Makita BUH481 User manual

1
ENGLISH (Original instructions)
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
IMPORTANT: Read Before Using.
Cordless Hedge Trimmer
BUH481
BUH483
BUH521
BUH523
012444

2
ENGLISH (Original instructions)
SPECIFICATIONS
Model BUH481 BUH483 BUH521 BUH523
Blade length 480 mm 520 mm
Strokes per minute (min
-1
) 1,350
Rated voltage D.C. 14.4 V D.C. 18 V D.C. 14.4 V D.C. 18 V
Overall length 869 mm 881 mm 873 mm 888 mm 919 mm 931 mm 923 mm 938 mm
Net weight 3.0 kg 3.1 kg 3.0 kg 3.2 kg 3.0 kg 3.2 kg 3.1 kg 3.3 kg
Battery cartridge BL1415 BL1430 BL1815 BL1830 BL1415 BL1430 BL1815 BL1830
Battery charger DC18RC,DC18SD
• Due to our continuing program of research and development, the specifications herein are subject to change without notice.
• Specifications and battery cartridge may differ from country to country.
• Weight, with battery cartridge, according to EPTA-Procedure 01/2003
END013-3
Symbol
The following show the symbols used for the equipment.
Be sure that you understand their meaning before use.
󻜎 Read instruction manual.
󻜎 Do not expose to rain.
󻜎 Only for EU countries
Do not dispose of electric equipment or
battery pack together with household
waste material!
In observance of European Directive
2012/19/EU on waste electric and
electronic equipment, 2006/66/EC on
batteries and accumulators and waste
batteries and accumulators and their
implementation in accordance with
national laws, electric equipment and
battery pack that have reached the end
of their life must be collected separately
and returned to an environmentally
compatible recycling facility.
ENE014-1
Intended use
The tool is intended for trimming hedges.
ENG905-1
Noise
The typical A-weighted noise level determined
according to EN60745:
Model BUH481,BUH483,BUH521
Sound pressure level (LpA) : 75 dB(A)
Uncertainty (K) : 2.5 dB(A)
The noise level under working may exceed 80 dB (A).
Model BUH523
Sound pressure level (LpA) : 77 dB(A)
Uncertainty (K) : 2.5 dB(A)
The noise level under working may exceed 80 dB (A).
Wear ear protection
ENG900-1
Vibration
The vibration total value (tri-axial vector sum)
determined according to EN60745:
Work mode : hedge trimming
Vibration emission (ah) : 2.5 m/s2 or less
Uncertainty (K) : 1.5 m/s2
ENG901-1
• The declared vibration emission value has been
measured in accordance with the standard test
method and may be used for comparing one tool
with another.
• The declared vibration emission value may also be
used in a preliminary assessment of exposure.
WARNING:
• The vibration emission during actual use of the
power tool can differ from the declared emission
value depending on the ways in which the tool is
used.
• Be sure to identify safety measures to protect the
operator that are based on an estimation of
exposure in the actual conditions of use (taking
account of all parts of the operating cycle such as
the times when the tool is switched off and when it
is running idle in addition to the trigger time).
Cd
Ni-MH
Li-ion

3
ENH040-2
For European countries only
EC Declaration of Conformity
We Makita Corporation as the responsible
manufacturer declare that the following Makita
machine(s):
Designation of Machine:
Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Model No./ Type:
BUH481,BUH483,BUH521,BUH523
Specifications: see "SPECIFICATIONS" table.
are of series production and
Conforms to the following European Directives:
2000/14/EC, 2006/42/EC
And are manufactured in accordance with the following
standards or standardised documents:
EN60745
The technical documentation is kept by:
Makita International Europe Ltd.
Technical Department,
Michigan Drive, Tongwell,
Milton Keynes, Bucks MK15 8JD, England
The conformity assessment procedure required by
Directive 2000/14/EC was in Accordance with annex V.
Model BUH481
Measured Sound Power Level: 83.2dB (A)
Guaranteed Sound Power Level: 86dB (A)
Model BUH483
Measured Sound Power Level: 83.8dB (A)
Guaranteed Sound Power Level: 88dB (A)
Model BUH521
Measured Sound Power Level: 82.9dB (A)
Guaranteed Sound Power Level: 86dB (A)
Model BUH523
Measured Sound Power Level: 84.3dB (A)
Guaranteed Sound Power Level: 89dB (A)
27.6.2011
000230
Tomoya su K ato
Director
Makita Corporation
3-11-8, Sumiyoshi-cho,
Anjo, Aichi, 446-8502, JAPAN
GEA006-2
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
1. Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or
dark areas invite accidents.
2. 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.
3. Keep children and bystanders away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can cause
you to lose control.
Electrical safety
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet
conditions. Water entering a power tool will
increase the risk of electric shock.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. If operating a power tool in a damp location is
unavoidable, use a ground fault circuit
interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of an
GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.
Personal safety
10. 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

