RIDGID Saw R843 User Guide

OPERATOR’S MANUAL  
18 VOLT JIG SAW  
ORBITAL / VARIABLE SPEED  
R843  
Your cordless jig saw has been engineered and manufactured to our high standards for dependability, ease of operation,  
and operator safety. When properly cared for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free performance.  
WARNING:  
To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the operator’s manual before using this product.  
Thank you for buying a RIDGID product.  
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE  
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES  
nDo not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance  
at all times. Proper footing and balance enable better  
control of the tool in unexpected situations.  
WARNING!  
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS.  
Failure to follow all instructions listed below, may  
result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal  
injury.  
nUse safety equipment. Always wear eye protection.  
Dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing  
protection must be used for appropriate conditions.  
nDo not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long  
hair. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be drawn  
into air vents.  
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS  
WORK AREA  
nKeep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered  
benches and dark areas invite accidents.  
nDo not use on a ladder or unstable support. Stable  
footing on a solid surface enables better control of the  
tool in unexpected situations.  
nDo not operate power tools in explosive atmo-  
spheres, such as in the presence of flammable  
liquids, gases, or dust. Power tools create sparks which nUse clamps or other practical way to secure and  
TOOL USE AND CARE  
may ignite the dust or fumes.  
support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding  
the work by hand or against your body is unstable and  
may lead to loss of control.  
nKeep bystanders, children, and visitors away while  
operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to  
lose control.  
nDo not force tool. Use the correct tool for your  
application. The correct tool will do the job better and  
safer at the rate for which it is designed.  
nDo not use tool if switch does not turn it on or off.  
A tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is  
dangerous and must be repaired.  
nDisconnect battery pack from tool or place the switch  
in the locked or off position before making any adjust-  
ments, changing accessories, or storing the tool. Such  
preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the  
tool accidentally.  
ELECTRICAL SAFETY  
nA battery operated tool with integral batteries or a  
separate battery pack must be recharged only with  
the specified charger for the battery. A charger that  
may be suitable for one type of battery may create a risk  
of fire when used with another battery.  
nUse battery operated tool only with specifically  
designated battery pack. Use of any other batteries may  
create a risk of fire.  
nUse battery only with charger listed.  
nStore idle tools out of reach of children and other  
untrained persons. Tools are dangerous in the hands  
of untrained users.  
nWhen battery pack is not in use, keep it away from  
other metal objects like: paper clips, coins, keys, nails,  
screws, or other small metal objects that can make  
a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting  
the battery terminals together may cause sparks, burns,  
or a fire.  
MODEL  
R843  
BATTERY PACK  
130254003, 130252004 140276001  
140276002  
CHARGER  
nDo not abuse the cord. Never use the cord to carry  
the charger. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp  
edges, or moving parts. Replace damaged cords  
immediately. Damaged cords may create a fire.  
PERSONAL SAFETY  
nMaintain tools with care. Keep cutting tools sharp  
and clean. Properly maintained tools with sharp  
cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to  
control.  
nCheck for misalignment or binding of moving parts,  
breakage of parts, and any other condition that may  
affect the tool’s operation. If damaged, have the tool  
serviced before using. Many accidents are caused by  
poorly maintained tools.  
nUse only accessories that are recommended by the  
manufacturer for your model. Accessories that may be  
suitable for one tool may create a risk of injury when used  
on another tool.  
nKeep the tool and its handle dry, clean and free  
from oil and grease. Always use a clean cloth when  
cleaning. Never use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-  
based products, or any strong solvents to clean your tool.  
Following this rule will reduce the risk of loss of control  
and deterioration of the enclosure plastic.  
nStay alert, watch what you are doing and use  
common sense when operating a power tool. Do not  
use tool while tired or under the influence of drugs,  
alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention while  
operating power tools may result in serious personal  
injury.  
nDress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry.  
Contain long hair. Keep your hair, clothing, and gloves  
away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long  
hair can be caught in moving parts.  
nAvoid accidental starting. Be sure switch is in the  
locked or off position before inserting battery pack.  
Carrying tools with your finger on the switch or inserting  
the battery pack into a tool with the switch on invites  
accidents.  
nRemove adjusting keys or wrenches before turning  
the tool on. A wrench or a key that is left attached to a  
rotating part of the tool may result in personal injury.  
