Ryobi RLT3025F User manual

RLT3025F
ELECTRIC LINE TRIMMER
OPERATOR’S MANUAL (Original Instructions)
Important!
It is essential that you read the instructions in this manual before operating this
machine.

1
ENGLISH (Original Instructions)
Your line trimmer has been engineered and
manufactured to Ryobi’s high standard for dependability,
ease of operation, and operator safety. When properly
cared for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free
performance.
Thank you for buying a Ryobi product.
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
INTRODUCTION
This appliance is not intended for use by persons
(including children) who have a lack of experience and
knowledge or a reduced understanding of the product,
unless they have been given supervision or instruction
concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible
for their safety.
Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not
play with the appliance.
INTENDED USE
This line trimmer is designed for cutting grass and similar
soft vegetation in private and hobby garden areas which
are not accessible with a lawn mower.
The device is not allowed to be used in public gardens,
parks, sports centers or at roadsides as well as in
agriculture and forestry.
This line trimmer is not allowed to be used for cutting or
chopping hedges, shrubs, bushes, flowers and compost.
DESCRIPTION
Figure 1
1. Arm support handle
2. Lock-off button
3. Trigger switch
4. Cord retainer
5. Folding knob
6. Grass shield
7. Bump head
8. Lower housing
9. Upper housing
10. Air slots
Figure 3
11. Grass shield screw holes
Figure 5
12. Safety cap for cut-off blade
13. Cut-off blade
Figure 9
14. Nylon line
15. Bump knob
16. Spool cover
17. Spool spring
18. Spool
19. Spool cover lock button
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING
Read and understand all instructions. Failure to
follow all instructions listed below may result in
fire and/or serious personal injury.
WARNING
When using power tools, basic safety
precautions should always be taken to reduce
the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.
Also, please read and heed the advice given in
the specific safety instructions.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
n Keep the workplace clean and tidy. Cluttered work
areas invite accidents and injury.
nKeep the work area well lit.
n Consider the environment in which you are working.
Do not use electric power tools in damp or wet
locations. Do not expose power tools to rain or high
humidity. Do not use power tools in the presence of
flammable liquids or gas.
n Keep bystanders, especially children away from the
work site. Do not let others make contact with the tool
or extension cord.
n Store tools safely. When not in use, tools should be
stored in a dry place and locked up and out of the
reach of children.
n Do not force the tool. The tool will do the job better
and more safely working at the rate for which it was
designed for.
n Use the correct tool for the job. Do not force small
tools or attachments to do the job best handled by a
heavy duty tool. Never use a tool for a purpose other
than that for which it was intended.
n Dress correctly. Do not wear loose clothing
or jewellery; they can get caught in moving
parts. Rubber gloves and non-slip footwear are
recommended when working outdoors. If you have
long hair, wear a protective hair covering.
n Use safety accessories. Safety glasses and ear
protectors should always be worn. A face or dust
mask is also required.