4
under the influence of drugs, alcohol or
medication. A moment of inattention while
operating power tools may result in serious
personal injury.
11. 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.
12. 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.
13. 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.
14. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times. This enables better control
of the power tool in unexpected situations.
15. 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.
16. 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 dust-
related hazards.
Power tool use and care
17. 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.
18. 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.
19. 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.
20. 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.
21. 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.
22. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly
maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges
are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
23. 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
24. 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.
25. Use power tools only with specifically
designated battery packs. Use of any other
battery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
26. 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.
27. 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
28. 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.
29. Follow instruction for lubricating and
changing accessories.
30. Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and
grease.

5
GEB062-5
CORDLESS HEDGE TRIMMER
SAFETY WARNINGS
1. Keep all parts of the body away from the
cutter blade. Do not remove cut material or
hold material to be cut when blades are
moving. Make sure the switch is off when
clearing jammed material. A moment of
inattention while operating the hedge trimmer
may result in serious personal injury.
2. Carry the hedge trimmer by the handle with
the cutter blade stopped. When transporting
or storing the hedge trimmer always fit the
cutting device cover. Proper handling of the
hedge trimmer will reduce possible personal
injury from the cutter blades.
3. Hold the power tool by insulated gripping
surfaces only, because the cutter blade may
contact hidden wiring. Cutter blades contacting
a "live" wire may make exposed metal parts of the
power tool "live" and could give the operator an
electric shock.
4. Do not use the hedge trimmer in the rain or in wet
or very damp conditions. The electric motor is not
waterproof.
5. First-time users should have an experienced
hedge trimmer user show them how to use the
trimmer.
6. The hedge trimmer must not be used by children
or young persons under 18 years of age. Young
persons over 16 years of age may be exempted
from this restriction if they are undergoing training
under the supervision of an expert.
7. Use the hedge trimmer only if you are in good
physical condition. If you are tired, your attention
will be reduced. Be especially careful at the end
of a working day. Perform all work calmly and
carefully. The user is responsible for all damages
to third parties.
8. Never use the trimmer when under the influence
of alcohol, drugs or medication.
9. Work gloves of stout leather are part of the basic
equipment of the hedge trimmer and must always
be worn when working with it. Also wear sturdy
shoes with anti-skid soles.
10. Before starting work check to make sure that the
trimmer is in good and safe working order. Ensure
guards are fitted properly. The hedge trimmer
must not be used unless fully assembled.
11. Make sure you have a secure footing before
starting operation.
12. Hold the tool firmly when using the tool.
13. Do not operate the tool at no-load unnecessarily.
14. Immediately switch off the motor and remove the
battery cartridge if the cutter should come into
contact with a fence or other hard object. Check
the cutter for damage, and if damaged repair
immediately.
15. Before checking the cutter, taking care of faults,
or removing material caught in the cutter, always
switch off the trimmer and remove the battery
cartridge.
16. Switch off the trimmer and remove the battery
cartridge before doing any maintenance work.
17. When moving the hedge trimmer to another
location, including during work, always remove
the battery cartridge and put the blade cover on
the cutter blades. Never carry or transport the
trimmer with the cutter running. Never grasp the
cutter with your hands.
18. Clean the hedge trimmer and especially the cutter
after use, and before putting the trimmer into
storage for extended periods. Lightly oil the cutter
and put on the cover. The cover supplied with the
unit can be hung on the wall, providing a safe and
practical way to store the hedge trimmer.
19. Store the hedge trimmer with the cover on, in a
dry room. Keep it out of reach of children. Never
store the trimmer outdoors.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
WARNING:
DO NOT let comfort or familiarity with product
(gained from repeated use) replace strict adherence
to safety rules for the subject product. MISUSE or
failure to follow the safety rules stated in this
instruction manual may cause serious personal injury.

