Ryobi RPT400 User manual

RPT400
ELECTRIC POLE HEDGE TRIMMER
OPERATOR’S MANUAL

RPT400
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2
5
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1
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
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10
11
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15

RPT400
0º
-45º
45º
90º
Fig. 3
Fig. 5
Fig. 4
Fig. 6 Fig. 8
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1
ENGLISH
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING
Read and understand all instructions. Failure to
follow the warnings and instructions may result in
electric shock, fire and serious injury.
The term “power tool” in the warnings refer to
your mains-operated corded power tool.
WORK AREA SAFETY
n Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark
areas invite accidents.
n Do not operate power tools in explosive
atmospheres,suchasin the presenceof flammable
liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks
which may ignite the dust or fumes.
n Keepchildren and bystanders awaywhile operating
a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose
control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
n 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.
n 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.
n Donot exposepowertoolsto rain orwetconditions.
Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of
electric shock.
n Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for
carrying,pullingorunpluggingthepowertool.Keep
cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving
parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk
of electric shock.
n 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.
n If operating a power tool in a damp location is
unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD)
protected supply, the tripping current of 30mAor
less.
PERSONAL SAFETY
n 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.
n Use safety equipment.Always wear eye protection.
Safety equipment such as dust mask, non-skid
safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for
appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
n Avoid accidental starting. Ensure the switch is in
the off-position before plugging in. Carrying power
tools with your finger on the switch or plugging in power
tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
nRemoveanyadjustingkeyorwrenchbeforeturning
the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to
a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal
injury.
n Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times. This enables better control of the power
tool in unexpected situations.
n 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.
n If devices are provided for the connection of dust
extractionand collectionfacilities,ensurethese are
connected and properly used. Use of these devices
can reduce dust-related hazards.
POWER TOOL USE AND CARE
n 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.
n Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn
it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled
with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
n Disconnect the plug from the power source before
making any adjustments, changing accessories,
or storing power tools. Such preventative safety
measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool
accidentally.
n 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.
n 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.
n Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly
maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are
less likely to bind and are easier to control.

2
ENGLISH
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
n Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc., in
accordance with these instructions and in the manner
intended for the particular type of power tool, taking
intoaccount theworkingconditions andthe work tobe
performed.Use of thepowertool for operations different
from intended could result in a hazardous situation.
SERVICE
n Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair
person using only genuine replacement parts.
This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is
maintained.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY INSTRUCTION
nTHIS MACHINE CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES.
Read the instructions carefully for the correct handing,
preparation, maintenance, starting and stopping of the
machine. Be familiar with all controls and the proper
use of the machine;
n Never allow children to use the machine;
n Beware of overhead power lines;
n Avoid operating while people, especially children are
nearby;
n Dress properly! Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery
which can be caught in moving parts. Use of sturdy
gloves, non-skid footwear, and safety glasses is
recommended;
n Stop the engine or disconnect from mains before:
-Cleaning or when clearing a blockage;
-Checking, maintenance or working on the machine;
-When adjusting the working position of the cutting
device.
n Where the hedge trimmer is provided with adjustments
to the angle of the cutting device and / or the length
of the handle shaft never hold the cutter blades when
making adjustments to the working position of the
cutting device. Always ensure that the cutting device
is correctly located in a designated working position
before starting the engine or plugging the machine in
to the mains;
n While operating the machine be always sure of a safe
and secure operating position especially when using
steps or a ladder;
n Do not attempt to repair the machine unless you are
qualified to do so;
n Do not operate the machine with a damaged or
excessively worn cutting device;
n A warning of noise level and the need for ear
protection;
n Always ensure all handles and guards are fitted
when using the machine. Never attempt to use an
incomplete machine or one fitted with an unauthorised
modification;
n Where a hedge trimmer is provided with more than one
handle always use two hands to operate it;
n When transporting or storing the machine always fit
the cutting device guard;
n Instructions for correct use and an indication that the
machine should not be used for any other purpose;
n Know how to stop the machine quickly in an
emergency;
n Always be aware of your surroundings and stay alert
for possible hazards that you may not hear due to the
noise of the machine.
n Keep all parts of the body away from the cutter
blade. Do not remove cut material or hold material
to be cut when blades are moving. Make sure
the unit is unplugged and the switch is off when
clearing jammed material. A moment of inattention
while operating the hedge trimmer may result in serious
personal injury.
n Carry the hedge trimmer by the handle with the
cutter blade stopped.When transporting or storing
the hedge trimmer always fit the cutting device
cover. Properhandling of thehedge trimmer will reduce
possible personal injury from the cutter blades.
n Keep cable away from cutting area. During operation
the cable may be hidden in shrubs and can be
accidentally cut by the blade.

3
ENGLISH
SYMBOLS
Some of the following symbols may be used on this product. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper
interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the product better and safer.
SYMBOL NAME EXPLANATION
V Volts Voltage
A Amperes Current
Hz Hertz Frequency (cycles per second)
W Watt Power
hrs Hours Time
Class II Construction Double-insulated construction
Wet Conditions Alert Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
Safety Alert Symbol Precautions that involve your safety.
Read the Operator’s Manual To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand
operator’s manual before using this product.
Eye and ear Protection Wear eye and ear protection when operating this
equipment.
Gloves Wear non-slip, heavy-duty protective gloves when handling
the pole saw and the blade.
Keep Bystanders Away Keep all bystanders at least 15m away.
Electric Shock Precaution Remove plug from the mains immediately if cable is dam-
aged or cut.
Sharp Blade Do not install or use any type of blade on a product display-
ing this symbol.
Risk of Electrocution Electrical hazard, at least 15m away from the overhead
lines

4
ENGLISH
SYMBOLS
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 CENTRE for repair. When
servicing, use only identical replacement parts.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
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 customer service for
assistance.
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
SPECIFICATIONS
Voltage :...........................................................220~240 V
Power : ................................................................... 400 W
Cutting Capacity : ................................................16.5 mm
Blade Length : ......................................................400 mm
Blade Speed :.................................................. 1700 min-1
Weight : ...................................................................4,1 kg
Measured Sound Power Level : ......................... 87 dB(A)
Guaranteed Sound Power Level : ...................... 97 dB(A)
Vibration : ...........................................................1,36 m/s²
DESCRIPTION
Fig.1
1. Blade Cover
2. Blades
3. Four-Position Pivoting Head
4. Telescopic Pole
5. Lock-Off Button
6. Rear Handle
7. Switch Trigger
8. Cord Retainer
Fig.2
9. Packaged Tool
10. Cord
11. Threaded Collar
12. Trimmer Head
13. Lock Hole
14. Egg-Shaped Pole
15. Threaded Base
Fig.4
16. Pivot Button
17. Notches
ASSEMBLY
UNPACKING
This product requires assembly.
nCarefully remove the product and any accessories from
the box. Make sure that all items listed in the packing
list are included.
nInspect the product carefully to make sure no breakage
or damage occurred during shipping.
nDo not discard the packing material until you have
carefully inspected and satisfactorily operated the
product.
nIf any parts are damaged or missing, please contact
Customer Service on: (AUS) 1300 557 492 (NZ) 9573
0230
PACKING LIST
Pole Hedge Trimmer
Operator’s Manual
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.
WARNING:
Do not connect to power supply until assembly is
complete. Failure to comply could result in
accidental starting and possible serious personal
injury.
ASSEMBLING THE TOOL
See Figure 2.
Before using the pole hedge trimmer, a one-time assem-
bly is required.
nThe telescopic pole and trimmer head come
unassembled. Remove from packaging and extend
the telescopic pole to its longest operating position
as shown in Figure 6 in the Operation section of this
manual.
nUnscrew the threaded collar from trimmer head base
and pull back over the cord to the extended telescopic
pole as shown.
nInsert the telescopic pole into the trimmer head
threaded base until the lock holes click into place. The
tubes are egg-shaped and will only fit one way. The
threaded base will spread open during assembly.
NOTE: You may need to slightly rotate pole from side
to side until it locks into place.
nLower the threaded collar onto the threaded base and
rotate clockwise to secure.
WARNING:
Failure to lock telescopic pole as directed above
could result in serious injury or death.

