Ryobi Pole Saw OPP 1820 - Keeps cutting out

steve1500

Pole Saw is 4 years old with hardly any use. Tried using (battery fully charged) chain turns a few times then cuts out, release trigger, then press again, works again for a few seconds & cuts out again.

Cleaned the connections, although there did seem to be oil on them!!

Emailed Ryobi, they don't want to know or even offer a suggestion as to what the fault might be

Anyone any ideas

TIA

MattMattMattUK

Battery not holding voltage when power is drawn from it due to some failed cells is the most likely, especially if it has gone completely flat over winter. Got a friend who you can borrow a battery from to test?

Baldytyke88

AI Overview If your Ryobi OPP1820 pole saw keeps cutting out, it is most often caused by a triggered thermal overload, a blown internal fuse, a dirty battery connection, or the chain brake kicking in. Check these quick fixes in order of likelihood:

1. Battery & Connections

• Dirty Terminals: Dust, debris, or black soot on the battery and tool contacts can disrupt power. Give the metal contacts a gentle wipe with an emery board or a clean cloth. [1]
• Loose Fit: Vibration can cause an older battery to lose connection and momentarily cut power. Ensure the battery clicks firmly into place.

2. Motor Overload (Thermal Cutout)

• Too Much Pressure: Forcing the saw through thick branches rather than letting it cut at its own pace causes the motor to draw too much current.
• Solution: If the motor overheats, a thermal breaker will trip to prevent burnout. Let the saw cool down for 10–15 minutes and try using lighter pressure while cutting. [1]

3. Chain Tension and Lubrication

• Chain Too Tight: If the chain is over-tensioned, it binds the motor and causes the saw to stall or cut out under load. You should be able to pull the chain around the bar easily by hand. [1, 2]
• Lack of Oil: If your bar and chain oil has run dry, friction will cause the chain to seize up. Top up the reservoir and ensure oil is flowing properly

TELLIT01

If it runs for a few seconds each time with the same battery, I would think it points to the drive mechanism. If it's been little used, grease may have dried out or part of the mechanism rusted. You could try squirting WD40 anywhere you have access, leave it a while and try again.