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES  
nWhen servicing a tool, use only identical replacement  
parts. Follow instructions in the Maintenance section  
of this manual. Use of unauthorized parts or failure to  
follow Maintenance Instructions may create a risk of  
shock or injury.  
SERVICE  
nTool service must be performed only by qualified  
repair personnel. Service or maintenance performed by  
unqualified personnel may result in a risk of injury.  
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES  
nNever use a battery that has been dropped or  
received a sharp blow. A damaged battery is subject to  
explosion. Properly dispose of a dropped or damaged  
battery immediately.  
nHold tool by insulated gripping surfaces when  
performing an operation where the cutting tool may  
contact hidden wiring. Contact with a “live” wire will  
also make exposed metal parts of the tool “live” and  
shock the operator.  
nBatteries vent hydrogen gas and can explode in the  
presence of a source of ignition, such as a pilot light.  
To reduce the risk of serious personal injury, never use  
any cordless product in the presence of open flame. An  
exploded battery can propel debris and chemicals. If  
exposed, flush with water immediately.  
nKnow your power tool. Read operator’s manual care-  
fully. Learn its applications and limitations, as well  
as the specific potential hazards related to this tool.  
Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock,  
fire, or serious injury.  
nDo not charge battery tool in a damp or wet  
location. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric  
shock.  
nAlways wear safety glasses with side shields.  
Everyday glasses have only impact resistant lenses. They  
are NOT safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce  
the risk of eye injury.  
nFor best results, your battery tool should be charged  
in a location where the temperature is more than  
50°F but less than 100°F. Do not store outside or in  
vehicles.  
nProtect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the  
operation is dusty. Following this rule will reduce the  
risk of serious personal injury.  
nUnder extreme usage or temperature conditions,  
battery leakage may occur. If liquid comes in contact  
with your skin, wash immediately with soap and water,  
then neutralize with lemon juice or vinegar. If liquid  
gets into your eyes, flush them with clean water for  
at least 10 minutes, then seek immediate medical  
attention. Following this rule will reduce the risk of seri-  
ous personal injury.  
nProtect your hearing. Wear hearing protection during  
extended periods of operation. Following this rule will  
reduce the risk of serious personal injury.  
nBattery tools do not have to be plugged into an  
electrical outlet; therefore, they are always in  
operating condition. Be aware of possible hazards  
when not using your battery tool or when changing  
accessories. Following this rule will reduce the risk of  
electric shock, fire, or serious personal injury.  
nSave these instructions. Refer to them frequently and  
use them to instruct others who may use this tool. If you  
loan someone this tool, loan them these instructions  
also.  
nDo not place battery tools or their batteries near  
fire or heat. This will reduce the risk of explosion and  
possibly injury.  
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SAFETY RULES FOR CHARGER  
tain chemicals that can damage, weaken, or destroy  
plastic.  
WARNING!  
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS.  
Failure to follow all instructions listed below, may  
result in electric shock, fire and/or serious personal  
injury.  
nAn extension cord should not be used unless  
absolutely necessary. Use of improper extension  
cord could result in a risk of fire and electric shock. If  
extension cord must be used, make sure:  
a. That pins on plug of extension cord are the  
same number, size and shape as those of  
plug on charger.  
nBefore using battery charger, read all instructions and  
cautionary markings in this manual, on battery charger,  
battery, and product using battery to prevent misuse of  
the products and possible injury or damage.  
b. That extension cord is properly wired and in  
good electrical condition; and  
c. That wire size is large enough for AC ampere  
rating of charger as specified below:  
CAUTION:  
To reduce the risk of electric shock or damage  
to the charger and battery, charge only nickel-  
cadmium rechargeable batteries as specifically  
designated on your charger. Other types of  
batteries may burst, causing personal injury or  
damage.  