6
ENGLISH
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:
nTrimming and shaping hedges and shrubbery
STARTING AND STOPPING
See Figure 3.
nConnect the hedge trimmer to power supply.
nAttach the outlet end of an extension cord to the plug
on the rear of the hedge trimmer. Route extension cord
through cord retainer as shown.
NOTE: Use only an approved outdoor extension cord
as described previously in this manual.
nGrasp the telescopic pole with your left hand and the
rear handle with your right hand.
nThe switch trigger and the lock-off button must be
depressed simultaneously to begin blade movement.
nTo stop blade movement, release the switch trigger.
ADJUSTING PIVOTING HEAD
See Figure 4.
nDisconnect the plug from the power source.
nPlace the hedge trimmer on a sturdy flat surface.
nPush pivot button and adjust trimmer head until it snaps
securely into place at one of the four positions indicated
by the notches.
CAUTION :
Do not place hand between pivoting head and
threaded base. Failure to heed this caution could
result in a pinch point injury.
ADJUSTING TELESCOPIC POLE
See Figure 5.
nRotate the threaded collar counterclockwise to
loosen.
nPush poles towards each other to shorten the pole or
pull away from each other to lengthen the pole.
NOTE: Extend the telescopic pole only to the length
required to reach the hedges being trimmed. Do not
extend the handle above waist height.
nWhen the desired length is achieved, rotate the
threaded collar clockwise to secure.
NOTE: Adjust hand placement on the telescopic pole of
the pole hedge trimmer to keep proper balance. Do not
attempt to use the pole hedge trimmer at a length which
does not allow you to achieve proper footing and balance
at all times.
CUTTING TIPS
See Figures 6 - 7.
WARNING:
Always keep both hands on the hedge trimmer
handles. Never hold shrubs with one hand and
operate hedge trimmer with the other. Failure to
heed this warning can result in serious injury.
WARNING:
Clear the area to be cut before each use.
Remove all objects such as cords, lights, wire,
or loose string which can become entangled in
the cutting blade and create a risk of serious
personal injury.
nWhen operating the hedge trimmer, keep the extension
cord behind the trimmer. Never drape it over the hedge
being trimmed.
nDo not force the hedge trimmer through heavy shrub-
bery. This can cause the blades to bind and slow down.
If the blades slow down, reduce the pace.
nDo not attempt to cut stems or twigs that are larger
than 19mm 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.
nIf blades do become jammed, stop the motor, allow the
blades to stop, and disconnect the plug from the power
source before attempting to remove the obstruction.
nIf desired, you can use string to help cut your hedge
level. Decide how high you want the hedge. Stretch a
piece of string along the hedge at the desired height.
Trim the hedge just above the guide line of string. Trim
the side of a hedge so that it will be slightly narrower
at the top. More of the hedge will be exposed when
shaped this way, and it will be more uniform.

7
ENGLISH
OPERATION
nWear gloves when trimming thorny or prickly growth.
When trimming new growth, use a wide sweeping ac-
tion, so that the stems are fed directly into the cutting
blade. Older growth will have thicker stems and will be
trimmed easiest by using a sawing movement.
OPERATING THE HEDGE TRIMMER
WARNING:
Read the safety information for safe operation
using the blade. Extreme care must be taken
when using blades to ensure safe operation.
Refer to Important Safety Instructions and
Specific Safety Rules.
nHold unit firmly with both hands. Always keep your
left hand on the telescopic pole and your right hand on
the rear handle. The unit is used for cutting in either
direction in a slow, sweeping action from side to side.
nStand so that you are stable and balanced on both
feet.
nInspect and clear the area of any hidden objects.
n To protect yourself from electrocution, do not operate
within 15m of overhead electrical lines.
nNever use the hedge trimmer near power lines, fencing,
posts, buildings, or other immovable objects.
nNever use a blade after hitting a hard object without
first inspecting it for damage. Do not use if any damage
is detected.
MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
When servicing, use only identical 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 product operation. If
operation is dusty, also wear a dust mask.
WARNING:
Before inspecting, cleaning, or servicing the
machine, disconnect the plug from power source
and wait for all moving parts to stop. Failure to
follow these instructions can result in serious
personal injury or property damage.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most
plastics are susceptible to damage from various types of
commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. Use
clean cloths to remove dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.
WARNING:
Do not at any time let brake fluids, petrol,
petroleum-based products, penetrating
oils, etc., come in contact with plastic parts.
Chemicals can damage, weaken, or
destroy plastic which may result in serious
personal injury.
Only the parts shown on the parts list are intended to be
repaired or replaced by the customer. All other parts should
be replaced at an Authorised Service Centre.
WARNING:
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. NEVER touch blades or
service unit with the power supply connected.
LUBRICATING THE BLADE
See Figure 8.
For easier operation and longer blade life, lubricate the
hedge trimmer blade before and after each use.
nStop the motor and disconnect from power supply.
n Lay the hedge trimmer on a flat surface. Apply light
weight machine oil along the edge of the top blade.
If you will be using the hedge trimmer for an extended
period, it is advisable to oil the blade during use.
NOTE: Do not oil while the hedge trimmer is running.
nStop the motor and disconnect from power supply.
n Lubricate the hedge trimmer as described above.
n Reconnect to the power source and resume use.
CLEANING THE HEDGE TRIMMER
nStop the motor and disconnect from power supply.
n Clean dirt and debris from the body of the hedge trim-
mer, using a damp cloth with a mild detergent.
NOTE: Do not use any strong detergents on the plastic
housing or the handle. They can be damaged by certain
aromatic oils such as pine and lemon, and by solvents
such as kerosene.

8
ENGLISH
DISPOSAL
This marking indicates that this product should not be disposed with other household wastes throughout the EU. 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.
MAINTENANCE
STORING THE TRIMMER
nClean all foreign material from the product.
nStore it in a well-ventilated place that is inaccessible to children.
nKeep away from corrosive agents such as garden chemicals.

LIMITED WARRANTY
TTI warrants this outdoor product to be free of defects in material and workmanship for 24 months from the date of
purchase by the original purchaser, subject to the limitations below. Please keep your invoice as proof of date of
purchase.
This warranty is only applicable where the product is used for personal and non-commercial purposes. This warranty does
not cover damage or liability caused by / due to misuse, abuse, accidental or intentional acts by user, improper
handling, unreasonable use, negligence, failure by end user to follow operating procedures outlined in the user’s
manual, attempted repair by non-qualified professional, unauthorized repair, modification, or use of accessories and/or
attachments not specifically recommended by authorized party. Please see your local dealer for list of authorized
service centers in your area.
This warranty does not cover belts, brushes, bags, bulbs or any part which ordinary wear and tear results in required
replacement during warranty period. This warranty does not cover transportation cost or consumable items such as
fuses and batteries.
This limited warranty is void if the product’s original identification (trade mark, serial number, etc.) markings have been
defaced, altered or removed or if product is not purchased from an authorized reseller or if product is sold AS IS and /
or WITH ALL FAULTS.
Where permitted, the provisions of this limited warranty are in lieu of any other written warranty, whether express or
implied, written or oral, including any warranty of MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL WE BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL
DAMAGES. OUR MAXIMUM LIABILITY SHALL NOT EXCEED THE ACTUAL PURCHASE PRICE PAID BY YOU FOR
THE PRODUCT.
This warranty is valid only in the European Union, Australia and New Zealand. Outside these areas, please contact
your authorized Ryobi dealer to determine if another warranty applies.
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
- We, Homelite Far East CO.,LTD.
Address: 24/F, CDW Building, 388 Castle Peak Road, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong. declare under our sole responsibility
that the product electrical powered pole-mounted hedge trimmer: RPT400, to which this declaration relates correspond
to the relevant basic safety and health requirements of Directive:
- 98/37/EC (Machinery-Directive),
- 2004/108/EC (EMC-Directive), and
- 2006/95/EC (LVD-Directive),
- 2000/14/EC (noise directive) incl. modifications.
For the relevant implementation of the safety and health requirements mentioned in the Directives, the following
standards and/or technical specification(s) have been respected:
EN55014-1:2000+A1: 2001+A2:2002;EN61000-3-2: 2006; EN61000-3-3: 1995+A1: 2001; EN60745-1: 2006 ,EN60745-
2-15 :2006, ISO10517 :2003,EN ISO 3744:1995; ISO 11094:1991
Measured sound power level 95.6dB(A)
Guaranteed sound power level 97dB(A)
Conformity assessment method to annex VI/Directive 2000/14/EC

Machine: ELECTRIC POLE HEDGE TRIMMER
Name of company: Homelite Far East Co., Ltd.
Address: 24/F, CDW Building,
388 Castle Peak Road,
Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong.
Type: RPT400
Name/Title: Andrew Eyre
Vice President, Engineering
Signature:
RYOBI TECHNOLOGIES (UK) LIMITED.
Medina House,
Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow,
Buckinghamshire,
SL7 1TB,
UNITED KINGDOM
Tel: + 44 (0) 1628 894400
Fax: + 44 (0) 1628 894401
Technical Helpline : + 44 (0) 800 389 0305
RYOBI TECHNOLOGIES SAS
Immeuble Le Grand Roissy
Z.A. du Gué - 35 rue de Guivry
77990 LE MESNIL AMELOT FRANCE
Phone: + 33(0)1 60 94 69 70
Fax: + 33(0)1 60 94 69 79
RYOBI BELGIUM
Avenue des Pâquerettes, 55
Zoning artisanal - bâtiment 5
B - 1410 Waterloo
BELGIQUE
Tel : + 32(0) 2357 8140
Fax : + 32(0) 2357 8149
RYOBI ITALIA
Via Vincenzo Borelli, 13
I - 41100 Modena
ITALIA
Tel : + 39(0) 5923 8408
Fax : + 39(0) 5924 6960
RYOBI IBÉRICA
Avenidad de la Industria 52
28820 Coslada - Madrid
ESPANA
Tel : + 34(0) 91 627 93 26
Fax : + 34(0) 91 627 93 29
TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES (ASIA) CO., LTD.
24/F, CDW Building,
388 Castle Peak Road,
Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong.
Tel : + 852 2402 6888
RYOBI TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
Itterpark 4
D-40724 Hilden
DEUTSCHLAND
Tel: + 49 (0) 2103 2958-0
Fax: + 49 (0) 2103 2958-29
RYOBI TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
Vertriebsbüro Österreich
Schinitzgasse 13
A-8605 Kapfenberg
Tel.: + 43 (0) 3862 23590-0
Fax: + 43 (0) 3862 23590-25
TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES AUSTRALIA PTY LIMITED.
Building B, Rosehill Industrial Estate,
3 Shirley Street,
Rosehill NSW 2142
AUSTRALIA
Tel: [phone] or 1300 361 505
Fax: [phone]
TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES (NZ) LIMITED.
27 Clemow Drive, Mt Wellington
PO Box 12-806, Penrose, Auckland
NEW ZEALAND
Tel: + 64 (0) 9 573 0230
Free Call: [phone]
Fax: + 64 (0) 9 573 0231
A&M MIDDLE EAST FZCO
P.O.Box 61254
Jedel Ali, Dubai,
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Tel.: + 9714 8861399
Fax: + 9714 8861400
TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES NORDIC
Stamholmen 147, 4. DK-2650 Hvidovre
DENMARK
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
06/2008