Makita VR251D User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
WARNING:
For your personal safety, READ and UNDERSTAND before using.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
www.makitatools.com
Cordless Concrete
Vibrator
MODEL VR251D

2
SPECIFICATIONS
• Manufacturer reserves the right to change specifications without notice.
• Specifications may differ from country to country.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES USA003-1
(FOR All BATTERY OPERATED TOOLS)
WARNING:
Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all
instructions listed below, may result in electric shock, fire and/or
serious personal injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Work Area
1. Keep your work area clean and well lit.
Cluttered benches and dark areas invite acci-
dents.
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 bystanders, children, and visitors
away while operating a power tool. Distrac-
tions can cause you to lose control.
Electrical Safety
4. A battery operated tool with integral bat-
teries or a separate battery pack must be
recharged only with the specified charger
for the battery. A charger that may be suit-
able for one type of battery may create a risk
of fire when used with another battery.
5. Use battery operated tool only with specif-
ically designated battery pack. Use of any
other batteries may create a risk of fire.
Model VR251D
Vibrations
per minute
Vibration
amplitude
Vibration head
(diameter x length)
Flexible
shaft
assembly
length
Overall
length Net weight Rated voltage
Standard
battery
cartridge
12,500
VPM
1.0 mm
(1/32”)
25 mm x 221 mm
(1” x 8-11/16”)
1,200 mm
(47-1/4”)
1,431 mm
(56-11/32”)
3.2 kg
(7.0 lbs) D.C. 12V 1222,1234

3
Personal Safety
6. Stay alert, watch what you are doing, and
use common sense when operating a
power tool. Do not use tool while tired or
under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or
medication. A moment of inattention while
operating power tools may result in serious
personal injury.
7. Dress properly. Do not wear loose cloth-
ing or jewelry. Contain long hair. Keep
your hair, clothing, and gloves away from
moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long
hair can be caught in moving parts.
8. Avoid accidental starting. Be sure switch
is in the locked or off position before
inserting battery pack. Carrying tools with
your finger on the switch or inserting the bat-
tery pack into a tool with the switch on invites
accidents.
9. Remove adjusting keys or wrenches
before turning the tool on. A wrench or a
key that is left attached to a rotating part of
the tool may result in personal injury.
10. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing
and balance at all times. Proper footing and
balance enable better control of the tool in
unexpected situations.
11. Use safety equipment. Always wear eye
protection. Dust mask, non-skid safety
shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection must
be used for appropriate conditions.
Tool Use and Care
12. Use clamps or other practical way to
secure and support the workpiece to a
stable platform. Holding the work by hand or
against your body is unstable and may lead
to loss of control.
13. Do not force tool. Use the correct tool for
your application. The correct tool will do the
job better and safer at the rate for which it is
designed.
14. Do not use tool if switch does not turn it
on or off. A tool that cannot be controlled
with the switch is dangerous and must be
repaired.
15. Disconnect battery pack from tool or
place the switch in the locked or off posi-
tion before making any adjustments,
changing accessories, or storing the tool.
Such preventive safety measures reduce the
risk of starting the tool accidentally.
16. Store idle tools out of reach of children
and other untrained persons. Tools are
dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
17. 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 con-
nection from one terminal to another.
Shorting the battery terminals together may
cause sparks, burns, or a fire.
18. Maintain tools with care. Keep cutting
tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained
tools with sharp cutting edge are less likely to
bind and are easier to control.
19. Check for misalignment or binding of
moving parts, breakage of parts, and any
other condition that may affect the tool’s
operation. If damaged, have the tool ser-
viced before using. Many accidents are
caused by poorly maintained tools.
20. Use only accessories that are recom-
mended by the manufacturer for your
model. Accessories that may be suitable for
one tool may create a risk of injury when
used on another tool.
SERVICE
21. Tool service must be performed only by
qualified repair personnel. Service or main-
tenance performed by unqualified personnel
may result in a risk of injury.
22. When servicing a tool, use only identical
replacement parts. Follow instructions in
the Maintenance section of this manual.
Use of unauthorized parts or failure to follow
Maintenance instructions may create a risk of
shock or injury.

4
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES USB064-1
DO NOT let comfort or familiarity with product (gained from
repeated use) replace strict adherence to cordless concrete
vibrator safety rules. If you use this tool unsafely or incorrectly,
you can suffer serious personal injury.
1. Always keep your hands and face away
from vibrating head when operating.
2. Switch off the tool immediately if you
notice abnormal noise or something
faulty during operation.
3. Inspect the tool carefully for breakage,
cracks or deformation if you accidentally
drop it or strike it against something.
4. Do not allow pieces of metal, water or
other foreign objects to get into the
charger port where the charging terminals
are located.
5. Do not carry the tool with finger on
switch.
6. Do not set the tool down and switch it on.
The vibrating head may whip around out
of control and cause an accident.
7. Be careful not to allow water, wet concrete
or the like to get into the tool. Do not let
the tool fall into wet concrete.
8. Insert the vibrating head carefully
between iron/steel frames or reinforcing
rods not to come in contact with them.
9. Do not crush or twist the flexible hose.
10. Do not overly bend the flexible hose.
11. Use a wet cloth or the like to carefully
wipe off any wet concrete left on the tool
after use. Extra care should be given to
thorough cleaning of the vents, switch
area, cover openings, etc.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING:
MISUSE or failure to follow the safety rules stated in this
instruction manual may cause serious personal injury.

