RYOBI RFT254 User Manual

RFT254

WHEELED TRIMMER USER’S MANUAL 3

COUPE BORDURES THERMIQUE À ROUES MANUEL D’UTILISATION

Important! It is essential that you read the instructions in this manual before mounting and operating

this machine.

EN Injuries may be caused, or aggravated, by prolonged use of a tool. When using any tool for prolonged periods, ensure you take regular

breaks.

FR L’utilisation prolongée d’un outil est susceptible de provoquer ou d’aggraver des blessures. Assurez-vous de faire des pauses de façon

régulière lorsque vous utilisez tout outil de façon prolongée.

Subject to technical modications / Sous réserve de modications techniques

English(Original instructions)

Your product has been engineered and manufactured to Ryobi’s high standard for dependability, ease of operation, and operator safety. Properly cared for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free performance.

WARNING

To avoid serious personal injury, do not attempt to use this product until you read thoroughly and understand completely the operator’s manual. Failure to comply may result in accidents involving electric shock, fire,

and/or serious personal injury. Save this operator’s

manual and review frequently for continuing safe operation and instructing others who may use this product.

WARNING

The product is not designed for use with any other Ryobi or similar type attachment. Only use the Pro Cut attachment supplied with this engine. Using other attachments will void your warranty.

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

■ Do not allow children or untrained individuals to use this product. Local regulations may restrict the age of the operator.

■ Never start or run the engine inside a closed or poorly ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill.

■ Clear the work area before each use. Remove all objects, such as rocks, broken glass, nails, wire that can lead to accidents.

■ Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with standards, along with hearing protection. Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into your eyes and other possible serious injuries.

■ Wear head and eye protection to prevent injury from falling debris.

■ Wear heavy, long trousers, boots and gloves. Do not wear loose fitting clothing, shorts, jewellery of any kind, or go barefoot.

■ Secure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent entanglement in any moving parts.

■ Keep all bystanders, children, and pets at least 15 m away. Stop the product if anyone enters the area.

■ Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.

■ Do not operate in poor lighting.

■ Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach. Overreaching can result in loss of balance or exposure

to hot surfaces.

■ Keep all parts of your body away from any moving part.

■ Do not touch area around the exhaust, silencer or engine of the unit; these parts get hot during operation.

■ Always stop the engine and remove the spark plug wire before refuelling, cleaning, maintenance or storage.

■ Inspect the unit before each use and after any impact for loose fasteners, fuel leaks, etc.

■ Replace any damaged parts before use.

■ Check for and tighten any loose parts.

■ Mix and store fuel in a container approved for fuel.

■ Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames. Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m away from refuelling site before starting engine.

■ Stop the engine and allow to cool before refuelling or storing the unit.

■ Remove all debris from the work area before operating.

■ Allow the engine to cool; empty the fuel tank and secure the unit from moving before transporting in a vehicle.

■ Wear your protective equipment and observe all safety instructions. For units equipped with a clutch, be sure the cutting attachment stops turning when the engine idles. When the unit is turned off make sure the cutting attachment has stopped before the unit is set down.

■ 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.

WARNING

Inspection after dropping or other impacts: Thoroughly inspect the product and identify any affections or damage with it. Any part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorised service centre.

WHEELED TRIMMER SAFETY RULES

■ Replace string head if cracked, chipped, or damaged in any way. Make sure the trimmer head is properly installed and securely fastened. Failure to do so can cause serious injury.

■ Make sure all guards, deflectors and handles are properly and securely attached.

■ Use only original manufacturer’s replacement parts, accessories and attachments.

English(Original instructions)

■ Never operate the product without the safety guard in place and in good condition.

■ Never use blades, flailing devices, wire, or rope. Use only the manufacturer’s replacement line in the cutting head. Do not use any other cutting attachment. To install any other type or brand of cutting head to this wheeled trimmer can result in serious personal injury.

■ Walk, never run.

