FAQS: Lawn & Garden

General

• What are the differences between petrol, electric or cordless power garden equipment?

  Petrol powered products offer:

  • good levels of portability
  • high performance
  • suited to large yards

  However, petrol products (2 stroke) require the mixing and storage of fuel.
  
  Electric powered products offer:

  • instant start up
  • lightweight
  • suited to small to medium yards

  However, they are restricted to having a power outlet close by and require the use of an extension lead.
  
  Cordless battery powered products offer:
  

  • good levels of portability
  • lightweight
  • suited to small yards

  However, they are limited to a specific run time before the battery requires recharging.
  

• Where do I find answers to my questions about batteries and chargers?

  You will find all the answers you need in Accessories FAQs.
  
  

• I have lost my manual. Where can I get another one?

  An archive of discontinued model instruction manuals will be available shortly.
  Otherwise, all current models have an instruction manual available to download
  as a Acrobat PDF on their web page.
  

Fuel & Oils

• How do I mix and store 2 stroke fuel?

  Please watch this instructional video below.
  
  
  

• How do I get my petrol power garden equipment to start if it is flooded?

  Remove spark plug, turn the unit so spark plug hole is aimed at the ground.
  Position the choke to the run position and pull the starter cord 10 to 15 times,
  this will clear excess fuel from the engine. Clean and reinstall spark plug.
  Pull the starter cord 3 times with the choke still in the run position.
  
  If the engine does not start move the choke to the full choke position and
  repeat the normal starting procedure. If the engine still fails to start, repeat procedure
  with a new spark plug.
  

• What is a 25:1 fuel ratio mixture?

  25:1 can mean any of the following ratios to achieve the correct
  2 stroke fuel mix for your power garden equipment:
  

  • 5 litres (unleaded petrol) + 200 mls (2 stroke oil)
  • 4 litres (unleaded petrol) + 160 mls (2 stroke oil)
  • 3 litres (unleaded petrol) + 120 mls (2 stroke oil)
  • 2 litres (unleaded petrol) + 80 mls (2 stroke oil)
  • 1 litre (unleaded petrol) + 40 mls (2 stroke oil)

  Always use fresh unleaded petrol mixed with 2 stroke oil that
  has been manufactured for use in outdoor power garden products.
  
  IMPORTANT: Please check your model's manual for acceptable fuel mix ratios.
  

• What is a 50:1 fuel ratio mixture?

  50:1 can mean any of the following ratios to achieve the correct
  2 stroke fuel mix for your power garden equipment:
  

  • 5 litres (unleaded petrol) + 100 mls (2 stroke oil)
  • 4 litres (unleaded petrol) + 80 mls (2 stroke oil)
  • 3 litres (unleaded petrol) + 60 mls (2 stroke oil)
  • 2 litres (unleaded petrol) + 40 mls (2 stroke oil)
  • 1 litre (unleaded petrol) + 20 mls (2 stroke oil)

  Always use fresh unleaded petrol mixed with 2 stroke oil that
  has been manufactured for use in outdoor power garden products.
  
  IMPORTANT: Please check your model's manual for acceptable fuel mix ratios.
  

• Which type of 2 stroke oil is recommended for use in 2 stroke fuel mixes?

  Generally, synthetic oil made specifically for 2 stroke fuel mix.
  

• Why does oil leak from the back of my petrol power garden equipment?

  1. This can happen when the equipment is being run at part throttle.
  2. This can happen if the fuel and oil mixture is not mixed at the correct ratio.
  3. This can happen if the air filter is dirty or blocked.

Blowers & Blower Vacs

• What is a blower vac?

  They are available in either blower only or combination blower and vacuum / mulcher.
  They are used to move around and collect garden debris such as leaves and light twigs.
  The vacuum process produces a fine mulch suitable for the garden.
  

• My blower vac will not switch on or start?

  Check that the blower and or vacuum tubes are correctly installed.
  Blower and or vacuum tubes that are not correctly installed will make
  the unit inoperable due to a micro switch installed that prevents the unit
  being switched or started with when the tubes are not fitted or incorrectly fitted.
  

• Do all blower vacs mulch?

  All models mulch as they pass the foliage through the impeller (fan).
  Some models may also incorporate a metal cutting blade on the impeller for optimised mulching.
  

• What does the term 'mulching ratio' refer to?

  This refers to how fine or small, the original material is broken down into mulch.
  

• The blow speed is too high when I am working. Can this be turned down?

  Depending on the model, you may have a lever control or a cover slide to open the tube
  to the open air prior to the end. This is a similar action to a domestic vacuum cleaner.
  Other models may feature electric speed control dials or turbo features.
  
  Please refer to your instruction manual for specific features and operation.
  
  

• The stitching on the collection bag has come away. Do I need to get a new unit?

  No.
  You need to only replace the bag.
  

• The zipper is stuck or broken on the collection bag has come away. Do I need to get a new unit?

  No.
  You need to only replace the bag.
  

• I have already replaced the vacuum bag due to a stuck zipper. How do I avoid this happening again?

  Due to the typically dusty conditions these machines operate in, regularly clean the bag
  in mild soapy water and rinse well. Dry completely before re-use. When emptying the bag
  ensure that any debris is cleared from the zipper track before closing to avoid this situation
  happening again.
  

• Does RYOBI make available patio heads, to suit their other models not supplied with one?

  No, not at this time.
  

• Are the RYOBI blower vac bags compatible with other brands?

