Ryobi P548 User Manual

4.8 (4)

OPERATOR’S MANUAL

MANUEL D’UTILISATION

MANUAL DEL OPERADOR

18 VOLT CHAIN SAW

SCIE À CHAÎNE DE 18 V MOTOSIERRA DE 18 V

P548

Your chain saw has been engineered and manufactured to our 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 your purchase.

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

Cette scie à chaîne a été conçue et fabriquée conformément aux strictes normes de fiabilité, simplicité d’emploi et sécurité d’utilisation.Correctemententretenue,ellevousdonneradesannées de fonctionnement robuste et sans problème.

AVERTISSEMENT : Pour réduire les risques de blessures, l’utilisateur doit lire et veiller à bien comprendre le manuel d’utilisation avant d’employer ce produit.

Merci de votre achat.

Su motosierra inalámbrica ha sido diseñada y fabricada de conformidad con nuestras estrictas normas para brindar fiabilidad, facilidad de uso y seguridad para el operador. Con el debido cuidado, le brindará muchos años de sólido y eficiente funcionamiento.

ADVERTENCIA: Para reducir el riesgo de lesiones, el usuario debe leer y comprender el manual del operador antes de usar este producto.

Le agradecemos su compra.

CONSERVER CE MANUEL POUR

GUARDE ESTE MANUAL PARA

FUTURE RÉFÉRENCE

FUTURAS CONSULTAS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE DES MATIÈRES / ÍNDICE DE CONTENIDO

Introduction........................................................................................................................................

2

Introduction / Introducción

 

General Power Tool Safety Warnings............................................................................................

3-4

Avertissements règles de sécurité relatives aux outils électriques / Advertencias de seguridad para herramientas eléctricas

Chain Saw Safety Warnings...........................................................................................................

5-9

Avertissements de sécurité relatifs au scie à chaîne / Advertencias de seguridad de la motosierra

 

Symbols.....................................................................................................................................

10-11

Symboles / Símbolos

 

Glossary of Terms............................................................................................................................

12

Glossaire / Glosario de términos

 

Features.....................................................................................................................................

13-14

Caractéristiques / Características

 

Assembly.........................................................................................................................................

15

Assemblage / Armado

 

Operation...................................................................................................................................

15-25

Utilisation / Funcionamiento

 

Maintenance..............................................................................................................................

26-32

Entretien / Mantenimiento

 

Bar and Chain Combinations...........................................................................................................

32

Combinaisons de guide et chaîne / Combinations de barra y cadena

 

Troubleshooting...............................................................................................................................

33

Dépannage / Corrección de problemas

 

Warranty...........................................................................................................................................

34

Garantie / Garantía

 

Parts Ordering and Service................................................................................................

Back Page

Commande de pièces et réparation / Pedidos de piezas y servicio..........................................................

Page arrière / Pág. posterior

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION / INTRODUCCIÓN

This product 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.

* * *

Ce produit offre de nombreuses fonctions destinées à rendre son utilisation plus plaisante et satisfaisante. Lors de la conception de ce produit, l’accent a été mis sur la sécurité, les performances et la fiabilité, afin d’en faire un outil facile à utiliser et à entretenir.

* * *

Este producto ofrece numerosas características para hacer más agradable y placentero su uso. En el diseño de este producto se ha conferido prioridad a la seguridad, el desempeño y la fiabilidad, por lo cual se facilita su manejo y mantenimiento.

2

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING

Read all safety warnings and all instructions.

Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.

WORK AREA SAFETY

Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.

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.

Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.

Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.

Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.

Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.

When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.

Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.

If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of a GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.

PERSONAL SAFETY

Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.

Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.

Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energising power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.

Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.

Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.

Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in moving parts.

If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dustrelated hazards.

3 - English

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

POWER TOOL USE AND CARE

Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.

Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.

Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.

Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.

Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.

Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.

Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.

BATTERY TOOL USE AND CARE

Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.

Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.

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 burns or a fire.

Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.

SERVICE

Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.

When servicing a power 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.

4 - English

CHAIN SAW SAFETY WARNINGS

Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain when the chain saw is operating. Before you start the chain saw, make sure the saw chain is not contacting anything. A moment of inattention while operating chain saws may cause entanglement of your clothing or body with the saw chain.

Always hold the chain saw with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle. Holding the chain saw with a reversed hand configuration increases the risk of personal injury and should never be done.

Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces only, because the saw chain may contact hidden wiring. Saw chains contacting a “live” wire may make exposed metal parts of the power tool “live” and could give the operator an electric shock.

Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Further protective equipment for head, hands, legs and feet is recommended. ­Adequate protective clothing will reduce personal injury by flying debris or accidental contact with the saw chain.

Do not operate a chain saw in a tree. Operation of a chain saw while up in a tree may result in personal injury.

Always keep proper footing and operate the chain saw only when standing on fixed, secure and level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces such as ladders may cause a loss of balance or control of the chain saw.

When cutting a limb that is under tension be alert for spring back. When the tension in the wood fibres is released the spring loaded limb may strike the operator and/or throw the chain saw out of control.

Use extreme caution when cutting brush and saplings. The slender material may catch the saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance.

Carry the chain saw by the front handle with the chain saw switched off and away from your body. When transporting or storing the chain saw always fit the guide bar cover.

Proper handling of the chain saw will reduce the likelihood of accidental contact with the moving saw chain.

Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning and changing accessories.

Improperly tensioned or lubricated chain may either break or increase the chance for kickback.

Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Greasy, oily handles are slippery causing loss of control.

Cut wood only. Do not use chain saw for purposes not intended. For example: do not use chain saw for cutting plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials. Use of the chain saw for operations different than intended could result in a hazardous situation.

CAUSES AND OPERATOR PREVENTION­ OF KICKBACK

Kickback may occur when the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut.

Tip contact in some cases may cause a sudden reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and back towards the operator.

Pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly back towards the operator.

Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in serious personal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into your saw. As a chain saw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury.

Kickback is the result of tool misuse and/or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:

Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain saw handles, with both hands on the saw and position your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback forces. Kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions are taken. Do not let go of the chain saw.

5 - English

CHAIN SAW SAFETY WARNINGS

Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder height. This helps prevent unintended tip contact and enables better control of the chain saw in unexpected situations.

Only use replacement bars and chains specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement bars and chains may cause chain breakage and/or kickback.

Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain.

Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to increased kickback.

It is not recommended to cut over chest height.

Do not start cutting until you have a clear work area, secure footing, and a planned retreat path from the falling tree. Cluttered areas invite accidents.

Keep ALL children, bystanders, visitors, and animals out of the work area while starting or cutting with the chain saw. Do not let visitors contact chain saw or extension cord.

Do not operate chain saw in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust. Chain saws create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.

Dress Properly - Wear snug fitting clothing. Always wear heavy, long pants, long sleeves, overalls, jeans or chaps made of cut resistant material or ones that contain cut resistant inserts. Wear non-slip safety footwear. Wear non-slip heavy duty gloves to improve your grip and to protect your hands. Do not wear jewelry, short pants, sandals, or go barefoot. Do not wear loose fitting clothing, which could be drawn into the motor or catch the chain or underbrush. Secure hair so it is above shoulder level. Wear hearing and head protection.

Heavy protective clothing may increase operator fatigue, which could lead to heat stroke. During weather that is hot and humid, heavy work should be scheduled for early morning or late afternoon hours when temperatures are cooler.

Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1 as well as

hearing and head protection when operating this equipment.

Always be aware of what you are doing when using the chain saw. Use common sense. Do not operate the chain saw when you are tired, ill, upset, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.

Do not expose the chain saw to rain.

Do not use the chain saw in damp or wet locations.

Stay alert and pay attention to what you are doing. Use common sense when using this unit.

Keep all parts of your body away from the saw chain when the unit is running.

Never let anyone use your chain saw who has not received adequate instructions in its proper use. This applies to rentals as well as privately owned saws.

Before you start the unit, make sure the saw chain is not contacting any object.

Stop the chain saw before setting it down.

To avoid accidental starting, never carry the unit with your finger on the switch trigger.

Maintain the unit with care. Keep the cutting edge sharp and clean for best performance and to reduce the risk of injury. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.

Do not operate a chain saw with one hand! Use a firm grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain saw handles. Serious injury to the operator, helpers, bystanders, or any combination of these persons may result from one-handed operation. A chain saw is intended for two-handed use.

Guard against electric shock - Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces such as metal pipes and wire fences. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is grounded.

Do not operate a chain saw that is damaged, improperly adjusted, or not completely and securely assembled. Chain should slow to a stop when the switch trigger is released. If the chain continues to turn after the switch trigger has been released, have the unit serviced by an authorized service center.

6 - English

CHAIN SAW SAFETY WARNINGS

Check for damaged parts. 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 unless otherwise indicated elsewhere in this manual.

All chain saw service, other than the items listed in the operation and maintenance sections, should be performed by your an authorized service center.

Always maintain a proper stance.

Do not use chain saw if switch does not turn it on and off. Have defective switch replaced by an authorized service center.

Do not adapt your powerhead to a bow guide or use it to power any attachments or devices not listed for the saw.

Disconnect chain saw from power supply when not in use, before servicing, and when making adjustments and changing attachments, such as saw chain and guard.

Do not cut vines and/or small underbrush.

Do not operate a chain saw in a tree, on a ladder, rooftop, scaffold, or other unstable support; this is extremely dangerous.

NOTE: The size of the work area depends on the job being performed as well as the size tree or work piece involved. For example, felling a tree requires a larger work area than making bucking cuts.

Do not force the chain saw. The job can be performed better and safer at the rate for which it was intended.

Always use the right product for your application. The chain saw should be used for cutting wood only. Never use the chain saw to cut plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials.

Store chain saw when not charging or when not in use. Chain saw should be stored in a dry and high or locked area out of the reach of children. When storing chain saw place the scabbard on the bar and chain.

Use battery only with charger listed. For use with 18V nickel-cadmium and 18V lithium-ion battery packs, see tool/appliance/battery pack/ charger correlation supplement 987000-432.

nBattery operated units do not have to be plugged into an electrical outlet; therefore, they are always in operating condition. Be aware of possible hazards even when unit is not operating.

nRemove the battery pack from the chain saw when not charging and before cleaning, servicing, storing, removing material from the unit, changing accessories such as the bar and chain, or when not in use.

Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and use them to instruct others who may use this product. If you loan someone this product, loan them these instructions also.

7 - English

KICKBACK

ROTATIONAL

See Figures 1 - 3.

KICKBACK

nWARNING: Kickback may occur when the moving chain contacts an object at the upper portion of the tip of the guide bar or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Contact at the upper portion of the tip of the guide bar can cause the chain to dig into the object and stop the chain for an instant. The result is a lightning fast, reverse reaction

which kicks the guide bar up and back toward

Fig. 1

the operator. If the saw chain is pinched along

 

the top of the guide bar, the guide bar can be

 

driven rapidly back toward the operator. Either

KICKBACK

of these reactions can cause loss of saw control

DANGER ZONE

which can result in serious injury. Do not rely

 

exclusively upon the safety devices built into

 

the saw. As a chain saw user, you should take

 

several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from

 

accident or injury.

 

n The following precautions should be followed

 

to minimize kickback:

 

• Always grip the saw firmly with both hands.

Fig. 2

Hold the saw firmly with both hands when

the unit is running. Place your right hand on

 

the rear handle and your left hand on the

 

front handle with your thumbs and fingers

 

encircling the chain saw handles. A firm grip

 

together with a stiff left arm will help you

 

maintain control of the saw if kickback occurs.

