DeWalt DCST920, DCST920B Manual
![]()
Safety Guidelines Definitions
The definitions below describe the level of severity for each signal word. Please read the manual and pay attention to these symbols.
![]()
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
![]()
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
![]()
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE: Indicates a practice not related to personal injury which, if not avoided, may result in property damage.
![]()
Do not remove guard. The guard must be attached when trimming. Operating this trimmer without the guard will violate the product warranty. ![]()
When replacing the line, use only.080 inches (2.032 mm) diameter line (MODEL NO. DWO1DT801 OR DWO1DT802 are recommended). Other sizes may degrade performance or cause damage to the trimmer. - For use only with DeWALT 20V batteries. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS OR ANY DeWALT APPLIANCE, CALL US TOLL FREE AT: 1-800-4-DeWALT (1-800-433-9258).
Important Safety Warnings
![burn hazard]()
![]()
![burn hazard]()
When using electric gardening appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury, including the following.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
- ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION – Wear safety spectacles or goggles at all times when battery is installed. These items are available for purchase.
- DRESS PROPERLY – Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. They can be caught in moving parts. Gloves and substantial rubber soled footwear are recommended when working outdoors. Don't operate the appliance when barefoot or wearing open sandals. Wear heavy long pants to protect your legs. Wear protective hair covering to contain long hair.
- NYLON LINE – Keep face, hands and feet clear of rotating nylon line at all times.
- THE ROTATING LINE PERFORMS A CUTTING FUNCTION – Use care when trimming around screens and desirable plantings.
- DO NOT USE materials not recommended, such as metal wire, rope, and the like.
- KEEP ALL BYSTANDERS AWAY – at a safe distance from work area, especially children.
- MAKE SURE that other persons and pets are at least 100 feet (30 m) away.
- TO REDUCE THE RISK of rebound (ricochet) injury, work going away from any nearby solid object such as wall, steps, large stone, tree, etc. Use great care when working close to solid objects and where necessary, do trimming by hand.
- AVOID ACCIDENTALLY STARTING – Don't carry with finger on trigger when battery is installed.
- USE THE RIGHT APPLIANCE – Do not use this appliance for any job except that for which it is intended.
- DON'T OVERREACH – Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
- DON'T FORCE APPLIANCE – It will do the job better and with less likelihood of a risk of injury at the rate for which it was designed
- DAMAGE TO UNIT – If you strike or become entangled with a foreign object, stop appliance immediately, remove battery, check for damage and have any damage repaired before further operation is attempted. Do not operate with a broken hub or spool.
- REMOVE BATTERY – when not in use, when replacing line, or prior to cleaning.
- AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS – Do not use electric appliances in damp or wet locations. Follow all instructions in this Instruction Manual for proper operation of your appliance. Don't use the appliance in the rain.
- DO NOT OPERATE portable electric appliances in gaseous or explosive atmospheres. Motors in these appliances normally spark, and the sparks might ignite fumes.
- STORE IDLE APPLIANCES INDOORS – When not in use, appliances should be stored indoors in a dry, locked-up place out of reach of children.
- STAY ALERT – Do not operate this unit when you are tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
- MAINTAIN APPLIANCES WITH CARE – Follow instructions in maintenance section. Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
- CHECK DAMAGED PARTS – Before further use of the appliance, 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 condition that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service center unless otherwise indicated elsewhere in this manual.
- DO NOT immerse appliance in water or squirt it with a hose. DO NOT allow any liquid to get inside it.
- DO NOT store the appliance on or adjacent to fertilizers or chemicals.
- DO NOT clean with a pressure washer.
- Keep guards in place and in working order.
- Keep hands and feet away from cutting area.
- Do not charge appliance in rain, or in wet locations
![]()
Do not use appliance if the switch trigger does not turn the appliance on or off. Any appliance that can not be controlled with the switch trigger is dangerous and must be repaired.
![]()
Some dust created by this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
- compounds in fertilizers
- compounds in insecticides, herbicides and pesticides
- arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber
To reduce your exposure to these chemicals, wear approved safety equipment such as dust masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.
![]()
This product is not an edger and is not intended to be used for edging.
