Ryobi RPP254JO User manual

ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Petrol Pole Pruner
RPP254JO

Important!
It is essential that you read the instructions in this manual before assembling,
operating, and maintaining the product.
Subject to technical modification.

1
Safety, performance, and dependability have been given
top priority in the design of your petrol pole pruner.
INTENDED USE
The petrol pole pruner is only intended for use outdoors.
For safety reasons, the product must be adequately
controlled by a two-handed operation.
The product is designed for cutting and pruning small limbs
and branches (with a diameter less than or equal to the bar
length) located high in the tree. While cutting and pruning,
the operator maintains a steady footing on the ground.
The product is designed to be extended to a maximum
length of 2.7 m. Do not exceed this working length.
It is not intended to be used while climbing or as a
conventional chainsaw for close quarter limbing and
pruning of material at ground level.
Do not use the product for any other purpose.
GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNING
For safe operation, read and understand all
instructions before using the product. Follow all
safety instructions, information on correct working
posture, the need for rest periods, and changing working
positions. Failure to follow all safety instructions listed
below, can result in serious personal injury.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
■Do not allow children or untrained individuals to use the
product.
■Never let anyone use the product who has not received
adequate instructions in the product’s proper use. This
applies to rentals, as well as privately owned products
and also to the power head it is attached to.
■Always wear safety glasses with side shields. Everyday
glasses have only impact resistant lenses. They are
NOT safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce the
risk of eye injury.
■Wear eye, hearing, and head protection when operating
the product. Hearing protection may restrict the
operator’s ability to hear warning sounds. Pay particular
attention to potential hazards around and inside the
working area.
■Wear heavy, long pants, boots, and gloves. Do not
wear loose fitting clothing, short pants, or go barefoot.
Do not wear jewellery of any kind.
■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.
■Never use the product on the operator’s left side.
■Secure long hair above shoulder level to prevent
entanglement in moving parts.
■Keep all bystanders, children, and pets at least 15 m
away. Bystanders should be encouraged to wear eye
protection. If you are approached, stop the engine and
cutting attachment. In the case of bladed units, there is
the added risk of injury to bystanders from being struck
with the moving blade in the event of a blade thrust or
other unexpected reaction of the saw.
■Do not operate the product when you are tired, ill,
or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or under
medication.
■Do not operate in poor lighting. The operator needs
clear unrestricted vision to identify potential hazards.
■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.
■To avoid hot surfaces, never operate the product with
the bottom of the engine above waist level.
■Do not touch the area around the muffler or cylinder of
the product. These parts get hot from operation. Failure
to heed this warning could result in possible serious
personal injury.
■Carry the pruner with the engine stopped, the guide bar
and saw chain to the rear, scabbard on the guide bar
and saw chain, and the muffler away from your body.
■Always stop the engine before making any adjustments.
■Inspect the product before each use for loose fasteners,
fuel leaks, etc. Replace any damaged parts before use.
■Mix and store fuel in a container approved for petrol.
■Mix fuel outdoors where there are no sparks or flames.
Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m away from
refueling site before starting engine.
■Stop the engine and allow it to cool down before
refueling or storing the product.
■Allow the engine to cool down, empty the fuel tank, and
secure the product from moving before transporting in
a vehicle.
■Stop the engine. Make sure all moving parts have come
to a complete stop:
●before servicing
●before clearing a blockage
●before checking, cleaning, and working on the
product
●before changing accessories
●after striking a foreign object
●whenever leaving the product unattended
●whenever performing maintenance
●whenever the product starts to vibrate abnormally
PRUNER SAFETY WARNINGS
■Do not use the product when there is a possibility of
thunderstorm or lightning. Store the product safely
indoors.
■Ensure all guards, handles are properly fitted and are
in good condition.
■Do not start using the product until you have a clear
work area, secure footing, and a planned retreat path
away from the falling branches or limbs.
■Beware of the emission of lubricant mist and saw dust.
Wear mask or respirator if required.
■During operation, hold the product with both hands. Use

2
one hand to firmly grasp the front hand grip. Use the
other hand to grasp the rear handle and operate the
trigger release and engine switch.
■Cut only when visibility and light are adequate for you
to see clearly.
■Do not use on a ladder or unstable support. Always cut
with both feet on solid ground to prevent being pulled
off balance.
■To protect yourself from electrocution, do not operate
within 10 m of overhead electrical lines.
■Before starting the engine, make sure the chain is not
contacting any object.
■Always cut with the engine running at full speed. Fully
squeeze the throttle trigger and maintain a steady
cutting speed.
■Do not force the product. Use the correct product for
your application.
■To protect yourself from falling branches, do not stand
directly under the branch or limb being cut. The product
should not be held at an angle over 60° from ground
level.
■Keep the handles dry, clean, and free of lubricant or
fuel mixture.
■Shut off the engine and make sure the cutting
attachment has stopped before setting the product
down.
■Your product comes with a shoulder strap. You must
use it while operating the product. It will assist you to
control the drop of the product after the cut is completed.
It will also help support the weight of the product during
use and while moving between pruning positions.
■Identify the quick release mechanism and practice
using it before you start using the product. Its
correct use may prevent serious injury in case of an
emergency. Never wear additional clothing over the
shoulder strap or otherwise restrict access to the quick
release mechanism.
■Use only the replacement guide bars and low kickback
chains specified for the product.
■Operate the pruner in well-ventilated areas.
■Do not operate the pruner with one hand. Serious injury
to the operator, helpers, bystanders, or any combination
of these persons may result from one-hand operation.
The product is intended for two-handed use.
■Use extreme caution when cutting small-sized brush
and saplings because slender material may catch the
saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off
balance.
■When cutting a limb that is under tension, be alert for
spring back so that you will not be struck when the
tension in the wood fibers are released.
■If the cutting performance deteriorates over time, check
if the chain teeth are sharp and clean. If necessary,
replace the original chain (and bar) as recommended
by the manufacturer.
■If the chain and bar become pinched or trapped in
branches that is too high to reach, seek advice from a
professional tree service specialist about safe removal
of the cutting means.
■Kickback is a dangerous reaction that can lead to
serious injury. 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 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 the operator. If the chain is
pinched along the top of the guide bar, the guide bar
can be driven rapidly back toward the operator, which
can cause loss of control and may result in serious
injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices
built into the product. With a basic understanding of
kickback, you can reduce or eliminate the element of
surprise. Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.
REFUELING
■FUEL IS HIGHLY FLAMMABLE. Take precautions
when using fuel to reduce the chance of serious
personal injury.
■Store the fuel in a cool, well-ventilated area, safely
away from spark and/or flame-producing equipment.
■Store the fuel in containers specifically designed for this
purpose.
■Only refuel outdoors and do not smoke while refueling.
■Add fuel before starting the engine. Never remove
the cap of the fuel tank or add fuel while the engine is
running or when the engine is hot.
■If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine but
move the product away from the area of spillage and
avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors
have dissipated.
■Replace all fuel tank and container caps securely.
■If the fuel tank has to be drained, do this outdoors and
only drain fuel into container specifically designed for
fuel storage.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING
When servicing, use only original manufacturer’s
replacement parts. Use of any other parts may create a
hazard or cause product damage.
WARNING
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with
side shields during operation or when blowing dust. If
operation is dusty, also wear a dust mask.
WARNING
Before inspecting, cleaning, or servicing the product
(except for choke adjustments), turn off the engine, wait
for all moving parts to stop, and disconnect the spark
plug wire and move it away from the spark plug. Failure
to follow these instructions can result in serious personal
injury or property damage.

