MAKITA DUR181 (01) PDF MANUAL

Model	DUR141	DUR181
No load speed (RPM)	6,000 /min	7,800 /min
Overall length	1,229 mm – 1,433 mm (48-1/2″ – 56-1/2″)
Cutting diameter with nylon cutting head	260 mm (10-1/4″)
Net weight	2.9 kg (6.3 lbs) / 3.0 kg (6.5 lbs)	2.9 kg (6.4 lbs) / 3.1 kg (6.7 lbs)
Rated voltage	D.C. 14.4 V	D.C. 18 V
Standard battery cartridge(s)	BL1415 / BL1415N / BL1430 / BL1430B / BL1460B	BL1815 / BL1815N / BL1820 / BL1820B / BL1830 / BL1830B / BL1840 / BL1840B / BL1850 / BL1850B / BL1860B

Note: Due to our continuing program of research and development, the specifications herein are subject to change without notice. Specifications and battery cartridge may differ from country to country. Weight, with battery cartridge, according to EPTA-Procedure 01/2003.

Warning: Use only the battery cartridge(s) described.

Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

Do not allow persons unfamiliar with the string trimmer or these instructions to operate the tool.

Be sure that anyone who is to operate the string trimmer has first read the instruction manual.

Use the string trimmer with the utmost care and attention.

Operate the string trimmer only if you are in good physical condition. Perform all work calmly and carefully.

Never operate the string trimmer when tired, feeling ill or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Avoid accidentally starting: Ensure the switch is in the off position before installing the battery pack. Carrying the string trimmer with your finger on the switch invites accidents.

The string trimmer should be switched off immediately if it shows any signs of abnormal operation.

Disconnect the battery from the string trimmer before making any adjustments, changing accessories or storing.

Don’t force the tool. It will do the job better and with less likelihood of a risk of injury at the rate for which it was designed.

Don’t overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.

Use the right tool. The cordless string trimmer is only intended for cutting grass and light weeds. It should not be used for any other purpose such as edging or hedge cutting as this may cause injury.

Dress Properly: Wear functional and appropriate clothing (tight-fitting but not causing hindrance). Do not wear jewelry or clothing that could get entangled. Wear protective hair covering for long hair.

Head Protection: Always wear a helmet where there is a risk of falling objects. Check helmet regularly for damage and replace at least every five years. Use only approved protective helmets.

Eye Protection: Always wear goggles or a visor to protect the face from flying debris and stones.

Hearing Protection: Wear adequate noise protection equipment (ear muffs, ear plugs etc.) to avoid hearing impairment.

Body Protection: Work overalls protect against flying stones and debris. It is strongly recommended.

Hand Protection: Special gloves made of thick leather must always be worn during operation.

Foot Protection: Always wear sturdy shoes with a nonslip sole.

Avoid dangerous environments. Don’t use the tool in damp or wet locations or expose it to rain.

Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer.

Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs.

When the battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects (paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws) that can make a connection between terminals, as shorting may cause burns or a fire.

Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If contact occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, seek medical help.

Do not dispose of the battery(ies) in a fire. Check local codes for disposal instructions.

Do not open or mutilate the battery(ies). Released electrolyte is corrosive and may damage eyes or skin; it may be toxic if swallowed.

Ensure no children or other people are within a working range of 15 meters (50 ft). Pay attention to animals in the vicinity. If bystanders are present, stop using the tool.

Before use, check that the tool is safe: check security of the nylon cutting head and guard, check the switch trigger/lever for proper action, check for clean/dry handles, and test the on/off switch function.

Check for damaged parts before use. A damaged guard or part should be carefully checked to ensure proper operation. Check alignment, binding, breakage of parts, mounting, and any other condition affecting operation. Damaged parts should be repaired or replaced by an authorized service center unless indicated otherwise in the manual.

Switch on the motor only when hands and feet are away from the nylon cutting head.

Before starting, ensure the nylon cutting head has no contact with hard objects like branches or stones, as it will revolve when starting.

Only use the tool in good light and visibility. Beware of slippery or wet areas, ice, and snow in winter. Always ensure a safe footing.

Take care against injury to feet and hands from the nylon cutting head.

Never cut above waist height.

Never stand on a ladder and run the tool.

Never climb up into trees to perform cutting operations.

Never work on unstable surfaces.

Remove sand, stones, nails etc., from the working range to avoid damaging the nylon cutting head.

If the cutting head hits stones or hard objects, immediately switch off the motor and inspect the head.

The nylon cutting head must reach full working speed before commencing cutting.

During operation, always hold the tool with both hands. Ensure a safe footing.

The nylon cutting head must be equipped with the guard. Never run the tool with damaged guards or without guards.

All protective equipment supplied (like guards) must be used during operation.

Except in an emergency, never drop or cast the tool to the ground.

Never drag the tool on the ground when moving; this can damage it.

Always remove the battery cartridge: when leaving the tool unattended, before clearing a blockage, before checking/cleaning/working on the tool, whenever the tool vibrates abnormally, and whenever transporting the tool.

Always ensure ventilation openings are clear of debris.

Before commencing work, check the condition of the nylon cutting head and protective devices.

Turn off the motor and remove the battery cartridge before carrying out maintenance, replacing the nylon cutting head or nylon cord, and cleaning the tool.

Check for loose fasteners and damaged parts (e.g., cracks in the nylon cutting head).

Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories if applicable.

When not in use, store the equipment in a dry location, locked up or out of children’s reach.

Use only the manufacturer’s recommended replacement parts and accessories.

Inspect and maintain the tool regularly, especially before/after use. Have the tool repaired only by an authorized service center.

Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease.

V	volts
—	direct current
n	rated speed
no	no load speed
…/min or r/min	revolutions or reciprocation per minute

Before using the battery cartridge, read all instructions and cautionary markings on the (1) battery charger, (2) battery, and (3) product using the battery.

Do not disassemble the battery cartridge.

If operating time becomes excessively shorter, stop operating immediately due to risk of overheating, burns, or explosion.

If electrolyte gets into your eyes, rinse with clear water and seek medical attention immediately.

Do not short the battery cartridge: Avoid touching terminals with conductive material. Avoid storing with metal objects like nails, coins, etc. Do not expose to water or rain. A short can cause large current flow, overheating, burns, or breakdown.

Do not store the tool and battery where temperatures may reach or exceed 50°C (122°F).

Do not incinerate the battery cartridge, even if severely damaged or worn out; it can explode in a fire.

Be careful not to drop or strike the battery.

Do not use a damaged battery.

Follow your local regulations relating to battery disposal.

CAUTION: Only use genuine Makita batteries. Use of non-genuine or altered batteries may result in bursting, fires, injury, and damage, and will void the Makita warranty.

Charge the battery cartridge before it is completely discharged. Always stop tool operation and charge the battery when you notice less tool power.

Never recharge a fully charged battery cartridge. Overcharging shortens service life.

Charge the battery cartridge at room temperature: 10°C – 40°C (50°F – 104°F). Let a hot battery cool down before charging.

Charge the battery cartridge if you do not use it for a long period (more than six months).

WARNING: Always be sure that the tool is switched off and the battery cartridge is removed before adjusting or checking function on the tool.

CAUTION: Always switch off the tool before installing or removing the battery cartridge.

CAUTION: Hold the tool and the battery cartridge firmly when installing or removing.

To remove: Slide the battery cartridge from the tool while sliding the button (2) on the front of the cartridge.

To install: Align the tongue on the battery cartridge with the groove in the housing and slip it into place. Insert it all the way until it locks with a click. If you can see the red indicator (1) on the upper side of the button, it is not locked completely.

CAUTION: Always install the battery cartridge fully until the red indicator cannot be seen.

CAUTION: Do not install the battery cartridge forcibly. If it doesn’t slide in easily, it’s not being inserted correctly.

Lithium-ion batteries with a star marking are equipped with a protection system that automatically cuts off power to extend battery life. The tool will stop if the tool and/or battery are under the following conditions:

Overloaded: The tool draws abnormally high current. Release the trigger switch, stop the application causing overload, then pull the trigger again to restart.

Overheated: If the tool doesn’t start after being overloaded, the battery is overheated. Let the battery cool before pulling the trigger switch again.

Low battery voltage: Remaining battery capacity is too low, and the tool won’t operate. Remove and recharge the battery.

(Only for battery cartridges with “B” at the end of the model number.) Press the check button (2) on the battery cartridge. The indicator lamps (1) will light up for a few seconds to show the remaining capacity.

Indicator lamps			Remaining capacity
Lighted	Off	Blinking
■ ■ ■	□ □ □		75% to 100%
■ ■ □	□ □ ■		50% to 75%
■ □ □	□ ■ ■		25% to 50%
□ □ □	■ ■ ■		0% to 25%
□ □ □	■ ■ ■	■ □ □ (Blinking)	Charge the battery.
□ □ □	□ □ □	■ ■ (Alternating Blink ↑↓)	The battery may have malfunctioned.

NOTE: Depending on usage conditions and ambient temperature, the indication may differ slightly from the actual capacity.

WARNING: Before inserting the battery cartridge, check that the switch trigger actuates properly and returns to “OFF” when released. Do not pull the trigger hard without pressing the lock-off button. Operating a tool with a faulty switch can lead to loss of control and injury.

To prevent accidental pulling of the switch trigger (2), a lock-off button (1) is provided.

To start: Move the lock-off button (1) forward and pull the switch trigger (2).

To stop: Release the switch trigger (2).

Running the tool allows the indication lamp (1) to show battery capacity status. If the tool is overloaded and stops, the lamp lights up in red. Refer to the table:

Indication lamp	Status	Action to be taken
The lamp blinks in red.	Indicates battery power is low, time to replace.	Recharge the battery cartridge as soon as possible.
The lamp lights up in red. (Note 1)	Battery power is almost used up. Tool stops immediately.	Recharge the battery cartridge.
The lamp lights up in red. (Note 1)	Autostop due to overload.	Turn off the tool.

Note 1: The time the lamp lights up varies by temperature and battery conditions.

WARNING: Before adjusting the shaft length, release the switch trigger and remove the battery cartridge.

To adjust the length of the shaft (1), turn the grip (2) counterclockwise until the shaft is unlocked.

Pull out or push in the shaft to the desired length.

Turn the grip clockwise to lock the shaft.

NOTICE: The bump feed will not operate properly if the Nylon cutting head is not rotating.

The nylon cutting head (1) is a single string trimmer head with a bump & feed mechanism.

To feed out nylon cord: Bump the cutting head against the ground while the tool is running.

As the cord feeds out, it will automatically be cut to the proper length by the cutter on the guard.

NOTE: If the cord doesn’t feed out, rewind/replace the nylon cord following procedures under “Installing or removing the Nylon cutting head” and “Winding a new Nylon cord on the spool”.

NOTE: Do not bump the tool on concrete or asphalt surfaces; this may damage the tool.

WARNING: Always ensure the tool is switched off and the battery cartridge is removed before assembly.

WARNING: Never start the tool unless it is completely assembled.

Installing the front grip:

1. Put the front grip (1) on the front grip holder.

2. Secure it with the provided hex bolt (3) and clamping nut (2). The hex bolt goes in from the side with the lock port, and the clamping nut from the opposite side.

NOTE: The front grip has an edge-to-edge cut slit for easy installation.

3. Adjust the angle: Loosen the clamping nut, set the grip angle, then tighten the nut clockwise.

Installing the guard:

CAUTION: While installing the guard, be careful not to contact the nylon cord cutter on the guard.

1. Fit the guard (1) onto the motor housing, ensuring the Nylon cord is not pinched between them.

2. Secure it with two screws (2).

3. Before starting the trimmer, remove the cutter cover (3) from the cord cutter.

WARNING: Ensure the tool is switched off and the battery cartridge is removed before this procedure.

CAUTION: Be careful not to contact the nylon cord cutter on the guard.

WARNING: Use only 1.65 mm (1/16″) diameter nylon cord. Never use metal wire, rope, or the like.