- The label on your appliance may include the following symbols. The symbols and their definitions are as follows:
V | volts | ![warning]() | safety alert symbol |
Hz | hertz | A | amperes |
min | minutes | W | watts |
or DC | direct current | or AC | alternating current |
![]() | Class I Construction (grounded) | n0 | no load speed |
![]() | Class II Construction (double insulated) | .../min | per minute |
RPM | revolutions per minute | ![]() | earthing terminal |
Important Safety Instructions for All Battery Packs
When ordering replacement battery packs, be sure to include the catalog number and voltage. Consult the chart at the end of this manual for compatibility of chargers and battery packs.
The battery pack is not fully charged out of the carton. Before using the battery pack and charger, read the safety instructions below and then follow charging procedures outlined.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
- Do not charge or use the battery pack in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Inserting or removing the battery pack from the charger may ignite the dust or fumes.
- Never force the battery pack into the charger. Do not modify the battery pack in any way to fit into a non-compatible charger as battery pack may rupture causing serious personal injury. Consult the chart at the end of this manual for compatibility of batteries and chargers.
- Charge the battery packs only in designated DeWalt chargers.
- DO NOTsplash or immerse in water or other liquids.
- Do not store or use the appliance and battery pack in locations where the temperature may reach or exceed 105°F (40°C) (such as outside sheds or metal buildings in summer). For best life store battery packs in a cool, dry location.
NOTE: Do not store the battery packs in a appliance with the trigger switch locked on. Never tape the trigger switch in the ON position.
![]()
Fire hazard. Never attempt to open the battery pack for any reason. If the battery pack case is cracked or damaged, do not insert into the charger. Do not crush, drop or damage the battery pack. Do not use a battery pack or charger that has received a sharp blow, been dropped, run over or damaged in any way (e.g., pierced with a nail, hit with a hammer, stepped on). Damaged battery packs should be returned to the service center for recycling.
![]()
Fire hazard. Do not store or carry the battery pack so that metal objects can contact exposed battery terminals. For example, do not place the battery pack in aprons, pockets, appliance boxes, product kit boxes, drawers, etc., with loose nails, screws, keys, etc. Transporting batteries can possibly cause fires if the battery terminals inadvertently come in contact with conductive materials such as keys, coins, hand appliances and the like. The US Department of Transportation Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR) actually prohibit transporting batteries in commerce or on airplanes (e.g., packed in suitcases and carry-on luggage) UNLESS they are properly protected from short circuits. So when transporting individual battery packs, make sure that the battery terminals are protected and well insulated from materials that could contact them and cause a short circuit.
SPECIFIC SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS FOR LITHIUM ION (Li-Ion)
- Do not incinerate the battery pack even if it is severely damaged or is completely worn out. The battery pack can explode in a fire. Toxic fumes and materials are created when lithium ion battery packs are burned.
- If battery contents come into contact with the skin, immediately wash area with mild soap and water. If battery liquid gets into the eye, rinse water over the open eye for 15 minutes or until irritation ceases. If medical attention is needed, the battery electrolyte is composed of a mixture of liquid organic carbonates and lithium salts.
- Contents of opened battery cells may cause respiratory irritation. Provide fresh air. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention.
![]()
Burn hazard. Battery liquid may be flammable if exposed to spark or flame.
Important Safety Instructions for All Battery Chargers
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS: This manual contains important safety and operating instructions for battery chargers.
- Before using the charger, read all instructions and cautionary markings on the charger, battery pack and product using the battery pack.
![]()
Shock hazard. Do not allow any liquid to get inside the charger. Electric shock may result.
![]()
Burn hazard. To reduce the risk of injury, charge only DeWALT rechargeable battery packs. Other types of batteries may overheat and burst resulting in personal injury and property damage.
NOTICE: Under certain conditions, with the charger plugged into the power supply, the charger can be shorted by foreign material. Foreign materials of a conductive nature, such as, but not limited to, grinding dust, metal chips, steel wool, aluminum foil or any buildup of metallic particles should be kept away from the charger cavities. Always unplug the charger from the power supply when there is no battery pack in the cavity. Unplug the charger before attempting to clean.
- DO NOT attempt to charge the battery pack with any chargers other than the ones in this manual. The charger and battery pack are specifically designed to work together.