3
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 a clean cloth to remove dirt, dust, lubricant, grease,
etc.
WARNING
Do not at any time let brake fluids, petrol, petroleum
based products, penetrating lubricant, etc., come in
contact with plastic parts. Chemicals can damage,
weaken, or destroy plastic, which may result in serious
personal injury.
All pruner service, other than the items listed in the
instruction manual maintenance instructions, should be
carried out by an authorised service centre.
RESIDUAL RISKS
Even when the product is used as prescribed, it is still
impossible to completely eliminate certain residual risk
factors. The following hazards may arise during use, and
the operator should pay special attention to avoid the
following:
■injury caused by vibration
–Hold the product by designated handles and restrict
working time and exposure.
■injury caused by exposure to noise
–Wear hearing protection and limit exposure.
■injury caused by flying debris.
–Wear eye protection at all times.
RISK REDUCTION
It has been reported that vibrations from handheld tools
may contribute to a condition called Raynaud’s Syndrome.
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 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 product, 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 physician.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
■Power head assembly
■Pruner attachment
■Extension shaft
■Scabbard
■Combination wrench
■230 ml bar and chain lubricant
■76 ml bottle of 2-stroke lubricant
■Shoulder strap hanger (with mounting hardware)
■Shoulder strap
■“J” handle assembly (with mounting hardware)
■Hanger cap
■Operator’s manual
SYMBOLS ON THE PRODUCT
Safety alert
Read and understand all instructions
before operating the product, follow all
warnings and safety instructions.
Wear eye, ear and head protection.
Wear non-slip safety footwear when
using the product.
Wear non-slip, heavy duty gloves.
Do not expose to rain or damp
condition.
10m
Electrical hazard, keep at least 10 m
away from the overhead electric-power
lines
The product is not intended for use
with a toothed saw type blade.
Beware of thrown or ying objects.
Keep all bystanders, especially children
and pets, at least 15 m away from the
operating area
To reduce the risk of injury or damage,
avoid contact with any hot surface.
Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM).
Product meets applicable regulatory
requirements.
Waste electrical products should not
be disposed of with household waste.
Please recycle where facilities exist.
Check with your local authority or
retailer for recycling advice.
Push primer bulb
Full choke position

4
Half choke position
Run position
Squeeze the throttle lock and throttle
trigger to run.
Waiting time - 10 seconds
Pull the starter rope.
Use unleaded petrol intended for
motor vehicle use with an octane
rating of 91 [(R + M)/2] or higher. The
product is powered by a 2-stroke
engine and requires premixing petrol
and 2-stroke lubricant.
Mix the fuel thoroughly and also each
time before refueling.
Use 2-stroke lubricant for air cooled
engines.
Guaranteed sound pressure and
sound power level.
SYMBOLS IN THIS MANUAL
Parts or accessories sold separately
Note
Warning
Wear eye and face protection.
The following signal words and meanings are intended to
explain the levels of risk associated with this product.
DANGER
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if
not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not
avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTION
Without safety alert symbol
Indicates a situation that may result in property damage.
FEATURES
KNOW YOUR PRUNER
Before using the product, familiarize yourself with all
operating features and safety rules.
ENGINE SWITCH
The engine switch controls the ignition system. The switch
must be in the ON (I) position for the engine to start and
run.
PRIMER BULB
The priming bulb pumps fuel from the fuel tank to the
carburetor.
SHOULDER STRAP
The shoulder strap helps support the weight of the pruner
during use.
CHOKE LEVER
The choke restricts the air supply through the carburetor
to enrich the mixture and enable easier starting when the
engine is cold.
STARTER GRIP
The starter grip is used for starting the engine.
THROTTLE TRIGGER
The throttle trigger is used for starting the pruner, and also
for controlling the speed of chain rotation.
ASSEMBLY
UNPACKING
The product requires assembly.
■Carefully remove the product and any accessories from
the box. Make sure that all items listed in the “What’s in
the box” section are included.
■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.
WARNING
If any parts are damaged or missing, do not operate the
product until the parts are replaced. Failure to heed this
warning could result in serious personal injury.
WARNING
Do not attempt to modify the product or create
accessories not recommended for use with the product.
Any such alteration or modification is misuse and could
result in a hazardous condition leading to possible
serious personal injury.

5
INSTALLING THE SHOULDER STRAP HANGER AND
ATTACHMENT
When operating the product, you must wear a shoulder
strap to support the product.
To install the shoulder strap hanger:
■Remove the lock nut, flat washer, and bolt from the
shoulder strap hanger.
■Pull apart the ends of the hanger to expand slightly.
■Position the hanger along the shaft to a location
providing optimum balance and control of the product.
NOTE: Make sure that the hanger does not cover the
WARNING label on the shaft.
■Squeeze the hanger ends together to re-tighten.
■Reinstall the bolt, flat washer, and locking nut to secure.
■Connect the latch on the shoulder strap to the strap
hanger.
The pruner attachment connects to the power head, or for
extra reach to an extension shaft, by means of a coupler
device.
To install the pruner attachment:
■Loosen the knob from the pruner attachment.
■Push in the button located on the shaft of the pruner
attachment. Align the button with the guide recess on
the power head shaft coupler and slide the two shafts
together. Rotate pruner attachment shaft until button
locks into the positioning hole.
NOTE: The attachment should only be operated with
the blade in a vertical position.
■Tighten the knob securely.
■Repeat previous steps to attach extension shaft to
power head.
NOTE: If the button does not release completely in
the positioning hole, the shaft is not locked into place.
Slightly rotate from side to side until the button is locked
into place.
WARNING
Be certain the knob is fully tightened and button is locked
into place in the positioning hole before operating the
product. Check it periodically for tightness during use to
avoid serious injury.
To remove:
■Loosen the knob on the coupler of the power head and
remove the end cap from the pruner attachment.
■Push in the button and twist the shafts to remove and
separate ends.
ATTACHING THE “J” HANDLE
■Place the bottom J-handle clamp on the drive shaft.
Insert the tab on the top J-handle clamp into the slot on
the bottom J-handle clamp.
■Insert the end of the J-handle between the clamps
so that holes align and handle will be located to the
operator’s left side.
■Push the bolt through the clamp and handle.
■Install flat washer and lock nut to hold the assembly
in place.
■Adjust the position of the handle to the area indicated
by the label on the drive shaft housing.
■Tighten the nut securely.
AUTOMATIC BAR AND CHAIN LUBRICATION
Add bar and chain lubricant in the bar lube reservoir before
starting the engine of the power head. Refer to Automatic
bar and chain lubrication of this manual.
OPERATION
WARNING
Do not allow familiarity with the product make you
careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a second
is sufficient to inflict serious injury.
WARNING
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields, a hard hat, and safety shoes when operating the
product. Failure to do so could result in objects being
thrown into your eyes, resulting in possible serious injury.
WARNING
Do not use any attachments or accessories not
recommended by the manufacturer of the product. The
use of attachments or accessories not recommended
can result in serious personal injury.
WARNING
To avoid kickback, binding of the saw bar, and possible
injury, never cut limbs that the pruner does not reach
when supported by the shoulder strap.
APPLICATIONS
You may use the product for the purposes listed below:
■Limbing
■Pruning
FUEL AND REFUELING
HANDLING THE FUEL SAFELY
Always handle the fuel with care, it is highly ammable.
■Always refuel outdoors where there are no sparks and
flames. Do not inhale fuel vapors.
■Do not let petrol or oil come in contact with your skin.
■Keep petrol and oil away from the eyes. If petrol or oil
comes in contact with the eyes, wash them immediately
with clean water. If irritation is still present, see a
physician immediately.
■Clean up spilled petrol immediately.
MIXING THE FUEL
■The product is powered by a 2-stroke engine and
requires pre-mixing petrol and 2-stroke oil. Pre-mix
unleaded petrol and 2-stroke engine oil in a clean
container approved for petrol.
IMPORTANT! Failure to use 2-stroke oil will result in

6
the engine seizing. Such damage will not be covered
under warranty.
■This engine is certified to operate on unleaded petrol
intended for automotive use with an octane rating of 91
([R + M] / 2) or higher.
■Do not use any type of pre-mixed petrol / oil from fuel
service stations, this includes the pre-mixed petrol / oil
intended for use in mopeds, motorcycles, etc.
■Avoid the use of Ethanol fuels or fuels containing
Ethanol. The use of Ethanol fuels may result in damage
to your engine.
■Use synthetic 2-stroke oil only. Do not use automotive
oil or 2-stroke outboard oil.
■Mix 2% synthetic 2-stroke oil into the petrol. This is a
50:1 ratio.
■Mix the fuel thoroughly and also each time before
fueling.
■Mix in small quantities. Do not mix quantities larger
than usable in a 30 day period. Synthetic 2-stroke oil
containing a fuel stabilizer is recommended.
FILLING THE TANK
■Clean the surface around the fuel cap to prevent
contamination.
■Loosen the fuel cap slowly to release pressure and to
keep the fuel from escaping around the cap.
■Carefully pour the fuel mixture into the tank. Avoid
spillage.
■Prior to replacing the fuel cap, clean and inspect the
gasket.
■Immediately replace the fuel cap and hand tighten.
Wipe up any fuel spillage. Move 9 m away from
refueling site before starting engine.
NOTE: It is normal for smoke to be emitted from a new
engine during and after first use.
WARNING
Always shut off the engine before fueling. Never add fuel
to a machine with a running or hot engine. Move at least
9 m from refueling site before starting engine. Do not
smoke!
50:1 Petrol to Oil Mixing Chart
1 litre + 20 ml =
2 litres + 40 ml =
3 litres + 60 ml = 50: 1 (2%)
4 litres + 80 ml =
5 litres + 100 ml =
WARNING
The product may throw objects during operation,
causing injury to the operator or to bystanders. Always
wear suitable eye protection, heavy and long pants, and
boots while operating the product.
PREPARATION FOR CUTTING
■Wear non-slip gloves for maximum grip and protection.
■Maintain proper grip on the product whenever the
engine is running. Use your right hand to firmly grip the
rear handle while your left hand has a firm grip on the
front handle, so your body is to the left of the chain line.
Never use a left-handed (cross-handed) grip, or any
stance that places your body or arm across the chain
line.
■Never stand directly under the limb you are cutting.
■Always wear shoulder strap for increased safety and to
support the pruner.
■Be certain the power head coupling knob and extension
shaft knobs are fully tightened and buttons are locked
into place in positioning holes before operating the
product. Check it periodically for tightness during use
to avoid serious injury.
■Make sure to check that the pruner attachment stops
turning when the engine idles before cutting. If the
attachment keeps on turning when the engine is in idle
mode, contact the service centre.
POSITION FOR STARTING
Lay the pruner on the ground and ensure that no objects
or obstructions are in the immediate vicinity. Make sure
nothing can come in contact with the bar and chain. Ensure
that the bar and chain is not touching the ground.
STARTING AND STOPPING
Starting the product differs, depending on whether the
engine is cold or warm. Refer to the label on the air lter
cover.
Starting a cold engine
NOTE: Lay the product on the ground. Ensure the cutting
means will not contact anything when it starts to rotate.
1. Press the primer bulb 10 times.
NOTE: After the 7th press, the fuel should be visible in
the primer bulb. If not, continue pressing until the fuel
is visible.
2. Set the choke lever to choke position.
3. Hold down the throttle lock and then squeeze the
throttle trigger completely and pull the starter grip until
the engine attempts to start. Do not pull the starter grip
more than 4 times. Keep the throttle trigger squeezed
completely through steps 3 to 7.
4. Set the choke lever to choke position.
5. Pull the starter grip until the engine starts. Do not pull
the starter grip more than 6 times.
NOTE: If the engine does not start, repeat the
procedure from step 2.
6. Allow the engine to run for 10 seconds.
7. Set the choke lever to position.
Starting a warm engine:
NOTE: Lay the product on the ground. Ensure the cutting

7
means will not contact anything when it starts to rotate.
1. Press the primer bulb 10 times.
2. Set the choke lever to position.
3. Hold down the throttle lock and then squeeze the
throttle trigger completely and pull the starter grip until
the engine starts. Do not pull the starter grip more than
6 times.
STARTING THE ENGINE USING AN ELECTRICAL
STARTER (OPTIONAL):
WARNING
Only use the Ryobi OES18 electrical starter. Use of
any other starter may damage the engine and cause
serious personal injury.
WARNING
Before using the electrical starter to start the product,
please read and understand completely the operation
manual of the OES18 electrical starter to avoid
improper operation and serious personal injury.
STARTING A COLD ENGINE BY ELECTRICAL
STARTER
1. Install the starter bit into the electrical starter with the
pentagon bit facing outside.
2. Push the F/R button to the left until the pentagon
symbol shows on the F/R button.
3. Lay the product on the ground and make sure that the
cutting means does not come in contact with anything.
4. Press the primer bulb 10 times.
NOTE: After the 7th press, the fuel should be visible in
the primer bulb. If not, continue pressing until the fuel
is visible.
5. Set the choke lever to choke position.
6. Hold down the throttle lock and then squeeze the
throttle trigger completely with your left hand and keep
the throttle trigger squeezed completely through steps
6 to 12.
7. Use your right hand to put the starter bit shaft to the
shaft hole on the engine. Make sure the starter bit is
properly engaged.
NOTE: The electrical starter is equipped with a safety
interlock. Do not press and hold on the switch button
when putting the electrical starter shaft into the shaft
hole on the engine, otherwise the starter will not turn.
The starter will not turn if the electrical starter is not
properly engaged.
8. Press and hold the electrical starter switch button until
the engine attempts to start. Do not press the electrical
starter for more than 4 seconds.
9. Set the choke lever to choke position.
10. Press and hold the electrical starter switch button until
the engine starts.
NOTE: If the engine does not start, repeat the
procedure from step 5. Do not repeat the procedure
more than 1 time.
11. Allow the engine to run for 10 seconds.
12. Set the lever to position.
STARTING A WARM ENGINE BY ELECTRICAL
STARTER
1. Install the starter bit into the electrical starter with the
pentagon bit facing outside.
2. Push the F/R button to the left until the pentagon
symbol shows on the F/R button.
3. Lay the product on the ground and make sure that the
cutting means does not come in contact with anything.
4. Press the primer bulb 10 times.
5. Set the choke lever to position.
6. Hold down the throttle lock and then squeeze the
throttle trigger completely with your left hand and keep
the throttle trigger squeezed completely. Use the right
hand to put the electrical starter shaft into the shaft
hole on the engine. Make sure the starter is properly
engaged.
7. Press and hold the electrical starter switch button until
the engine starts.
NOTE: If the engine does not start, repeat the
procedure from step 5. Do not repeat the procedure
more than 1 time. If the engine does not start after the
second attempt, see the solution instruction for the
“Engine is flooded” in the “Trouble shooting” section of
this manual.
Stopping the product
■Release the throttle trigger.
■Set the On/Off switch to the ‘O’ (off) position.
BASIC CUTTING PROCEDURE
Follow the steps below to prevent damage to tree or shrub
bark. Do not use a back-and-forth sawing motion.
■Accelerate the engine to full throttle just before entering
the cut by squeezing the throttle trigger. Keep the
engine at full throttle the entire time you are cutting.
■Make a shallow first cut (1/4 of limb diameter) on the
underside of the limb close to the main limb or trunk.
■Make a second cut from the top side of the limb
outboard from the first cut.
■Make a final cut close to trunk.
NOTE: For second and final cuts (from top of limb or
branch), hold the bucking spikes against the limb being
cut. This will help steady the limb and make it easier to
cut. Allow chain to cut for you; exert only light downward
pressure. If you force the cut, damage to the bar, chain,
or engine can result.
■Release the trigger as soon as the cut is completed,
allowing the engine to idle. If you run the pruner at full
throttle without a cutting load, unnecessary wear or
damage can occur to the chain, bar, and engine.
Failure to follow proper cutting procedures will result in the
bar and chain binding and becoming pinched or trapped in
the limb. If this should happen:
■Stop the engine.
■Loosen the knob on the coupler.
■Depress the button on the shaft; twist and pull the
shafts to separate the pruner from the power head.
■If the limb can be reached from the ground, lift the limb
while holding the attachment. This should release the
“pinch” and free the pruner.
■If the pruner is still trapped, call a professional for

8
assistance.
LIMBING AND PRUNING
The product is designed for trimming small branches. For
best results, observe the following precautions:
■Plan the cut carefully. Be aware of the direction in which
the branch will fall.
■Branches may fall in unexpected directions. Do not
stand directly under the branch being cut.
■The most typical cutting application is to position the
product at an angle of 60° or less, depending on the
specific situation, as shown. As the angle of the pruner
shaft to ground increases, the difficulty of making the
first cut (from the underside of limb) increases.
■Remove long branches in several stages.
■Cut lower branches first to allow the top branches more
room to fall.
■Work slowly, keeping both hands on the pruner with a
firm grip. Maintain secure footing and balance.
■Keep the tree between you and the chain while limbing.
Cut from side of tree opposite to the branch you are
cutting.
■Do not cut from a ladder; this is extremely dangerous.
Leave this operation to professionals.
■Do not make the flush cut next to the main limb or trunk
until you have cut off the limb further out to reduce the
weight. Following proper cutting procedures will prevent
stripping the bark from the main member.
■Do not use the pruner for felling or bucking.
■To prevent electrocution, do not operate within 10 m of
overhead electrical lines.
■Keep bystanders at least 15 m away.
CHAIN TENSION
WARNING
To avoid possible serious injury, never touch or adjust the
chain while the engine is running. The saw chain is very
sharp; always wear protective gloves when performing
maintenance to the chain.
■Stop the engine before setting the chain tension. Make
sure the guide bar nut is loose to finger tight, turn the
chain tensioning screw clockwise to tension the chain.
Refer to Replacing the Bar and Chain for additional
information.
NOTE: A cold chain is correctly tensioned when there
is no slack on the underside of the guide bar. The cold
chain is snug and will hang approximately 4.0 mm (
0.160 in) out of the bar groove, but it can be turned by
hand without binding.
■Chain must be re-tensioned whenever the flats on the
drive links hang out of the bar groove.
■The chain tension is correct when the gap is about
3-4 mm. Since the chain will stretch when it heats up,
then it is recommended that the chain tension must be
checked regularly.
■During normal operation, the temperature of the chain
will increase. The drive links of a correctly tensioned
warm chain will hang approximately 1.30 mm (.050 in)
out of the bar groove.
NOTE: New chain tends to stretch; check chain tension
frequently and tension as required.
WARNING
Chain tensioned while warm may be too tight upon
cooling. Check the “cold tension” before next use.
REPLACING THE BAR AND CHAIN
WARNING
To avoid possible serious injury, turn off the engine
before replacing the bar, chain, or performing any
maintenance operation.
■Remove the bar nut and drive case cover.
■The bar contains a bar stud slot that fits over the bar
stud. The bar also contains a chain tensioning pin hole,
which fits over the chain tensioning pin.
■Place the bar onto the bar stud so that the chain
tensioning pin fits into the chain tensioning pin hole.
■Fit the chain over the sprocket and into the bar groove.
The cutters on the top of the bar should face toward the
bar tip, in the direction of the chain rotation.
■Replace the drive case cover and install the bar nut.
Tighten the bar nut finger tight only. The bar must be
free to move for tension adjustment.
■Remove all slack from chain by turning the chain
tensioning screw clockwise, assuring that the chain
seats into the bar groove during tensioning.
■Lift the tip of the bar up to check for sag. Release the tip
of the bar, and turn the chain tensioning screw 1/2 turn
clockwise. Repeat this process until sag does not exist.
■Hold the tip of the bar up and tighten the bar nut
securely.
■The chain tension is correct when the gap is about
3-4 mm. Since the chain will stretch when it heats up,
then it is recommended that the chain tension must be
checked regularly.
NOTE: If chain is too tight, it will not rotate. Loosen
the bar nut slightly and turn adjusting screw 1/4 turn
counterclockwise. Lift the tip of the bar up and retighten
bar nut.
ADJUSTING THE IDLE SPEED
If the chain turns at idle, the idle speed screw needs
adjusting on the engine. Contact a service dealer for
adjustment.
AUTOMATIC BAR AND CHAIN LUBRICATION
■Use a premium blend of Bar and Chain Lubricant. It is
designed for chains and chain oilers and is formulated
to perform over a wide temperature range with no
dilution required.
■Remove the cap and carefully pour approximately 230
ml of bar and chain lubricant into the bar lube reservoir.
■Replace the cap and tighten securely.
■Check and refill the bar lube reservoir every time the

9
engine is fuelled.
NOTE: Do not use dirty, used, or otherwise
contaminated lubricant. Damage may occur to the oil
pump, bar, or chain.
NOTE: Use chain and bar oil only. Other oils will not
stick to the chain properly and will result in damage to
the chain and bar.
CLEANING THE AIR FILTER
For proper performance and longer life, keep the air lter
clean.
■Ensure the product is in the off position
■Remove the air filter cover.
■Remove the air filter and clean it with warm soapy
water.
■Rinse, and let the air filter dry completely.
■Work two drops of lubricant into the air filter.
■Replace the air filter (fits only one way).
■Replace the air filter cover.
NOTE: The air lter should be replaced annually for the
best performance.
CHECKING THE FUEL CAP
WARNING
A leaking fuel cap is a fire hazard and must be replaced
immediately.
The fuel cap contains a non-serviceable lter and a
check valve. A clogged fuel lter will cause poor engine
performance. If performance improves when the fuel cap
is loosened, check valve may be faulty or lter clogged.
Replace fuel cap if required.
REPLACING THE SPARK PLUG
WARNING
The material of the spark plug is metal. It becomes very
hot after you stop the engine. Wait for the engine to cool
down before disassembling the metal spark plug boot to
avoid personal injury.
NOTE: This engine uses a Champion RCJ6Y or equivalent
with 0.63 mm (0.025 in.) electrode gap. Use an exact
replacement and replace annually.
1. Stop the engine.
2. Hold the front portion of the rubber protect boot and pull
it away from the housing.
3. Pull the rubber protect boot upward to release the hook.
4. Twist the metal spark plug boot and pull it away from
the spark plug.
5. Loosen the spark plug by turning it counter clockwise
with a wrench. Remove the old spark plug and replace
with a new one. Assemble back the metal spark plug
boot and the rubber protect boot.

10
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
x 1x 1
x 1
x 1
x 1
x 1
x 1
x 1
x 1 x 1

11
OVERVIEW
1819 11
321 54 7 8 9
1012131617 15 14
6
1. Bar
2. Chain
3. Pruner attachment
4. Coupler
5. Extension shaft
6. Knob
7. Strap hanger
8. Harness
9. Starter grip
10. Fuel cap
11. Trigger lock
12. Throttler trigger
13. “J” handle
14. Spark plug cover
15. Easy Starter housing
16. Primer bulb
17. Air filter cover
18. Chain oiler tank cap
19. Bucking spikes

12
GETTING STARTED
2
1
3
4
1
5
2a
6
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating the product. Failure to do so could
result in objects being thrown into your eyes resulting
in possible serious injury. When handling the pruner
assembly, wear non-slip, heavy-duty protective gloves.
Wear nonskid, protective footwear that will protect your feet
and improve your footing on slippery surfaces.
Install the pruner attachment. Loosen the knob on the
coupler of the power head and remove the end cap from
the pruner attachment. Push in the button located on the
shaft of the pruner attachment.
Remove the scabbard from the chain bar. Lay the product on the ground.

13
GETTING STARTEDGETTING STARTED
1
2
3
1
2
2b 3
1
2
4
3
8
(50 : 1)
50 : 1 / 2%
7
1
2
4
3
4
Align the button with the guide recess on the power head
shaft coupler and slide the two shafts together. Rotate
the pruner attachment shaft until the button locks into the
positioning hole. Tighten the knob securely.
Use synthetic 2-stroke lubricant only. Do not use automotive
lubricant or 2-stroke outboard lubricant. Mix 2% synthetic
2-stroke lubricant into the petrol. This is a 50:1 ratio.
Attach the J-handle. Insert the end of the J-handle between
the clamps so that holes align and handle will be located to
the operator’s left side. Push the bolt through the clamp and
handle. Install flat washer and lock nut to hold the assembly
in place. Adjust the position of the handle. Tighten the nut
securely.
Attach the shoulder strap hanger.
Loosen the fuel cap. Remove the fuel cap. Carefully pour
fuel mixture into the tank. Avoid spillage. Immediately
replace fuel cap and hand tighten.
Loosen and remove the oil cap. Add bar and chain lubricant
in the bar lube reservoir for automatic bar and chain
lubrication. Place cap and tighten securely.
NOTE: Use chain and bar oil only. Other oils will not stick
to the chain properly and will result in damage to the chain
and bar.

14

15
OVERVIEW
3-4 mm
p.17 p.19-20
p.26p.25
Pole pruner safety
Electrical starterChain adjustment
Starting the product
Chain bar replacement
p.21-23

16
OVERVIEW
p.28 p.31 p.29
p.35p.34
Spark plug replacement Spark arrestor cleaning
Cleaning
Air filter cleaning
Storage

17
OPERATION
≤60˚
≥15m (50’)
10m
1
2
1
OPERATING THE PRUNER
WARNING: DANGER! Risk of electrocution!
Do not operate within 10 m of overhead electrical
lines.
Position the product at an angle of 60° or less,
depending on the specic situation. Keep
bystanders at least 15 m away.
WARNING: Do not cut from a ladder; this is
extremely dangerous. Leave this operation to
professionals.
WARNING: Maintain a proper grip on the
product whenever the engine is running.
1. Accelerate the engine to full throttle before
entering the cut and keep the engine at full
throttle while cutting.

18
OPERATION
1
2
3
2
2. Make a shallow rst cut (1/4 of limb diameter)
on the underside of the limb close to the
main limb or trunk. Then, make a second
cut from the top side of the limb outboard
from the first cut. Lastly, make a final cut
close to trunk.
NOTE: For second and nal cuts (from top
of limb or branch), hold the bucking spikes
against the limb being cut. Allow chain to cut
for you; exert only light downward pressure.