Ryobi RLT36X20 User manual

ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS
Cordless Line
Trimmer
RLT36X20
RLT36BS

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 line trimmer.
INTENDED USE
The cordless line trimmer is intended to be used only by
adults who have read and understood the instructions and
warnings in this manual and can be considered responsible
for their actions. The product is intended only for outdoor
use by a standing operator in a well-ventilated area.
For safety reasons, the product must be adequately
controlled by a two-handed operation.
When tted with the line trimmer head (and appropriate
guard), the product is intended for cutting long grass, pulpy
weed, and similar vegetation at or about ground level.
The cutting plane should be approximately parallel to the
ground surface when trimming. The product should not be
used to cut or trim hedges, bushes, or other vegetation
where the cutting plane is not parallel to the ground surface.
Do not use the product for any other purpose.
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.
WARNING
When using the product, the safety rules must be
followed. For your own safety and that of bystanders,
please read these instructions before using the product.
Please keep the instruction safe for later use.
WARNING
The product is not intended to be used by children or
persons with reduced physical, mental, or sensory
capabilities. Children should be adequately supervised
to ensure that they do not play with the product.
WARNING
Some regions have regulations that restrict the use of
the product. Check with your local authority for advice.
TRAINING
■Never allow children or people who are unfamiliar with
these instructions to use the product. Local regulations
may restrict the age of the operator.
■Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with all
controls and the proper use of the product.
■Keep bystanders, children, and pets 15 m away from
the area of operation. Stop the product if anyone enters
the area.
■Never use the product while tired, ill, or under the
influence of alcohol, drugs, or under medication.
■Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible
for accidents or hazards occurring to other people or
their property.
PREPARATION
■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.
■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 trousers, boots, and gloves. Do not
wear loose-fitting clothing, short trousers, or jewellery
of any kind, and do not use the product with bare feet.
■Secure long hair so that it is above shoulder level to
prevent entanglement in moving parts.
■Before use and after any impact, check that there are
no damaged parts. A defective switch or any part that
is damaged or worn should be properly repaired or
replaced by an authorised service centre.
■Make sure that the cutting attachment is properly
installed and securely fastened.
■Never operate the product unless all guards, deflectors,
and handles are properly and securely attached.
■Consider the environment in which you are working.
Keep the working area free from wires, sticks, stones,
and debris, which if struck by the cutter can become
thrown objects.
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.
LINE TRIMMER SAFETY WARNINGS
■Never allow children, persons with reduced physical,
sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience
and knowledge, or people who are unfamiliar with these
instructions to use the product.
■Use the product in daylight or with good artificial light.
■Avoid using the product on wet grass.
■Keep proper footing and balance at all times and be
sure of proper footing on slopes.
■Do not walk backwards when using the product.
■Walk, never run.
■Keep the head attachment below waist level.

2
■Do not operate the product with damaged guards or
without guards in place.
■Do not fit a metal replacement line.
■Keep hands and feet away from the cutting means at all
times and especially when turning on the motor.
■Beware, the cutting means continue to rotate after the
motor is turned off.
■Beware of objects thrown by the cutting means. Clear
debris like small stones, gravel, and other foreign
objects from the work area before starting operation.
Wires or string may become entangled with the cutting
means.
■Turn off the product, and remove the battery pack.
Make sure that all moving parts have come to a
complete stop:
●before servicing
●before leaving the product unattended
●before clearing a blockage
●before checking, cleaning, and working on the
product
●before changing accessories
●after striking a foreign object
●whenever performing maintenance
●whenever the product starts to vibrate abnormally
■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.
■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 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 that it is above shoulder level to
prevent entanglement in moving parts.
■The small blade fitted to the lawn guard is designed to
trim the new extended line to the correct length for safe
and optimum performance. It is very sharp; do not touch
it, particularly when cleaning the product.
■Always ensure that ventilation openings are kept clear
of debris.
■Before use and after any impact, check that there are
no damaged parts. A defective switch or any part that is
damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an
authorised service centre.
■Make sure that the cutting head attachment is properly
installed and securely fastened.
■Make sure that all the guards, deflectors, and handles
are properly and securely attached.
■Do not modify the product in any way. This may
increase the risk of injury to yourself or others.
■Use only the manufacturer’s replacement cutting line.
Do not use any other cutting attachment.
■Immediately turn off and remove the battery pack in
the event of accident or breakdown. Do not operate
the product again until it has been fully checked by an
authorised service centre.
WARNING
Ensure that the line cut-off blade in the guard is properly
positioned and secured before each use.
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 product, etc., can cause a short
circuit.
TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE
■Stop the product and allow it to cool down before
storing or transporting. Do not store or transport the
product with the battery pack fitted. Remove the battery
pack and secure them separately.
■Clean all foreign material from the product. Store it in a
cool, dry, and well-ventilated place that is inaccessible
to children. Keep the product away from corrosive
agents such as garden chemicals and de-icing salts.
Do not store outdoors.
■For transportation in vehicles, secure the product
against movement or falling to prevent injury to persons
or damage to the product.
TRANSPORTING LITHIUM BATTERIES
Transport the battery pack 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 battery packs 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 battery packs
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.