6
ENC007-7
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
FOR BATTERY CARTRIDGE
1. Before using battery cartridge, read all
instructions and cautionary markings on (1)
battery charger, (2) battery, and (3) product
using battery.
2. Do not disassemble battery cartridge.
3. If operating time has become excessively
shorter, stop operating immediately. It may
result in a risk of overheating, possible burns
and even an explosion.
4.
If electrolyte gets into your eyes, rinse them out
with clear water and seek medical attention
right away. It may result in loss of your eyesight.
5. Do not short the battery cartridge:
(1) Do not touch the terminals with any
conductive material.
(2) Avoid storing battery cartridge in a
container with other metal objects such
as nails, coins, etc.
(3) Do not expose battery cartridge to water
or rain.
A battery short can cause a large current flow,
overheating, possible burns and even a
breakdown.
6. Do not store the tool and battery cartridge in
locations where the temperature may reach or
exceed 50 󻝈C (122 󻝈F).
7. Do not incinerate the battery cartridge even if
it is severely damaged or is completely worn
out. The battery cartridge can explode in a fire.
8. Be careful not to drop or strike battery.
9. Do not use a damaged battery.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
Tips for maintaining maximum battery life
1. Charge the battery cartridge before
completely discharged.
Always stop tool operation and charge the
battery cartridge when you notice less tool
power.
2.
Never recharge a fully charged battery cartridge.
Overcharging shortens the battery service life.
3. Charge the battery cartridge with room
temperature at 10 󻝈C - 40 󻝈C (50 󻝈F - 104 󻝈F).
Let a hot battery cartridge cool down before
charging it.
4. Charge the battery cartridge once in every six
months if you do not use it for a long period
of time.
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
CAUTION:
• Always be sure that the tool is switched off and the
battery cartridge is removed before adjusting or
checking function on the tool.
Installing or removing battery cartridge
1
2
3
012445
CAUTION:
• Always switch off the tool before installing or
removing of the battery cartridge.
• Hold the tool and the battery cartridge firmly
when installing or removing battery cartridge.
Failure to hold the tool and the battery cartridge
firmly may cause them to slip off your hands and
result in damage to the tool and battery cartridge
and a personal injury.
To remove the battery cartridge, slide it from the tool
while sliding the button on the front of the cartridge.
To install the battery cartridge, align the tongue on the
battery cartridge with the groove in the housing and slip
it into place. Insert it all the way until it locks in place
with a little click. If you can see the red indicator on the
upper side of the button, it is not locked completely.
CAUTION:
• Always install the battery cartridge fully until the
red indicator cannot be seen. If not, it may
accidentally fall out of the tool, causing injury to
you or someone around you.
• Do not install the battery cartridge forcibly. If the
cartridge does not slide in easily, it is not being
inserted correctly.
1. Red indicator
2. Button
3. Battery
cartridge

7
Battery protection system (Lithium-ion
battery with star marking)
1
012128
Lithium-ion batteries with a star marking are equipped
with a protection system. This system automatically cuts
off power to the tool to extend battery life.
The tool will automatically stop during operation if the
tool and/or battery are placed under one of the following
conditions:
• Overloaded:
The tool is operated in a manner that causes
it to draw an abnormally high current.
In this situation, release the switch trigger on
the tool and stop the application that caused
the tool to become overloaded. Then pull the
switch trigger again to restart.
If the tool does not start, the battery is
overheated. In this situation, let the battery
cool before pulling the switch trigger again.
• Low battery voltage:
The remaining battery capacity is too low
and the tool will not operate. In this situation,
remove and recharge the battery.
Switch action
CAUTION:
• Before inserting the battery cartridge into the tool,
always check to see that the switch trigger
actuates properly and returns to the "OFF"
position when released.
12
3
012491
For your safety, this tool is equipped with a dual
switching system. To turn on the tool, press the lock-off
button and triggers A and B. Release either one of the
two pressed triggers to turn off. The sequence of
switching is unimportant as the tool only starts when
both switches are activated.
1. Switch trigger A
2. Switch trigger B
3. Lock-off button
1. Star marking

8
Indication lamp
1
012480
Running the tool allows the indication lamp to show the
battery cartridge capacity status.
When the tool is also overloaded and has stopped
during operation, the lamp lights up in red.
Refer to the following table for the status and action to
be taken for the indication lamp.
Note 1: The time at which the indication lamp lights up varies by the temperature
around the work area and the battery cartridge conditions.
Indication lamp
The lamp blinks in red.
The lamp lights up in red.
(Note 1)
The lamp lights up in red.
(Note 1)
Status
This indicates the appropriate
time to replace the battery
cartridge when the battery
power becomes low.
This function works when the
battery power is almost used
up. At this time, tool stops
immediately.
Autostop due to overload.
Action to be taken
Recharge the battery cartridge
as soon as possible.
Recharge the battery cartridge.
Turn off the tool.
010970
OPERATION
CAUTION:
• Be careful not to accidentally contact a metal
fence or other hard objects while trimming. The
blade will break and may cause serious injury.
• Overreaching with a hedge trimmer, particularly
from a ladder, is extremely dangerous. Do not
work from anything wobbly or infirm.
007559
Do not attempt to cut branches thicker than 10 mm
diameter with this trimmer. These should first be cut with
shears down to the hedge trimming level.
CAUTION:
• Do not cut off dead trees or similar hard objects.
Failure to do so may damage the tool.
012484
Hold the trimmer with both hands and pull the switch
trigger A or B and then move it in front of your body.
1. Indication lamp

9
1
2
3
012485
As a basic operation, tilt the blades towards the
trimming direction and move it calmly and slowly at the
speed rate of 3 - 4 seconds per meter.
1
012486
To cu t a h ed g e t op ev en ly, it h el ps t o t ie a s tr i ng at th e
desired hedge height and to trim along it, using it as a
reference line.
012487
Attaching the chip receiver (optional accessory) on the
tool when trimming the hedge straight can avoid cut off
leaves’ being thrown away.
012488
To cut a hedge side evenly, it helps to cut from the
bottom upwards.
012489
Trim boxwood or rhododendron from the base toward
the top for a nice appearance and good job.
Installing or removing chip receiver (optional
accessory)
CAUTION:
• Always be sure that the tool is switched off and
unplugged before installing or removing chip
receiver.
NOTE:
• When replacing the chip receiver, always wear
gloves so that hands and face does not directly
contact the blade. Failure to do so may cause
personal injury.
• Always be sure to remove the blade cover before
installing the chip receiver.
• The chip receiver receives cut-off leaves and
alleviates collecting thrown-away leaves. This can
be installed on either side of the tool.
1
2
3
4
012493
Press the chip receiver on the shear blades so that its
slits overlap with the nuts on the shear blades.
1
1
2
2
33
012494
At this time, the chip receiver needs to be installed so
that its hooks fit into grooves in the shear blade unit.
1. Hooks
2. Fit the hooks
into groove
3. Grooves
1. Press
2. Chip receiver
3. Nut
4. Shear blade
1. String
1. Trimming
direction
2. Hedge surface
to be trimmed
3. Tilt the blades