Cord Length (Feet)  
Cord Size (AWG)  
25'  
16  
50'  
16  
100'  
16  
NOTE: AWG = American Wire Gauge  
nDo not operate charger with a damaged cord or  
plug, which could cause shorting and electric shock. If  
damaged, have the charger replaced by an authorized  
serviceman.  
nDo not use charger outdoors or expose to wet or damp  
conditions. Water entering charger will increase the risk  
of electric shock.  
nDo not operate charger if it has received a sharp blow,  
been dropped, or otherwise damaged in any way. Take  
it to an authorized serviceman for electrical check to  
determine if the charger is in good working order.  
nUse of an attachment not recommended or sold by the  
battery charger manufacturer may result in a risk of  
fire, electric shock, or injury to persons. Following this  
rule will reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, or serious  
personal injury.  
nDo not disassemble charger. Take it to an authorized  
serviceman when service or repair is required. Incorrect  
reassembly may result in a risk of electric shock or fire.  
nDo not abuse cord or charger. Never use the cord to  
carry the charger. Do not pull the charger cord rather than  
the plug when disconnecting from receptacle. Damage  
to the cord or charger could occur and create an electric  
shock hazard. Replace damaged cords immediately.  
nUnplug charger from outlet before attempting  
any maintenance or cleaning to reduce the risk of  
electric shock.  
nDisconnect charger from the power supply when  
not in use. This will reduce the risk of electric shock or  
damage to the charger if metal items should fall into the  
opening. It also will help prevent damage to the charger  
during a power surge.  
nMake sure cord is located so that it will not be stepped  
on, tripped over, come in contact with sharp edges  
or moving parts or otherwise subjected to damage or  
stress. This will reduce the risk of accidental falls, which  
could cause injury, and damage to the cord, which could  
result in electric shock.  
nRisk of electric shock. Do not touch uninsulated portion  
of output connector or uninsulated battery terminal.  
nSave these instructions. Refer to them frequently and  
use them to instruct others who may use this tool. If you  
loan someone this tool, loan them these instructions also  
to prevent misuse of the product and possible injury.  
nKeep cord and charger from heat to prevent  
damage to housing or internal parts.  
nDo not let gasoline, oils, petroleum-based products,  
etc. come in contact with plastic parts. They con-  
WARNING:  
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemi-  
cals known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:  
• lead from lead-based paints,  
• crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and  
• arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.  
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure  
to these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust  
masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.  
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SYMBOLS  
Some of the following symbols may be used on this tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpreta-  
tion of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and safer.  
SYMBOL  
NAME  
DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION  
V
Volts  
Voltage  
Current  
A
Hz  
W
Amperes  
Hertz  
Frequency (cycles per second)  
Watt  
Power  
min  
Minutes  
Time  
Alternating Current  
Direct Current  
Type of current  
Type or a characteristic of current  
Rotational speed, at no load  
n
o
No Load Speed  
Class II Construction  
Per Minute  
Double-insulated construction  
Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits etc., per minute  
.../min  
Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.  
Wet Conditions Alert  
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand  
operator’s manual before using this product.  
Read The Operator’s Manual  
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields  
and a full face shield when operating this product.  
Eye Protection  
Safety Alert  
Precautions that involve your safety.  
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in  
serious personal injury.  
No Hands Symbol  
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in  
serious personal injury.  
No Hands Symbol  
No Hands Symbol  
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in  
serious personal injury.  
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in  
serious personal injury.  
No Hands Symbol  
Hot Surface  
To reduce the risk of injury or damage, avoid contact with  
any hot surface.  
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SYMBOLS  
The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this product.  
SYMBOL  
SIGNAL  
MEANING  
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will  
result in death or serious injury.  
DANGER:  
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could  
result in death or serious injury.  
WARNING:  
CAUTION:  
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may  
result in minor or moderate injury.  
(Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in  
property damage.  
CAUTION:  
SERVICE  
WARNING:  
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge and should  
be performed only by a qualified service technician. For  
service we suggest you return the product to your nearest  
AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER for repair. When servic-  
ing, use only identical replacement parts.  
To avoid serious personal injury, do not attempt  
to use this product until you read thoroughly and  
understand completely the operator’s manual.  
Save this operator’s manual and review frequently  
for continuing safe operation and instructing others  
who may use this product.  
WARNING:  
The operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which can result  
in severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation, always wear safety goggles or safety glasses  
with side shields and a full face shield when needed. We recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over  
eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side shields. Always use eye protection which is marked to  
comply with ANSI Z87.1.  
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS  
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FEATURES  
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS  
Motor......................................................................................................................................................................18 Volt DC  
Switch..............................................................................................................................................................Variable Speed  
No Load Speed ................................................................................................................................................... 0-2200/min.  
