Qualcast 18V Lithium-ion Cordless Grass Trimmer Instruction Manual After Sales Support UK/Ireland 0845 077 8888 Republic of Ireland 0124 77708 Web www.homebasespares.co.uk Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly These instructions contain important information that will help you get the best from your mower, ensuring it is assembled correctly and safely. If you need help or have damaged or missing parts, call the Customer Helpline on 0845 077 8888. Sep 2012
Contents Safety Information... 3 Warning Symbols...3 General Safety...4 Personal Safety...4 Power Tool Use and Care...5 Service...5 Additional Safety Rules for Line Trimmers...5 Unpacking...6 In the Box...7 Parts...7 Assembly...8 Fitting the Guard...8 Adjusting the Secondary Handle...9 To Remove or Install Battery Pack...9 Usage...10 Adjusting the Telescopic Handle...10 Adjusting the Front Handle...10 Head Angle Adjustment...11 Edging...11 Operating Instructions & Tips...12 Before Starting...12 Increasing the Cutting Line Length...13 Switching ON and OFF...14 Trimming...15 Changing a Line Spool...15 Flower Guard...16 Compact Body Size...16 Installing Battery In Charger...17 Maintenance...18 Storage...18 Troubleshooting...19 General Troubleshooting...19 Technical Data...19 Technical Data Table...19 Disposal...20 Disposal and Recycling...20 Getting Help...20 2 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888
Safety Information Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly Warning Symbols The following warning symbols appear throughout this assembly manual and indicate the appropriate safety measures you should take when assembly and operating the hedge trimmer. Take extra care, beware of hazards. Read instruction manual. Warning - To reduce the risk of injury, user must read instruction manual. Wear hearing protection. Wear eye protection. Wear breathing protection. N380 Conforms to relevant standards for electromagnetic compatibility. Use at a distance of at least 5m from other people. Do not use the machine in the rain or leave it outdoors when it is raining. Pay attention that bystanders are not injured by objects thrown out from the machine. Sharp blade. Noise level specification Lwa in db. Do not dispose of electrical equipment in domestic waste. Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888 3
Safety Information Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly General Safety IMPORTANT! All operators must read these instructions before use. WARNING! Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow all warnings, and instructions may result in electric shock, fire or serious injury. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference Work Area Keep work areas clean and well lit. Cluttered and 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. 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 safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. Safety equipment such as a dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries. 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. Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the tool on. A wrench or a key that is left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury. Ensure you always have proper footing and balance. This will provide better control of the power tool in unexpected situations. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool 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 collection facilities ensure that these are connected and properly used. 4 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888
Safety Information Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly Power Tool Use and Care Do not use the power tool for applications that are beyond it s capacity. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and more safely 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 the switch is dangerous and must be repaired. Disconnect the battery from the power source before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally. Store the tool out of the reach of children. Do not allow people unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users. Always maintain the power tool in good working order. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, or other conditions that would affect it 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 cutting attachments with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control. Only use the tool, accessories, and attachments as described in these instructions. Using the tool for operations it is not intended for could cause damage to the tool and hazardous situations. Always consider the working conditions and the work to be performed. Service Have the power tool serviced by a qualified repair personnel using only manufacturer s recommended replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained. Additional Safety Rules for Line Trimmers Always wear adequate protective clothing when operating the tool to avoid injuries to face, eyes, hands, feet, head or hearing. Use safety glasses or a face shield, high boots or sturdy shoes, long trousers, work gloves, a hard hat and hearing protection. When starting up and when the tool is in operation, keep the cutting section away from all parts of the body, especially the hands and feet. Do not start the tool when it is upside down or when it is not in the operating position. Switch the motor off and remove battery when the tool is not being used, left unattended, being cleaned, being moved from one place to another or when the spool is being changed or the length of line manually adjusted. Do not operate the tool near people, especially children or pets. Turn it off if they get too close. Maintain a safe distance of at least 5m from other people when using the tool. Keep a balanced and stable stance while using the tool. Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888 5