5
SYMBOLS USD303-1
The followings show the symbols used for tool.
V....................... volts
................... direct current
....................no load speed
.../min................vibration per minute
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR
BATTERY CARTRIDGE ENC004-1
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, possi-
ble burns and even an explosion.
4. If electrolyte gets into your eyes, rinse
them out with clear water and seek medi-
cal attention right away. It may result in
loss of your eyesight.
5. Always cover the battery terminals with
the battery cover when the battery car-
tridge is not used.
6. 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.
7. Do not store the tool and battery cartridge
in locations where the temperature may
reach or exceed 50°C (122°F).
8. Do not incinerate the battery cartridge
even if it is severely damaged or is com-
pletely worn out. The battery cartridge can
explode in a fire.
9. Be careful not to drop or strike battery.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Tips for maintaining maximum battery life
1. Charge the battery cartridge before com-
pletely 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.
n˚

6
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 Nickel Metal Hydride battery
cartridge when you do not use it for more
than six months.

7
FUNCTIONAL
DESCRIPTION
Installing or removing battery cartridge
• Always switch off the tool before insertion or removal of
the battery cartridge.
• To remove the battery cartridge, open the cover and
withdraw it from the tool while pressing the buttons on
both sides of the cartridge.
• To insert the battery cartridge, align the tongue on the
battery cartridge with the groove in the housing and slip
it into place. Always insert it all the way until it locks in
place with a little click. If not, it may accidentally fall out
of the tool, causing injury to you or someone around you.
• Do not use force when inserting the battery cartridge. If
the cartridge does not slide in easily, it is not being
inserted correctly.
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.
To start the tool, simply pull the switch trigger. Release the
switch trigger to stop.
OPERATION Hold the tool straight when inserting/operating. Use the tool
within the effective vibrations range at equidistant intervals.
The effective air bubble removal range is about ten times
diameter of the vibrating head, or around 250 mm (9-27/32”).
Do not use this tool to move concrete within a form. The
mortar will just move away and the coarse aggregate will
remain, causing segregation.
1. Cover
2. Button
3. Battery cartridge
1
2
3
001958
1. Switch trigger
1
001959
001960

8
Effective leveling and removal of air bubbles
Removal of the air bubbles is complete after you have
worked the tool throughout each effective range, the con-
crete stops shrinking, and the mortar has risen evenly to the
surface, giving off a light appearance. Gently remove the
operating tool not to leave holes.
NOTE:
•Vibrating too long in a single place causes concrete
segregation.
•When the coarse aggregates segregates when placing
concrete, shovel out the coarse aggregate and put it
where there is plenty of mortar. Then use the tool on it.
Don’t leave coarse aggregate in the segregated
condition.
When concreting a slope site, always pour from the bottom at
the beginning. This way the weight of the freshly poured con-
crete and vibration will lead to effective removal of air bub-
bles. Conversely, if the pouring is done first from above, the
mortar will separate and eventually slide to the bottom.
MAINTENANCE CAUTION:
•Always be sure that the tool is switched off and the
battery cartridge is removed before attempting to
perform inspection or maintenance.
EN0001-1
Recycling the Battery
The only way to dispose of a Makita battery is to recycle it.
The law prohibits any other method of disposal.
To recycle the battery:
1. Remove the battery from the tool.
2. a) Take the battery to your nearest Makita Factory Ser-
vice Center
or
b) Take the battery to your nearest Makita Authorized
Service Center or Distributor that has been desig-
nated as a Makita battery recycling location.
Call your nearest Makita Service Center or Distributor to
determine the location that provides Makita battery recycling.
See your local Yellow Pages under “Tools-Electric”.
001961
Ni-Cd

9
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.
•Plastic carrying case
•Various type of Makita genuine batteries and chargers

Memo
10

Memo
11

Memo
12

13
First-Class
Postage
Required
Post Office will
not deliver
without proper
postage.
Makita U.S.A., Inc.
14930 Northam Street
La Mirada, CA 90638-5753
Fold
Cut

14
1. This product was purchased from:
Home Center
Hardware/Lumber Store
Tool Distributor
Industrial Supply
Construction Supply
Other ( )
3. How did you learn about this product:
Magazine
From Dealer
Newspaper
Store Display
Catalog
Radio
Exhibition
From Friend
Previous Usage
Other ( )
2. Use of the product is intended for:
Construction Trade
Industrial Maintenance
Home Maintenance
Hobby
Other ( )
4. Most favored points are:
Repair Service
Durability
Power
Other ( )
Design
Features
Size
Price
Makita Brand
5. Any comments:
MAIL THIS PORTION
Your answers to the following questions are appreciated.
BE SURE TO COMPLETE THE CUSTOMER’S PORTION OF THIS FORM AND RETAIN FOR YOUR RECORDS.
DATE PURCHASED MODEL NO.
SERIAL NO.
INTL. LAST NAME / COMPANY NAME
STREET ADRESS
CITY
STATE
AGE:
ZIP CODE PHONE
AREA
CODE
STATUS
Married
SEX
MF
Single
MONTH DAY YEAR
Under 19 20-29 30-39 40-49 50-60 Over 60
Please return this portion by facsimile or mail.
Facsimile No: [phone]
Paste Paste Paste Paste Paste Paste Paste Paste
Paste Paste Paste Paste Paste Paste
Paste Paste Paste Paste Paste Paste

15
FACTORY SERVICE CENTERS
1-800-4-MAKITA
RETAIN THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS
ARIZONA
3707 E. Broadway Rd., Ste. 6
Phoenix, AZ 85040
[phone]
CALIFORNIA
41850 Christy St.
Fremont, CA 94538-5107
[phone]
14930 Northam St.
La Mirada, CA 90638-5753
[phone]
1970 Fulton Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95825
[phone]
7674 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92111
[phone]
16735 Saticoy St., Ste. 105
Van Nuys, CA 91406
[phone]
COLORADO
11839 E. 51st Ave.
Denver, CO 80239-2709
[phone]
FLORIDA
750 East Sample Road
Pompano Beach, FL 33064
[phone]
GEORGIA
4680 River Green Parkway NW
Duluth, GA 30096
[phone]
ILLINOIS
1450 Feehanville Dr.
Mt. Prospect, IL 60056-6011
[phone]
MARYLAND
7397 Washington Boulevard,
Suite 104 Elkridge, MD 21075
[phone]
MASSACHUSETTS
232 Providence Hwy.
Westwood, MA 02090
[phone]
MINNESOTA
6427 Penn Ave. South
Richfield, MN 55423
[phone]
MISSOURI
9876 Watson Road
St. Louis, MO 63126-2221
[phone]
NEBRASKA
4129 S. 84th St.
Omaha, NE 68127
[phone]
NEVADA
3375 S. Decatur Blvd.
Suites. 22 - 24
Las Vegas, NV 89102
[phone]
NEW JERSEY
251 Herrod Blvd.
Dayton, NJ 08810-1539
[phone]
NEW YORK
4917 Genessee Street
Cheektowaga, NY 14225
[phone]
OREGON
828 19th Avenue, N.W.
Portland, OR 97209
[phone]
PENNSYLVANIA
1704 Babcock Blvd.
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
[phone]
PUERTO RICO
200 Guayama St.
Hato Rey, PR 00917
[phone]
TENNESSEE
1120 Elm Hill P.
Suile 170 Nashville, TN 372
[phone]
TEXAS
12801 Stemmons Fwy Ste. 809
Farmers Branch, TX 75234
[phone]
12701 Directors Dr.
Stafford, TX 77477-3701
[phone]
3453 IH-35 North, Ste. 101
San Antonio, TX 78219
[phone]
WISCONSIN
Lincoln Plaza Shopping Ctr.
2245 S. 108th St. West Allis, WI
53227
[phone]
CUSTOMER’S RECORD
When you need service: Send
complete tool (prepaid) to one
of the Makita Factory Service
Centers listed, or to an Authorized
Makita Service Center. Be sure
to attach a letter to the outside of
the carton detailing the problem
with your tool.
Date Purchased
Dealer’s Name & Address
Model No.
Serial No.

WARNING
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other
construction activities contains chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples
of these chemicals are:
•lead from lead-based paints,
•crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
•arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this
type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals: work in a well
ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those
dust masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.
MAKITA LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY
Warranty Policy
Every Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. It is warranted to be free of
defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase.
Should any trouble develop during this one year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of
Makita’s Factory or Authorized Service Centers. If inspection shows the trouble is caused by defective
workmanship or material, Makita will repair (or at our option, replace) without charge.
This Warranty does not apply where:
•repairs have been made or attempted by others:
•repairs are required because of normal wear and tear:
•the tool has been abused, misused or improperly maintained:
•alterations have been made to the tool.
IN NO EVENT SHALL MAKITA BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES FROM THE SALE OR USE OF THE PRODUCT. THIS DISCLAIMER APPLIES BOTH DURING
AND AFTER THE TERM OF THIS WARRANTY.
MAKITA DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
“MERCHANTABILITY”AND “FITNESS FOR A SPECIFIC PURPOSE,”AFTER THE ONE YEAR TERM OF THIS
WARRANTY.
This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. Some states do not allow limitation on how long an implied
warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to you.
Makita Corporation
3-11-8, Sumiyoshi-cho,
Anjo, Aichi 446-8502 Japan
884240F068