Stroke Length..................................................................................................................................................1 in. (25.4 mm)  
Charger Input ....................................................................................................................................... 120 V, 60 Hz, AC only  
Charge Rate ..........................................................................................................................................................30 minutes  
SWITCH TRIGGER  
HEX KEY STORAGE  
TRIGGER LOCK  
BATTERY PACK  
CHIP GUARD  
BLADE GUARD  
BASE  
SAW BLADE  
ORBITAL  
ADJUSTMENT KNOB  
ANTI-SPLINTERING  
INSERT  
Fig. 1  
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FEATURES  
KNOW YOUR JIG SAW  
RECESSED BLADE-SUPPORT ROLLER  
Recessed blade-support roller ensures accurate cutting.  
Five-position adjustable orbital saw-blade movement to  
ensure high cutting performance. Hard-wearing die-cast  
aluminum casing with good heat dissipation properties to  
protect against overheating.  
See Figure 1.  
Before attempting to use this product, familiarize yourself  
with all operating features and safety rules.  
SWITCH TRIGGER  
The jig saw has a variable speed switch trigger that delivers  
higher speed with increased trigger pressure.  
CHIP GUARD  
A clear plastic chip shield has been provided on the front  
of your saw for protection against flying dust and chips. It  
is designed to fit the front opening of your saw. For your  
protection, do not use saw without chip shield properly  
in place.  
TRIGGER LOCK  
The trigger lock prevents the saw from accidental starting.  
Depress the trigger lock from either side of the handle to  
engage the switch trigger. The trigger lock automatically  
resets when the switch trigger is released.  
ORBITAL ADJUSTMENT KNOB  
The jig saw has an orbital feature for more aggressive cutting.  
There are 5 settings from (0) to the most aggressive cutting  
(4).  
RAPID CHANGE BLADE CLAMP  
There is a convenient lever on the blade clamp for changing  
saw blades without the need for seperate tools.  
BEVELING BASE  
BLADE GUARD  
The base can be angled 45° left or right for a bevel cut. The  
base features positve stops at every 15°.  
The wire blade guard is used to protect the operator from  
accidental contact with the saw blade. For your protection,  
do not use saw without blade guard properly in place.  
HEX KEY STORAGE  
The jig saw has onboard hex key storage for adjusting the  
bevel angle of the base.  
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ASSEMBLY  
UNPACKING  
This product requires assembly.  
nCarefully remove the tool and any accessories from the  
box.  
nMake sure that all items listed in the packing list are  
included.  
nInspect the tool carefully to make sure no breakage or  
damage occurred during shipping.  
nDo not discard the packing material until you have care-  
fully inspected and satisfactorily operated the tool.  
nIf any parts are damaged or missing, please call  
1-866-539-1710 for assistance.  
PACKING LIST  
Jig Saw  
Battery Pack  
Charger  
BLADE GUARD  
Fig. 2  
Hex Key  
Anti-splintering insert  
Saw blades (3)  
Operator's Manual  
WARNING:  
If any parts are missing do not operate this tool  
until the missing parts are replaced. Failure to  
do so could result in possible serious personal  
injury.  
WARNING:  
Do not attempt to modify this tool or create  
accessories not recommended for use with this  
tool. Any such alteration or modification is misuse  
and could result in a hazardous condition leading  
to possible serious personal injury.  
BLADE CLAMP  
LEVER  
SAW BLADE  
WARNING:  
Fig. 3  
To prevent accidental starting that could cause  
serious personal injury, always remove the battery  
pack from the tool when assembling parts.  
n Check to make sure the back of the saw blade is centered  
in the groove of the roller guide.  
n Release the clamping lever. Make sure the blade is  
TO INSTALL BLADES  
securely in place.  
See Figures 2 - 3.  
n Lower the blade guard and snap into place. Replace the  
n Remove battery pack.  
splinter guard, if applicable.  
n Flip blade guard up and out of the way.  
n Replace battery pack.  
n Push the clamping lever on the rapid-change clamp until  
it stops.  
n Holding the clamping lever open, insert the saw blade as  
far as possible into the slot in the saw bar.  
10  
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OPERATION  
WARNING:  
Do not allow familiarity with your tool to make you  
careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a  
second is sufficient to inflict severe injury.  
WARNING:  
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with  
side shields when operating tools. Failure to do so  
could result in objects being thrown into your eyes  
resulting in possible serious injury.  
Fig. 4  
WARNING:  
Do not use any attachments or accessories  
not recommended by the manufacturer of this  
tool. The use of attachments or accessories not  
recommended can result in serious personal  
injury.  
nAttach the battery pack to the charger by aligning the  
raised ribs on the battery pack with the grooves in the  
charger, then slide the battery pack onto the charger.  
nAfter normal usage, 30 minutes of charging time is  
required to be fully charged.  
nThe battery pack will become slightly warm to the touch  
while charging. This is normal and does not indicate a  
problem.  
nDo not place the charger in an area of extreme heat or  
cold. It will work best at normal room temperature.  
nWhen the batteries become fully charged, unplug the  
charger from the power supply and remove the battery  
pack.  
APPLICATIONS  
You may use this tool for the purposes listed below:  
n Cutting wood surfaces  
n Cutting thin sheet metal  
n Cutting plastics and laminates  
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR RECHARG-  
ING A HOT BATTERY PACK  
CAUTION:  
To prevent damage to the battery pack, remove  
the battery pack from the charger immediately if  
no LED comes on. Return the battery pack and  
charger to your nearest service center for checking  
or replacing. Also, if you are removing the battery  
pack from the charger and no LEDs are on, return  
both the battery pack and the charger to your  
nearest service center. Do not insert another  
battery pack into the charger. A damaged charger  
may damage a battery pack.  
When using the saw continuously, the batteries in the  
battery pack will become hot. You should let a hot  
battery pack cool down for approximately 20 minutes before  
attempting to recharge. When the battery pack becomes  
discharged and is hot, the green LED will be off and the red  
LED will begin flashing.  
When the battery pack cools down to approximately 104°F  
(40°C), the charger will automatically begin fast charge  
mode.  
If the Red LED continues to flash for more than 90 minutes,  
and the green LED remains off, this may indicate a damaged  
battery that will not charge.  
CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK  
See Figure 4.  
The battery pack for this tool has been shipped in a low  
charge condition to prevent possible problems. Therefore,  
you should charge it until the light on front of charger changes  
from flashing green to continuous green.  
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR RECHARG-  
ING A COOL BATTERY PACK  
If the battery pack is below normal temperature range, the  
red LED will begin flashing and the green LED will be off.  
When the battery warms to a temperature of more than  
41°F (5°C), the charger will automatically begin fast charge  
mode.  
NOTE: Batteries will not reach full charge the first time they  
are charged. Allow several cycles (operation followed by  
recharging) for them to become fully charged. This is normal  
for nickel-cadmium batteries.  
NOTE: Refer to “CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK” for  
normal recharging of batteries. If the charger does not charge  
your battery pack under normal circumstances, return both  
the battery pack and charger to your nearest repair center  
for electrical check. For the location of your nearest repair  
center, please call 1-866-539-1710.  
TO CHARGE  
nCharge the battery pack only with the charger provided.  
nMake sure the power supply is normal house voltage,  
120 volts, 60 Hz, AC only.  
nConnect the charger to a power supply.  
11  
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OPERATION  
LED FUNCTION OF CHARGER  
See Figure 5.  
LED  
INDICATOR  
BATTERY  
PACK  
RED  
LED  
GREEN  
LED  
ACTION  
Power  
Without battery pack ON  
OFF  
OFF  
OFF  
OFF  
OFF  
Ready to charge battery pack  
Evaluate  
Evaluate  
Evaluate  
Evaluate  
Hot battery pack  
Cold battery pack  
Deeply discharged  
Flashing  
When battery pack reaches cooled  
temperature, charger begins fast  
charge mode  
Flashing  
Flashing  
Flashing  
When battery pack reaches  
warmed temperature, charger  
begins fast charge mode  
Charger pre-charges battery until  
normal voltage is reached, then  
begins fast charge mode  
Thermistor shorted  
or open  
If red LED continues flashing for  
more than 90 minutes, and green  
LED remains off, this may  
indicate a damaged battery  
Charging  
Full  
Fast charging  
Slow charging  
ON  
Flashing  
ON  
Fast charges in 30 minutes  
OFF  
Fast charging is complete.  
Charger maintains charge mode.  
POWER  
INDICATOR  
EVALUATE  
INDICATOR  
Note: The 9.6 Volt, 12 Volt, and 14.4  
Volt battery packs will not slide all the  
way down onto the charger port. Insert  
9.6 Volt, 12 Volt, and 14.4 Volt battery  
packs until they click into place and  
are aligned with the line on the charger,  
shown at left.  