To remove: Press the latches forcefully on both sides of the spool cover and raise it to remove the Nylon cutting head (spool and spool cover) from the trimmer.

To install:

NOTICE: Make sure the spring (3) is installed inside the spool holder (4).

1. Align the Nylon cord eyehole (1) on the cutting head with the notch of the nylon cutting head installation port (2) on the trimmer.

2. Press the cutting head in until a click is heard.

1. Remove the spool from the spool cover and take off the remaining used Nylon cord.

2. Insert the end of the new Nylon cord (1) into the retainer (2) on the spool.

3. Wind the Nylon cord tightly and flat around the spool in the direction of the arrow on the spool, ensuring the wound surface appears uniform.

4. Temporarily fix the Nylon cord end at the notch shown in the figure on the spool edge.

5. Bring the Nylon cord through the Nylon cord eyehole in the spool cover.

6. Install the spool back into the spool cover.

7. After installing the Nylon cutting head back onto the trimmer, make sure the Nylon cord comes out by pressing the spool (1) and pulling the Nylon cord (2).

Hook the shoulder strap (1) hook (2) into the hole in the front grip.

CAUTION: Do not cut high grass at a time. Cutting high grass near the root may cause the trimmer motor spindle to be entangled by grass, leading to motor overload and damage.

CAUTION: Use the trimmer without getting the spool into contact with the ground surface. Spool contact may cause motor overload and damage.

CAUTION: Do not force the trimmer in densely growing grass.

CAUTION: Do not use the trimmer as if you dig out the ground with it.

Start the trimmer before getting close to the grass to be cut.

Cut grass using the Nylon cord tip by moving the trimmer from right to left, proceeding slowly.

Keep the trimmer tilted at about 30° relative to the ground surface.

When cutting high grass, cut in layers, starting from the top with each cut length short.

For best results, keep the tool more than 5 cm (1/4″) away from trees, concrete blocks, bricks, or garden stones.

When cutting near obstacles (trees, blocks, etc.), hold the trimmer tilted so the cord tip does not contact the ground. Smooth feeding out is needed as the cord wears quickly.

NOTE: Getting the trimmer too close to obstacles during edging or similar work may cause the nylon cord to be cut off halfway inside the spool cover. If this happens, take the spool out and reset the cord properly.

Using the tool as an edger allows cutting along the edge of concrete blocks, bricks, etc.

1. Hold the shaft of the trimmer with one hand.

2. Turn the grip (2) counterclockwise to loosen the shaft.

3. Rotate the shaft with the motor housing (1) 180°.

4. Tighten the grip clockwise until it locks.

NOTE: Before rotating the shaft, it needs to be fully shortened or extended.

NOTE: After changing to the edger position, make sure that the motor housing and shaft are locked.

To obtain a good result for finish cutting, move parallel to the edge you are performing the edging work on.

WARNING: When cutting grass on a slope, be careful of stones, grass, and other foreign objects thrown from the cutting head area.

WARNING: When cutting the grass on a slope, make sure that you always keep a good and stable footing.

To ease work in tight places (e.g., under a wood deck) or on slopes:

1. Push the lock button (1).

2. Bend down the cutting head so the shaft is parallel to the ground surface (or adjust angle as needed for slopes).

Adjusting the cutting head angle properly helps cut grass on a slope.

WARNING: Always be sure that the tool is switched off and the battery cartridge is removed before attempting to perform inspection or maintenance on the tool.

NOTICE: Never use gasoline, benzine, thinner, alcohol, or the like. Discoloration, deformation, or cracks may result.

To maintain product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, and any other maintenance or adjustment should be performed by Makita Authorized or Factory Service Centers, always using Makita replacement parts.

CAUTION: These accessories or attachments are recommended for use with your Makita tool specified in this manual. Use of any other accessories might present a risk of injury. Only use accessory or attachment for its stated purpose.

If you need assistance for more details, ask your local Makita Service Center.

Nylon cutting head

Nylon cords

Shoulder strap

Goggles

Makita genuine battery and charger

NOTE: Some items in the list may be included in the tool package as standard accessories. They may differ from country to country.