Ryobi RHT1850SLi20 User manual

ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Cordless Pole
Hedge Trimmer
RHT1850SLi20

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 cordless pole hedge
trimmer.
INTENDED USE
The cordless pole hedge trimmer is only intended for
use outdoors by a single person who is standing rm on
a solid ground. For safety reasons, the product must be
adequately controlled by using two-handed operation.
The product is designed for home or domestic use. It is
intended to cut and trim hedges, shrubs, and similar
vegetation. The product is designed to be extended to a
maximum length of 2.88 m. Do not exceed this working
length.
It should be used in dry, well-illuminated conditions.
It is not intended to cut grass, trees, or branches. It should
not be used for any other purpose than hedge trimming.
GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNING
Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to
follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric
shock, re, and/or serious injury.
Save all warnings and instruction 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
■Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark
areas invite accidents.
■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.
■Keep children and bystanders away while operating a
power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
■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.
■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.
■Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of
electric shock.
■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.
■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.
■If operating a power tool in a damp location is
unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD)
protected supply. Use of an RCD reduces the risk of
electric shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
■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 under the influence of drugs,
alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while
operating power tools may result in serious personal
injury.
■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
injury.
■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.
■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.
■Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at
all times. This enables better control of the power in
unexpected situations.
■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.
■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
■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.
■Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn
it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled
with switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
■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.
■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.
■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.
■Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained

2
cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to
bind and are easier to control.
■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
■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.
■Use power tools only with specifically designated
battery packs. Use of any other battery packs may
create a risk of injury and fire
■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.
■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
■Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair
person using only identical replacement parts. This will
ensure that safety of the power tool is maintained.
POLE HEDGE TRIMMER SAFETY WARNINGS
■Keep all parts of the body away from the cutter blade.
A moment of inattention while operating the pole hedge
trimmer may result in serious personal injury.
■Carry the pole hedge trimmer by the handle with cutter
blade stopped. When transporting or storing the pole
hedge trimmer always fit the cutting device cover.
Proper handling of the pole hedge trimmer reduces
possible personal injury from the cutter blades.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY WARNINGS
■Some regions have regulations that restrict the use of
the product to some operations. Check with your local
authority for advice. Read all instructions.
■Clear the work area before each use. Remove all
objects such as cords, lights, wire, or string which can
be thrown or become entangled in the cutting means.
■Check the hedge for foreign objects, such as wire
fences.
■Exercise additional caution when using the product near
fencing, posts, buildings, or other immovable objects.
■To protect yourself from electrocution, do not operate
within 10 m of overhead electrical lines.
■Beware of thrown objects; keep all bystanders, children,
and pets at least 15 m away from work area. Stop the
product if anyone enters the area.
■Do not allow children or untrained individuals to use the
product.
■To stop the product on emergency situation, push the
On/Off switch to the “Off” position.
■Check constantly for persons or animals behind or
inside any hedge or bush to be trimmed.
■Do not operate in poor lighting. The operator requires a
clear view of the work area to identify potential hazards.
■Ensure all handles and guards are fitted when using
the pole hedge trimmer. Never attempt to use an
incomplete pole hedge trimmer or one fitted with an
unauthorised modification.
■Ensure before each use that all controls and safety
devices function correctly. Do not use the product if the
“off” switch does not stop the motor.
■Inspect the product before each use. Check for loose
fasteners. Make sure all guards and handles are
properly and securely attached. Replace any damaged
parts before use.
■Do not modify the product in any way.
■Wear full eye and hearing protection while operating the
product. If working in an area where there is a risk of
falling objects, head protection must be worn.
■Wear heavy long trousers, boots, and gloves. Do not
wear loose fitting clothing, short trousers, jewellery of
any kind, or use with bare feet.
■Secure long hair so it is above shoulder level to prevent
entanglement in moving parts.
■Use of hearing protection reduces the ability to hear
warnings (shouts or alarms). The operator must pay
extra attention to what is going on in the working area.
■Operating similar tools nearby increases both the risk
of hearing injury and the potential for other persons to
enter your working area.
■Do not use the product when you are tired, ill, or under
the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
■Keep firm footing and balance. Do not overreach.
Overreaching can result in loss of balance and can
result in serious injury, or exposure to hot surfaces.
■Keep all parts of your body away from any moving part.
■Before starting the product, make sure the cutting
blades will not come in contact with anything.
■Never operate the product in an explosive atmosphere.
■While operating the product, always hold it firmly with
both hands by the two handles and ensure that the
operating position is safe and secure. The manufacturer
does not recommend the use of steps or ladders.
■Ensure that the pole hedge trimmer is correctly located
in a designated working position before starting the
product.
■Use the harness if it is supplied with your pole hedge
trimmer. It will assist you to support the weight of the
product during use and while moving between trimming
positions. Carefully adjust the harness to fit comfortably.
■Identify the quick release mechanism and practice
using it before you start using the product. Its correct
use may prevent serious injury in the case of an
emergency. Never wear additional clothing over
the harness or otherwise restrict access to the quick
release mechanism.
■Blades are sharp. When handling the blade assembly,
wear non-slip, heavy-duty protective gloves. Do not
place your hand or fingers between blades or in any
position where they could get pinched or cut.
■Always stop the product, disconnect from the power

