always give the following information:

• MODEL NUMBER

• SERIAL NUMBER

RYOBI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

1428 Pearman Dairy Road, Anderson, SC 29625

Post Office Box 1207, Anderson, SC 29622-1207

JM82

Phone [phone]

www.ryobitools.com

983000-493
10-04

26