PUSH

 

• Make sure that the area in which you are cutting is free from obstructions. Do not let the nose of the guide bar contact a log, branch,

fence, or any other obstruction that could be hit while you are operating the saw.

• Always cut with the unit running at full speed. Fully squeeze the throttle trigger and maintain

a steady cutting speed.

• Use replacement parts such as low kickback chain, chain brakes and special guide bars that reduce the risks associated with rotational­ kickback. Use only the replacement guide bars and low kickback chains specified by the manufacturer for the saw.

n With a basic understanding of kickback, you PULL

can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise.

Fig. 3

Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.

 

8 - English

 

CHAIN SAW SAFETY WARNINGS

nKeep proper footing and balance at all times.

nDo not cut above chest height or overreach when cutting.

nFollow the sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain.

nPush and Pull - This reaction force is always opposite to the direction the chain is moving where wood contact is made. Thus, the operator must be ready to control the PULL when cutting on the bottom edge of the bar, and PUSH when cutting along the top edge. See Figure 3.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR CHAIN SAW SAFETY DEVICES

LOW KICKBACK SAW CHAIN

The rakers (depth gauges) ahead of each cutter can minimize the force of a kickback reaction by preventing the cutters from digging in too deeply at the kickback zone. Only use replacement chain that is equivalent to original chain or has been certified as low kickback chain per ANSI B175.1.

Low kickback saw chain is chain that has met the kickback performance requirements of ANSI B175.1 (American National Standard for Power Tools - Gasoline-Powered Chain Saws-Safety Requirements) when tested on the representative sample of chain saws below 3.8 c.i.d. specified in ANSI B175.1.

As saw chains are sharpened during their useful life, they lose some of the low kickback qualities and extra caution should be used.

GUIDE BARS

Generally, guide bars with small radius tips have somewhat lower kickback potentials.

When making a replacement, be sure to order one of the bars listed for the saw in this operator’s manual.

9 - English

SYMBOLS

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

SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING

DANGER:

Indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will result

in death or serious injury.

 

 

 

WARNING:

Indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could

result in death or serious injury.

 

 

 

CAUTION:

Indicates a hazardous situation, that, if not avoided, may result

in minor or moderate injury.

 

 

 

NOTICE:

(Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates information considered

important, but not related to a potential injury (e.g. messages

 

relating to property damage).

Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the product better and safer.

SYMBOL

NAME

DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION

 

Safety Alert

Indicates a potential personal injury hazard.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read Operator’s Manual

understand operator’s manual before using this

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

product.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eye, Hearing, and Head

Always wear eye protection with side shields marked

 

 

 

 

 

 

to comply with ANSI Z87.1, along with hearing and

 

 

 

 

 

 

Protection

 

 

 

 

 

 

head protection when operating this equipment.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wet Conditions Alert

Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operate With Two Hands

Hold and operate the saw properly with both hands.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

One Handed

Do not operate the saw using only one hand.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chain Rotation

Indicates direction of moving chain.

10 - English

SYMBOLS

Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the product better and safer.

SYMBOL

NAME

DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION

 

Kickback

DANGER! BEWARE OF KICKBACK.

 

Bar Nose Contact

Avoid bar nose contact.

 

Wear Gloves

Wear non-slip, heavy-duty protective gloves when

 

handling the chain saw.

 

 

 

Wear Safety Footwear

Wear non-slip safety footwear when using this

 

equipment.

 

 

 

Keep Tool Away from

DANGER! Risk of electrocution! Keep tool 50 feet

 

away from electrical lines. Keep all bystanders at

 

Electrical Lines/Keep

 

least 50 ft. away or twice the height of the largest

 

Bystanders Away

 

trees in the felling area when felling.

 

 

 

 

This product uses lithium-ion or nickel-cadmium

 

 

batteries. Local, state or federal laws may prohibit

 

Recycle Symbols

disposal of batteries in ordinary trash. Consult

 

 

your local waste authority for information regarding­

 

 

available recycling and/or disposal options.

V

Volts

Voltage

 

Direct Current

Type or a characteristic of current

11 - English

GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Bucking

The process of cross cutting a felled tree or log into lengths.

Chain Saw Powerhead

A chain saw without the saw chain and guide bar.

Drive Sprocket or Sprocket

The toothed part that drives the saw chain.

Felling

The process of cutting down a tree.

Felling Back Cut

The final cut in a tree felling operation made on the opposite side of the tree from the notching undercut.

Front Hand Guard

A structural barrier between the front handle of a chain saw and the guide bar, typically located close to the hand position on the front handle.

Front Handle

The support handle located at or toward the front of the chain saw. This handle is for the left hand.

Guide Bar

A solid railed structure that supports and guides the saw chain.

Kickback

The backward or upward motion, or both, of the guide bar occurring when the saw chain near the nose of the top area of the guide bar contacts any object such as a log or branch, or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut.

Kickback (Pinch)

The rapid pushback of the saw which can occur when the wood closes in and pinches the moving saw chain in the cut along the top of the guide bar.

Kickback (Rotational)

The rapid upward and backward motion of the saw which can occur when the moving saw chain near the upper portion of the tip of the guide bar contacts an object, such as a log or branch.

Lock-out Button

A movable stop that prevents the unintentional operation of the switch until manually actuated.

Low-Kickback Chain

A chain that complies with the kickback performance requirements of ANSI B175.1 when tested on a representative sample of chain saws.

Normal Cutting Position

Thosepositionsassumedinperformingthebucking and felling cuts.

Notching Undercut

A notch cut in a tree that directs the tree’s fall.

Rear Handle

The support handle located at or toward the rear of the saw. It normally contains the throttle. This handle is for the right hand.

Reduced Kickback Guide Bar

A guide bar which has been demonstrated to reduce kickback significantly.

Replacement Saw Chain

A chain that complies with the kickback performance requirements of ANSI B175.1 when tested with specific chain saws. It may not meet the ANSI performance requirements when used with other saws.

