RIDGID R84001 - User Manual

This document is an operator's manual for a RIDGID 3/8 inch 18 Volt Drill-Driver, model R84001. It provides comprehensive instructions for safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, ensuring years of rugged, trouble-free performance. The manual emphasizes safety precautions, proper tool usage, and care to reduce the risk of injury and extend the tool's lifespan.

The drill-driver is designed for versatility, featuring a two-speed gear train for optimal performance in various applications. It can be used for drilling in wood, ceramics, plastics, fiberglass, laminates, and both hard and soft metals. Additionally, it is suitable for driving screws with screwdriver bits and mixing paints, making it a valuable tool for a wide range of tasks.

One of the key features of this drill-driver is its keyless chuck, which allows for easy hand tightening or release of drill bits. This eliminates the need for a chuck key, streamlining bit changes and improving efficiency. The tool is equipped with a variable speed switch, providing greater control over drilling and driving applications. The speed and torque increase with trigger pressure, allowing users to adapt to different materials and tasks.

For enhanced safety, the drill-driver includes a switch lock feature that secures the switch trigger in the OFF position, preventing accidental starting when not in use. The forward/reverse selector, conveniently located above the switch trigger, allows for quick changes in the direction of rotation, which is essential for both drilling and driving. This selector also serves as a lock-off mechanism when placed in the center position.

The two-speed gear train is a significant advantage, offering a LO (1) speed range for high power and torque applications, and a HI (2) speed range for faster drilling and driving. A slide switch on top of the drill allows users to easily select the desired speed. This adaptability ensures that the tool can handle a variety of materials and tasks efficiently.

An auxiliary handle is included with the drill for improved ease of operation and to prevent loss of control, especially during high-torque applications. The handle can be adjusted to the desired angle by turning its clamping ring, providing a secure and comfortable grip. The manual stresses the importance of periodically checking the handle's tightness to prevent thread damage and maintain control.

The drill-driver also features an adjustable torque clutch with 24 settings, allowing users to precisely control the torque for driving different types of screws into various materials. This prevents overtightening and damage to fasteners or workpieces. The settings range from 1-4 for small screws, 5-8 for screws into soft material, 9-12 for screws into soft and hard materials, 13-16 for screws in hard wood, 17-20 for large screws, and 21- for heavy drilling.

For convenience, the drill-driver has a bit storage area located at the rear of the motor housing, where the provided double-ended bit can be kept when not in use.

The battery pack for this tool utilizes nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries, designed for maximum trouble-free life. The manual provides detailed instructions on charging the battery pack, including information on normal charging, handling hot battery packs, and cool battery packs. It advises charging the battery pack only with the specified charger and emphasizes the importance of proper charging conditions to prolong battery life. The charger itself features a "key hole" for space-saving storage.

Maintenance instructions include general cleaning practices, emphasizing the importance of keeping the tool dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. It warns against using brake fluids, gasoline, or strong solvents, as these can damage plastic parts. The manual also provides detailed steps for chuck removal and retightening, which may be necessary for certain accessories or if the chuck becomes loose.

Safety is a paramount concern throughout the manual. It highlights general safety rules such as keeping the work area clean, avoiding explosive atmospheres, and keeping bystanders away. Electrical safety rules for battery-operated tools are provided, including guidelines for charging and handling battery packs. Personal safety measures, such as staying alert, dressing properly, and wearing eye protection, are strongly emphasized. The manual also includes specific warnings regarding foreign objects being thrown into eyes, binding or bit breakthrough during drilling, and the proper disposal and recycling of nickel-cadmium batteries.

The manual concludes with warranty information, outlining the RIDGID 3-Year Limited Service Warranty, which covers defects in workmanship or materials and normal wear items. It also details a 90-Day Satisfaction Guarantee Policy and provides instructions on how to obtain service. Customer service information, including a toll-free number and website, is provided for assistance with parts, service, and authorized service center locations.