2
ENGLISH (Original Instructions)
n Do not abuse the power cord. Never pull the cord to
disconnect the tool from the power point. Keep the
cord away from heat, oil and sharp edges.
n Look after your tools. Keep tools clean for better
and safer performance and follow the instructions
regarding lubrication and accessory changes. Inspect
extension cords periodically and replace them if
damaged. Keep tool handles dry, clean and free from
oil and grease.
n Disable idle tools. Switch off the power and
disconnect the plug from the power before servicing,
when changing accessories and when the tool is not
in use.
n Avoid unintentional starting. Always check that the
switch is in the OFF position before plugging in the
tool to the power supply. Do not carry a plugged in
tool with your finger on the switch.
n Use outdoor rated extension cords. Use only
extension cords that are intended for outdoor use
and are so marked. It is advised to use an residual
current device (RCD) when using an extension cord
outdoors.
n Stay alert. Watch what you are doing. Use common
sense. Do not operate a power tool when you are
tired.
n Check for damaged parts. Before using a tool,
check that there are no damaged parts. If a part is
slightly damaged, carefully determine if it will operate
properly and perform its intended function. Check for
alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts,
mounting and any other conditions that may affect
the operation of the tool. A guard or other part that is
damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by
an service centre unless otherwise indicated in this
manual.
n Defective switches must be replaced by an
authorised service facility. Do not use a tool if the
switch does not turn the tool on and off correctly.
n Guard against electric shock. Avoid body contact with
‘grounded’ objects such as water pipes, radiators,
cookers and refrigerator enclosures.
n Use only approved parts. When servicing, use only
identical replacement parts. Use an authorised
service facility to fit replacement parts. The use of
improper accessories or attachments could lead to
personal injury.
n Be aware of the harmful/toxic dusts arising from grass
trimming (e.g. fertilizers, insecticides, etc.) .
n This electric tool is constructed in accordance with
the relevant safety requirements. Only experts may
repair the electric tool.
n Make sure the voltage of the power supply is correct
for your machine. The voltage of this machine is
stated on the rating plate.
n When installing the grass shield during assembly,
beware of its sharp cutting edge.
n Never hold the cutter head above foot height or point
it towards people or animals when in use.
n If the trimmer starts to vibrate excessively, switch it off
immediately. Have it checked by a qualified service
engineer.
n Remove any sticks, stones and debris from the
working area before using the trimmer.
n Keep hands and feet away from the cutting edge at
all times, especially when the motor is running.
n Do not operate the trimmer on roads or gravel paths.
n When working on a steep slope, cut across the slope.
Do not operate the trimmer along the slope.
n Never run while using the trimmer.
n Never fit a metal replacement line.
n Use the trimmer in daylight or good artificial light.
Never use when visibility is poor.
n Do not overreach, keep proper footing and balance at
all times.
n After extending a fresh cutting line, always return
the machine to its normal operating position before
switching it on.
n Always ensure the ventilation openings are kept clear
of debris.
n If the power cord is damaged during use, disconnect
it from the power supply immediately. Do not touch
the cord before disconnecting the supply.
n The appliance should be supplied via a RCD with
tripping current not more than 30mA.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
SPECIFIC TRIMMER SAFETY
n Replace the trimmer head if it is cracked, chipped or
damaged in any way. Ensure it is properly installed
and securely fastened.
n Make sure all guards, deflectors and handles are
properly and securely attached.
n Use only the manufacturer's replacement line in the
trimmer head.
n Use the product for cutting grass and light weeds
only. Do not use for any other purpose.
n Before starting the product, position it so that the
cutting line does not come in contact with anything
you do not intend to cut.
n Maintain a firm grip on both handles while trimming.
Keep the trimmer head below waist level. Never cut
with the trimmer head placed over 76 cm above the
ground.

3
ENGLISH (Original Instructions)
n Keep the working area free from wires, stones and
debris.
n Do not cut against hard objects. This could cause
injury or damage to the trimmer.
n Do not use the trimmer to cut grass which is not in
contact with the ground. For example, do not cut
grass which is on walls or rocks.
n Always use your trimmer in an upright position.
n Keep hands away from the cutting line. Do not
attempt to remove cut material or to hold material to
be cut when the line is moving. Unplug the product
before clearing jammed material from the line. Do not
grasp the line when picking up or holding the product.
n Be cautious even after the product is turned off. The
line coasts after turning off the power.
n Do not use the trimmer in an enclosed or poorly
ventilated spaces or in the presence of inflammable
and/or explosive substances.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
n Make sure the power cord is properly located so that
it will not be stepped on, tripped over or otherwise
subjected to damage or stress.
n Do not abuse the power cord. Never carry the
product by the cord. Never pull the plug out of the
power point by the cord. Keep the cord away from
heat, oil and sharp edges.
n For outdoors work, use only suitably approved
extension cables with a minimum conductor cross
section of 1.5 mm2. The plug connectors must have
earthing contacts and be rainwater-proof.
n Inspect extension cords for deterioration, cut or crack
in the insulation. Repair or replace the cords if any
defect is found.
n A nameplate on the product indicates its voltage.
Never connect the product to an AC voltage that
differs from this voltage.
n If the power cord or extension cable becomes
damaged during use, disconnect the cord from the
supply immediately. DO NOT TOUCH THE CORD
BEFORE DISCONNECTING THE SUPPLY.
n Electrical power should be supplied via a Residual
Current Device (RCD) with a tripping current of not
more than 30 mA.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING
Before carrying out any maintenance operations,
cut off the electric power supply by disconnecting
the plug from the mains.
n Follow instructions for changing accessories.
n Keep the product dry, clean and free from oil and
grease.
n Unplug the product before making adjustments or
repairs.
n Check the product regularly to make sure that it will
operate properly and perform the intended function.
Check for alignment of moving parts, binding
of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other
condition that may affect the unit operation. Inspect
the unit's power connection. Any part that is damaged
should be properly repaired or replaced by a Ryobi
authorised service centre.
n Keep the product clean of grass clippings and other
materials that may become lodged in the cutting lines
and air vents.
n Never douse or squirt the product with water or any
other liquid.
n After each use, clean with a soft, dry cloth. Do not
use detergents or solvents.
n Use only manufacturers recommended replacement
parts and accessories.
n If the cut-off blade is worn or broken, have it replaced
by an authorised service centre.
SPECIFICATIONS
Rated power: 300w
Rated voltage: 230V~240V
No load speed: 12,000/min
Cutting capacity: 25cm
Cutting line diameter: 1.2mm
Guaranteed sound power level: 94 dB(A)
Weight (without cable): 1.7 kg
Vibration: 1.7m/s2, K=1.5m/s2
Sound Pressure Level: LPA:78.5dB(A);
KPA:1.0 dB(A)

4
ENGLISH (Original Instructions)
SYMBOLS
SYMBOL EXPLANATION
Warning! Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
Read this safety and operating instructions in this booklet and keep it in a safe place for future
reference.
Wear eye protection.
Do not use this tool in the rain. Avoid using it in damp conditions.
Keep all bystanders at least 15m away.
Disconnect the mains plug if the cord is damaged or entangled
Beware of thrown or flying objects to bystanders. Keep bystanders a safe distance away from the
machine.
SERVICE
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge and should be performed only by a qualified service technician.
For service we suggest you return the product to your nearest AUTHORISED SERVICE CENTER for repair. When
servicing, use only identical replacement parts.
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury, do not attempt to use this product until you read thoroughly and understand
completely the operator’s manual. If you do not understand the warnings and instructions in the operator’s
manual, do not use this product. Call Ryobi customer service for assistance.
WARNING:
The operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which can result
in severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation, always wear safety goggles, safety glasses
with side shields, or a full face shield when needed. We recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over
eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side shields. Always use eye protection which is marked to comply
with EN 166.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS AND PASS THEM ON IF THE TRIMMER IS TO BE USED BY ANOTHER PERSON
The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this product.
SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING
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.

5
ENGLISH (Original Instructions)
ASSEMBLY
WARNING
If any parts are damaged or missing, do not
operate this product until the parts are replaced.
Failure to heed this warning could result in
serious personal injury.
WARNING
Do not attempt to modify this product or create
accessories not recommended for use with this
product. Any such alteration or modification is
misuse and could result in a hazardous condition
leading to possible serious personal injury.
UNPACKING
n Carefully remove the product and any accessories
from the box. Make sure all items listed in the packing
list are included.
n Inspect the product carefully to make sure no
breakage or damage occurred during shipping.
n Do not discard the packing material until you have
carefully inspected and satisfactorily operated the
product.
n If any parts are damaged or missing, please call your
Ryobi service centre for assistance.
ASSEMBLY
See Figure 1-5.
n Press the folding knob to unfold the line trimmer into
its operating position with the upper housing and the
lower housing aligned in a straight line (Figure 2).
n Make sure that the folding knob is fully released and
the line trimmer is safely locked into its operating
position (Figure 1).
n Attach the grass shield into its position and tighten
the grass shield screws as shown into their positions
securely (Figure 3).
n Attach the arm support handle (Figures 4a and 4b).
n Remove the safety cap from the cut-off blade (Figure 5).
Note: The cut-off blade is very sharp and should not
be touched.
PACKING LIST
- Line trimmer
- Grass shield
- Grass shield screws
- Arm support handle
- Operator’s Manual
OPERATION
WARNING
Do not allow familiarity with this product to 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 when operating power tools.
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 this
product. The use of attachments or accessories
not recommended can result in serious personal
injury.
APPLICATIONS
You may use this product for the purposes listed below:
n Basic grass trimming
KNOW YOUR LINE TRIMMER
See Figure 1.
The safe use of this product requires an understanding
of the information on the product and in this operator’s
manual as well as knowledge of the project you are
attempting.
Before using this product, familiarise yourself with all
operating features and safety rules.
Before connecting the trimmer to the mains, make sure
that the rotating parts are not damaged and the spool
cover is inserted correctly and securely.
USING THE LINE TRIMMER
See Figure 6-8.
WARNING
This product may throw objects during operation,
causing injury to the operator or to bystanders.
Always wear suitable eye protection, boots,
gloves, and long trousers while operating the
product.
n Before you start work, check the trimmer body and
cutting head for damage. Do not use damaged units.
n Make sure that the folding knob is fully released and
the line trimmer is safely locked into its operating
position (also see Assembly instructions earlier in this
manual).

6
ENGLISH (Original Instructions)
n Make sure that the area to be cut is free of stones,
debris, wires and any other objects.
n Secure the power cord using the cord retainer.
Loop the cord through the cord retainer slot then
around the tongue. The cord retainer helps prevent
accidental unplugging of the cord.
n In order to make the arm support handle work
ergonomically, make sure that your arm is aligned
with the back of the arm support handle and use your
index finger to press the trigger button.
n When starting the line trimmer for the first time,
ensure that the nylon lines touch or pass over the cut-
off blade. If they are not long enough, press the bump
button and pull the line at the same time.
n Connect the plug of the line trimmer or the connected
extension cable to the electric supply.
WARNING
These steps should be repeated every time
before starting work to make sure that everything
is functioning properly and to familiarise yourself
with the line trimmer.
n Do not start the trimmer when it is upside down or not
in working position.
n Switch the trimmer on before the line makes contact
with the grass. Ensure the line is not touching stones
or debris.
n Turn the line trimmer on by pressing in the lock-off
button then squeezing the trigger with your index
finger. Once the trimmer is running, there is no need
to keep the lock-off button pressed.
n Start off slowly. When you have gained experience,
you will be able to use the line trimmer to its full
potential.
n High grass should be cut in layers, always begin from
the top. The cuts should be short.
n Do not cut damp or wet grass. Dry grass will give
excellent results.
n Always let the line rotate at top speed. Do not
overload the trimmer.
n Avoid knocking the line against hard objects (stones,
walls, fences etc.). It will wear the line out quickly.
n Never pass the line trimmer over the electric cable
while it is running; make sure the cable is always in a
safe position behind your back.
n To switch off the line trimmer, simply release the
trigger.
CAUTION
After switching off, the nylon line will continue to
rotate for a few more seconds.
LINE TRIMMING CUT-OFF BLADE
This trimmer is equipped with a line trimming cut-off
blade on the safety guard. For best cutting, advance
fresh lines by gently tapping the bump head on the
ground (Figure 8). Fresh lines will be released from the
bump head and trimmed to optimum length by the cut-
off blade. Advance line whenever you hear the engine
running faster than normal and when it is apparent that
the line is worn or broken. This will maintain best cutting
performance.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING
Switch off and disconnect from the mains supply
before replacing, adjusting or cleaning your
trimmer. Be aware that the trimmer continues to
rotate for a few more seconds after it has been
switched off.
REPLACING THE SPOOL
See Figure 9.
n Press the spool cover lock buttons on both sides of
the spool and remove the spool cover.
n Replace the spool with the new parts.
n Place the spool, spring and spool cover into position
and push in until the spool cover lock buttons clicked
into the designated cut outs and the spool is secured
in place.
REPLACING THE CUTTING LINE
See Figure 10.
n Press the spool cover lock buttons on both sides of
the spool and open the spool.
n Remove the spool and exchange the line.
n Place the spool, spring and spool cover into position
and push in until the spool cover lock buttons clicked
into the designated cut outs and the spool is secured
in place.
CLEANING THE LINE TRIMMER
WARNING
Do not touch the cut-off blade on the grass shield
to avoid injury
n Regular cleaning and maintenance of your line
trimmer will ensure efficiency and prolong the life of
the unit.
n After each cutting operation, remove the grass and
soil from the spool, the whole trimmer and the grass
shield.
n During operation, keep the air slots clean and free of
grass.
n Only use a cloth soaked with hot water and a soft