Saw Chain

A loop of chain having cutting teeth that cut the wood, and that is driven by the motor and is supported by the guide bar.

Spiked Bumper (Spike)

The pointed tooth or teeth for use when felling or bucking to pivot the saw and maintain position while sawing.

Springpole

A small tree (sapling) or limb that is bent or trapped under tension. It may “spring back” rapidly when cut, causing a dangerous situation.

Switch Trigger

A device that when operated will complete or interrupt an electrical power circuit to the motor of the chain saw.

12 - English

 

FEATURES

 

 

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

 

Motor.......................................................................................................................................

18 Volt DC

Bar Length.......................................................................................................................................

12 in.

Chain oil tank capacity...................................................................................................................

6.8 oz.

NOTE: This saw was designed for occasional light duty use and has some limitations as to what it can cut.

 

BATTERY

FRONT HAND

PORT

GUARD

 

CHAIN

SWITCH

TRIGGER

CHAIN OIL

TANK CAP

FRONT HANDLE

LOCK-OUT

BUTTON

SCABBARD

REAR HANDLE

 

GUIDE

 

BAR

 

CHAIN COVER

 

LOCK KNOB

CHAIN TENSION

 

ADJUSTMENT RING

Fig. 4

 

13 - English

FEATURES

KNOW YOUR CHAIN SAW

See Figure 4.

The safe use of this product requires an understandingoftheinformationontheproductand in this operator’s manual as well as a knowledge of the project you are attempting. Before use of this product, familiarize yourself with all operating features and safety rules.

CHAIN TENSION ADJUSTMENT RING

This feature allows user to adjust the tension of the chain.

GUIDE BAR

The factory-equipped guide bar has a small radius tip that offers a somewhat lower kickback potential.

LOCK-OUT BUTTON

A control feature designed to prevent the motor from being accidently started.

LOW KICKBACK SAW CHAIN

The low kickback saw chain helps minimize the force of a kickback reaction by preventing the cutters from digging in too deeply at the kickback zone.

SWITCH TRIGGER

Squeeze the switch trigger to operate the unit after lock-out button has been pushed in. Release the switch trigger to stop the unit.

14 - English

ASSEMBLY

UNPACKING

This product has been shipped completely assembled.

Carefully remove the product and any accessories from the box. Make sure that all items listed in the packing list are included.

WARNING:

If any parts are damaged or missing do not operate this product until the parts are replaced. Use of this product with damaged or missing parts could result in serious personal injury.

WARNING:

Do not use this product if it is not completely assembled or if any parts appear to be missing or damaged. Use of a product that is not properly and completely assembled could result in serious personal injury.

Inspect the product carefully to make sure no breakage or damage occurred during shipping.

Do not discard the packing material until you have carefully inspected and satisfactorily operated the product.

If any parts are damaged or missing, please call 1-800-860-4050 for assistance.

WARNING:

Do not attempt to modify this product or create accessories not recommended for use with this product. 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 product when assembling parts.

PACKING LIST

Chain Saw with Scabbard

Operator’s Manual

OPERATION

DANGER:

Never cut near power lines, electric cords, or other electric sources. If bar and chain jams on any electrical cord or line, DO NOT TOUCH THE BAR OR CHAIN! THEY CAN BECOME ELECTRICALLY LIVE AND VERY DANGEROUS. Continue to hold the chain saw by the insulated rear handle or lay it down and away from you in a safe manner. Disconnect the electrical service to the damaged line or cord before attempting to free the bar and chain from the line or cord. Contact with the bar, chain, other conductive parts of the chain saw, or live electric cords or lines will result in death by electrocution, electric shock, or serious personal injury.

WARNING:

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

WARNING:

Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1, along with hearing and head protection. Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into your eyes resulting in possible serious injury.

15 - English

OPERATION

WARNING:

Do not use any attachments or accessories not recommended by the manufacturer of this product. The use of attachments or accessories not recommended can result in serious personal injury.

WARNING:

Never fell a tree or cut a log or limb that has a diameter greater that the length of the guide bar. Only properly trained professionals should perform these cuts. Performing these types of cuts can cause an accident and result in death or serious personal injury.

NOTICE:

Before each use, inspect the entire product for damaged, missing, or loose parts such as screws, nuts, bolts, caps, etc. Tighten securely all fasteners and caps and do not operate this product until all missing or damaged parts are replaced. Please contact customer service or an authorized service center for assistance.

APPLICATIONS

Youmayusethisproductforthefollowingpurposes:

Limbing and pruning branches from trees

Felling small trees

Bucking the fallen tree into shorter lengths

This product will accept RYOBIONE+18 V lithium-ion battery packs and RYOBIONE+18 V nickel-cadmium battery packs.

For complete charging instructions, refer to the Operator’s Manual for your RYOBIONE+battery pack and charger models.

TO INSTALL/REMOVE BATTERY PACK

See Figure 5.

WARNING:

Always remove battery pack from your tool when you are assembling parts, making adjustments, cleaning, carrying, transporting or when not in use. Removing battery pack will prevent accidental starting that could cause serious personal injury.

NOTE: To avoid serious personal injury, always remove the battery pack and keep hands clear of the look-out button when carrying or transporting the tool.

To install:

Place the battery pack in your chain saw. Align raised rib on battery pack with groove in chain saw’s battery port.

Make sure the latches on each side of the battery pack snap in place and that battery pack is secured in chain saw before beginning operation.

To remove:

Locate latches on side of battery pack and depress both sides to release the battery pack from the chain saw.

BATTERY

PORT

LATCH

LATCH

 

BATTERY

Fig. 5

PACK

16 - English

OPERATION

NOTICE:

When placing battery pack in your chain saw, be sure raised rib on battery pack aligns with groove in chain saw’s battery port and latches snap in place properly. Improper assembly of battery pack can cause damage to internal components.

CHAIN LUBRICATION SYSTEM

See Figure 6.

NOTICE:

Remove battery pack from unit. Fill oil tank with Ryobi Bar and Chain Lubricant before starting the chain saw. Failure to lubricate the chain will cause damage to the bar and chain.

Use RYOBI Bar and Chain Lubricant. It is formulated to perform over a wide temperature range with no dilution required.

NOTE: Do not use dirty, used or otherwise contaminated lubricants. Damage may occur to the bar or chain.

Turn saw on its side and remove chain oil tank cap.

Carefully pour the bar and chain lubricant into the tank.

Wipe off excess lubricant.

Check and fill the oil tank when battery is recharged, or as needed.

NOTE: It is normal for lubricant to seep from the saw when not in use. To prevent seepage, empty the oil tank after each use. When storing the unit for a long period of time (three months or longer) be sure the chain is lightly lubricated; this will prevent rust on the chain and bar sprocket.

NOTICE:

Before each use, check to make sure that the chain is properly tensioned. A cold chain is correctly tensioned when there is no slack on the underside of the guide bar, the chain is snug, and it can be turned by hand without binding. During normal saw operation, the temperature of the chain increases. The drive links of a correctly tensioned warm chain will hang approximately .050 in. out of the bar groove.

See the Adjusting the Chain Tension instructions in the Maintenance section of this manual to properly adjust the chain tension.

CHAIN OIL

TANK CAP

Fig. 6

17 - English

OPERATION

STARTING AND STOPPING THE CHAIN

SAW

See Figure 7.

WARNING:

Keep body to the left of the chain line. Never straddle the saw or chain, or lean over past the chain line.

Starting the chain saw:

Press and hold the lock-out button. This makes the switch trigger operational.

Press and hold the switch trigger, release the lock-out button and continue to squeeze the switch trigger for continued operation.

Stopping the chain saw:

Release the switch trigger to stop the chain saw.

Upon release of the switch trigger, the lock-out button will be automatically reset to the lock position.

This cordless chain saw is designed for limbing and pruning type cutting, as well as cutting trees up to 10 in. in diameter only.

1

2

LOCK-OUT

 

BUTTON

SWITCH

TRIGGER

2

1

LOCK-OUT

 

BUTTON

SWITCH

TRIGGER

Fig. 7

18 - English

OPERATION

PREPARATION FOR CUTTING

PROPER GRIP ON HANDLES

See Figures 8 - 10.

Refer to Chain Saw Safety Warnings earlier in this manual for appropriate safety equipment.

Wear non-slip gloves for maximum grip and protection.

Hold the saw firmly with both hands. Always keep your left hand on the front handle and your right hand on the rear handle so that your body is to the left of the chain line.

WARNING:

Fig. 8

Never use a left-handed (cross-handed) grip, or any stance which would place your body or arm across the chain line.

Maintain a proper grip on the saw whenever the unit is running. The fingers should encircle the handle and the thumb is wrapped under the handlebar. This grip is least likely to be broken (by a kickback or other sudden reaction of the saw). Any grip in which the thumb and fingers are on the same side of the handle, is dangerous because a slight kick of the saw can cause loss of control.

Fig. 9

WARNING:

Do not operate the switch trigger with your left hand and hold the front handle with your right hand. Never allow any part of your body to be in the chain line while operating a saw. Improper operation of the chain saw could result in serious personal injury.

CHAIN LINE

Fig. 10

19 - English

OPERATION

PROPER CUTTING STANCE

See Figure 11 - 12.

WARNING:

Alway use the proper cutting stance described in this section. Never kneel when using the chain saw except when felling a tree as shown in figure 12. Kneeling could result in loss of stability and control of the saw resulting in serious personal injury.

Weight should be balanced with both feet on solid ground.

Keep left arm with elbow locked in a “straight arm” position to withstand any kickback force.

Your body should always be to the left of the chain line.

Thumb should be on underside of handlebar.

BASIC CUTTING PROCEDURE

Practice cutting a few small logs using the following technique to get the “feel” of using the saw before you begin a major sawing operation.

Take the proper stance in front of the wood with the saw off.

Squeeze the switch trigger and let the chain accelerate to full speed before entering the cut.

Begin cutting with the saw against the log.

Keep the unit running the entire time you are cutting, maintain a steady speed.

Allow the chain to cut for you; exert only light downward pressure. If you force the cut, damage to the bar, chain, or unit can result.

Release the switch trigger as soon as the cut is completed, allowing the chain to stop. If you run the saw without a cutting load, unnecessary wear can occur to the chain, bar, and unit.

Do not put pressure on the saw at the end of cut.

WORK AREA PRECAUTIONS

Cut only wood or materials made from wood, no sheet metal, no plastics, no masonry, no non-wood building materials.

Never allow children to operate the saw. Allow no person to use this chain saw who has not read this Operator’s Manual or received ade-

CHAIN LINE

STRAIGHT ARM

POSITION

Fig. 11

Fig. 12

quate instructions for the safe and proper use of this chain saw.

When felling a tree, keep everyone - helpers, bystanders, children, and animals - a safe distance from the cutting area. During felling operations, the safe distance should be a least twice the height of the largest trees in the felling area. During bucking opetations, keep a minimum distance of 15 feet between workers. Trees should not be felled in a manner that would endanger any person, strike any utility line or cause any property damage. If the tree does make contact with any utility line, the utility company should be notified immediately.

Always cut with both feet on solid ground to prevent being pulled off balance.

Do not cut above chest height, as a saw held higher is difficult to control against kickback forces.

20 - English

Do not fell trees near electrical wires or buildings. Leave this operation for professionals.
Cut only when visibility and light are adequate for you to see clearly.
FELLING TREES
See Figures 13 - 16.
HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS
  WARNING:
Do not fell trees during periods of high wind or heavy precipitation­ . Wait until the hazardous weather has ended.
  WARNING:
Closely check for broken or dead branches, which could fall while cutting and do not cut near buildings or electrical wires if you do not know the direction of tree fall. Do not cut at night or during bad weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or strong winds, which can reduce visibility and control of the chain saw. If the tree you are felling makes contact with any utility line, you should discontinue use of the chain saw and immediately notify the utility company. Failure to follow these instructions could result in death or serious personal injury.
When felling a tree, it is important that you follow these warnings and instructions to prevent possible serious injury.
n Do not cut down trees having an extreme lean or large trees with rotten limbs, loose bark, or hollow trunks. Have these trees pushed or dragged down with heavy equipment, then cut them up.
n Do not cut trees near electrical wires or buildings.
n Check the tree for damaged or dead branches that could fall and hit you during felling.
n Periodically glance at the top of the tree during the backcut to assure the tree is going to fall in the desired direction.
n If the tree starts to fall in the wrong direction, or if the saw gets caught or hung up during the fall, leave the saw and save yourself!

OPERATION

 

RETREAT

PATH

 

 

 

45°

PLANNED LINE

 

 

OF FALL

45°

 

RETREAT

 

 

PATH

Fig. 13

Felling a tree - When bucking and felling operations are being performed by two or more persons, at the same time, the felling operation should be separated from the bucking operation by a distance of at least twice the height of the tree being felled. Trees should not be felled in a manner that would endanger any person, strike any utility line or cause any property damage. If the tree does make contact with any utility line, the utility company should be notified immediately.

Before any cuts are started, pick your escape route (or routes in case the intended route is blocked); clear the immediate area around the tree and make sure there are no obstructions in your planned path of retreat. Clear paths of safe retreat should extend back and diagonally (45°) to the rear of the planned line of fall. When the tree begins to fall, you should retreat away from the direction of fall along a retreat path and at least 20 feet away from the trunk in case it kicks back over the stump. See Figure 13.

Before felling is started, consider the force and direction of the wind, the lean and balance of the tree, and the location of large limbs. These things influence the direction in which the tree

21 - English

OPERATION

will fall. Do not try to fell a tree along a line different from its natural line of fall.

The chain saw operator should keep on the uphill side of the terrain as the tree is likely to roll or slide downhill after it is felled.

Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples, and wire from the tree where felling cuts are to be made.

Notched Undercut. Cut a notch about 1/3 the diameter of the tree, perpendicular to the direction of fall. Make the cuts of the notch so they intersect at a right angle to the line of fall. This notch should be cleaned out to leave a straight line. To keep the weight of the wood off the saw, always make the lower cut of the notch before the upper cut. See Figure 14.

Felling Backcut. The backcut is always made level and horizontal, and at a minimum of 2 in. above the horizontal cut of the notch. See Figures 14 - 15.

Never cut through to the notch. Always leave a band of wood between the notch and backcut (approximately 2 in. or 1/10 the diameter of the tree). This is called “hinge” or “hingewood.” It controls the fall of the tree and prevents slipping or twisting or shoot-back of the tree off the stump. See Figures 14 - 15.

On large diameter trees, stop the back cut before it is deep enough for the tree to either fall or settle back on the stump. Then insert soft wooden or plastic wedges into the cut so they do not touch the chain. The wedges can be driven in, little by little, to help jack the tree over. See Figure 16.

As tree starts to fall, stop the chain saw and put it down immediately. Retreat along the cleared path, but watch the action in case something falls your way. Be alert for overhead limbs or branches that may fall and watch your footing.

  WARNING:

Never cut through to the notch when making a backcut. The hinge controls the fall of the tree, this is the section of wood between the notch and backcut.

HINGE

2 in. OR 1/10 DIA

NOTCH -

APPROX. 1/3

DIAMETER OF

TRUNK

BACK CUT

2 in.

Fig. 14

NOTCH

BACK CUT

HINGE

Fig. 15

 

WEDGE

Fig. 16

22 - English

OPERATION

REMOVING BUTTRESS ROOTS

See Figure 17.

A buttress root is a large root extending from the trunk of the tree above the ground. Remove large buttress roots prior to felling. Make the horizontal cut into the buttress first, followed by the vertical cut. Remove the resulting loose section from the work area. Follow the correct tree felling procedure as stated in Felling Trees after you have removed the large buttress roots.

BUCKING

See Figures 18 - 21.

Bucking is the term used for cutting a fallen tree to the desired log length.

Always make sure your footing is secure and your weight is distributed evenly on both feet.

Cut only one log at a time.

Support small logs on a saw horse or another log while bucking.

Keep a clear cutting area. Make sure that no objects can contact the guide bar nose and chain during cutting, this can cause kickback. Refer to Kickback earlier in this manual.

n When bucking on a slope, always stand on the uphill side of the log. To maintain complete control of the chain saw when cutting through the log, release the cutting pressure near the end of the cut without relaxing your grip on the chain saw handles. Do not let the chain contact the ground. After completing the cut, wait for the saw chain to stop before you move the chain saw. Always stop the motor before moving from tree to tree.

nSometimes it is impossible to avoid pinching (with just standard cutting techniques) or difficult to predict which way a log will settle when cut. To avoid pinching while cutting, rotate or move the log so that the pinch is eliminated.

VERTICAL

CUT

LOOSE

SECTION

HORIZONTAL CUT

Fig. 17

KICKBACK

Fig. 18

Fig. 19

23 - English

OPERATION

BUCKING LOGS UNDER STRESS

See Figures 20 - 21.

When the log is supported along its entire length, it should be cut from the top or overbucking.

When the log is supported on one end, cut 1/3 the diameter from the underside or underbucking. Then make the finishing cut by overbucking to meet the first cut.

As the log is being cut, it will tend to bend. The saw can become pinched or hung in the log if you make thefirstcutdeeperthan1/3ofthediameterofthelog.