  All of our bags are specifically designed to fit RYOBI blower vacs.
  

• I can't find the right dust bag in Bunnings?

  You can order your bag at the Special Orders Desk within Bunnings quoting
  the fineline number that corresponds to your dust bag.
  
  You can check the fineline number and which bag is right for your model here.
  
  

Chainsaws

• How often should the chain be sharpened?

  It is recommended to sharpen your chain with every refill of fuel.
  

• What file size is recommended to sharpen the chain?

  5/32” file.
  Be careful when sharpening to ensure you maintain the exact angle of the chain cutter (~30 degrees)
  as this is important to ensure correct cutting operation.
  
  Please refer to your instruction manual for full specifications regarding your model.
  
  

• What is the angle in which I file to sharpen a chain?

  Depending on the model or application, it is usually 30 degrees.
  
  Please refer to your instruction manual for full specifications regarding your model.
  
  

• Does RYOBI sell chain sharpening guides to suit their chainsaws?

  Yes.
  

• What is the correct tension for setting the chain on the bar?

  The correct tension is reached when the chain in the middle of the bar
  can only be raised by approximately 3 - 4 mm.
  

• How do I know if the auto oiler is working?

  With the oil reservoir filled, run the saw and hold the tip over a piece of paper.
  A light spray of oil should be visible exiting off the chain to confirm that the auto oiler is functioning.
  

• What chain bar oil is recommended?

  0ºC / +40ºC = SAE20 – SAE30
  0ºC / +30ºC = SAE10W – SAE20W
  
  Single grade oil designed specifically for chain bars are recommended.
  

• Why does my chainsaw motor run but the chain does not move?

  Check that you have de-activated the chain break by pulling back the handle.
  The chain will not rotate if the brake has been activated.

• What is the purpose of a chain brake?

  This is a safety device that is activated if the saw kicks back, unexpectedly.
  
  It will stop the chain rotating within a fraction of a second. It is activated by
  the back of the hand hitting the chain brake handle if the saw moves back.
  

• The chain and bar is getting very hot when in use. What could be the cause?

  Ensure you check the following items:
  

  • the chain bar oil reservoir is filled
  • the bar and sprocket areas are clear of excess sawdust
  • the chain has the correct tension applied

• Will the chain get damaged when it makes contact with soil or dirt?

  Yes.
  Almost immediately, any contact to the ground even into soil.
  Try supporting the timber to avoid any contact with the ground.
  

Hedge Trimmers

• What are hedge trimmers used for?

  These garden tools are used for trimming and shaping of trees and shrubs.
  They are available in petrol, corded electric and cordless battery powered.
  
  

• How long will the RYOBI cordless Hedge Trimmer run for?

  Approximately 20 min (no load) depending on the foliage and the type or condition of your battery.
  Here are some great tips to maximise your run time:

  • ensure you follow the instruction manual with charging and care of the batteries.
  • don’t use excessive force on the tool
  • ensure the blades are kept rust free, clean and sharp

• Can I sharpen the blades, myself?

  Yes.
  Although it is recommended that you have this done by an Authorised Service Centre.
  

• Does RYOBI make a petrol hedge trimmer?

  Yes.
  Please refer to our hedge trimmers page.
  
  

• What are some typical care tips for the blades?

  Always clean and dry after each use. Apply a light machine oil or spray
  a protective anti-rust/lubricant spray after each use to prevent rusting and binding.
  
  HANDY TIP: To avoid poisoning your plants with chemical lubricants
  you might like to try olive oil instead.
  

• What size foliage can I use my hedge trimmer on?

  Generally the size of the openings between the blades is an indication,
  though this will depend on the density of the foliage.
  

Line Trimmers

• What is the difference between a curved shaft and a straight shaft line trimmer?

  Curved shaft line trimmers are designed for trimming grass around a standard domestic yard,
  while straight shaft line trimmers (also known as brushcutters) are designed for larger yards
  that require extra reach, for use under obstacles eg. garden benches, bollards etc. and
  are more efficient edgers.
  

• What is a 'bump feed' trimming line head?

  Please watch this instructional video below.
  
  
  

• Why is the Pro-Cut II™ head better than my standard head?

  Pro Cut II™ gives you a much lower profile on your machine so you can get into tighter areas.
  It also has the ability to quickly change your Rino-Tuff® line so you can get back to your job faster.
  
  
  
  

• How do you feed the line on a Pro-Cut II™ head?

  Please watch this instructional video below.
  
  
  

• How do you feed the line on a EZ Wind™ head?

  Please watch this instructional video below.
  
  
  

• How do you feed the line on a ReelEasy™ head?

  Please watch this instructional video below.
  
  
  
  

• What size trimming line should I use for a ReelEasy™ head?

  It is recommended that 2.4 mm line be used with this head.
  

• How do I get the most out of my trimming line?

  Please watch this instructional video below.
  
  
  

• Why does my line always break and I use too much?

  Please watch this instructional video below.
  
  
  

• Why will a Rino Tuff® line out perform my standard trimming line?

  Rino Tuff® line will last up to 50% longer than standard trimming line because there are
  two lines in one with a hardened core and a flexible exterior.
  

• How do I know when it is time to change my Rino Tuff® line?

  Rino Tuff® line will not break it will wear at the ends once it starts to fray at the ends of use
  this is a good time to replace your line.
  

Mulchers

• Why does my mulcher keeps clogging up?

  It is recommended to use a mixture of wet and dry stock to help clear the hopper.