■ Never operate product without the safety guard and covers in place and in good condition.

■ Use the product across the face of slopes, never up and down. Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes.

■ Do not use the product near drop-offs, ditches, excessively steep slopes, or embankments. Poor footing could cause a slip and fall accident.

■ Do not operate the product in wet grass or in the rain.

■ Check all nuts, bolts, and screws at frequent intervals for proper tightness to be sure the equipment is in safe working condition.

■ Replace worn or damaged parts BEFORE operating the product.

■ Do not force the machine. It will do the job better and safer at the speed for which it was designed.

■ Do not pull the product backward unless absolutely necessary. If you must back the product away from a wall or obstruction, first look down and behind to avoid tripping or pulling the product over your feet.

■ Stop the cutting means if the trimmer has to be tilted for transportation when crossing surfaces other than grass, and when transporting the product to and from the working area.

■ Do not tilt the trimmer whilst the engine is running.

■ Start the engine carefully and keep hands and feet away from cutting area.

■ Never pick up or carry the product while it is running.

■ Stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug, and make sure that all moving parts have come to a complete stop for below cases:

● Whenever you leave the product unattended.

● Before cleaning a blockage.

● Before checking, cleaning or working on the product.

● After striking a foreign object, inspect the product for damage and make repairs as necessary before restarting and operating the machine.

● If the machine starts to vibrate abnormally or the operating noise increase (check immediately), inspect the product for damage and make repairs as necessary before restarting and operating the

machine.

INTENDED USE

The product is only intended for use outdoors in a well ventilated area.

The product is designed for cutting grass, light weeds and other similar vegetation at or about ground level. The cutting plane should be approximately parallel to the ground surface.

The product should not be used to cut or trim hedges, bushes or other vegetation where the cutting plane is not parallel to the ground surface.

RESIDUAL RISK

Even when the product is used as prescribed, it is still impossible to completely eliminate certain residual risk factors. The following hazards may arise in use and the operator should pay special attention to avoid the following:

■ Injury caused by vibration. Always use the right tool for the job, use designated handles and restrict working time and exposure.

■ Exposure to noise can cause hearing injury. Wear ear protection and limit exposure.

■ Injury from thrown objects.

RISK REDUCTION

It has been reported that vibrations from hand-held tools may contribute to a condition called Raynaud’s Syndrome in certain individuals. Symptoms may include tingling,

numbness and blanching of the ngers, usually apparent

upon exposure to cold. Hereditary factors, exposure to cold and dampness, diet, smoking and work practices are all thought to contribute to the development of the these symptoms. There are measures that can be taken by the operator to possibly reduce the effects of vibration:

■ Keep your body warm in cold weather. When operating the unit wear gloves to keep the hands and wrists warm. It is reported that cold weather is a major factor contributing to Raynaud’s Syndrome.

■ After each period of operation, exercise to increase blood circulation.

■ Take frequent work breaks. Limit the amount of exposure per day.

If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition, immediately discontinue use and see your doctor about these symptoms.

English(Original instructions)

110110

WARNING

Injuries may be caused, or aggravated, by prolonged use of a tool. When using any tool for prolonged periods, ensure you take regular breaks.

Wear eye and hearing protection when operating this product.

Do not use metal blade(s) on the product.

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

WARNING Indicates a potentially hazardous

CAUTION Indicates a potentially hazardous

NOTICE (Without Safety Alert Symbol)

hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

situation, which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

Indicates important information not related to an injury hazard, such as a situation that may result in property damage.

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

Symbol Designation/explanation

Safety alert

To avoid serious personal injury, do not attempt to use this product until you read thoroughly and understand completely the operator’s manual.

Beware of thrown or flying objects. Keep all bystanders (especially children and pets) at

15m

least 15 m away from the work area.

Use unleaded petrol intended for motor vehicle

use with an octane rating of 91 [(R + M)/2] or

higher.

Use 2-stroke oil for air cooled engines.