CHARGING  
INDICATOR  
Allow up to 5 seconds for the “charge”  
light to come on after the battery pack  
is inserted.  
FULL  
INDICATOR  
Fig. 5  
12  
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OPERATION  
TO INSTALL BATTERY PACK  
See Figure 6.  
n Place battery pack in the saw. Align raised rib on battery  
pack with the groove inside the saw.  
n Make sure the latches on each side of your battery pack  
snap in place and battery pack is secured in the saw  
before beginning operation.  
BATTERY PACK  
CAUTION:  
When placing battery pack in the tool, be sure  
raised rib on battery pack aligns with the bottom of  
the saw and latches into place properly. Improper  
installation of the battery pack can cause damage  
to internal components.  
TO REMOVE BATTERY PACK  
See Figure 7.  
n Locate latches on side of battery pack and depress to  
release battery pack from the saw.  
Fig. 6  
n The battery pack will automatically disconnect in  
direction to be removed when buttons are depressed.  
n Remove the battery pack from your saw.  
BATTERY  
LATCHES  
Fig. 7  
13  
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OPERATION  
WARNING:  
Battery tools are always in operating condition.  
Therefore, switch should always be locked when  
not in use or carrying at your side.  
STARTING / STOPPING THE SAW  
To turn the saw ON, depress the lock-off button and pull  
the switch trigger. Release the switch trigger to turn the  
saw OFF.  
GENERAL CUTTING  
See Figure 8.  
Rest the front of the saw base on the workpiece and align  
cutting edge of the blade with the line on your workpiece.  
Start the saw and move it forward on the work surface. Ap-  
ply downward pressure to keep the saw steady and only  
enough forward pressure to keep the blade cutting. Do not  
force the saw. Forcing the saw may overheat the motor and  
break saw blades. Broken saw blades must be replaced  
with new saw blades.  
Fig. 8  
ORBITAL MOTION  
See Figure 9.  
The blade of the saw cuts in orbital motion. This feature is  
adjustable and provides faster, more efficient cutting. With  
orbital motion the blade cuts through your work in the up-  
strokebutdoesnotdragacrossyourworkinthedownstroke.  
The higher settings should be used when fast cutting in soft  
material is desired. The lower settings should be used when  
cutting materials with more resistance.  
STRAIGHT CUTTING  
See Figure 9.  
A straight cut can be made by clamping a piece of wood or  
straightedge to the workpiece and guiding the edge of the  
saw against it. Make the cut from one direction only; don't  
cut halfway and complete the cut from the opposite end.  
TO INCREASE  
ORBITAL  
SETTING  
SCROLL CUTTING  
See Figure 8.  
Scroll cuts can be made with the jig saw by guiding the  
direction of the cut with applied pressure on the handle as  
shown.  
TO DECREASE  
ORBITAL  
WARNING:  
Excessive side pressure to the blade could result  
in broken blades or damage to the material being  
cut.  
SETTING  
Fig. 9  
14  
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OPERATION  
ANGLE CUTTING (BEVEL CUTTING)  
See Figures 10 - 11.  
BASE PIVOT  
SCREW  
Bevel cutting angles may be adjusted from 0° to 45° right  
or left. Angles for cuts from 0° to 45° in 15° increments are  
marked on a scale on both the left and right side of the base.  
Notches on the rear of the base provide positive stops at  
each of the above mentioned 15° increments. A protractor  
is recommended when accurate cuts are required.  
n Using the hex key provided, loosen the base pivot screw  
until the base can be moved.  
n Slide base forward until base pivot screws can move  
freely in slots in base.  
HEX KEY  
n Align the mark, on the base, of the desired angle with the  
Fig. 10  
edge of the motor housing.  
n Once the desired angle is reached, slide base back until  
tab on motor housing aligns with the appropriate notch  
on rear of base.  
NOTE: When making a set-up for accurate cuts with a  
protractor, or for angles other than the preset 15° incre-  
ments, the positive stop notches on the rear of the base  
are not used.  
n Tighten the base pivot screw securely.  
n Return hex key to storage compartment.  
NOTE: The wide slot in the base must be used when mak-  
ing bevel cuts, scroll cuts, plunge cuts, and when cutting  
metal.  
BASE  
Fig. 11  
15  
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OPERATION  
PLUNGE CUTTING  
See Figure 12.  
WARNING:  
To avoid loss of control, broken blades, or damage  
to the material being cut, always use extreme  
caution when making plunge cuts. We do not  
recommend plunge cutting on materials other  
than wood.  
n Mark the line of cut clearly on the workpiece.  
n Set the cutting angle at 0°.  
n Tilt the saw forward so that it rests on the front edge  
of the base and blade will not come in contact with the  
workpiece when the saw is turned on.  
n Make sure the blade is inside the area to be cut.  
n Using high speed, start your saw and slowly lower the  
blade into the workpiece until the blade cuts through the  
wood.  
Fig. 12  
n Continue lowering the blade into the workpiece until the  
base rests flat on the work surface, then move the saw  
forward to complete the opening.  
n Use only the 7 teeth per inch blade for this type of cut.  
SPLINTER-FREE CUTTING  
See Figure 13.  
This saw has an anti-splinter insert to permit splinter-free  
cutting. It is especially useful when cutting plywood. This  
feature should only be used when making straight cuts or  
circle cuts. It is not for bevel cutting or plunge cutting.  
NOTE: The non-orbital setting also helps reduce splintering  
when cutting plywood.  
ANTI-SPLINTER  
INSERT  
n Remove the battery pack.  
n Set the cutting angle at 0°.  
Fig. 13  
n Attach the anti-splinter insert in the front of the base as  
shown. Make sure it snaps securely into place.  
n Replace the battery pack.  
16  
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MAINTENANCE  
WARNING:  
WARNING:  
When servicing use only identical RIDGID  
replacement parts. Use of any other parts may  
create a hazard or cause product damage.  
Do not at any time let brake fluids, gasoline,  
petroleum-based products, penetrating oils, etc.,  
come in contact with plastic parts. Chemicals can  
damage, weaken or destroy plastic which may  
result in serious personal injury.  
WARNING:  
Only the parts shown on the parts list are intended to be  
repaired or replaced by the customer. All other parts should  
be replaced at a RIDGID authorized service center.  
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with  
side shields during power tool operation or when  
blowing dust. If operation is dusty, also wear a  
dust mask.  
KEEPING THE CHARGER VENTS CLEAN  
The fan in this charger will perform more efficiently if the air  
vents and ports are kept clean and dust-free. Periodically  
check the air vents for dust or other debris.  
To clean the vents, unplug the charger. Using a fine nylon  
bristle brush, whisk dust or debris away from the air vents  
and ports.  
WARNING:  
To avoid serious personal injury, always remove  
the battery pack from the tool when cleaning or  
performing any maintenance.  
The battery pack has intake and exhaust vents that should  
also be kept free of dust and debris. Clean the battery pack  
vents by using a fine nylon-bristle brush to whisk away dust  
or debris.  
When cleaning, do not allow metal to come into contact  
with any of the vents or ports of the charger or battery  
pack.  
GENERAL MAINTENANCE  
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most  
plastics are susceptible to damage from various types of  
commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. Use  
clean cloths to remove dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.  
BATTERY PACK REMOVAL AND  
BATTERIES  
The battery pack for this tool is equipped with nickel-cad-  
mium rechargeable batteries. Length of service from each  
charging will depend on the type of work you are doing.  
PREPARATION FOR RECYCLING  
To preserve natural resources, please  
recycle or dispose of batteries  
properly.  
The batteries in this tool have been designed to provide  
maximum trouble-free life. However, like all batteries, they  
will eventually wear out. Do not disassemble battery pack  
and attempt to replace the batteries. Handling of these  
batteries, especially when wearing rings and jewelry, could  
result in a serious burn.  
This product contains nickel-cadmium  
batteries. Local, state or federal laws  
may prohibit disposal of nickel-  
cadmium batteries in ordinary trash.  
Consult your local waste authority for information regarding  
available recycling and/or disposal options.  
To obtain the longest possible battery life, we suggest the  
following:  
nRemove the battery pack from the charger once it is fully  
WARNING:  
charged and ready for use.  
Upon removal, cover the battery pack’s terminals  
with heavy-duty adhesive tape. Do not attempt  
to destroy or disassemble battery pack or  
remove any of its components. Nickel-cadmium  
batteries must be recycled or disposed of properly.  
Also, never touch both terminals with metal objects  
and/or body parts as short circuit may result. Keep  
away from children. Failure to comply with these  
warnings could result in fire and/or serious injury.  