![burn hazard]()
![shock hazard]()
These chargers are not intended for any uses other than charging DeWALT rechargeable batteries. Any other uses may result in risk of fire, electric shock or electrocution. - Do not expose the charger to rain or snow.
- Pull by the plug rather than the cord when disconnecting the charger. This will reduce the risk of damage to the electric plug and cord.
- Make sure that the cord is located so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over or otherwise subjected to damage or stress.
![burn hazard]()
![shock hazard]()
Do not use an extension cord unless it is absolutely necessary. Use of improper extension cord could result in risk of fire, electric shock or electrocution.
When operating a charger outdoors, always provide a dry location and use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock. - An extension cord must have adequate wire size (AWG or American Wire Gauge) for safety. The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity of the cable, that is, 16 gauge has more capacity than 18 gauge. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. When using more than one extension to make up the total length, be sure each individual extension contains at least the minimum wire size. The following table shows the correct size to use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The lower the gauge number, the heavier the cord.
Minimum Gauge for Cord Sets |
Ampere Rating | Volts | Total Length of Cord in Feet (meters) |
120V | 25 (7.6) | 50 (15.2) | 100 (30.5) | 150 (45.7) |
240V | 50 (15.2) | 100 (30.5) | 200 (61.0) | 300 (91.4) |
More Than | Not More Than | AWG |
0 | 6 | | 18 | 16 | 16 | 14 |
6 | 10 | 18 | 16 | 14 | 12 |
10 | 12 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 12 |
12 | 16 | 14 | 12 | Not Recommended |
- Do not place any object on top of the charger or place the charger on a soft surface that might block the ventilation slots and result in excessive internal heat. Place the charger in a position away from any heat source. The charger is ventilated through slots in the top and the bottom of the housing.
- Do not operate the charger with a damaged cord or plug.
- Do not operate the charger if it has received a sharp blow, been dropped or otherwise damaged in any way. Take it to an authorized service center.
![burn hazard]()
![shock hazard]()
Do not disassemble the charger; take it to an authorized service center when service or repair is required. Incorrect reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock, electrocution or fire.
Disconnect the charger from the outlet before attempting any cleaning. This will reduce the risk of electric shock. Removing the battery pack will not reduce this risk. - NEVER attempt to connect 2 chargers together.
- The charger is designed to operate on standard 120V household electrical power. Do not attempt to use it on any
Chargers
Your appliance uses a DeWALT charger. Be sure to read all safety instructions before using your charger. Consult the chart at the end of this manual for compatibility of chargers and battery packs.
Charging Procedure
- Plug the charger into an appropriate outlet before inserting the battery pack.
- Insert the battery pack (J) into the charger, as shown in Figure 1, making sure the pack is fully seated in charger. The red (charging) light will blink continuously, indicating that the charging process has started.
- The completion of charge will be indicated by the red light remaining ON continuously. The pack is fully charged and may be used at this time or left in the charger.
Indicator Light Operation
![]()
Charge Indicators
This charger is designed to detect certain problems that can arise. Problems are indicated by the red light flashing at a fast rate. If this occurs, remove and then reinsert the battery pack into the charger.
If the problem persists, try a different battery pack to determine if the charger is working properly. If the new pack charges correctly, then the original pack is defective and should be returned to a service center or other collection site for recycling. If the new battery pack elicits the same trouble indication as the original, have the charger and the battery pack tested at an authorized service center.
HOT/COLD DELAY
This charger has a hot/cold delay feature: when the charger detects a battery that is hot, it automatically starts a delay, suspending charging until the battery has cooled. After the battery has cooled, the charger automatically switches to the pack charging mode. This feature ensures maximum battery life. The red light flashes long, then short while in the hot/cold delay mode.
LEAVING THE BATTERY PACK IN THE CHARGER
The charger and battery pack can be left connected with the charge indicator showing Pack Charged.
WEAK BATTERY PACKS: Weak batteries will continue to function but should not be expected to perform as much work.
FAULTY BATTERY PACKS: This charger will not charge a faulty battery pack. The charger will indicate faulty battery pack by refusing to light or by displaying problem pack or charger.
NOTE: This could also mean a problem with a charger.
PROBLEM POWER LINE
Some chargers have a problem powerline indicator. When the charger is used with some portable power sources such as generators or sources that convert DC to AC, the charger may temporarily suspend operation, flashing the red light with two fast blinks followed by a pause. This indicates the power source is out of limits.