3
WARNING
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge
and should be performed only by a qualied service
technician. Have the product serviced by an authorised
service centre only. When servicing, use only original
replacement parts.
■Turn off the product and remove the battery pack before
conducting any maintenance or cleaning work.
■You may make adjustments and repairs described in
this manual. For other repairs, contact an authorised
service centre.
■Before any maintenance or adjustment, disable the
product by removing the power source.
■For the replacement line, use only nylon filament line
of the diameter described in the specification table of
this manual.
■After extending the new cutter line, always return the
product to its normal operating position before starting.
■After 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.
■Check all nuts, bolts, and screws at frequent intervals
for proper tightness to ensure the product is in safe
working condition.
■Bring the product to an authorised service centre to
replace damaged or unreadable labels.
BATTERY PROTECTION FEATURES
RYOBI 36 V lithium-ion batteries are designed with features
that protect the lithium-ion cells and maximise battery life.
If the product stops during use, the following may be the
causes:
■The maximum current draw of the battery has been
exceeded, causing it to automatically stop powering the
product. Release the trigger to reset the product and
pull the trigger to resume operation.
■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.
If the product still does not work, recharge the battery.
NOTE: The battery pack indicator LED will not work if the
battery protection feature has caused the battery pack
to stop powering the product. Release the tool trigger or
remove the battery pack from the product and the battery
pack LED indicator will resume to its normal function.
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 ear protection and limit exposure.
■injury caused by flying debris
–Wear eye protection at all times.
RISK REDUCTION
It has been reported that vibrations from hand-held tools
may contribute to a condition called Raynaud’s Syndrome
in certain individuals. 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.
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
See pages 5–6.
■Power head and upper boom assembly x 1
■Front handle x 1
■Grass deflector x 1
■Trimmer head assembly x 1
■Speed winder x 1
■Manual x 1
■Charger x 1
■Battery pack x 1
NOTE: For RLT36BS, the battery and charger are sold
separately.
SYMBOLS ON THE PRODUCT
Read and understand all instructions
before operating the product. Follow all
warnings and safety instructions.
Do not use metal blade(s) on the
product.
Do not expose to rain or damp condition.

4
Wear eye protection.
Wear ear protection.
Wear non-slip, heavy-duty gloves.
Wear non-slip, safety footwear when
using the product.
Remove the battery pack before starting
any work on the product.
Beware of thrown or ying objects.
Keep all bystanders, especially children
and pets, at least 15 m away from the
operating area.
Keep hands away from cut-off blade.
98
Guaranteed sound power level
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
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
Waste electrical products should not
be disposed of with household waste.
Please recycle where facilities exist.
Note
Warning

5
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
x 1
x 1 x 1x 1
x 1
x 1
x 1 x 1
RLT36X20
* Kit includes battery and charger.

6
WHAT’S IN THE BOX
RLT36BS
* Battery and charger sold separately.
x 1 x 1x 1
x 1
x 1
x 1

7
Know your product
KNOW YOUR PRODUCT
7
8
9
10
11
14
15
12
13
16
1
2
3
4
5
6
1. Rear handle
2. Variable speed trigger
3. Lock-out trigger
4. Upper shaft
5. Battery pack
6. Battery latch button
7. Charger
8. Charger power supply and cable
9. Bump knob
10. Spool
11. Cutting line
12. Grass deflector
13. Line cut-off blade
14. Lower shaft
15. Front handle
16. Speed winder

8
GETTING STARTED
1
2
1
6
1
2
2
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
when operating the product. Wear non-slip, heavy-duty protective
gloves. Wear non-skid, protective footwear that will protect your
feet and improve your footing on slippery surfaces.
Install the small guard to the main guard. Secure the screws with
a philips head screwdriver.
Push the lock button, and slide out the hanger cap from the lower
shaft.
1
2
3
4
5
5
Insert the screw and tab into place to attach the front handle to the
upper shaft. Tighten the wing nut to secure.

9
GETTING STARTED
1
2
3
4
4
Loosen the wing nut from the front handle. Remove the tab and
screw from the front handle.
1
2
1
2
7 8
3
Insert the battery pack until the battery latch button clicks into
place.
Hold the lock-out trigger, and squeeze the variable speed trigger
to operate the product.
Insert the upper shaft into the lower shaft until the latches snap
into place. Tighten the lower shaft knob to secure.

10
OVERVIEW
33 cm
28 cm
Operating the trimmer
Replacing the trimmer head
Adjusting the cutting width
Replacing the line
Storing the trimmer
p.11 p.14 p.15
p.19p.17
Cleaning the trimmer
p.18

11
OPERATION
1
OPERATING THE TRIMMER
WARNING: Always use two hands to operate
the product. Hold the product with the right hand
on the rear handle and the left hand on the front
handle.
WARNING: Beware of objects thrown by the
cutting means. Clear debris like small stones,
gravel, and other foreign objects from the work
area before starting operation. Wires or string
may become entangled with the cutting means.
WARNING: Exercise extreme caution when
using the product. Keep hands and feet away
from the cutting means.
1. Insert the battery pack until the battery latch
button clicks into place.

12
OPERATION
12
2
3
2. Hold the lock-out trigger, and squeeze
the variable speed trigger to operate the
product.
3. Tap the bump knob on the ground until
the trimmer reaches its full speed. The line
advances each time the head is tapped. Do
not hold the bump knob on the ground.
NOTE: Tap the bump knob only on the grass
to prevent damage to the bump knob.
NOTE: The line cut-off blade fitted to the
cutting attachment guard is designed to trim the
extended line to the correct length.
NOTE: The line cut-off blade on the grass
deflector cuts the line to the correct length for
safety and optimum performance.

13
OPERATION
1
2
3
NOTE: Cut tall grass from the top down. This
prevents grass from wrapping around the shaft
housing and bump head, which may cause
damage from overheating.
NOTE: For cutting ease and safety, cut the grass
from the right side to the left side.

14
OPERATION
33 cm
28 cm
28 cm
33 cm
2
1
1
2
x2
3
1
2
x2
33 cm
28 cm
1
2
3
ADJUSTING THE CUTTING WIDTH
1. Remove the battery pack.
2. Loosen the screws on the line cut-off blade.
Detach the line cut-off blade. Rotate the line
cut-off blade 180º.
NOTE: Runtime is decreased on 11 cm setting.
3. Install the line cut-off blade into the new
position. Tighten the screws to secure the
line cut-off blade to the guard.

15
OPERATION
2
1
1
2.5m1.65 m
2
1
2
2.0 mm
1
2
3
4
REPLACING THE LINE
1. Remove the battery pack.
2. Rotate the bump knob on the trimmer head
until the line on the centre of the bump knob
aligns with the arrows on the outer spool.
3. Insert one end of a 3.4 m line through the
eyelet on the side of the trimmer head, and
push until the line comes out through the
eyelet on the other side. Continue to push
the line through the trimmer head until the
line is even in length on both sides.
NOTE: Use a 2.0 mm diameter line.
4. Ensure that the lines on both sides of the
trimmer head have an equal length (max.
1.65 m per side). Place the speed winder
on the bump knob. Rotate the bump knob
with the speed winder on the trimmer head
to wind the line.
NOTE: The bump knob can also be rotated
by hand.

16
OPERATION
12cm 12cm
1
2
3
5
6
NOTE: Wind the line until approximately 12 cm
of the line remains protruding from the trimmer
head.
5. Insert the battery pack until the battery pack
clicks into place. Hold the lock-out trigger,
and squeeze the variable speed trigger to
operate the product.
6. Tap the bump knob on the ground to advance
the line. The line advances each time the
head is tapped. Do not hold the knob on the
ground.
NOTE: Tap the bump knob only onto grass.
Tapping the bump knob on a hard surface
can damage the head.
NOTE: The line cut-off blade that is tted to the
cutting attachment guard is designed to trim the
new extended line.

17
MAINTENANCE
2
3
1
2
1
2
3
1
1
2
3
4
REPLACING THE TRIMMER HEAD
1. Remove the battery pack.
2. Loosen the old trimmer head. Remove the
trimmer head.
3. Install the new trimmer head. Tighten the
trimmer head to secure.

18
MAINTENANCE
2
1
1
2
CLEANING THE TRIMMER
1. Remove the battery pack.
2. Clean all foreign material from the product
with a soft, dry brush.
WARNING: 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.
WARNING: The line cut-off blade that is tted to
the cutting attachment guard is very sharp. Keep
hands away from the line cut-off blade at all times.