Mix the fuel mix thoroughly and also each time before refuelling

Keep hands away from blades.

Start a cold engine.

Start a warm engine.

Rotational direction and maximum speed of

12,000

the shaft for the cutting attachment.

Guaranteed sound power level is 110 dB.

Conform to all regulatory standards in the countries in EU where the product is purchased.

Gost-R conformity

1 3

x10

To start a cold engine:

1. Set the On/Off switch to the ON position ,

2. Press the primer bulb 10 times or until the fuel fills

the bulb,

3. Set the choke to the FULL position ,

4. Pull the starter grip sharply until the engine attempts to start

NOTE: 6 times Maximum with no throttle

5. Set the choke lever to RUN position,

6. Pull the starter grip sharply until the engine starts

NOTE: 4 times Maximum with no throttle

English(Original instructions)

To start a warm engine:

1. Set the On/Off switch to the ON position ,

2. Press the primer bulb 10 times or until the fuel fills

the bulb,

3. Set the choke lever to RUN position ,

4. Pull the starter grip sharply until the engine starts

NOTE: 4 times Maximum with no throttle.

DESCRIPTION

(Refer to figure sheet)

1. Pro cut string head

2. String head/shaft/grass deflector assembly

3. Silencer

4. Starter grip and rope

5. Choke lever

6. On/Off switch

7. Throttle trigger

8. Handlebar

9. Line carrier

10. Primer bulb

11. Air filter cover

12. Fuel cap

13. Grass deflector

14. Mow ball

15. Button

16. Guide recess

17. Knob

18. Lower handlebar

19. Upper handlebar

20. Frame opening

21. Bolt

22. Throttle cable

23. Holes

24. Clip

25. Bolt

26. String line

27. Line exit holes

28. Line load holes

29. Top cap

30. Open area

31. Full choke position

32. Run position

33. Air intake area

34. Foam air filter

35. Air filter base

36. Air filter element

37. Spark plug

38. Spark plug cover

SPECIFICATIONS

Weight:

-Without fuel

Volume (fuel tank) 620 cm

Cutting capacity 406 mm

String Diameter 2.7 mm

Engine Displacement 25.4 cm

Maximum engine power (in accordance with ISO 8893)

Maximum rational frequency of the spindle

Engine idling speed range 3,200 - 4,000 min

Operating speed of cutting means 8,500 - 10,000 min

Fuel Consumption (in accordance with ISO 8893) at Max Engine Performance

Specific Fuel Consumption (in accordance with ISO 8893) at Max Engine Performance

Vibration level (in accordance with EN 14910 Annex A)

Left handle 15.7 m/s

Right handle 15.5 m/s

Uncertainty of measurement 1.5 m/s

Noise emission level (in accordance with EN 14910 Annex B)

A-weighted sound pressure level at the operator’s position

Uncertainty of measurement 2.5 dB

A-weighted sound power level 108.4 dB (A)

Uncertainty of measurement 2.5 dB

9.7 kg

0.9 HP (≈ 0.67 kW)

-1

12000 min

0.54 kg/h

0.6 L/kW.h

95.2 dB (A)

-1

FEATURES

KNOW YOUR WHEELED TRIMMER

See gure 1.

The safe use of this product requires an understanding of the information on the tool and 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.

CURVED SHAFT

The curved design of the trimmer shaft allows you to trim perimeter areas easily.

English(Original instructions)

ERGONOMIC DESIGN

The design of the trimmer provides for easy handling. It is designed for comfort and ease of grasp when operating in different positions and at different angles.

GRASS DEFLECTOR

The trimmer includes a grass deector that helps protect you from ying debris.

- Clip (2 pcs)

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.

ASSEMBLY

UNPACKING

This product requires assembly.

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

NOTE: Be careful not to bend the throttle cable when unpacking.

WARNING

Do not use this product if any parts on the Packing List are already assembled to your product when you unpack it. Parts on this list are not assembled to the product by the manufacturer and require customer installation. Use of a product that may have been improperly 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 your service centre for assistance.

