Ryobi P5231 - 18 VOLT JIG SAW Manual

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING:
Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions can result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.

Save all warnings and instructions for future reference. The term "power tool" in the warnings refers to your mainsoperated (corded) power tool or battery-o perated (cordless) power tool.

WORK AREA SAFETY

• Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or 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.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

• 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, ranges and refrigerators. 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 abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
• 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.
• If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of a GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.
• Use battery only with charger listed. For use with 18V lithium-ion battery packs, see tool/appliance/battery pack/charger correlation supplement 987000-432.

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 personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust mask, nonskid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
• Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energising power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
• Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
• 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 dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
• Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long hair. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be drawn into air vents.
• Do not use on a ladder or unstable support. Stable footing on a solid surface enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.

POWER TOOL USE AND CARE

• 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.
• 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 plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
• 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.
• 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.
• Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
• Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.

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.

SERVICE

• Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
• When servicing a power tool, use only identical replacement parts. Follow instructions in the Maintenance section of this manual. Use of unauthorized parts or failure to follow Maintenance instructions may create a risk of shock or injury.

PRODUCT SAFETY WARNINGS

• Hold power tool by insulated gripping surfaces, when performing an operation where the cutting accessory may contact hidden wiring. Cutting accessory contacting a "live" wire may make exposed metal parts of the power tool "live" and could give the operator an electric shock.
• Use clamps or another practical way to secure and support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding the work by hand or against your body leaves it unstable and may lead to loss of control.
• Know your power tool. Read operator's manual carefully. Learn its applications and limitations, as well as the specific potential hazards related to this power tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or serious injury.
• Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1 when assembling parts, operating the tool, or performing maintenance. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
• Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
• Protect your hearing. Wear hearing protection during extended periods of operation. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
• Check damaged parts. Before further use of the tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should be carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting, and any other conditions that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service center. Following this rule will reduce the risk of shock, fire, or serious injury.
• Inspect for and remove all nails from lumber before using this tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
• Battery tools do not have to be plugged into an electrical outlet; therefore, they are always in operating condition. Be aware of possible hazards when not using your battery tool or when changing accessories. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or serious personal injury.
• Do not place battery tools or their batteries near fire or heat. This will reduce the risk of explosion and possibly injury.
• Do not crush, drop or damage battery pack. Do not use a battery pack or charger that has been dropped or received a sharp blow. A damaged battery is subject to explosion. Properly dispose of a dropped or damaged battery immediately.
• Batteries can explode in the presence of a source of ignition, such as a pilot light. To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, never use any cordless product in the presence of open flame. An exploded battery can propel debris and chemicals. If exposed, flush with water immediately.
• Do not charge battery tool in a damp or wet location. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock.
• For best results, your battery tool should be charged in a location where the temperature is more than 50°F but less than 100°F. To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, do not store outside or in vehicles.
• Under extreme usage or temperature conditions, battery leakage may occur. If liquid comes in contact with your skin, wash immediately with soap and water. If liquid gets into your eyes, flush them with clean water for at least 10 minutes, then seek immediate medical attention. Following this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
• Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and use them to instruct others who may use this tool. If you loan someone this tool, loan them these instructions also.

SYMBOLS

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS

OVERVIEW

1. Toolless blade clamp
2. Orbital adjustment knob
3. Switch trigger
4. Variable speed lever
5. Lock-on button
6. Hex key/storage area
7. T-shank saw blade
8. Blade Saver bracket

ASSEMBLY

WARNING:
Do not use this product if it is not completely assembled or if any parts appear to be missing or damaged. Use of a product that is not properly and completely assembled or with damaged or missing parts could result in serious personal injury.

WARNING:
Do not attempt to modify this product or create accessories or attachments 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.

If any parts are damaged or missing, please call 1-800-525-2579 for assistance. In Mexico, please call 01-800-843-1111.

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 remove battery pack from the tool when you are assembling parts, making adjustments, cleaning, or when not in use. Removing battery pack will prevent accidental starting that could cause serious personal injury.

WARNING:
Always wear eye protection with side shields marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1.Failure to do so could result in objects being thrown into your eyes and other possible serious injuries.

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.

WARNING:
To avoid possible serious injury, keep hands and fingers away from the area between the gear housing and saw blade clamp.

APPLICATIONS

You may use this product for the purposes listed below:

• Cutting all types of wood products (lumber, plywood, paneling, composition board and hard board)
• Cutting thin sheet metal
• Cutting plastics and laminates.

SWITCH TRIGGER/LOCK-ON BUTTON

See Figure 1.
The lock-on button is convenient when cutting for extended periods of time. It is located on the handle above the switch trigger.

1. Lock-on button
2. Switch trigger

• To turn the saw on: Depress the switch trigger.
• To turn the saw off: Release the switch trigger.
• To lock on: Depress the switch trigger. Push in and hold the lock-on button. Release the switch trigger.
• To release: Depress the switch trigger.

INSTALLING/REMOVING BATTERY PACK

1. Battery pack
2. Latches

To install:

• Place the battery pack on the tool.
• Make sure the latches on each side of the battery pack snap into place and the battery pack is secured on the tool before beginning operation.

To remove:

• Depress the latches on the sides of the battery pack.
• Remove the battery pack.

For complete charging instructions, see the operator's manuals for your battery pack and charger.

WARNING:
Battery products are always in operating condition. Removing battery pack will prevent accidental starting that could cause serious personal injury.

BLADE SELECTION

For best performance, always select a specific blade for the particular application and type of material you wish to cut. This will help create a smoother, faster cut and prolong blade life.

WARNING:
This tool is designed to work with T-shank blades. Using non-T-shank blades may result in blades coming loose from tool, resulting in personal injury or property damage.

INSTALLING BLADES

1. Toolless blade clamp
2. Saw blade

The toolless blade clamp design does not require the use of a blade wrench when installing or removing the blade.

• Remove the battery pack.
• Rotate the blade clamp lock counterclockwise. Hold the lock in the open position.
• Insert the T-shank saw blade into the slot and push until the blade is fully inserted.
• Release the blade clamp lock, making sure the blade is securely installed.
• Reinstall the battery pack.

BladeSaver BRACKET

1. BladeSaver bracket
2. Hex key
3. Detents
4. Base

The BladeSaver feature has a "drop-base" design. As the blade becomes dull with use, the saw base can be adjusted vertically in 1/8 in. increments, making unused blade teeth available for cutting.
This feature can be used for straight cutting, bevel cutting, and plunge cutting.
There are four detents on the side of the jigsaw for base adjustment.

To adjust the BladeSaver:

• Remove the battery pack.
• Remove the hex key from the storage compartment. Loosen the two screws on the side of the bracket.
  NOTE: It is not necessary to remove the screws. Turn them counterclockwise only enough to loosen the base for adjustment.
• Adjust the base to desired position indicated by the detents on the BladeSaver bracket.
• Securely tighten the screws and reinstall the battery pack. Return hex key to storage compartment.

The unused portion of the blade will vary, depending on the thickness of the workpiece material and the length of the blade.

GENERAL CUTTING

1. Workpiece
2. C-Clamp
3. Straight edge

Rest the front of the saw base on the workpiece and align cutting edge of the blade with the line on your workpiece. Start the saw and move it forward on the work surface. Apply downward pressure to keep the saw steady and only enough forward pressure to keep the blade cutting. Do not force the saw. Forcing the saw may overheat the motor and break saw blades. Broken saw blades must be replaced with new saw blades.

STRAIGHT CUTTING

See Figure 5.
A straight cut can be made by clamping a piece of wood or straight edge to the workpiece and guiding the edge of the saw against it. Make the cut from one direction only; don't cut halfway and complete the cut from the opposite end.

VARIABLE SPEED LEVER

1. Variable speed lever

The variable speed lever is located on top of the saw handle, above the switch trigger.

To increase or decrease the cutting speed:

• Hold the saw in normal operating position. Gradually push the speed lever to the positive ( + ) symbol to increase speed. Push to the negative ( − ) symbol to decrease speed.
• If you desire to lock the switch on at a given speed, depress the switch trigger, push in and hold the lock-on button, and release the switch trigger. Adjust the variable speed lever until the desired speed is reached.
• Avoid running the saw at low speeds for extended periods of time. Running at low speeds under constant usage may cause the saw to become overheated. If this occurs, cool the saw by running it without a load and at full speed.

Use these guidelines to determine correct speed for various applications:

• LOW speed is ideal when minimum speed and power is required; for example, starting cuts.
• MEDIUM speed is suitable for cutting hard metals, plastics, and laminates.
• HIGH speed produces best results when maximum power is required, for example, cutting wood. Soft metals such as aluminum, brass, and copper may also require high speeds.

ORBITAL MOTION

1. Orbital adjustment knob
2. To increase orbital setting
3. To decrease orbital setting

Orbital motion provides faster, more efficient cutting. The blade cuts through your work in the upstroke but does not drag across your work in the downstroke.

Choose from four orbital adjustment positions for fine to aggressive cutting. The higher settings should be used when fast cutting in soft material is desired. The lower settings should be used when cutting materials with more resistance.

OPTIONAL EDGE GUIDE

(NOT INCLUDED)

1. Edge guide screw
2. Base
3. Optional edge guide (not included)

An optional edge guide may be purchased separately. It can be used for making crosscuts and rip cuts.

• Remove the battery pack.
• Insert the edge guide through the two slots in the base of the saw.
• Adjust to the desired width and lock in place with the edge guide screw.
• Reinstall the battery pack.

SCROLL CUTTING

Scroll cuts can be made with the jig saw by guiding the direction of the cut with applied pressure on the handle as shown.

NOTE: Using blades specifically designed for scroll cutting will reduce stress on the saw and produce better cutting results.

WARNING:
Excessive side pressure to the blade could result in broken blades or damage to the material being cut. Broken blades could result in serious personal injury.

PLUNGE CUTTING

WARNING:
To avoid loss of control, broken blades, or damage to the material being cut, always use extreme caution when making plunge cuts. We do not recommend plunge cutting on materials other than wood.

• Mark the line of cut clearly on the workpiece.
• Set the cutting angle at 0°.
• Tilt the saw forward so that it rests on the front edge of the base and blade will not come in contact with the workpiece when the saw is turned on.
• Make sure the blade is inside the area to be cut.
• Using high speed, start the saw and slowly lower the blade into the workpiece until the blade cuts through the wood.
• Continue lowering the blade into the workpiece until the base rests flat on the work surface, then move the saw forward to complete the opening.
• Use only the 7 teeth per inch blade for this type of cut.

ANGLE CUTTING (BEVEL CUTTING)

1. Scale
2. Base

1. Hex key
2. Base
3. Base pivot screw
4. Notches
5. Backward
6. Forward

Bevel cutting angles may be adjusted from 0° to 45° right or left. Angles for cuts from 0° to 45° in 15° increments are marked on a scale on both the left and right side of the base. Notches on the underside of the base provide positive stops at each of the above mentioned 15° increments. A protractor is recommended when accurate cuts are required.

• Remove the battery pack.
• Remove the hex key from the storage compartment. Loosen the two base pivot screws until the base can be moved.
• Align the pointer on the housing with the desired angle indicated on the scale on the saw base.
• Once the desired angle is reached, slide base forward until the tab on the motor housing aligns with the appropriate notch on the underside of the base.
  NOTE: When making a set-up for accurate cuts with a protractor, or for angles other than the preset 15° increments, the positive stop notches on the underside of the base are not used.
• Tighten the base pivot screws securely.
• Return the hex key to the storage compartment.
• Reinstall the battery pack.
  NOTE: Do not completely remove screws.
• Slide the base backward until the base can move freely left and right.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING:
When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. Use of any other parts could create a hazard or cause product 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.

ACCESSORIES

Look for these accessories where you purchased this product or call 1-800-525-2579:

WARNING:
Current attachments and accessories available for use with this product are listed above. 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.

REGISTER YOUR TOOLS
http://register.ryobitools.com
1-800-525-2579

Documents / Resources

References

• Registration - RYOBI Tools

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