7
ENGLISH (Original Instructions)
brush to clean the line trimmer.
n Do not spray or wet the appliance with water.
n Do not use detergents or solvents as these could
damage the trimmer.
STORING THE LINE TRIMMER
n Carry out general cleaning of the entire trimmer and
its parts to avoid the growing of mould.
n Store it out of the reach of children, in a safe and
dry place where the temperature is between 10°C to
20°C.
n You can fold down this line trimmer to reduce storage
space.
WARNING
When servicing, use only identical Ryobi
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 power tool operation or
when blowing dust. If operation is dusty, also
wear a dust mask.
RYOBI REPLACEMENT ACCESSORIES
LINE SPECIFICATIONS
Line diameter: 1.2mm
Line length: 9m (2 x 4.5m)
ACCESSORIES
LTA055 – Complete cutting head for RLT3025F
LTA008 – Replacement line for RLT3025F

8
ENGLISH (Original Instructions)
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
Line will not advance
when you restart the
machine.
Cutting head is hard
to turn.
Grass wraps around
the attachment shaft
and the trimmer head
assembly.
Line trimmer stops
and will not start
again.
1. Line is welded to itself.
2. Not enough line on spool.
3. Line is too short.
4. Line is tangled in the spool.
Grass wrapped or built up
around head.
Cutting tall grass at ground level.
1. Unit failed.
2. Plug is damaged.
1. Lubricate with a silicone spray.
2. Replace the spool (Refer to “Replacing the spool”
earlier in this manual).
3. Pull the line while alternately pressing down on and
releasing bump button.
4. Remove the line from spool and rewind (Refer to
“Replacing the Cutting Line” earlier in this manual).
Clean affected parts of the machine.
Cut tall grass from top down.
1. Contact dealer to check damage.
2. Check the plug.
TROUBLESHOOTING
DISPOSAL
This marking indicates that this product should not be disposed with other household wastes. To prevent possible harm
to the environment or human health from uncontrolled waste disposal, recycle it responsibly to promote the sustainable
reuse of material resources. To return your used device, please use the return and collection systems or contact the
retailer where the product was purchased. They can take this product for environmental safe recycling.

TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES (AUSTRALIA) PTY. LTD.
Level 1, 660 Doncaster Road,
Doncaster, Victoria 3108,
Australia
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
www.ryobi.com.au
TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES N.Z. LIMITED
Auckland: 27 Clemow Drive, Mt Wellington, N.Z.
Tel: [phone] Free Call: 0800 279 624 Fax: [phone]
Contact during normal business hours.
www.ryobi.co.nz
Subject to the guarantee condition below, this Ryobi
tool (hereinafter called “the product”) is guaranteed by
TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES AUSTRALIA PTY
LIMITED (hereinafter called “the Company”) to be free
from defects in material or workmanship for a period
of 24 months from the date of original purchase
covering both parts and labour. Under the terms of
this guarantee, the repair or replacement of any part
shall be the opinion of the Company or its authorised
service centre. Should service become necessary
during the warranty period, the owner should contact
the customer service HELPLINE 1300 361 505 or
contact the retailer from whom the product was
purchased.
In order to obtain guarantee service, the owner must
present the sales docket and Guarantee Certificate to
confirm date of purchase. This product is sold by the
dealer or service centre as principal and the dealer
has no authority from the Company’s behalf except as
herein contained or herein referred to.
Guarantee Conditions
This guarantee only applies provided that the product
has been used in accordance with the manufacturer’s
recommendations under normal use and reasonable
care (in the opinion of the Company) and such
guarantee does not cover damage, malfunction or
failure resulting from misuse, neglect, abuse, or used
for a purpose for which it was not designed or is not
suited and no repairs, alterations or modifications
have been attempted by other than an authorised
service centre. This guarantee will not apply if the tool
is damaged by accident or if repairs arise from normal
wear and tear. The Company accepts no additional
liability pursuant to this guarantee for the costs of
travelling or transportation of the product or parts to
and from the service dealer or service centre - such
costs are not included in this guarantee.
Certain legislation, including the Trade Practices Act,
1974 (as amended) and other state and territorial laws
give rights to the buyer and impose liability on the
seller in certain circumstances. Nothing herein shall
have the effect of excluding, restricting or modifying
any condition, guarantee, right or liability imposed, to
the extent only that such exclusion, restriction or
modification would render any term herein void.