Important Charging Notes
- Longest life and best performance can be obtained if the battery pack is charged when the air temperature is between 65°F and 75°F (18 ° – 24°C). DO NOT charge the battery pack in an air temperature below +40°F (+4.5°C), or above +105°F (+40.5°C). This is important and will prevent serious damage to the battery pack.
- The charger and battery pack may become warm to the touch while charging. This is a normal condition, and does not indicate a problem. To facilitate the cooling of the battery pack after use, avoid placing the charger or battery pack in a warm environment such as in a metal shed or an uninsulated trailer.
- A cold battery pack will charge at about half the rate of a warm battery pack. The battery pack will charge at that slower rate throughout the entire charging cycle and will not return to maximum charge rate even if the battery pack warms.
- If the battery pack does not charge properly:
- C heck operation of receptacle by plugging in a lamp or other appliance;
- Check to see if receptacle is connected to a light switch which turns power off when you turn out the lights;
- Move the charger and battery pack to a location where the surrounding air temperature is approximately 65°F – 75°F (18 ° – 24°C);
- If charging problems persist, take the appliance, battery pack and charger to your local service center.
- The battery pack should be recharged when it fails to produce sufficient power on jobs which were easily done previously. DO NOT CONTINUE to use under these conditions. Follow the charging procedure. You may also charge a partially used pack whenever you desire with no adverse effect on the battery pack.
- Foreign materials of a conductive nature such as, but not limited to, grinding dust, metal chips, steel wool, aluminum foil, or any buildup of metallic particles should be kept away from charger cavities. Always unplug the charger from the power supply when there is no battery pack in the cavity. Unplug the charger before attempting to clean.
- Do not freeze or immerse the charger in water or any other liquid.
![]()
Shock hazard. Don't allow any liquid to get inside the charger. Electric shock may result.
![]()
Burn hazard. Do not submerge the battery pack in any liquid or allow any liquid to enter the battery pack. Never attempt to open the battery pack for any reason. If the plastic housing of the battery pack breaks or cracks, return to a service center for recycling.
Storage Recommendations
- The best storage place is one that is cool and dry, away from direct sunlight and excess heat or cold.
- For long storage, it is recommended to store a fully charged battery pack in a cool dry place out of the charger for optimal results.
NOTE: Battery packs should not be stored completely depleted of charge. The battery pack will need to be recharged before use.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
COMPONENTS
INTENDED USE
This string trimmers is designed for professional trimming applications
DO NOT use under wet conditions or in presence of flammable liquids or gases.
This string trimmer is a professional appliance. DO NOT let children come into contact with the tool. Supervision is required when inexperienced operators use this appliance.
![DeWalt - DCST920 - COMPONENTS COMPONENTS]()
See (Fig. 2)
- Variable speed trigger
- Lock-off lever
- Speed control switch
- Auxiliary handle
- Motor housing
- Upper trimmer pole
- Lower trimmer pole
- Pole bracket
- Guard
- Spool housing
- Battery housing
- Battery pack (may not be included)
- Battery release button
- Handle
ASSEMBLY
Assembling the Pole
- To assemble the pole, line up the upper trimmer pole (F) and the lower trimmer pole (G) as shown in figure 3. Press down the latching button (O) and slide the upper pole into the lower pole. Ensure the latching button engages the latch hole (P).
![]()
- Secure the poles by tightening the middle bolt (Q) with the supplied wrench (R) as shown in figure 4.
![]()
Attaching the Auxiliary Handle
![]()
See Fig. 5
- Slide the auxiliary handle (D) into the top hole of the handle base (S).
- Hold the auxiliary handle in place and thread the handle bolt (T) into the handle from the bottom of the handle base.
- Tighten the handle bolt with the supplied wrench (R). Ensure the handle is securely attached.
- Repeat for the other side of the auxiliary handle.
Adjustment
![]()
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn appliance off and remove battery before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories.
![]()
Never remove the guard. Damage or personal injury could result.
![]()
NEVER OPERATE APPLIANCE WITHOUT GUARD FIRMLY IN PLACE. The guard must always be properly attached on the appliance to protect the user.
![]()
The trimmer comes fully assembled. The auxiliary handle (D) is positioned to maximize balance. However, if adjustment is necessary, loosen the four bolts (6A) with a hex wrench and slide the auxiliary handle up or down the upper trimmer pole (F) as shown in figure 6.
OPERATION
![]()
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn appliance off and remove battery before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories.
![]()
Always use proper eye protection that conforms to ANSI Z87.1 (CAN/CSA Z94.3) while operating this appliance.
![]()
Remove the battery before making any assembly, adjustments, or changing accessories. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the TRIMMER accidentally.
![]()
Before you begin trimming, only use the appropriate type of cutting line. any wire, cord, or string-like objects which could become entangled in
![]()
Inspect area to be trimmed and remove the rotating line or spool. Be particularly careful to avoid any wire which might be bent outwardly into the path of the appliance, such as barbs at the base of a chain link fence.
Installing and Removing the Battery Pack
![]()
Before removing or installing battery, make certain the lock-off lever is not engaged to prevent trigger actuation.
![]()
To install battery pack: Insert battery pack (L) into battery housing (K) as shown in Figure 7 until fully seated and an audible click is heard.
Make sure battery pack is fully seated and fully latched into position.
![]()
To remove battery pack: Depress the battery release button (M) on the battery and pull battery pack out of appliance as shown in Figure 8.
Fuel Gauge Battery Packs
(Fig. 9)
Some DeWALT battery packs include a fuel gauge which consists of three green LED lights that indicate the level of charge remaining in the battery pack.
To actuate the fuel gauge, press and hold the fuel gauge button (9A). A combination of the three green LED lights will illuminate designating the level of charge left. When the level of charge in the battery is below the usable limit, the fuel gauge will not illuminate and the battery will need to be recharged.
![]()
NOTE: The fuel gauge is only an indication of the charge left on the battery pack. It does not indicate appliance functionality and is subject to variation based on product components, temperature and end-user application.
For more information regarding fuel gauge battery packs, please call 1-800-4-DeWALT (1-800-433-9258) or visit our website www.dewalt.com.
Switching the Unit On and Off
(Fig. 2)
To turn the appliance on, squeeze the lock-off lever (B) and then the variable speed trigger (A). To turn the appliance off, release the variable speed trigger and the lock-off lever.
![]()
Never attempt to lock the trigger in the on position.
Speed Control Switch
(Fig. 2)
This string trimmer gives you the choice to operate at a more efficient speed to extend the runtime for larger jobs, or accelerate the trimmer speed for high-performance cutting.
To extend runtime, push the speed control switch (C) forward toward the auxillary handle (D) into the "LO" position. This mode is best for larger projects that require more time to complete.
To accelerate the trimmer, pull the speed control switch back toward the battery housing (I) into the "HI" position. This mode is best to cut through heavier growth and for applications that need higher RPM.
NOTE: When in "HI" mode, runtime will be decreased as compared to when trimmer is in "LO" mode.
Trimming
![]()
With the trimmer on, angle it and swing side to side as shown in Figure 10.
![]()
Maintain a minimum distance of 24 inches (610 mm) between the guard and your feet as shown in Figure 11.
![]()
Keep the rotating string roughly parallel with the ground (tilted no more than 30 degrees). This trimmer is not an edger. DO NOT TILT the trimmer so that the string is spinning near a right angle to the ground. Flying debris can cause serious injury.
Bump Feed Unit Line Feed
Your trimmer uses 0.080 inches (2.032 mm) diameter nylon line. Cutting line will wear faster and require more feeding if the cutting is done along sidewalks or other abrasive surfaces or heavier weeds are being cut.
As you use the trimmer, the string will get shorter due to wear. Gently bump the trimmer on the ground while running at normal speed and the line will feed.
NOTE: Extending nylon line beyond the 13 inch (330 mm) swath will negatively affect performance, runtime, and the life of the trimmer due to potential of damaging motor. Doing so may void the warranty.
Helpful Cutting Tips
- Use the tip of the string to do the cutting; do not force string head into uncut grass.
- Wire and picket fences cause extra string wear, even breakage. Stone and brick walls, curbs, and wood may wear string rapidly.
- Do not allow spool cap to drag on ground or other surfaces.
- In long growth, cut from the top down and do not exceed 12 inches (304.8 mm) high.