Safety Information Important - Please read these instructions fully before starting assembly Additional Safety Rules for Line Trimmers (continued) Ensure that the area being cut is free from strings, stones and debris. Do not cut against hard objects. This could cause injury to the operator and damage to the tool. Never use the tool without the guard. Never use the tool if the guard is damaged. WARNING! The guard is vital for your and other people s safety and for the tool s operating efficiency. Do not try to stop the cutting device (nylon line) with your hands. Always let it come to a stop by itself. WARNING! After switching off the tool, the cutting device continues to rotate for a few more seconds. Only use the original type of nylon line. Under no circumstances use metal line instead of nylon. Do not use the tool to cut grass which is not on the ground. For example, do not cut grass which is on walls or rocks. Do not switch on the tool in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces or in the presence of inflammable and/or explosive substances such as liquids, gasses and powders. Only cut during broad daylight or with adequate artificial light. Check that all grass cuttings and dirt have been removed from the ventilation vents. Do not cross roads or gravel paths with the tool still running. When the tool is not in use, store it in a dry place and out of reach of children. After use, disconnect the tool from the power supply and check for damage. If you have the slightest doubts, contact an authorized service center. Only use the tool according to the instructions given in this manual. Check regularly that the screws are tight. Do not try to repair the tool or access internal parts. Contact authorized service centers only. Do not get distracted and always concentrate on what you are doing. Use common sense. Never operate the tool when you are tired, sick or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Unpacking Due to modern mass production techniques, it is unlikely that your power tool is faulty or that a part is missing. If you find anything wrong, do not operate the tool until the parts have been replaced or the fault has been rectified. Failure to do so could result in serious personal injury. 6 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888
In the Box Parts 1 Battery 6 Secondary handle 10 Motor housing 15 Line cutting blade 2 Handle 3 Trigger switch 4 Lock-off button 5 Handle adjustment button 7 Telescopic shaft adjustment lock 8 Telescopic shaft 9 Head adjustment button 11 Flower guard 12 Nylon line 13 Automatic feed spool 14 Debris shield 16 Battery charger 17 Trimming/edging locking system 1 6 4 3 2 5 1 17 7 16 8 11 10 9 12 13 14 15 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888 7
Assembly Fitting the Guard 2 3 11 4 2. Align the 3 screw holes in the guard with the screw holes in the base of the unit. 3. Attach the flower guard 11 to the motor housing. Note! Sharp blade 8 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888
Assembly Adjusting the Secondary Handle 5 6 5. To adjust the secondary handle 6 press in the secondary handle buttons and rotate the handle to the desired position then release the buttons to lock it into place. To Remove or Install Battery Pack 6 1 6. Locate the latch on back of the battery 1 to release the battery from the trimmer. Remove battery pack from your grass trimmer. After recharging the battery pack insert it into the battery slot of the trimmer and ensure it clicks firmly into place. Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888 9
Usage Adjusting the Telescopic Handle 7a 8 7 7a. Loosen the telescopic shaft adjustment locking system 7, adjust the shaft 8 to a comfortable height. Make sure to tighten the sleeve once the desired length is found. Adjusting the Front Handle 7b 10 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888
Usage Head Angle Adjustment 8a 9 8a. The head can be adjusted so that it is horizontal with the ground, this feature helps you get access to areas such as under bushes and garden furniture.the shaft can be lowered by pressing the adjustment button 9 and set to the desired angle. Edging 8b 17 17 9 8b. The head can be twisted for edge cutting along borders. Loosen the locking system 17 at the top of the shaft, twist the handle to the desired position and then re-tighten the locking system. Now adjust the head angle (adjustment button 9, Fig.8a to obtain the correct head angle as shown in Fig.8b, edging). Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888 11
Operating Instructions & Tips Before Starting 9 4 3 The battery pack for this tool has been shipped in a low charge condition. You should charge the battery pack fully before use. Before use, follow these steps to check that the tool is working properly and the length of the line is correct: Your trigger switch is locked OFF to prevent accidental starting. Depress lock off button 4 then the ON/OFF trigger switch 3 and release lock off button 4, your switch is now ON. To switch OFF just release the ON/OFF trigger switch 3. Examine the general condition of the tool. Inspect the guard, switch, cord set. Check for loose screws, misalignment, binding of moving parts, improper mounting, broken parts and any other condition that may affect its safe operation. If abnormal noise or vibration occurs during operation, turn the line trimmer off immediately and have the problem corrected. Ensure that you are on a flat surface and have secure footing. Check that the line touches or extends beyond the edge of the guard. 12 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888
Operating Instructions & Tips Increasing the Cutting Line Length 10 11 Before the first cutting, ensure the cutting line is the correct length. If the line is too short, remove the spool cover by depressing the 2 tabs on either side of the spool housing (fig 10). Gently pull out sufficient line from the spool to ensure it extends a few centimeters past the edge of the guard, Reload the spool and lock the cover. Ensure it locks back firmly into position (fig 11). During operation to increase the cutting line simply switch the line trimmer off and then on again, this with restore the line to the correct length. The blade knife on the grass guard ensures the cutting line is trimmed to the correct length. Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888 13
Operating Instructions & Tips Switching ON and OFF 12 4 3 Slide the the fully charged battery into the battery housing underneath the handle. Press the lock-off button 4, then press the trigger switch 3. To switch OFF, release the trigger switch. WARNING! The tool runs for approximately 5 seconds after it has been switched off. Let the motor come to a complete standstill before setting the tool down. 14 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888
Operating Instructions & Tips Trimming WARNING! Ensure the work area is free from rocks, debris, lines and other foreign objects. Start the trimmer before approaching the grass to be cut. The automatic line feed mechanism releases 12mm of line when the trimmer reaches a certain speed. If you need the spool to release more line, release the trigger to slow the rotation speed then squeeze the trigger again and continue trimming. As the speed picks up the automatic line feed will release a further 12mm of nylon line. Cut the grass by swinging the trimmer from right to left and proceed slowly keeping the trimmer inclined forwards at an angle of about 30. In longer grass, cut from top to bottom in stages to allow the cut grass to fall away from the spool preventing the grass from wrapping around the spool. Do not cut damp or wet grass. Do not overload your trimmer. Avoid wearing the line out quickly by knocking against hard objects (stones, walls, fences etc.). Be alert for possible kickback when there is impact with hard objects. After finishing the cutting operation, keep the head close to ground level, release the switch, and allow the motor to come to a complete standstill. Note! Periodically clean out the grass between the spool and the rim of the guard to prevent the tool from vibrating. Changing a Line Spool WARNING! The line cutting blade on the grass guard is sharp. Take extra care, wear protective gloves. Turn the line trimmer upside down. Hold the spool holder firmly with one hand and with the other hand squeeze the tabs on either side of the spool cover and remove the cover. Remove the empty spool and clean out the spool cover. Align the cutaway sections in the spool opposite the eyelets and thread the line of the new spool through the eyelet in the spool holder and insert the spool. CAUTION! After changing the line spool, run the trimmer under no load for at least a minute to verify the line and the tool are both operating correctly. Use only the line spool as recommended by the manufacturer. Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888 15
Operating Instructions & Tips Flower Guard 13 The flower guard acts as a guide to help avoid damaging flowers and plants. It can be folded into a vertical position when not needed. Compact Body Size 14 For convenient carrying and storage 16 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888
Operating Instructions & Tips Installing Battery In Charger 15 Note! Connect the plug of charger with battery (fig 4). The red indicator light will come ON when the charger is connected to the mains supply. The red light stays on when the battery is charging. The green lights stays on continuously when the battery is fully charged. It can be removed and used immediately. Note! A new battery or one that is completely run down should be charged for 6 hours (for first charge). After normal use, a battery should be fully charged in 3-5 hours. It is normal for the battery charger to hum and be warm to the touch during operation. If the battery does not charge properly, check to make sure the electrical outlet is live and that the air surrounding the battery and charger is between 10ºC (50ºF) and 40ºC (105º F). Unplug the charger when not in use and store it in a dry, secure place. Always remove the battery pack and store it in a dry, secure place when the trimmer is not in use. Battery charging should only be carried out indoors. WARNING! Never leave a battery on charge if it becomes hot or the red light stays on. Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888 17
Maintenance Storage 1. Keep the trimmer out of direct sunlight. 2. Do not store in a nylon bag as this can encourage the formation of mold. 3. At the end of the season, give the trimmer a complete cleaning and a thorough check. 4. Do not leave the trimmer resting on the floor for extended periods as it could cause the shape of the guard to alter, posing a safety risk. Hang it off the floor by the top handgrip. Electrical Safety for Charger 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, or other mains appliances. 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 charge appliance in rain, or in wet locations Do not use battery operated appliance in rain Remove or disconnect battery before servicing, cleaning or removing material from the gardening appliance. Use only the battery recommended by manufacturer. Do not dispose of the battery(ies) in a fire. The cell may explode. Check with local codes for possible special disposal instructions. Do not open or mutilate the battery(ies). Released electrolyte is corrosive and may cause damage to the eyes or skin. It may be toxic if swallowed. Exercise care in handling batteries in order not to short the battery with conducting materials such as rings, bracelets, and keys. The battery or conductor may overheat and cause burns. 18 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888
Troubleshooting General Troubleshooting The following table provides solutions to common problems encountered with the hedge trimmer. Fault Possible Cause Solution Product does not start Product does not reach full power Unsatisfactory result Battery pack not properly inserted Battery pack discharged Battery pack damaged Other electrical defect to the product Battery pack capacity too low Air vents are blocked Cutting device worn or damaged insert properly Remove and charge battery pack Check by a specialist electrician Check by a specialist electrician Charge battery pack Clean the air vents Replace with a new one Technical Data Technical Data Table Specification Value Battery Power 18V 1.5Ah No Load Speed 8800 min -1 Tool Weight 4.32 lbs./1.96 Kg Cut Diameter (swath) 250mm Line Thickness 1.5mm Cutting line length 1x13ft (1x4.0m) Battery pack 1x18V Li-ion Charger input 230V~240V a.c. 50Hz 17W Charger output 23V d.c. 400mA Battery full charge time 3-5hr Approx. Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888 19
Disposal Disposal and Recycling Do not dispose with household waste. Recycle products and components according to local legal requirements. Getting Help After sales helpline number: 0845 077 8888 Spare parts purchases: www.homebasespares.co.uk 20 Customer Helpline 0845 077 8888