Ryobi HT816r, HT818r, HT822r manual Before Operating, For Safe Operation

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

•To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this unit has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other) and will require the use of a polarized extension cord. This unit plug will fit into a polarized extension cord only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the extension cord, reverse the plug. If the plug still does not fit, obtain a correct polarized extension cord. A polarized extension cord will require the use of a polarized wall outlet. This plug will fit into a polarized wall outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the wall outlet, reverse the plug. If the plug still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper wall outlet. Do not change the unit plug, extension cord receptacle, or extension cord plug in any way.

•Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection should be provided on the circuit(s) or outlet(s) to be used for this unit. Receptacles are available having built-in GFCI protection and may be used for this measure of safety.

•EXTENSION CORDS: Make sure your extension cord is in good condition. When using an extension cord, be sure to use a cord that is heavy enough to carry the current that your unit will draw. An undersized extension cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. The table shows the correct size to use depending on the cord length and nameplate amperage rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier size line gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord. To reduce the possibility of disconnection of the unit from the extension cord during operation, see Fig. 5, page 7.

•A nameplate on your unit indicates what voltage it uses. Never connect the unit to an AC voltage that differs from this voltage.

MINIMUM WIRE SIZE FOR EXTENSION CORDS

FOR 120 VOLT APPLIANCES

Cord length (ft)	25	50	100		150
Amperage Rating	Wire size (AWG)
1 to 10 amps	18	16	14		12
10 to 12 amps	16	16	14		12
12 to 16 amps	14	12		NOT

RECOMMENDED

BEFORE OPERATING

•Read the instructions carefully. Be familiar with the controls and proper use of the unit.

•Children and teens under the age of 15 must not use the unit, except for teens guided by an adult.

•Before each use, thoroughly inspect your unit for loose or damaged parts. Do not use until adjustments or repairs are made.

•All guards and safety attachments must be installed properly before operating the unit.

•Use the unit only in daylight or good artificial light.

•Keep all bystanders, especially children and pets, at least 50 feet (15 m) away from the unit while operating.

FOR SAFE OPERATION

•Avoid unintentional starting. Do not carry plugged-in unit with your finger on the switch. Be sure switch is off when plugging in.

•Always remain alert. Use common sense. To prevent injury to yourself and others, do not operate this unit if you are fatigued.

•Do not operate the unit while under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication.

•Wear safety glasses or goggles that are marked as meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards, and ear/hearing protection when operating this unit. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty.

•Do not overreach or use the unit from unstable surfaces such as ladders, trees, steep slopes, rooftops, etc. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.

•Wear heavy, long pants, boots, gloves and a long sleeve shirt. Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, short pants, sandals or go barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.

•Always stop the motor when cutting is delayed or when walking from one cutting location to another.

•Keep unit clean of vegetation and other materials. They may become lodged in the cutting blades.

•When operating the hedge trimmer, always hold the unit with both hands. Keep a firm grip on both the housing grip and front handle. Never grip the unit by the guard or use the guard as a handle.

•Do not force unit. It will do the job better and with less likelihood of injury at a rate for which it was designed.

•Use only genuine Ryobi replacement parts and accessories for this unit. These are available from your authorized service dealer. Use of any non Ryobi parts or accessories could lead to serious injury to the user, or damage to the unit, and void your warranty.

•This unit is provided with double-insulation. Use only identical replacement parts. See instructions for Servicing of Double-Insulated Units.

•If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop the unit immediately and check for damage. Do not operate before repairing damage. Do not operate the unit with loose or damaged parts.

•Maintain the unit with care. Keep cutting edge sharp and clean for best performance and to reduce the risk of injury. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories. Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Always use a clean cloth when cleaning. Never use brake fluid, gasoline, petroleum-based products, or any strong solvents to clean your tool.

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