Ryobi Battery Chainsaw Manual

The Ryobi Battery Chainsaw is a cordless, battery-powered chainsaw designed for light to medium-duty cutting tasks such as pruning, limbing, and cutting small trees. It features a brushless motor for increased efficiency and runtime, tool-less chain tensioning, an automatic oiler, an ergonomic handle with overmold grip, a safety chain brake, and compatibility with Ryobi's 18V ONE+ or 40V battery systems. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Chainsaw body with brushless motor, Guide Bar, Saw Chain, Battery, Charger, Chain Tensioning Knob, Chain Brake Lever, Oil Filler Cap, and Safety Lockout Button.

Assembly & Installation

Unpack and inspect all contents. Ensure you have the correct battery and charger.

1. Attach the guide bar and chain: Loosen the bar nuts, position the bar, fit the chain over the bar with cutting teeth facing forward, then tighten the bar nuts hand-tight.
2. Tension the chain: Use the tensioning knob to adjust until the chain fits snugly against the bar but can still be pulled around by hand.
3. Fill the oil reservoir: Use only bar and chain oil. Remove the oil cap, fill to the line, and replace the cap securely.
4. Install the battery: Insert a fully charged Ryobi 18V or 40V battery until it clicks into place.

WARNING! Always wear cut-resistant gloves when handling the chain. Ensure the chainsaw is powered off and the battery is removed during assembly.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, perform these steps to ensure safe and optimal operation.

1. Charge the battery: Use the provided charger. A full charge is indicated by a solid green light.
2. Check chain tension: Ensure proper tension as described in assembly.
3. Test the chain brake: With the battery removed, pull the chain brake lever forward. It should engage with a click. Push it back to disengage.
4. Test the safety lockout: Press the lockout button; the trigger should not pull. Release the lockout button; the trigger should pull freely.
5. Add bar and chain oil: Fill the reservoir completely.

CAUTION! Never operate the chainsaw without bar and chain oil, as this will cause rapid wear and damage.

Specifications

• Power Source: Ryobi 18V ONE+ or 40V Lithium-Ion Battery.
• Bar Length: 10-inch or 12-inch (model dependent).
• Chain Pitch/Gauge: 3/8-inch low-profile / .043-inch or .050-inch.
• Motor Type: Brushless.
• Automatic Oiler: Yes, adjustable.
• Weight (tool only): Approximately 5.5 lbs (varies by model).
• Noise Level: Significantly lower than gas-powered chainsaws.
• Recommended Use: Pruning, limbing, cutting firewood, small tree felling.
• Battery Runtime: Varies by battery capacity (2.0Ah to 6.0Ah+) and cutting application.

Controls and Functions

Main controls are located on the top and rear of the chainsaw body.

Front/Top: Chain Brake Lever (forward to engage, backward to disengage), Bar Nuts, Chain Tensioning Knob, Oil Filler Cap.

Rear Handle: Trigger Switch, Safety Lockout Button, Battery Release Button, Battery Fuel Gauge (on compatible batteries).

Operation: To start, press and hold the safety lockout button, then squeeze the trigger. Release the trigger to stop the chain. Engage the chain brake when not making a cut or when carrying the saw.

Battery & Charging

Use only genuine Ryobi 18V ONE+ or 40V batteries and chargers.

1. Charging: Plug the charger into a standard 120V outlet. Insert the battery. The charging light will flash red, then turn solid green when complete.
2. Storage: Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from metal objects. For long-term storage, charge to about 50%.
3. Disposal: Do not dispose of in household trash. Recycle at an authorized Ryobi battery recycling center.

Tip: For longest runtime, use the highest capacity battery compatible with your model (e.g., 4.0Ah or 6.0Ah).

Operating the Chainsaw

Always wear appropriate PPE: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, long pants, and sturdy boots.

1. Starting: Install a charged battery. Ensure the chain brake is disengaged. Press the lockout button and squeeze the trigger.
2. Making a Cut: Let the chain reach full speed before contacting wood. Do not force the saw; let the chain do the work. Use the bumper spike for leverage when possible.
3. Kickback Prevention: Be aware of the kickback zone (upper quadrant of the bar tip). Do not let the tip contact any object. Always hold the saw firmly with both hands.
4. Stopping: Release the trigger. Engage the chain brake for added safety when moving between cuts.
5. After Use: Remove the battery. Clean the saw. Check the oil level. Store with the bar cover on.

WARNING! Kickback can cause severe injury. Always maintain a firm grip and proper stance. Never operate above shoulder height.

Safety Features

Chain Brake: Stops the chain within milliseconds if activated by inertia (kickback) or manually. Safety Lockout: Prevents accidental trigger activation. Chain Catcher: Designed to reduce the risk if the chain breaks. Low-Kickback Chain: Standard on all models to reduce kickback force.

Care & Maintenance

Remove the battery before performing any maintenance.

1. Chain Sharpening: Use a round file and file guide. Maintain the correct filing angle (typically 30°). Sharpen when saw produces fine dust instead of chips.
2. Chain Tensioning: Check frequently, especially when new. Chain should be snug but pull freely. Re-tighten after the first few minutes of use on a new chain.
3. Cleaning: Wipe down the exterior with a dry cloth. Clean sawdust from the air vents, oil ports, and bar groove.
4. Lubrication: Always use bar and chain oil. Check the oil level before each use. Refill as needed.
5. Bar Maintenance: Regularly turn the bar over to ensure even wear. Clean the bar groove and oil holes.

CAUTION! Never use motor oil, waste oil, or any lubricant not specifically designed for chainsaw bars and chains.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with applicable UL standards. The battery contains lithium-ion cells; follow all charging and disposal instructions. Copyright © Ryobi. Ryobi is a trademark of Techtronic Power Tools Technology Ltd. For technical support, parts, or service, visit www.ryobitools.com or contact 1-800-525-2579.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Some electronic models may have a thermal overload reset. Allow the tool to cool if it shuts off unexpectedly.

Service: For repairs not covered in this manual, contact authorized Ryobi service at 1-800-525-2579 or www.ryobitools.com.