Give special attention to logs under stress to prevent the bar and chain from pinching.

When bucking on a slope, always stand on the uphill side of the log as shown in figure 19. When “cutting through,” to maintain complete control of the chain saw, release the cutting pressure near the end of the cut without relaxing your grip on the chain saw handles. Do not let the chain contact the ground. After completing the cut, wait for the saw chain to stop before you move the chain saw. Always stop the motor before moving from tree to tree.

LOG SUPPORTED AT ONE END:

LOAD

FINISHING CUT

1ST CUT 1/3 DIA

LOG SUPPORTED AT BOTH ENDS: LOAD

1ST CUT 1/3 DIA

FINISHING CUT

Fig. 20

OVERBUCKING

 

TYPES OF CUTTING USED

See Figure 21.

OVERBUCKING

Begin on the top side of the log with the bottom of the saw against the log; exert light pressure downward. Note that the saw will tend to pull away from you.

UNDERBUCKING

Begin on the under side of the log with the top of the saw against the log; exert light pressure upward. During underbucking, the saw will tend to push back at you. Be prepared for this reaction and hold the saw firmly to maintain control.

LIMBING

See Figure 22.

WARNING:

Never climb into a tree to limb or prune. Do not stand on ladders, platforms, a log, or in any position which can cause you to lose your balance or control of the saw, which could result in death or other serious personal injury.

24 - English

UNDERBUCKING

Fig. 21

OPERATION

Limbing is removing branches from a fallen tree.

Work slowly, keeping both hands on the chain saw with a firm grip. Always make sure your footing is secure and your weight is distributed evenly on both feet.

Leave the larger support limbs under the tree to keep the tree off the ground while cutting.

Limbs should be cut one at a time. Remove the cut limbs from the work area often to help keep the work area clean and safe.

Branches under tension should be cut from the bottom up to avoid binding the chain saw.

Keep the tree between you and the chain saw while limbing. Cut from the side of the tree opposite the branch you are cutting.

PRUNING

See Figure 23.

Pruning is trimming limbs from a live tree.

Work slowly, keeping both hands on the chain saw with a firm grip. Always make sure your footing is secure and your weight is distributed evenly on both feet.

Do not cut from a ladder, this is extremely dangerous. Leave this operation for professionals.

Do not cut above chest height as a saw held higher is difficult to control against kickback.

When pruning trees it is important not to make the finishing cut next to the main limb or trunk until you have cut off the limb further out to reduce the weight. This prevents stripping the bark from the main member.

Underbuck the branch 1/3 through for your first cut.

Your second cut should overbuck to drop the branch off.

Now make your finishing cut smoothly and neatly against the main member so the bark will grow back to seal the wound.

WARNING:

If the limbs to be pruned are above chest height, hire a professional to perform the pruning. Failure to do so could result in death or serious personal injury.

CUT LIMBS ONE AT A TIME AND LEAVE SUPPORT LIMBS

 

UNDER TREE UNTIL LOG IS CUT

Fig. 22

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LOAD

SECOND CUT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FIRST CUT

1/3 DIAMETER

FINISHING CUT

Fig. 23

SPRINGPOLE

Fig. 24

SPRINGPOLES

See Figure 24.

A springpole is any log, branch, rooted stump, or sapling which is bent under tension by other wood so that it springs back if the wood holding it is cut or removed. On a fallen tree, a rooted stump has a high potential of springing back to the upright position during the bucking cut to separate the log from the stump. Watch out for springpoles, they are dangerous.

WARNING:

Springpoles are dangerous and could strike the operator, causing the operator to lose control of the chain saw. This could result in severe or fatal injury to the operator.

25 - English

MAINTENANCE

WARNING:

To avoid serious personal injury, always remove the battery pack from the product when cleaning or performing any maintenance.

WARNING:

Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1, along with hearing and head protection. Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into your eyes resulting in possible serious injury.

WARNING:

When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. Use of any other parts could create a hazard or cause product damage.

NOTICE:

Periodically inspect the entire product for damaged, missing, or loose parts such as screws, nuts, bolts, caps, etc. Tighten securely all fasteners and caps and do not operate this product until all missing or damaged parts are replaced. Please contact customer service or an authorized service center for assistance.

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 could result in serious personal injury.

REPLACING BAR AND CHAIN

See Figures 25 - 33.

WARNING:

Remove the battery pack from the chain saw and make sure the chain has stopped before you do any work on the saw. Failure to do so may result in accidental starting and possible serious injury.

WARNING:

To avoid serious personal injury, read and understand all the safety instructions in this section.

WARNING:

Never touch or adjust the chain while the motor is running. The saw chain is very sharp; always wear protective gloves when performing maintenance to the chain to avoid possible serious lacerations.

CAUTION:

Always wear gloves when handling the bar and chain; these components are sharp and may contain burrs.

26 - English

MAINTENANCE

Remove the battery pack before you do any work on the chain saw.

Rotate the chain cover lock knob counterclockwise until chain cover can be removed.

Remove the chain cover.

Rotate the chain tension assembly completely counterclockwise.

Remove the bar and chain from mounting surface.

Remove the old chain from the bar.

Remove the screw and chain tension assembly from the old bar.

Install the chain tension assembly on the new bar by inserting the tab into one bar hole and installing the screw through the other. Tighten securely.

Lay out the new saw chain in a loop and straighten any kinks. The cutters should face in the direction of chain rotation. If they face the opposite direction, turn the loop over.

Place the chain drive links into the bar groove as shown.

NOTE: Make certain of direction of chain.

Position the chain so there is a loop at the back of the bar.

CHAIN TENSION

CHAIN COVER

ADJUSTMENT RING

LOCK KNOB

 

Fig. 25

TAB

SCREW

CHAIN

TENSION ASSEMBLY

BAR

Fig. 27

BAR

CHAIN TENSION

CUTTERS CHAIN ROTATION

MOUNTS

 

ASSEMBLY

CHAIN

BAR CHAIN DRIVE LINKS

CHAIN

COVER CHAIN COVER

LOCK KNOB

CHAIN TENSION

 

 

ADJUSTMENT

 

 

RING

Fig. 26

Fig. 28

27 - English

Ryobi P548 User Manual

MAINTENANCE

Hold the chain in position on the bar and place the loop around the sprocket.

Fit the bar flush against the mounting surface so that the bar mounts are in the long slot of the bar.

Rotate the chain tension assembly clockwise a few turns to take up enough slack in the chain so it stays in position.

Replace the chain cover.

Rotate chain cover lock knob clockwise to tighten. The bar should still be free to move for tension adjustment.

Remove all slack from the chain by turning the chain tension adjustment ring clockwise until the chain seats snugly against the bar with the drive links in the bar groove.

Lift the tip of the guide bar up to check for sag.

Release the tip of the guide bar and turn the chain tensioning knob 1/2 turn clockwise. Repeat this process until sag does not exist.

Hold the tip of the guide bar up and tighten the chain cover lock knob.

The chain is correctly tensioned when there is no sag on the underside of the guide bar, the chain is snug, but it can be turned by hand without binding. NOTE: If chain is too tight, it will not rotate. Loosen the chain cover lock knob slightly and turn the chain tension adjustment ring 1/4 turn counterclockwise. Lift the tip of the guide bar up and retighten the chain cover lock knob. Ensure that the chain will rotate without binding.

BAR GROOVE

 

 

CHAIN TENSION

CHAIN COVER

CHAIN DRIVE LINKS

Fig. 29

ADJUSTMENT RING

LOCK KNOB Fig. 31

 

 

CHAIN TENSION

ASSEMBLY

Fig. 32

SPROCKET

Fig. 30

Fig. 33

 

 

28 - English

 

MAINTENANCE

ADJUSTING THE CHAIN TENSION

See Figures 34 - 35.

WARNING:

Stop the motor and remove the battery pack. Never touch or adjust the chain while the motor is running. The saw chain is very sharp. Always wear protective gloves when performing maintenance on the chain. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury.

Stop the motor and remove battery pack before setting the chain tension.

Slightly loosen the chain cover lock knob.

Turn the chain tension adjustment ring clockwise to tension the chain.

NOTE: A cold chain is correctly tensioned when there is no slack on the underside of the guide bar, the chain is snug, and it can be turned by hand without binding.

Rotate the chain cover lock knob clockwise to secure.

Retension the chain whenever the flats on the drive links hang out of the bar groove.

NOTE: During normal saw operation, the temperature of the chain increases. The drive links of a correctly tensioned warm chain will hang approximately .050 in. out of the bar groove.

NOTE: New chains tend to stretch; check the chain tension frequently and tension as required.

NOTICE:

A chain tensioned while warm may be too tight upon cooling. Check the “cold tension” before next use.

CHAIN MAINTENANCE

See Figures 36 - 37.

WARNING:

Remove the battery pack and make sure the chain has stopped before you do any work on the saw to avoid accidental starting and possible serious personal injury.

Use only low-kickback chain on this saw. This fast-cutting chain will provide kickback reduction when properly maintained.

For smooth and fast cutting, chain needs to be maintained properly.

Thechainrequiressharpeningwhenthewoodchips are small and powdery, the chain must be forced through the wood during cutting, or the chain cuts to one side. During maintenance of your chain, consider the following:

Improper filing angle of the side plate can increase the risk of a severe kickback.

Raker (depth gauge) clearance.

•  Too low increases the potential for kickback. •  Not low enough decreases cutting ability.

If cutter teeth have hit hard objects such as nails and stones, or have been abraded by mud or sand on the wood, have service dealer sharpen chain.

FLATS ON DRIVE LINKS

Fig. 34

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

.050 in.

 

 

 

 

 

Fig. 35

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RAKER (DEPTH GAUGE) CLEARANCE

 

.025 in.

Fig. 36

29 - English

MAINTENANCE

NOTE: Inspect the drive sprocket for wear or damage when replacing the chain. If signs of wear or damage are present in the areas indicated, have the drive sprocket replaced by a Ryobi Service dealer.

HOW TO SHARPEN THE CUTTERS

See Figures 38 - 40.

NOTE:  If you do not fully understand the correct procedure for sharpening the chain after reading the instructions that follow, have the saw chain sharpened by a Ryobi Service dealer or replace with a recommended low-kickback chain.

Be careful to file all cutters to the specified angles and to the same length, as fast cutting can be obtained only when all cutters are uniform.

WARNING:

The saw chain is very sharp, always wear protective gloves when performing maintenance to the chain to prevent serious personal injury.

Properly tension the chain prior to sharpening. Refer to Adjusting the chain tension section earlier in this manual. Do all of your filing at the mid-point of the bar.

Use a 5/32 in. diameter round file and holder.

Keep the file level with the top plate of the tooth. Do not let the file dip or rock.

Using light but firm pressure, stroke towards the front corner of the tooth.

Lift file away from the steel on each return stroke.

Put a few firm strokes on every tooth. File all left hand cutters in one direction. Then move to the other side and file the right hand cutters in the opposite direction. Occasionally remove filings from the file with a wire brush.

WARNING:

Improper chain sharpening increases the potential of kickback, which can result in serious personal injury.

WARNING:

Failure to replace or repair damaged chain can cause serious injury.

INSPECT DRIVE

SPROCKET

Fig. 37

TOP PLATE

 

CUTTING CORNER

 

 

SIDE PLATE

RIVET HOLE

 

DEPTH GAUGE

 

 

HEEL

 

TOE

 

GULLET

 

Fig. 38

 

 

Fig. 39

LEFT HAND

CUTTERS

RIGHT HAND

CUTTERS

Fig. 40

30 - English

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