- Keep trimmer tilted toward the area being cut; this is the best cutting area.
- The trimmer cuts when passing the unit from the left to right. This will avoid throwing debris at the operator.
- Avoid trees and shrubs. Tree bark, wood moldings, siding, and fence posts can easily be damaged by the string.
Replacement Accessories
![]()
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn appliance off and remove battery before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories.
![]()
The use of any accessory not recommended by DeWALT for use with this appliance could be hazardous.
![]()
Do not use any blades, or any accessory or attachment other than those recommended by DeWALTon this trimmer. Serious injury or product damage may result.
Use DeWALT replacement line Model No. DWO1DT801 or DWO1DT802.
- When replacing the line, use only.080 inches (2.032 mm) diameter line (MODEL NO. DWO1DT801 OR DWO1DT802 are is recommended). Other sizes may degrade performance or cause damage to the trimmer.
Replacing the Cutting Line
(Fig. 2, 12–15)
![]()
To avoid appliance damage, if the cutting line protrudes beyond the trimming blade, cut it off so that it just reaches the blade.
- Remove battery.
- Turn spool (12A) clockwise to unlock as shown in Figure 12. The white nub (15B) inside the spool will rotate away from the spool window (12B) to indicate it is unlocked.
- Pull the spool straight out to remove.
- Remove any dirt and grass from the spool and housing.
- First, wind new line in the channel of the spool closest to the holding slots (13C) as shown in Figure 13.
- Place the end of the cutting line (13A) into the retaining hole (13B).
- Wind the cutting line onto the spool in the direction of the arrow on the bottom of the spool. Make sure to wind the line on neatly and in layers. Do not crisscross (Fig. 14).
![]()
- When the wound cutting line reaches the beginning of the holding slots (13C), cut the line approximately 4 inches (106 mm).
- Push the line in the holding slots on one side of the spool to hold the first line while you wind the second line.
- Repeat the above procedure for the second cutting line on the lower section of the spool.
![]()
Before you begin trimming, only use the appropriate type of cutting line. Ensure that cutting line is present in both sections of the spool as shown in Figure 14.
![]()
- Once both lines are wrapped around the spool (12A), place your thumb and finger on the holding slots to further secure the string and feed the end of each line through the two holes (15A) on either side of the head in the spool housing (H) as shown in Figure 15.
- Line up the white nubs (15B) inside the spool housing with the recesses (15C) of the spool. Align the holding slots (13C) with the two holes (15A) as close as possible.
- Push the spool into the spool housing and turn counterclockwise to lock the spool in place. Ensure the white nub (15B) appears in the spool window (12B). Make sure the line doesn't unravel and wrap around the shaft below the spool.
- Pull both ends of the cutting line to release them from the holding slots. If the line extends past the cutting blade on the guard cut the line so it just reaches the blade.
MAINTENANCE
![]()
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, turn appliance off and remove battery before making any adjustments or removing/installing attachments or accessories.
![]()
- Keep the air intake slots (16A) clean to avoid overheating.
- Your trimmer line can dry out over time. To keep your line in top condition, store spare line in a plastic, sealable bag with a tablespoon of water.
- Plastic parts may be cleaned by 16A using a mild soap and a damp rag.
- The line cutter on the edge of the guard can dull over time. It is recommended you periodically touch-up the sharpness of the blade with a file.
Cleaning
![]()
Blow dirt and dust out of all air vents with clean, dry air at least once a week. To minimize the risk of eye injury, always wear ANSI Z87.1 approved eye protection when performing this.
![]()
Never use solvents or other harsh chemicals for cleaning the non-metallic parts of the appliance. These chemicals may weaken the plastic materials used in these parts. Use a cloth dampened only with water and mild soap. Never let any liquid get inside the appliance; never immerse any part of the appliance into a liquid.
CHARGER CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
![]()
Shock hazard. Disconnect the charger from the AC outlet before cleaning. Dirt and grease may be removed from the exterior of the charger using a cloth or soft non-metallic brush. Do not use water or any cleaning solutions.
Replacing Spool Housing
![DeWalt - DCST920 - Replacing Spool Housing Replacing Spool Housing]()
(Fig. 17–18)
- Rotate the spool housing (H) until the hole (17A) in the spindle (17B) lines up with notch (17C) in the guard (I). A third hole in the motor housing (17D) will be visible as shown in Figure 14. Insert screwdriver through each all three holes to prevent the spool housing from turning.