PACKING LIST

Trimmer power head/wheel assembly Pro cut string head/shaft/grass deector assembly

Handle assembly Hardware bag:

- Operator's manual

- Figure sheet

- Bottle of 2 stroke oil

- 2.7 mm lines (18 pcs)

- Line carrier

- Knob (4 pcs)

- Bolt (4 pcs)

WARNING

Do not attempt to modify this product or create accessories not recommended for use with this product. Any such alteration or modification is considered as 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 disconnect the engine spark plug wire from the spark plug when assembling parts.

WARNING

Be certain all knobs are fully tightened before operating equipment; check them periodically for tightness during use to avoid serious personal injury.

INSTALLING THE PRO CUT STRING HEAD/SHAFT/ GRASS DEFLECTOR ASSEMBLY TO THE TRIMMER POWER HEAD/WHEEL ASSEMBLY

See gure 2.

WARNING

Never install, remove, or adjust any attachment while the engine is running or cutting head is moving. Failure to stop the engine and cutting head can cause serious personal injury.

The Pro Cut string head/shaft/grass deector assembly connects to the trimmer power head/wheel assembly by

means of a coupler device.

■ Loosen the knob on the coupler of the power head

shaft and remove the end cap from the String head/ shaft/grass deflector assembly.

■ Push in the button located on the string head shaft. Align the button with the guide recess on the power head coupler and slide the two shafts together. Rotate the string head shaft until the button locks into the positioning hole.

English(Original instructions)

NOTE: If the button does not release completely in the positioning hole, the shafts are not locked into place. Slightly rotate from side to side until the button is locked into place. If needed, turn the trimmer head which will aid in the insertion of the shaft.

■ Tighten the knob securely.

INSTALLING LOWER HANDLEBAR

See gure 3.

■ Remove two handlebar knobs and two bolts from the hardware bag.

■ Place the lower handlebar into the openings on the

trimmer power head/wheel assembly as shown.

NOTE: Do not allow throttle cable to become pinched when installing the handlebar.

■ Insert the bolts through the holes in the handlebar and frame.

■ Install the lower handlebar knobs and tighten securely.

INSTALLING UPPER HANDLEBAR

See gure 4.

■ Remove two handlebar knobs and bolts from the hardware bag.

■ Position upper handlebar onto lower handlebar. Make sure the throttle cable and throttle trigger are on the right side as shown.

■ Insert bolt through plastic clip, then through holes. NOTE: Do not allow throttle cable to become pinched

when installing the handlebar.

■ Align the holes in the clip, the upper handlebar and lower handlebar.

■ Install bolt as shown.

■ Thread handlebar knob onto bolt and tighten securely. Repeat with other side.

INSTALLING LINE IN PRO CUT STRING HEAD

See gure 5.

Use monolament 2.7 mm (diameter) line. Use quality monolament replacement line for best performance.

■ Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire.

■ Gather two of the pre-cut lengths of trimmer line

provided or cut two pieces of trimmer line in 25.4 cm

lengths.

■ Insert the lines into the load slots located on the sides of the string head. Line should be pushed in until

approximately 2 cm protrudes from the holes on the

top of the string head.

■ Remove old line by pulling it from the holes located on the top of the string head.

WARNING

Do not remove screws or disassemble string head. If head is opened, compression springs could fly out toward operator and result in serious injury.

INSTALLING LINE CARRIER

See gure 6.

The line carrier snaps onto the upper handlebar on the side opposite the throttle cable and is used to hold pre-cut pieces of trimmer line.

NOTE: Do not install the carrier where it could interfere with the throttle cable or where it could cover any of the warning icons or labels.

To install line, remove top cap, insert line into carrier, and replace cap. To remove line for use, pull from open area on front of carrier.

OPERATION

FUEL AND REFUELLING

Handling the fuel safely

■ Always handle fuel with care. It is highly flammable.

■ Always refuel outdoors where there are no sparks and flames. Do not inhale fuel vapours.

■ Do not let petrol or lubricant come in contact with your skin.

■ Keep petrol and lubricant away from the eyes. If petrol or lubricant comes in contact with the eyes, wash them immediately with clean water. If irritation is still present, see a doctor immediately.

■ Clean up spilled petrol immediately.

Mixing the fuel

■ This product is powered by a 2-stroke engine and requires pre-mixing petrol and 2-stroke lubricant. Premix unleaded petrol and 2-stroke engine lubricant

in a clean container approved for petrol.

■ This engine is certified to operate on unleaded petrol intended for motor vehicle use with an octane rating of

91 ([R + M]/2) or higher.

■ Do not use any type of pre-mixed petrol/lubricant from fuel service stations.

■ Use synthetic 2-stroke lubricant only. Do not use

automotive lubricant or 2-cycle outboard lubricant.

■ Mix 2% synthetic 2-stroke lubricant into the petrol. This is a 50:1 ratio.

■ Mix the fuel thoroughly and also each time before refuelling.

English(Original instructions)

■ Mix in small quantities. Do not mix quantities larger than usable in a 30-day period. A synthetic 2-stroke

lubricant containing a fuel stabiliser is recommended.

1 Litre + 20 ML = 50:1 (2%)

2 Litres + 40 ML = 50:1 (2%)

3 Litres + 60 ML = 50:1 (2%)

4 Litres + 80 ML = 50:1 (2%)

5 Litres + 100 ML = 50:1 (2%)

Filling the tank

■ Clean surface around fuel cap to prevent contamination.

■ Loosen the fuel cap slowly to release pressure and to keep fuel from escaping around the cap.

■ Carefully pour fuel mixture into the tank. Avoid spillage.

■ Prior to replacing the fuel cap, clean and inspect the gasket.

■ Immediately replace fuel cap and hand tighten. Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m away from refuelling site before starting engine.

NOTE: It is normal for smoke to be emitted from a new

engine during and after rst use.

To stop the engine

1. Release the trigger.

2. Push the switch to the "O" (OFF) position.

CUTTING TIPS

See gure 11.

■ Keep a firm grip with both hands while in operation.

■ If grass becomes wrapped around the string head, stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire, and remove the grass.

■ Use the tip of line to do the cutting; do not force string head into uncut grass.

■ Wire and picket fences cause extra line wear, even breakage. Stone and brick walls, curbs, and wood may wear line rapidly.

■ Avoid trees and shrubs. Tree bark, wood moldings, siding, and fence posts can easily be damaged by the line.

TRANSPORTING THE UNIT

■ Drain all fuel from tank into a container approved for fuel. Run engine until it stops.

■ Push the On/Off switch to the “O” (off) position.

■ Allow the engine and exhaust to cool before placing in the vehicle.

■ Secure the unit against falling or sudden movement.

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

WARNING

Always shut off engine before fuelling. Never add fuel to a machine with a running or hot engine. Move at least 9 m (30 ft.) from refuelling site before starting the engine. Do not smoke.

STARTING AND STOPPING

See gures 7-10.

WARNING

Never start or run the engine inside a closed or poorly ventilated area; breathing exhaust fumes can kill.

NOTE: Before starting the unit, make sure:

● the On/Off switch is in “I” position;

Follow the instructions on the machine or described earlier in this manual.

WARNING

Use only original manufacturer's replacement parts, accessories and attachments. Failure to do so can cause possible injury, poor performance and may void your warranty.

WARNING

Before inspecting, cleaning, or servicing the machine, shut off engine, wait for all moving parts to stop, and disconnect spark plug wire and move it away from spark plug. Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious personal injury or property damage.

■ 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, lubricant, grease, etc.

■ You may make adjustments and repairs described here. For other repairs, have the trimmer serviced by

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