The BLACK+DECKER LHT321 is a 20V POWERCUT™ cordless hedge trimmer designed for efficient and reliable hedge trimming. This tool is part of the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX* battery system, offering cordless convenience for outdoor tasks.
Function Description
The LHT321 is primarily used for trimming hedges and shrubbery. Its cordless design allows for greater mobility and ease of use without the restriction of a power cord. The POWERCUT™ feature is a key functionality, enabling the blades to move at a slower, more forceful rhythm to cut through difficult branches when encountering a jam. This feature enhances the trimmer's ability to handle tougher cutting tasks.
Important Technical Specifications
- Voltage: 20V MAX* (initial battery pack voltage measured without workload is 20 volts; nominal voltage is 18V).
- No-load speed: 1300 strokes/min (rpm).
- Blade length: 22 inches (558 mm).
- Cut capacity: Up to 3/4 inch (19 mm).
- Blade action: Dual.
- Weight with battery: 2.7 kg (6 lbs).
- Battery type: Lithium-Ion.
- Battery capacity: 2.0 Ah.
- Charger input voltage: 100-240V (AR, B2C, B3, BR models) or 220V (B2C, B3, BR models).
- Charger frequency: 50/60 Hz.
- Charger input current: 300 mA.
- Charger output voltage: 8-20V.
- Charger output current: 400 mA.
- Charge time: 5-5.5 hours.
Usage Features
The hedge trimmer is designed for user comfort and control. It features a trigger switch (1), a lock-off button (2), a switch handle (3), a PowerCut™ button (4), a blade guard (5), a bail handle (6), and a blade (7).
Assembly:
Before use, the blade guard and bail handle must be properly assembled. This involves cutting a plastic zip tie, removing six screws from the trimmer housing, sliding the guard onto the front of the housing, inserting two screws to secure it, sliding the bail handle behind the guard, and inserting the remaining four screws to secure it. It is crucial to ensure the battery is removed before assembly or disassembly.
Operation:
To turn the unit on, the lock-off button (2) must be pushed down, and the trigger (1) squeezed (Fig. G). The lock-off button can be released once the unit is running, but the trigger must remain squeezed to keep the tool operating. Releasing the trigger turns the unit off. Users are warned never to attempt to lock the switch in the ON position.
Trimming Instructions:
- Working Position: Maintain proper footing and balance, wear safety goggles, non-skid footwear, and gloves. Hold the trimmer firmly with both hands, one on the switch handle and one on the bail handle (Fig. H). Never hold the unit by the blade guard.
- Trimming New Growth (Fig. I): A wide, sweeping motion, feeding the blade teeth through the twigs, is most effective. A slight downward tilt of the blade in the direction of motion provides the best cutting. Avoid cutting stems greater than 3/4 inch (19mm).
- Level Hedges (Fig. J): For exceptionally level hedges, a string can be stretched along the hedge as a guide.
- Side Trimming Hedges (Fig. K): Hold the trimmer as shown and begin cutting from the bottom, sweeping upwards.
- PowerCut™ Feature (Fig. L): If the blades jam, depress the PowerCut™ button (4). This will cause the blades to move back and forth in a slower, more forceful rhythm to cut through difficult branches. Releasing the button returns the blades to normal trimming speed. The blades will stop if the button is held for 15 seconds; to reengage, release and depress the button again. Do not continuously hold the PowerCut™ button during normal trimming.
Battery and Charger:
The LHT321 uses a 20V MAX* Lithium-Ion battery (8) and a 20V MAX* charger (9).
- Charging: The charger is plugged into an appropriate outlet, and the battery pack is inserted (Fig. A). A flashing green LED indicates charging, while a continuously lit green LED signifies a full charge.
- Installation/Removal: To install, insert the battery pack into the tool until it clicks (Fig. B). To remove, depress the battery release button (Fig. C) and pull the pack out.
- Important Charging Notes: For optimal battery life, charge in ambient temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°-24°C). Avoid charging below +40°F (+4.5°C) or above +105°F (+40.5°C). The charger and battery may become warm during charging, which is normal.
- Charger Diagnostics: The charger has LED indicators for various issues:
- Bad Battery: A flashing pattern indicates a weak or damaged battery. Do not continue charging; return for recycling.
- Hot/Cold Pack Delay: The charger automatically suspends charging if the battery is excessively hot or cold, resuming when the temperature normalizes.
- Problem Power Line: A flashing pattern indicates the power source is out of limits (e.g., with some portable generators).
- Storage: Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Long storage will not harm the battery or charger. Do not freeze or immerse the charger in water.
Maintenance Features
The BLACK+DECKER LHT321 is designed for long-term operation with minimal maintenance, relying on proper tool care and regular cleaning.
- Blade Care: The cutting blades are made of high-quality, hardened steel and typically do not require resharpening with normal use. However, if they accidentally hit hard objects (like wire fences, stones, or glass), they may nick (Fig. M). If a nick interferes with blade movement, remove the battery and use a fine-toothed file or sharpening stone to remove it.
- Cleaning: After removing the battery, clean the unit with mild soap and a damp cloth. Never allow liquid inside the unit or immerse any part of it. Apply a film of light machine oil to the blades after cleaning to prevent rust. Avoid storing the unit near fertilizers or other garden chemicals, as they can accelerate metal corrosion.
- Inspection: Regularly check the blades for damage and wear. Do not use the tool if the blades are worn or damaged. If the tool starts to vibrate abnormally or stalls, switch it off immediately and check for damage or obstructions. If the trimmer is dropped, inspect it carefully for damage to the blade, housing, or handles before reuse.
- Service: All repairs, maintenance, and adjustments (other than those specified in the manual) should be performed by authorized service centers using identical replacement parts to ensure product safety and reliability. The unit contains no user-serviceable parts inside. If the power cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or an authorized service center.
Safety Warnings
- Always read the instruction manual before operating the product.
- Wear safety glasses/goggles, gloves, and ear protection during operation.
- Keep children and bystanders away from the work area.
- Ensure the switch is in the off position before connecting the battery or carrying the tool.
- Do not overreach; maintain proper footing and balance.
- Dress properly; avoid loose clothing, jewelry, or long hair near moving parts.
- Do not expose the tool to rain or wet conditions.
- Keep hands away from the blades while the tool is running.
- The blade may coast after the tool is turned off.
- Do not attempt to force the blades to a standstill.
- Check the hedge for foreign objects (wire, fences) before each use.
- Do not use under wet conditions.
- Do not incinerate battery packs, as they can explode and release toxic fumes.
- Charge battery packs only with designated BLACK+DECKER chargers.
- Do not store or carry battery packs with metal objects that could short the terminals.
- Do not open battery packs; return damaged packs to a service center for recycling.
- If battery liquid contacts skin or eyes, wash immediately with soap and water, and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
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