- Turn the spool housing clockwise as shown in Figure 18.
- Insert a screwdriver back through the three holes (17A, 17C, and 17D) and thread the new spool housing counterclockwise and securely tighten onto the bolt (18A) protruding from the trimmer.
Replacing Guard
![]()
Never operate appliance without guard firmly in place.
(Fig. 19–20)
- Remove the spool housing as described in the "Replacing Spool Housing" section.
- Remove the 4 guard screws (19A) shown in Figure 19.
- Lift the guard off at an angle as shown in Figure 20.
- To attached a new guard, slide the tab (21A) of the new guard under the lip (21B) of the motor housing (E), then lower the back of the guard into place as shown in Figure 18.
- Replace and securely tighten the 4 guard screws (19A).
- Replace the spool housing as described in the "Replacing Spool Housing" section.
Accessories
![]()
Since accessories, other than those offered by DeWALT, have not been tested with this product, use of such accessories with this appliance could be hazardous. To reduce the risk of injury, only DeWALT recommended accessories should be used with this product.
Recommended accessories for use with your appliance are available at extra cost from your local service center. If you need any assistance in locating any accessory, please contact DeWALT Industrial Tool Co., 701 East Joppa Road, Towson, MD 21286, call 1-800-4-D e (1-800-433-9258) or visit our website: www.dewalt.com.
Repairs
The charger and battery pack are not serviceable. There are no serviceable parts inside the charger or battery pack.
To assure product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, maintenance and adjustments (including brush inspection and replacement) should be performed by a DeWALT factory service center, a DeWALT authorized service center or other qualified service personnel. Always use identical replacement parts.
Register Online
Thank you for your purchase. Register your product now for:
- WARRANTY SERVICE: Registering your product will help you obtain more efficient warranty service in case there is a problem with your product.
- CONFIRMATION OF OWNERSHIP: In case of an insurance loss, such as fire, flood or theft, your registration of ownership will serve as your proof of purchase.
- FOR YOUR SAFETY: Registering your product will allow us to contact you in the unlikely event a safety notification is required under the Federal Consumer Safety Act.
Register online at www.dewalt.com/register
TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem | Solution |
Unit will not start | - Check battery installation.
- Check battery charging requirements.
- Check that lock off is fully pulled back prior to moving main trigger.
|
Unit shuts down in use | - Charge battery.
- Clear debris around spool.
- Reduce/limit swath to 13 inches (330 mm) MAX.
- Reinstall guard if it has been removed.
|
Battery won't charge | - Insert battery into charger until red charging light illuminates. Charge up to 8 hours if battery is totally drained.
- Plug charger into a working outlet. Refer to Important Charging Notes for more details.
- Check current at receptacle by plugging an appliance.
- Check to see if receptacle is connected to a light switch which turns power off when you turn out the lights.
- Move charger and appliance to a surrounding air temperature of above 40°F (4.5°C) or below 105°F (40.5°C).
|
Appliance runs slowly | - Fully depress the variable speed trigger. The level of trigger depression affects speed.
- If appliance still runs slowly, remove battery from appliance.
- Check that the spool housing can rotate freely. Carefully clean it if necessary.
- Check that the cutting line does not protrude more than approximately 4-13/16" (122 MM) from the spool. If it does, cut it off so that it just reaches the line trimming blade.
|
The unit is vibrating | - Make sure both cutting lines are the same length.
- Check to see if the spool is properly wound. If spool is broken then replace spool.
|
Three Year Limited Warranty
DeWALT will repair, without charge, any defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for three years from the date of purchase. For further detail of warranty coverage and warranty repair information, visit www.dewalt.com or call 1-800-4-DeWALT (1-800-433-9258).
FREE WARNING LABEL REPLACEMENT:
If your warning labels become illegible or are missing, call 1-800-4-DeWALT (1-800-433-9258) for a free replacement.
If you have questions or comments, contact us.
1-800-4-DeWALT • www.dewalt.com
Documents / Resources
References
Download manual
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
Download DeWalt DCST920, DCST920B Manual
Need help?
Do you have a question about the DCST920 and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers