Ryobi RLM18X40Li50 User manual

RBC36X26E
RBC36X26E
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Cordless Lawn
Mower
RLM18X40Li50
RLM1840BL5
OLM1840BL

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

Safety, performance, and dependability have
been given top priority in the design of your
cordless lawn mower.
INTENDED USE
The cordless lawn mower is only intended for
use outdoors.
The product is designed for domestic lawn
mowing. The cutting blade should rotate
approximately parallel to the ground over
which it is being wheeled. All four wheels
should touch the ground while mowing. It is
a pedestrian-controlled walk-behind mower
designed to be pushed by hand .
The product should never be operated with
the wheels off the ground; it should not be
pulled or ridden on. It should not be used to
cut anything other than domestic grass lawns.
Do not use the product for any other purpose.
GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNING
When using the product, the safety rules
must be followed. For your own safety
and that of bystanders, please read these
instructions before operating the product.
Please keep the instructions safe for later
use.
WARNING
The product should only be operated with
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When using battery operated product,
basic safety precautions should always be
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batteries and personal injury.
PERSONAL SAFETY
ŶThe product is capable of amputating
hands and feet, and of throwing objects.
Failure to observe all safety instructions
could result in serious injury or death.
ŶBe familiar with the controls and the correct
use of the product.
ŶNever allow children or people with reduced
physical, sensory or mental capabilities or
persons not familiar with these instructions
to operate, clean or maintain the product.
Local regulations may restrict the age of the
operator. Children should be adequately
supervised to ensure they do not play with
the product.
ŶStay alert, watch what you are doing,
and use common sense when operating
the product. Do not operate the product
while tired or under the influence of
drugs, alcohol, or medication. A lapse in
concentration while operating the product
may result in serious personal injury.
ŶWear heavy, long trousers, long sleeves,
and sturdy anti-slip footwear. Do not wear
short trousers, sandals, or go barefoot.
Avoid wearing clothing that is loose fitting
or that has hanging cords or ties.
ŶAlways wear safety glasses with side
shields.
ŶAlways be sure of your footing especially
on slopes. Keep firm footing and balance.
Walk, never run.
ŶUse the product across the face of slopes,
never up and down. Exercise extreme
caution when changing direction on slopes.
ŶDo not use the product near drop-offs,
ditches, excessively steep slopes, or
embankments. Poor footing could cause a
slip and fall accident.
WORK AREA SAFETY
ŶNever use product while people, especially
children, or pets are within 15 m because
of the danger of objects being thrown by
contact with the blade.
ŶObjects struck by the lawn mower blade
can cause severe injuries to persons.
Thoroughly inspect the area where the
product is to be used and remove all rocks,
sticks, metal, wire, bones, toys, or other
foreign objects. Remember, string or wire
may entangle with the cutting means.
WARNING
Blades coming in contact with a “live“ wire
may make exposed metal parts of the
product “live“ and could cause an electric
shock.
ŶAlways use the product in the daylight or
with good artificial light.
ŶDo not operate the product in explosive
atmospheres, such as in the presence
of flammable liquids, gases or dust. The
product creates sparks which may ignite
the dust or fumes.
2