3
supply, make sure all moving parts have come to stop,
and allow the pole hedge trimmer to cool down before:
●adjusting the working position of the cutting device
●cleaning or clearing a blockage
●leaving the product unattended
●checking, maintaining, or working on the product.
■Do not force the product through heavy shrubbery. This
can cause the blades to bind and slow down. If the
blades slow down, reduce the pace.
■Do not attempt to cut stems or twigs that are larger
than xx mm thick, or those obviously too large to feed
into the cutting blade. Use a non-powered hand saw or
pruning saw to trim large stems.
■Do not operate the product with damaged or excessively
worn blades.
■If the cutting mechanism strikes any foreign object or
the pole hedge trimmer starts making unusual noise
or vibration, stop the product, remove the battery, and
allow the product to stop before you do the following:
●inspect for damage
●check for, and tighten, any loose parts
●have any damage parts replaced or repaired with
parts having equivalent specifications.
WARNING
If the product is dropped, suffers heavy impact, or begins
to vibrate abnormally, immediately stop the product and
inspect for damage or identify the cause of the vibration.
Any damage should be properly repaired or replaced by
an authorised service centre.
WARNING
Check that all the shaft couplings on the extension shaft
and tool are securely fastened before each use and at
frequent intervals.
ADDITIONAL BATTERY SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNING
To reduce the risk of re, personal injury, and product
damage due to a short circuit, never immerse your
tool, battery pack or charger in uid or allow a uid to
ow inside them. Corrosive or conductive uids, such
as seawater, certain industrial chemicals, and bleach
or bleach-containing products, etc., can cause a short
circuit.
TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
■Stop the product, remove the battery, and allow both to
cool before storing or transporting
■Clean all foreign material from the product. Store it in a
cool, dry, and well-ventilated place that is inaccessible
to children. For extra safety, store the battery separately
from the pole hedge trimmer. Keep away from corrosive
agents such as garden chemicals and de-icing salts. Do
not store outdoors.
■Cover the blade with the blade protector before storing
the product or during transportation.
■For transportation in a vehicle, secure the product
against movement or falling to prevent injury to persons
or damage to the product.
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, contribute to poor performance,
and may void your warranty.
WARNING
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge
and should be performed only by a qualied service
technician. For service, bring the product to an
authorised service centre. When servicing, use only
original replacement parts.
WARNING
The blades are sharp. To prevent personal injury,
exercise extreme caution when cleaning, lubricating and
tting, or removing the blade protector.
■Switch off, remove the battery, and make sure all
moving parts have come to a complete stop before
conducting any maintenance or cleaning work.
■You may only make adjustments or repairs described
in this manual. For other repairs, contact the authorised
service centre.
■After each use, clean the product with a soft, dry cloth.
■After each use, clean the debris from the blades with a
stiff brush, and then carefully apply a rust preventative
lubricant before refitting the blade protector. Use the
recommended rust preventative and lubricant spray
to apply an even distribution and reduce the risk of
personal injury from contact with the blades. For
information about suitable spray product, check with
your local authorised service centre.
■Lubricate the blades lightly before use if necessary
using the above method.
■Check all nuts, bolts, and screws at frequent intervals
for proper tightness to ensure that the product is in safe
working condition. Any part that is damaged should be
properly repaired or replaced by an authorised service
centre.