For battery pack storage longer than 30 days:  
nStore the battery pack where the temperature is below  
80°F.  
nStore battery packs in a "discharged" condition.  
17  
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NOTES  
18  
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WARRANTY  
RIDGID® HAND HELD AND STATIONARY POWER TOOL  
3 YEAR LIMITED SERVICE WARRANTY  
Proof of purchase must be presented when requesting war-  
ranty service.  
WHAT IS NOT COVERED  
This warranty applies only to the original purchaser at retail  
and may not be transferred. This warranty only covers de-  
fects arising under normal usage and does not cover any  
malfunction, failure or defect resulting from misuse, abuse,  
neglect, alteration, modification or repair by other than an  
authorized service center for RIDGID® branded hand held  
and stationary power tools. Consumable accessories pro-  
vided with the tool such as, but not limited to, blades, bits  
and sand paper are not covered.  
Limited to RIDGID® hand held and stationary power tools  
purchased 2/1/04 and after. This product is manufactured  
by One World Technologies, Inc. The trademark is licensed  
from RIDGID, Inc. All warranty communications should be  
directed to One World Technologies, Inc., attn: RIDGID Hand  
Held and Stationary Power Tool Technical Service at (toll  
free) 1-866-539-1710.  
90-DAY SATISFACTION GUARANTEE POLICY  
During the first 90 days after the date of purchase, if you are  
dissatisfied with the performance of this RIDGID® Hand Held  
and Stationary Power Tool for any reason you may return  
the tool to the dealer from which it was purchased for a full  
refund or exchange. To receive a replacement tool you must  
present proof of purchase and return all original equipment  
packaged with the original product. The replacement tool  
will be covered by the limited warranty for the balance of  
the 3 YEAR service warranty period.  
RIDGID, INC. AND ONE WORLD TECHNOLOGIES, INC.  
MAKE NO WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS OR  
PROMISES AS TO THE QUALITY OR PERFORMANCE  
OF ITS POWER TOOLS OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFI-  
CALLY STATED IN THIS WARRANTY.  
ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS  
To the extent permitted by applicable law, all implied war-  
ranties, including warranties of MERCHANTABILITY or FIT-  
NESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, are disclaimed. Any  
implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability  
or fitness for a particular purpose, that cannot be disclaimed  
under state law are limited to three years from the date of  
purchase. One World Technologies, Inc. and RIDGID, Inc.  
are not responsible for direct, indirect, incidental or conse-  
quential damages. Some states do not allow limitations on  
how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the  
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential dam-  
ages, so the above limitations may not apply to you. This  
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also  
have other rights which vary from state to state.  
WHAT IS COVERED UNDER THE 3 YEAR  
LIMITED SERVICE WARRANTY  
This warranty on RIDGID® Hand Held and Stationary Power  
Tools covers all defects in workmanship or materials and nor-  
mal wear items such as brushes, chucks, motors, switches,  
cords, gears and even cordless batteries in this RIDGID®  
tool for three years following the purchase date of the tool.  
Warranties for other RIDGID® products may vary.  
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE  
To obtain service for this RIDGID® tool you must return it;  
freight prepaid, or take it in to an authorized service center  
for RIDGID® branded hand held and stationary power tools.  
You may obtain the location of the authorized service center  
nearest you by calling (toll free) 1-866-539-1710 or by log-  
ging on to the RIDGID® website at www.ridgid.com. When  
requesting warranty service, you must present the original  
dated sales receipt. The authorized service center will re-  
pair any faulty workmanship, and either repair or replace  
any part covered under the warranty, at our option, at no  
charge to you.  
One World Technologies, Inc.  
P.O. Box 35, Hwy. 8  
Pickens, SC 29671  
19  
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OPERATOR’S MANUAL  
18 VOLT JIG SAW  
ORBITAL / VARIABLE SPEED  
R843  
Customer Service Information:  
For parts or service, contact your nearest RIDGID authorized service center. Be  
sure to provide all relevant information when you call or visit. For the location of  
the authorized service center nearest you, please call 1-866-539-1710 or visit us  
The model number of this tool is found on a plate attached to the motor housing.  
Please record the serial number in the space provided below. When ordering repair  
parts, always give the following information:  
R843  
Model No.  
Serial No.  
983000-556  
3-24-06 (REV:01)  
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