ŶDo not operate the product on wet grass or
in the rain.
ŶDo not use the product when there is a risk
of lightning.
ŶKeep in mind that the operator or user
is responsible for accidents or hazards
occurring to other people or their property.
ŶTragic accidents can occur if the operator
is not alert to the presence of children.
Children are often attracted to the product
and the mowing activity. Never assume
that children will remain where you last saw
them.
ŶKeep children out of the mowing area and
under the watchful care of a responsible
adult other than the operator, be alert and
turn the product off if a child enters the
area.
ŶUse extra care when approaching blind
corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects
including overhanging shrubs, which may
block your view.
BATTERY TOOLS USE AND CARE
ŶRead, understand, and always follow
the safety instructions which came with
your battery and charger. Failure to do
so may result in electric shock, fire or
other hazardous situations. Keep all the
instructions together in a safe place for
future reference.
ŶBattery-operated products do not have to be
plugged into an electrical outlet; therefore,
they are always in operating condition.
Remove the isolator key whenever you are
not operating the product.
ŶRemove the battery pack before making
any adjustments, cleaning, or removing
material from the product.
ŶEnsure the isolator key is removed before
inserting battery pack.
ŶA battery pack must be recharged only with
the charger specified by the manufacturer.
Using a charger with an incompatible
battery pack may create a risk of fire. Use
battery pack only with charger listed.
ŶUse only battery pack intended specifically
for the product. Use of any other battery
packs may result in a risk of fire, electric
shock, or injury to persons.
ŶWhen 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 pack terminals together may cause
sparks, burns, fire or explosion.
ŶDo not place battery products or their
batteries near fire or heat. This increases
the risk of explosion and possibly injury.
ŶDo not open or mutilate the battery pack.
Released electrolyte is corrosive and may
cause damage to the eyes or skin. It may
be toxic if swallowed.
ŶProtect the battery pack against moisture
and water. Do not charge the product in a
damp or wet location. Following this rule
will reduce the risk of electric shock.
ŶIn case of damage and improper use of the
battery, vapour may be emitted. Provide
for fresh air and seek medical help in case
of complaints. The vapour can irritate the
respiratory system.
ŶDo not leave the battery pack inside a
vehicle in hot or cold conditions.
ŶDo not incinerate the battery.
ŶUnder 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.
LAWN MOWER SAFETY WARNINGS
ŶBefore use, always visually inspect to
ensure blades, blade bolts, and cutter
assembly are not worn or damaged.
ŶReplace worn or damaged blades and
bolts in sets to preserve balance.
ŶThe blade on the product is sharp. Use
extreme caution and wear heavy-duty
gloves when fitting, replacing, cleaning or
checking bolt security.
ŶBring the product to an authorised service
centre to replace damaged or unreadable
labels.
ŶCheck all nuts, bolts, and screws at
frequent intervals for proper tightness to
be sure that the product is in safe working
condition.
ŶFrequently check the grass catcher for
wear, holes or deterioration.
ŶReplace worn or damaged parts before
3

operating the product.
ŶThe product must be started with the user
behind the handlebars in the operator
safety zone. Never start the product if:
Ɣall four wheels are not on the ground
Ɣthe grass discharge chute is exposed
and is not protected by the grass catcher
and grass discharge chute cover.
Ɣhands and feet of all persons are not
clear of the cutting enclosure.
ŶNever operate the product if the on/off
switch on the handlebar does not properly
start and stop the product.
ŶNever attempt to lock the on/off switches in
the on position, this is extremely dangerous.
ŶDo not force the product. It will do the job
better and safer at the speed for which it
was designed.
ŶStop the blade when crossing gravel
surfaces.
ŶDo not pull the product backwards 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.
ŶStop the motor and allow the blade to
stop if the product has to be tilted for
transportation when crossing surfaces
other than grass, and when transporting
the product to and from the work area.
ŶNever use the product with defective
guards or shields, or without safety
devices, for example, deflectors and/or
grass collectors, in place.
ŶDo not tilt the product when switching on
the motor or while the motor is running. If
absolutely necessary, you may raise the
front of the lawn mower by no more than
5 cm to enable easier starting. Press down
on the handlebar to achieve this. Always
return the mower to its normal position with
all wheels on the ground before cutting.
Tilting the mower exposes the blade and
increases the probability of objects being
thrown and accidental contact with the
blade.
ŶSwitch on the motor carefully according to
instructions and keep hands and feet away
from blades. Do not put hands or feet near
or under rotating parts.
ŶNever pick up or carry the product while it
is running.
ŶTurn off the product and remove isolator
key. Make sure all moving parts have come
to a complete stop:
Ɣbefore leaving the product unattended
(including disposal of grass clippings).
Ɣbefore clearing blockages or unclogging
discharge chute
Ɣbefore checking, cleaning, or working on
the product
Ɣbefore removing the grass catcher or
opening the grass discharge chute cover
Ɣafter striking a foreign object (inspect
the product for damage and make
repairs as necessary before restarting
and operating the product)
Ɣwhenever the product starts to vibrate
abnormally (check immediately)
–inspect for damage, particularly the
blades
–replace or repair any damaged parts
–check for and tighten any loose parts
ŶAvoid holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, property
stakes, or other hidden objects. Uneven
terrain could cause a slip-and-fall accident.
ŶAlways ensure the motor control cable
is never trapped, pinched or otherwise
damaged during assembly or when folding
the handle.
ADDITIONAL BATTERY SAFETY
WARNINGS
WARNING
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and product damage due to short circuit,
never immerse your tool, battery pack, or
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as seawater, certain industrial chemicals,
and bleach or bleach-containing products,
etc., can cause a short circuit.
PRODUCT FEATURES
OVERLOADANDOVERHEATPROTECTION
The product has an overload protection
device. When overloading is detected, the
product will automatically limit the current
rise and slow down the cutting speed until
the product stops. If the overload protector is
4

actuated, the on-off button must be released.
Press the on-off button to restart the product.
The battery pack has overheat protection.
Excessive temperatures will cause the battery
to stop powering the product. Feel the battery
pack; if it is too warm, allow it to cool down
before resuming operation. If the product still
does not work, recharge the battery pack.
NOTE: The battery pack LED indicator will
not work if the battery protection feature has
caused the battery pack to stop powering the
product. Release the on-off button or remove
the battery pack from the product and the
battery pack LED indicator will resume normal
function.
The product also has a tilt protection function.
If the product is tilted beyond 45°, for about 7
seconds, the product will stop. The product will
not function if the tilt angle limit is exceeded or
if the product is in the vertical storage position.
TELESCOPIC HANDLE
The product is equipped with a telescopic
handle that can be adjusted for storage and
operation. The telescopic handle must be fully
extended when setting up the product for use.
NOTE: The product will not function if the
telescopic handle is not fully extended and
the two latches are not in the correct position.
GENERAL MOWING TIPS
The run time of the battery depends on the
condition, length, and density of the grass.
Adjust the cutting height of the lawn mower to
suit the current condition of the lawn.
Grass
conditions
Suggested height
adjustment Coverage
(maximum)
First pass Succeeding
passes
Thin / Dry 4 ĺ P*
Medium /
Dense 5ĺ P*
* battery: RB18L50
ŶFor best performance, always cut off one-
third or less of the total height of the grass.
ŶWhen cutting long grass, reduce walking
speed to allow for more effective cutting
and a proper discharge of the clippings.
ŶDo not cut wet grass; it will stick to the
underside of the deck and prevent proper
collection or discharge of grass clippings.
ŶNew or thick grass may require a higher
cutting height.
ŶIf you wish to collect the grass cuttings for
disposal, remove the mulching plug and fit
the grass catcher making sure the rear door
is properly closed. Empty the grass catcher
regularly; otherwise, the discharge chute
will become blocked with grass cuttings.
ŶIf you are making a light cut and wish for
the grass cuttings to remain on the lawn,
fit the mulching plug and close the rear
door to cover the discharge opening. It is
not necessary to fit the grass catcher in this
case.
ŶThe product is designed to operate and cut
most effectively when moving forwards.
ŶA higher cutting height will extend the run
time of the battery pack.
Battery charge LED colour
 Green
 Amber
 Red
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gauge indicates mower overload.
TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
ŶStop the product, remove the isolator key
and the battery pack. Make sure that all
moving parts have come to a complete
stop. Allow the product to cool down before
storing or transporting.
ŶClean all foreign materials from the product.
Store the product in a cool, dry, and well-
ventilated place that is inaccessible to
children. Keep away from corrosive agents
such as garden chemicals and de-icing
salts. Do not store outdoors.
ŶFor transportation in vehicles, remove
isolator key and secure the product against
movement or falling to prevent injury to
persons or damage to the product.
WARNING
Use extreme caution when lifting or tilting the
product for maintenance, cleaning, storage,
or transportation, the blade is sharp, keep
all body parts away from the blade while it
is exposed.
5

TRANSPORTING LITHIUM BATTERIES
Transport the battery in accordance with local
and national provisions and regulations.
Follow all special requirements on packaging
and labelling when transporting batteries by a
third party. Ensure that no batteries can come
in contact with other batteries or conductive
materials while in transport by protecting
exposed connectors with insulating, non-
conductive caps or tape. Do not transport
batteries that are cracked or leaking. Check
with the forwarding company for further
advice.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING
Use only original manufacturer’s
replacement parts, accessories and
attachments. Failure to do so can cause
possible injury, can contribute to poor
performance, and may void your warranty.
WARNING
Servicing requires extreme care and
knowledge and should be performed only
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product serviced by an authorised service
centre only. When servicing, use only
original replacement parts.
ŶStop the product, remove the isolator key
and the battery pack. Make sure that all
moving parts have come to a complete stop
before any cleaning or maintenance task.
ŶYou may make adjustments and repairs
described here. For other repairs, have the
product serviced by an authorised service
centre only.
ŶReplace worn or damaged part for safety.
ŶCheck the grass catcher frequently for
wear or deterioration.
ŶAfter each use, clean the product with a
soft dry cloth. Any part that is damaged
should be properly repaired or replaced by
an authorised service centre.
ŶCheck all nuts, bolts and screws at frequent
intervals for proper tightness to ensure the
product is in safe working condition.
ŶBe careful during adjustment of the product
to prevent entrapment of the fingers
between moving blades and fixed parts of
the product.
ŶWhen servicing the blades, be aware that
even though the power source is switched
off, the blades can still be moved.
ŶThe blade on the product is sharp. Use
extreme caution and wear heavy-duty
gloves when fitting, replacing, cleaning or
checking bolt security.
ŶReplace damaged blades and bolts in sets
to preserve balance.
ŶThe blade bolts must be adequately
tightened. See the manufacturer’s
recommendations for blade bolt torque
which can be found in the product
specification table in this manual.
CLEARING BLOCKAGES
ŶStop the product, remove the isolator key
and the battery pack. Make sure that all
moving parts have come to a complete
stop.
ŶAlways wear heavy-duty gloves when
checking or clearing a blockage.
ŶThe blades are sharp and the blockage
itself could be a sharp object.
ŶRemove the grass catcher, check for and
carefully clear obstructions.
ŶCheck the grass discharge chute for
blockages and carefully clear.
ŶTurn the product on its side, check its
underside, and the area around the
blade. If any blockages are found, remove
carefully. Remember the blade may move
during cleaning.
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:
Ŷinjury caused by vibration
ƔAlways use the right tool for the job. Use
designated handles and restrict working
time and exposure.
Ŷinjury caused by noise
ƔExposure to noise can cause hearing
injury. Wear ear protection and limit
exposure.
6

Ŷinjury from contact with the blades
Ŷinjury caused by thrown objects
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
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WR FROG +HUHGLWDU\ IDFWRUV H[SRVXUH WR FROG
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:
ŶKeep 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.
ŶAfter each period of operation, exercise to
increase blood circulation.
ŶTake 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.
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.
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
RLM18X40Li50/RLM1840BL5/OLM1840BL
ŶLawn mower x1
ŶGrass catcher x1
ŶMulching plug x1
ŶIsolator key x1
ŶOperator’s manual x1
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Ŷ:DVKHU[
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Ŷ7ZUHQFK[
SYMBOLS ON THE PRODUCT
Read and understand all
instructions before operating
the product, follow all warnings
and safety instructions.
Wear ear protection.
Wear eye protection.
Do not operate on inclines
greater than 15°. Mow across
the face of slopes, never up
and down.
Do not expose to rain or damp
condition.
Beware of sharp blades.
Blades continue to rotate after
the motor is switched off –
Remove isolator key before
maintenance.
Remove the battery packs before
any cleaning or maintenance
task.
%HZDUHRIWKURZQRUÀ\LQJREMHFWV
Keep all bystanders, especially
children and pets, at least 15 m
away from the operating area.
+or
Press the start button and then
the on-off trigger (A or B) to start
the product. Release the Start
button and keep pressing the
on-off trigger to run the product.
Release the on-off trigger to stop
the product.
Go
Stop
Please read the instructions
carefully before using the
product.
7

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.
Regulatory Compliance
Mark (RCM). Product
meets applicable regulatory
requirements.
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.
SYMBOLS IN THIS MANUAL
Parts or accessories sold
separately
Note
Warning
8

RLM18X40Li50
RLM1840BL5
10 mm
x 1
x 1
x 1 x 2
x 1
x 1
x 1
x 2
x 2
x 1
*Kit includes battery and charger.
*For blade change
9
WHAT’S IN THE BOX

x 1
x 1x 1
x 1 x 1
10 mm
OLM1840BL
x 2
x 2
x 1
*Battery and charger are sold separately.
*For blade change
10
WHAT’S IN THE BOX

STOP
GO
2
3
4
5
17
16
15
14
13
10
11
12
1
9 8 7 6
1. Handle lock
2. Grass catcher
3. Quick release fastener
4. Rear wheel
5. Front wheel
6. Charger
7. Battery
8. Mulching plug
9. Isolator key
10. Battery door
11. LED fuel gauge
12. Height adjustment lever
13. Grass catcher full indicator
14. Telescopic handle
15. Motor control cable
16. Start button
17. On-off trigger
11
KNOW YOUR PRODUCT

1
1
2
2
3
2
1
3
21
2 3
1
2
6b
4
1
2
A
+or
B
A
B
9
A
B
NOTE: Ensure handles are fully extended to engage
the microswitches. The product will not start if the
microswitches are not engaged.
Lock the handles once they are fully extended. To unlock the quick release fasteners, pull the handle and turn 90°. To lock the quick release fasteners, turn the handle 90°,
and then ensure that the fastener knob is secure in the locking slot.
1
1
2
6a
3
2
4
1
5
5
1
2
1
2
2
7 8
Insert the battery into the unit. Make sure the latches on
each side of the battery pack snap in place and that the
battery pack is secured in the unit before operating.
NOTE: The mower only requires one battery for operation.
The second battery slot is for storage over extended use.
If the operating battery is depleted, then swap it with the
storage battery to continue mowing.
11
GETTING STARTEDGETTING STARTED GETTING STARTED GETTING STARTED
11
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Good quality personal protective equipment, as used by
professionals, will help reduce the risk of injury to the
operator.
Refer to mulching section on page 16 for mulch plug installation. Refer to catching section on page 16 for catcher installation. Insert the isolator key and then lower the battery door.
NOTE: The product will not start without the isolator key.
Ensure the isolator key is inserted into the product.
To start the mower, hold down the start button, then pull
and hold either side of the on-off trigger.
NOTE: The on-off trigger must be continuously held in
use. To turn the mower off, simply release the on-off
trigger, and the unit will stop.
Unlock the handle locks. Fully extend the handles.
Ensure the handle is securely installed. Use the quick-
release fasteners as reference in checking the handle
alignment.
Align the handle with the brackets using the quick-release
fasteners as reference. Insert the bolt through the hole
located on the lower half of the handle, then add a washer.
Ensure the washer is between the handle and the bracket.
Tighten the bolt to secure the handle using the T40 wrench.

12

STOP
GO
Installing the mulching plug
Safety and best practices
Easy edge Cutting height adjustment
Installing the grass catcher
p.15 p.16
p.16 p.17 p.17
13
OVERVIEW

STOP
GO
Storing the product
Replacing the blade Emptying the grass catcher
Cleaning the product
p.21p.18
p.20 p.22
14
OVERVIEW

SAFETY AND BEST PRACTICES
NOTE: The mower only requires one battery
for operation. The second battery pack
slot is for storage over extended use. The
second battery pack will increase run-time
and performance. If the operating battery
pack is depleted, swap it with the stored
battery pack to continue mowing.
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15
OPERATION
1
2
2
3
4
Û0D[Û
1
2
A
1
A
B
B
A
+or
B
2

INSTALLING THE MULCHING PLUG
1. Raise the rear door and remove grass
catcher.
 Install the mulch plug, ensuring that it is
secure and locked into place. Lower the
rear door.
INSTALLING THE GRASS CATCHER
1. Raise the rear door and remove the
mulch plug. .
 Install the catcher, ensuring that it is
secure and aligned on the two hooks.
Lower the rear door.
16
OPERATION
1
2
1
2
3
1
32
1
2
2
2
1
1

EASY EDGE
NOTE: Grass comb pulls grass towards the
blade when the product is running along a
wall.
CUTTING HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
NOTE: To adjust the deck height, pull the
handle towards the wheel and away from
the mower deck to the preferred height.
Make sure that the handle is always secured
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NOTE: Always begin mowing at the highest
cutting setting and gradually adjust the
height down when necessary.
17
OPERATION
STOP
GO
STOP
GO

REPLACING THE BLADE
1. Remove the batteries and isolator key
from the mower.
 Tilt the mower on its side so that the
blade is vertical.
3. Clean away debris before changing the
blade.
4. /RRVHQWKHQXWXVLQJPPVSDQQHU
NOTE: Use a wood chock to stop the
blade from spinning during loosening
and tightening.
18
OPERATION
2
1
3
3
4
2
1
1
2
4
3