10
1
2
009293
To r emo ve t he c hip r ec e iver, press its lever on both
sides so that the hooks are unlocked.
CAUTION:
• The blade cover (standard equipment) cannot be
installed on the tool with the chip receiver being
installed. Before carrying or storing, uninstall the
chip receiver and then install the blade cover to
avoid blade exposure.
NOTE:
• Check the chip receiver for secure installment
before use.
• Never try to uninstall the chip receiver by an
excessive force with its hooks locked in the blade
unit grooves. Using the excessive force may
damage it.
MAINTENANCE
CAUTION:
• Always be sure that the tool is switched off and the
battery cartridge is removed before attempting to
perform inspection or maintenance.
Cleaning the tool
Clean out the tool by wiping off dust with a dry or soap-
dipped rag.
CAUTION:
• Never use gasoline, benzine, thinner, alcohol or
the like. Discoloration, deformation or cracks may
result.
Blade maintenance
Smear the blade before and once per hour during
operation using machine oil or the like.
NOTE:
• Before smearing the blade, remove the chip
receiver.
After operation, remove dust from both sides of the
blade with wired brush, wipe off it with a rag and then
apply enough low-viscosity oil, such as machine oil etc.
and spray-type lubricating oil.
CAUTION:
• Do not wash the blades in water. Failure to do so
may cause rust or damage on the tool.
Removing or installing shear blade
CAUTION:
• Before removing or installing shear blade, always
be sure that the tool is switched off and the battery
cartridge is removed.
• When replacing the shear blade, always wear
gloves without removing blade cover so that hands
and face does not directly contact the blade.
Failure to do so may cause personal injury.
NOTE:
• Do not wipe off grease from the gear and crank.
Failure to do so may cause damage to the tool.
Removing the shear blades
1
2
012447
Reverse the tool and loosen four screws and remove
the under cover.
NOTE:
• Be careful not to get your hands dirty as grease is
applied in the shear blade driving area.
1
1
2
3
012451
Loosen four screws and remove the blades. Remove
the washer and sponge from the shear blades and put
them aside. They are required for the later installation.
1. Screws
2. Sponge
3. Washer
1. Screws
2. Under cover
1. Press the levers
on both sides
2. Unlock the
hooks

11
1
2
3
4
012481
If the sleeves are still left in the holes of the gear,
remove the gear and push the sleeves out of it with a
screwdriver or the like.
NOTE:
The washer underneath the gear may come off by
mistake when removing the gear. In this case, return it
to the original position as it was installed.
Installing the shear blade
1
012450
Remove the blade cover from the old shear blades and
fit it onto the new ones to avoid contact with blades.
012490
Adjust the hole positions by turning the gear as
illustrated.
1
012454
1
012455
Apply some grease provided with the new shear blades
as illustrated.
1
2
3
012482
Put the removed sponge in the same position as the old
one. Make sure that the sleeves provided with the new
shear blades are put on the pins of the blade. Place the
new shear blades on the tool so that the pins fit in the
holes of the gear. If the sleeves on the pins come off
mistakenly, put them into the holes of the gear
beforehand.
1
1
2
012452
Install the blade and tighten the four screws and put the
removed washer in the same position as the old one.
1
012446
Install the under cover on the tool and tighten the four
screws firmly.
1. Screws
1. Screws
2. Washer
1. Blade
2. Sponge
3. Sleeves
1. Grease
1. Grease
1. Blade cover
1. Gear
2. Sleeves
3. Washer
4. Groove

12
Storage
The hook hole in the tool bottom is convenient for
hanging the tool from a nail or screw on the wall.
012453
Remove the battery cartridge and put the blade cover
on the shear blades so that the blades are not exposed.
Store the tool out of the reach of children carefully.
Store the tool in the place not exposed to water and rain.
To ma int ai n pro duc t SA FE TY an d REL IA B ILI TY, re p ai rs ,
any other maintenance or adjustment should be
performed by Makita Authorized Service Centers,
always using Makita replacement parts.
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
CAUTION:
• These accessories or attachments are
recommended for use with your Makita tool
specified in this manual. The use of any other
accessories or attachments might present a risk of
injury to persons. Only use accessory or
attachment for its stated purpose.
If you need any assistance for more details regarding
these accessories, ask your local Makita Service Center.
• Blade cover
• Shear blade assembly
• Makita genuine battery and charger
• Chip receiver
NOTE:
• Some items in the list may be included in the tool
package as standard accessories. They may differ
from country to country.

13

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15

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Makita Corporation
Anjo, Aichi, Japan
www.makita.com
885093B222