4
RESIDUAL RISK
Even when the product is used as prescribed, it is still
impossible to completely eliminate certain residual risk
factors. The following hazards may arise in use and the
operator should pay special attention to avoid the following:
■Injury caused by contact with the blades.
–The blade cannot be guarded while cutting. Keep
the blade away from yourself and others. Cover it
with the blade protector when the product is not in
use.
■Injury caused by vibration.
–Always use the right tool for the job. Use designated
handles and restrict working time and exposure.
■Hearing damage caused by exposure to noise.
–Wear ear protection and limit exposure.
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 the these symptoms. There are
measures that can be taken by the operator to possibly
reduce the effects of vibration:
■Keep your body warm in cold weather. When
operating the unit, wear gloves to keep the hands
and wrists warm. It is reported that cold weather is
a major factor contributing to Raynaud’s Syndrome.
■After each period of operation, exercise to increase
blood circulation.
■Take frequent work breaks. Limit the amount of
exposure per day.
If you experience any of the symptoms of this condition,
immediately discontinue use and see your 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.
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.
Sharp cutting blades. To prevent
serious injury, do not touch cutting
blades.
10m Electrical hazard, at least 10 m away
from the overhead electric-power lines
Beware of thrown or ying objects.
Keep all bystanders, especially children
and pets, at least 15 m away from the
operating area
Remove the battery pack before
starting any work on the product.
93 dB
80
dB
A-weighted sound pressure level at the
operator position is 80 dB.
The guaranteed sound power level
shown on this label is 93 dB.
Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM).
This 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.
SYMBOLS IN THIS MANUAL
Parts or accessories sold separately
Note
Warning
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.

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UNPACKING

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KNOW YOUR PRODUCT
1. Blade
2. Pivoting button
3. Extension pole
4. Shaft coupling
5. Harness hanger
6. Front hand grip
7. Trigger release
8. On/Off trigger
9. Scabbard
10. Harness
11. Battery
12. Battery latch button
13. Charger

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GETTING STARTED GETTING STARTED

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OVERVIEW

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≤60˚
≥15m (50’)
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OPERATION

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OPERATION

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OPERATION

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MAINTENANCE

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20170505v1d4
STORAGE

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Cordless Pole Hedge Trimmer
Model RHT1850SLi20
Rated voltage DC 18 Volts
No-load speed 1,350 min-1
Stroke rate at no load 2,700 spm
Usable cutting length 400 mm
Cutting capacity 17 mm
Maximum product working length 2.88 m
Weight (with harness) 4.0 kg
Noise emission values determined according to ISO 10517
Annex D
Sound Pressure Level at
Operator Position
LpA = 77.1 dB(A)
Uncertainty K= 2.5 dB
A-weighted sound power level LWA = 90.0 dB(A)
Uncertainty K= 2.5 dB
Vibration total values determined according ISO 10517 Annex C
Vibration emission value
Front handle ah = 1.2 m/s²
Rear handle ah = 1.1 m/s²
Uncertainty K = 1.5 m/s²
BATTERY
Battery pack RB18L20
Weight 0.446kg
Compatible battery
packs
RB18L13, RB18L15, RB18L20, RB18L25,
RB18L26, RB18L40, RB18L50
CHARGER
Charger RC18120
Compatible
chargers
RC18120, BCL1418H, BCL14183H,
BCL1418IV*, RC18150U, BCS618G,
RC18627U
* BCL1418IV is compatible for charging in vehicles with 12 V DC
outlets.

961480033-01
Techtronic Industries Australia Pty Ltd
31 Gilby Road, Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
Melbourne, Australia
Techtronic Industries N.Z. Limited
2 Landing Drive, Mangere
Auckland, 2022, New Zealand
Imported by: