OPERATOR’S MANUAL
5-1/2 in., 18 VOLT
CIRCULAR SAW
P501
BATTERIES AND CHARGERS
SOLD SEPARATELY
Your circular saw has been engineered and manufactured to Ryobi’s high standard 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 Ryobi product.
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
nDo not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
WARNING!
at all times. Proper footing and balance enable better
control of the tool in unexpected situations.
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS. Fail-
ure 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
nDo not use on a ladder or unstable support. Stable
footing on a solid surface enables better control of the
tool in unexpected situations.
nKeep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
benches and dark areas invite accidents.
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
may ignite the dust or fumes.
nKeep bystanders, children, and visitors away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to
lose control.
TOOL USE AND CARE
nUse clamps or other practical way to secure and sup-
port the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding the
work by hand or against your body is unstable and may
lead to loss of 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.
nStore idle tools out of reach of children and other
untrained persons. Tools are dangerous in the hands
of untrained users.
nUse battery only with charger listed.
MODEL BATTERY PACK (P100) CHARGER (P110)
P501
130255004
1423701, 140237023
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.
or 130224028
or 140237021
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.
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.
n Keep the tool and its handle dry, clean and free from
oil and grease. Always use a clean cloth when clean-
ing. Never use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based
products, or any strong solvents to clean your tool. Fol-
lowing this rule will reduce the risk of loss of control and
deterioration of the enclosure plastic.
PERSONAL SAFETY
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 ac-
cidents.
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.
3
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
nWhen servicing a tool, use only identical replacement
SERVICE
parts. Follow instructions in the Maintenance section
of this manual. Use of unauthorized parts or failure to fol-
low Maintenance Instructions may create a risk of shock
or injury.
nTool service must be performed only by qualified re-
pair personnel. Service or maintenance performed by
unqualified personnel may result in a risk of injury.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
n When ripping, always use a rip fence or straight edge
guide. Thisimprovestheaccuracyofthecutandreduces
the chance for blade binding.
n Always use blades with correct size and shape
(diamond vs. round) arbor holes. Blades that do
not match the mounting hardware of the saw will run
eccentrically, causing loss of control.
n Never use damaged or incorrect blade washers
or bolts. The blade washers and bolts were specially
designedforthesawforoptimumperformanceandsafety
of operation.
n DANGER! Keep hands away from cutting area and
blade. Keep your second hand on the auxiliary handle
or motor housing. If both hands are holding the saw,
they cannot be cut by the blade.
n Keep your body positioned to either side of the saw
blade, but not in line with the saw blade. KICKBACK
could cause the saw to jump backwards. (See “Causes
And Operator Prevention Of Kickback” later.)
n Do not reach underneath the work. The guard cannot
protect you from the blade below the work.
n Checklowerguardforproperclosingbeforeeachuse.
Donotoperatesawiflowerguarddoesnotmovefreely
andcloseinstantly.Neverclamportiethelowerguard
into the open position. If saw is accidentally dropped,
lower guard may be bent. Raise the lower guard with the
retracting handle. Make sure it moves freely and does
not touch the blade or any other part, in all angles and
depths of cut.
n Check the operation and condition of the lower guard
spring. If the guard and the spring are not operating
properly,theymustbeservicedbeforeuse.Lowerguard
may operate sluggishly due to damaged parts, gummy
deposits, or a buildup of debris.
Causes and Operator Prevention of Kickback:
Kickback is a sudden reaction to a pinched, bound, or
misaligned saw blade, causing an uncontrolled saw to lift up
and out of the workpiece toward the operator.
When the blade is pinched or bound tightly by the kerf closing
down, the blade stalls and the motor reaction drives the unit
rapidly back toward the operator.
Ifthebladebecomestwistedormisalignedinthecut,theteeth
at the back edge of the blade can dig into the top surface of
the wood causing the blade to climb out of the kerf and jump
back toward the operator.
Kickbackistheresultoftoolmisuseand/orincorrectoperating
proceduresorconditionsandcanbeavoidedbytakingproper
precautions, as given below:
n Lower guard should be retracted manually only for
special cuts, such as "Pocket Cuts" and "Compound
Cuts."Raiselowerguardbyretractinghandle.Assoon
as blade enters the material, lower guard must be
released. For all other sawing, the lower guard should
operate automatically.
n Always observe that the lower guard is covering the
blade before placing saw down on bench or floor. An
unprotected, coasting blade will cause the saw to walk
backwards, cutting whatever is in its path. Be aware of
the time it takes for the blade to stop after switch is
released.
n NEVER hold piece being cut in your hands or across
your leg. It is important to support the work properly
to minimize body exposure, blade binding, or loss of
control.
n Hold tool by insulated gripping surfaces when
performing an operation where the cutting tool may
contact hidden wiring or its own cord. Contact with a
“live” wire will make exposed metal parts of the tool “live”
and shock the operator.
n Maintain a firm grip with both hands on the saw and
position your body and arm to allow you to resist
KICKBACK forces. KICKBACK forces can be controlled
by the operator, if proper precautions are taken.
n When blade is binding, or when interrupting a cut
for any reason, release the trigger and hold the saw
motionless in the material until the blade comes to a
completestop.Neverattempttoremovethesawfrom
the work or pull the saw backward while the blade is
in motion, or KICKBACK may occur. Investigate and
take corrective actions to eliminate the cause of blade
binding.
n When restarting a saw in the workpiece, center the
saw blade in the kerf and check that saw teeth are
not engaged into the material. If saw blade is binding,
it may walk up or KICKBACK from the workpiece as the
saw is restarted.
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SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
n Support large panels to minimize the risk of blade
breakage of parts, mounting, and any other conditions
that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that
is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced
by an authorized service center. Following this rule will
reduce the risk of shock, fire, or serious injury.
pinching and KICKBACK. Large panels tend to sag
under their own weight. Supports must be placed under
the panel on both sides, near the line of cut and near the
edge of the panel.
n Do not use dull or damaged blade. Unsharpened or
improperly set blades produce narrow kerf which causes
excessive friction, blade binding and KICKBACK.
n Blade depth and bevel adjusting locking levers
must be tight and secure before making cut. If blade
adjustment shifts while cutting, it may cause binding and
KICKBACK.
n Use extra caution when making a “Pocket Cut” into
existingwallsorotherblindareas.Theprotrudingblade
may cut objects that can cause KICKBACK.
n Make sure your extension cord is in good condition.
When using an extension cord, be sure to use one
heavy enough to carry the current your product
will draw. A wire gage size (A.W.G.) of at least 12 is
recommended for an extension cord 50 feet or
less in length. A cord exceeding 100 feet is not
recommended. If in doubt, use the next heavier gage.
The smaller the gage number, the heavier the cord. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting
in loss of power and overheating.
n Inspect for and remove all nails from lumber before
using this tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of
serious personal injury.
n Know 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.
n Always wear safety glasses. Everyday eyeglasses
have only impact-resistant lenses; they are NOT
safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce the risk
of serious personal injury.
n Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the
operation is dusty. Following this rule will reduce the
risk of serious personal injury.
n Protect your hearing. Wear hearing protection during
extended periods of operation. Following this rule will
reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
n Inspect tool cords periodically and, if damaged, have
repaired at your nearest authorized service center.
Constantly stay aware of cord location. Following this
rule will reduce the risk of electric shock or fire.
n Check damaged parts. Before further use of the
tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should
be carefully checked to determine that it will operate
properly and perform its intended function. Check for
alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts,
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SAFETY RULES FOR CHARGER
nAn extension cord should not be used unless
WARNING!
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:
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS.
Failure to follow all instructions listed below, may result in
electric shock, fire and/or serious personal injury.
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:
Cord Length (Feet)
Cord Size (AWG)
25'
16
50'
16
100'
16
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.
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 contain
chemicals that can damage, weaken, or destroy plastic.
WARNING:
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals
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.
6
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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
Watt
Frequency (cycles per second)
Power
min
Minutes
Time
Alternating Current
Type of current
Direct Current
Type or a characteristic of current
Rotational speed, at no load
n
No Load Speed
o
Class II Construction
Per Minute
Double-insulated construction
.../min
Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits etc., per minute
Wet Conditions Alert
Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
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
No Hands Symbol
Hot Surface
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.
To reduce the risk of injury or damage, avoid contact with
any hot surface.
7
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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
DANGER:
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING:
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION:
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.
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 opera-
tion 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
Blade Diameter...................................................... 5-1/2 in.
Blade Arbor ...............................................................3/8 in.
Cutting Depth at 0°.............................................. 1-9/16 in.
Cutting Depth at 45°.............................................. 1-1/8 in.
Charger Input .................................. 120 V, 60 Hz, AC Only
Charge Rate .............................................................1 Hour
No Load Speed ...................................................4200/min.
OPTIONAL RIP
GUIDE SCREW
(WING SCREW)
BLADE WRENCH
(5 mm HEX KEY)
LOCK-OFF
BUTTON
SWITCH
HANDLE
TRIGGER
BLADE WRENCH
DEPTH
STORAGE AREA
ADJUSTMENT KNOB
UPPER
BLADE
GUARD
BEVEL
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
LOWER BLADE
GUARD HANDLE
LOWER BLADE
GUARD
WIDTH OF CUT
SCALE
BLADE
Fig. 1
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FEATURES
LOCK-OFF BUTTON
The lock-off button reduces the possibility of accidental
starting.
KNOW YOUR CIRCULAR SAW
See Figure 1.
Before attempting to use this product, familiarize yourself
with all operating Features and Safety Rules.
BEVEL ADJUSTMENT KNOB
The bevel adjustment feature allows you to make bevel cuts
of 45° and 90º.
SWITCH TRIGGER
The saw has a conveniently located switch trigger on the
underside of the handle.
WIDTH OF CUT SCALE
When making straight cross cuts or rip cuts, the scale can
be used to measure up to four inches to the right side of
the blade. It can be used to measure up to one inch to the
left side of the blade.
SPINDLE LOCK
The spindle lock allows you to secure the blade when turn-
ing the blade screw.
NOTE: Do not run the circular saw with spindle lock en-
gaged.
BLADE WRENCH STORAGE
Convenient wrench storage for quick blade changes.
ASSEMBLY
UNPACKING
This product requires assembly.
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.
n Carefully remove the tool and any accessories from the
box. Make sure that all items listed in the packing list are
included.
n Inspect the tool carefully to make sure no breakage or
WARNING:
damage occurred during shipping.
Do not attempt to modify this tool or create accesso-
ries 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.
n Do not discard the packing material until you have care-
fully inspected and satisfactorily operated the tool.
n If any parts are damaged or missing, please call
1-800-525-2579 for assistance.
PACKING LIST
Circular Saw
WARNING:
5-1/2 in. Blade
To prevent accidental starting that could cause serious
personal injury, always remove the battery pack from the
tool when assembling parts.
Blade Wrench
Lanyard (not included in combo)
Operator’s Manual
Warranty Registration Card
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ASSEMBLY
ATTACHING THE BLADE
See Figure 2.
SPINDLE
LOCK BUTTON
LOWER BLADE
GUARD HANDLE
WARNING:
A 5-1/2 in. blade is the maximum blade capacity of the
saw. Never use a blade that is too thick to allow outer
blade washer to engage with the flats on the spindle.
Larger blades will come in contact with the blade guard,
while thicker blades will prevent blade screw from se-
curing blade on spindle. Either of these situations could
result in a serious accident.
SPINDLE
BLADE
5
4
0
5
3
0
2
2
nRemove the battery pack from the saw.
3
nRemove the blade wrench (5 mm hex key) from the stor-
2
1
5
4
age area.
0
1
nDepress the spindle lock button and remove the blade
INNER
BLADE WASHER
screw and outer blade washer.
NOTE: Turn the blade screw clockwise to remove.
OUTER
BLADE WASHER
CAUTION:
BLADE SCREW
To prevent damage to the spindle or spindle lock, always
allow motor to come to a complete stop before engaging
spindle lock.
Fig. 2
nWipe a drop of oil onto the inner blade washer and outer
SPINDLE
LOCK
LOWER
BLADE
GUARD LEVER
blade washer where they contact the blade.
WARNING:
If inner blade washer has been removed, replace it before
placing blade on spindle. Failure to do so could cause an
accident since blade will not tighten properly.
SPINDLE
LOCK
SCREW
nFit the saw blade inside the lower blade guard and onto
5
4
0
5
3
0
the spindle.
2
2
TO LOOSEN
NOTE: The saw teeth point upward at the front of the
3
saw.
2
1
5
4
0
nReplace the outer blade washer.
1
nDepress the spindle lock button, then replace the blade
screw. Tighten the blade screw securely by turning it
clockwise.
TO TIGHTEN
Fig. 3
nReturn the blade wrench to the storage area.
nPosition the saw as shown, depress the spindle lock
button, and remove the blade screw by turning it clock-
wise.
NOTE: Never use a blade that is too thick to allow the outer
blade washer to engage with the flats on the spindle.
nRemove the outer blade washer.
REMOVING THE BLADE
See Figure 3.
nRemove the blade.
nRemove the battery pack from the saw.
nRemove the blade wrench from the storage area.
11
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OPERATION
CHARGING A COOL BATTERY PACK
If battery pack is within normal temperature range, the red
LED on charger will come on.
WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with tools to make you care-
less. Remember that a careless fraction of a second is
sufficient to inflict serious injury.
NOTE: If the charger does not charge the battery pack
undernormalcircumstances,returnboththebatterypackand
charger to your nearest Ryobi Authorized Service Center for
electrical check.
WARNING:
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when operating tools. Failure to do so could re-
sult in objects being thrown into your eyes, resulting in
possible serious injury.
nCharge the battery pack only with a recommended char-
ger.
nMake sure the power supply is normal household
voltage, 120 volts, 60 Hz, AC only.
nConnect the charger to the power supply.
APPLICATIONS
You may use this tool for the following purposes:
nPlace the battery pack in the charger aligning raised rib
on the battery pack with the groove in the charger. See
Figure 4.
nPress down on the battery pack to be sure contacts on
the battery pack engage properly with contacts in the
charger.
nCutting all types of wood products (lumber, plywood,
paneling)
nCross Cutting/Rip Cutting
nBevel Cutting
nPocket Cutting
nNormally the red LED on charger will come on. This
indicates the charger is in fast charging mode.
nRed LED should remain on for approximately 1 hour
then the green LED will come on. Green LED on
indicates battery pack is fully charged and charger is
in maintenance charge mode.
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.
NOTE: The green LED will remain on until the
battery pack is removed from the charger or charger is
disconnected from the power supply.
nIf both yellow and green LEDs come on, this indi-
cates a deeply discharged or defective battery pack.
Allow the battery pack to remain in the charger for 15
to 30 minutes. When the battery pack reaches normal
voltage range, the red LED should come on. If the
red LED does not come on after 30 minutes, this may
indicate a defective battery pack and should be
replaced.
LED FUNCTIONS OF CHARGER
LED WILL BE ON TO INDICATE STATUS OF
CHARGER AND BATTERY PACK:
nRed LED on = Fast charging mode.
nAfter normal usage, a minimum of 1 hour of charging time
is required to fully recharge battery pack.
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 and battery pack in an area of
extreme heat or cold. They will work best at normal room
temperature.
nGreen LED on = Fully charged and in trickle charge
mode.
nGreen LED on = When battery pack is inserted into
charger, indicates hot battery pack or that battery pack
is out of or below normal temperature range.
nYellow and Green LEDs on = Deeply discharged or
defective battery pack.
NOTE: The charger and battery pack should be placed
in a location where the temperature is more than 50°F
but less than 100°F.
nNo LED on = Defective charger or battery pack.
nWhen batteries become fully charged, unplug the charger
CHARGING THE BATTERY PACK
Battery packs for this tool are shipped in a low charge con-
dition to prevent possible problems. Therefore, you should
charge it until the green LED on the front of the charger
comes on.
from the power supply and remove the battery pack.
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.
12
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OPERATION
CHARGING A HOT BATTERY PACK
When using the tool continuously, the batteries in the battery
pack will become hot. You should let a hot battery pack cool
down for approximately 30 minutes before attempting to
recharge. When the battery pack becomes discharged and
is hot, this will cause the green LED to come on instead of
the red LED. After 30 minutes, reinsert the battery pack in
the charger. If the green LED continues to remain on, return
batterypacktoyournearestRyobiAuthorizedServiceCenter
for checking or replacing.
NOTE: This situation only occurs when continuous use of
the tool causes the batteries to become hot. It does not
occur under normal circumstances. Refer to “CHARGING
A COOL BATTERY PACK” for normal recharging of batter-
ies. If the charger does not charge your battery pack under
normal circumstances, return both the battery pack and
charger to your nearest Ryobi Authorized Service Center
for electrical check.
RED
LED
YELLOW
LED
GREEN
LED
BATTERY PACK SHOWN
IN CHARGER
P110
CHARGER
INSTALLING THE BATTERY PACK
See Figure 5.
NOTE:Thebatterypackisshippedinalowchargecondition.
Therefore, it must be charged prior to use. Refer to page 12,
“CHARGING BATTERY PACK” for charging instructions.
nPlace the battery pack in the saw. Align the raised rib
on the battery pack with the groove inside the saw, then
slide the battery pack into the saw.
nMake sure the latches on each side of your battery pack
snap into place and the battery pack is secured in the
saw before beginning operation.
CAUTION:
When placing battery pack in the tool, be sure raised
rib on battery pack aligns with the bottom of the tool
and latches into place properly. Improper installa-
tion of the battery pack can cause damage to internal
components.
Fig. 4
DEPRESS LATCHES TO REMOVE BATTERY PACK
REMOVING THE BATTERY PACK
See Figure 5.
nLocate the latches on the side of the battery pack and
depress them to release the battery pack from the saw.
nRemove battery pack from your saw.
TO
INSTALL
BATTERY
PACK
Fig. 5
13
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OPERATION
KICKBACK - BLADE SET TOO DEEP
WARNING:
Battery tools are always in operating condition. There-
fore, switch should always be locked when not in use or
carrying at your side.
KICKBACK
See Figures 6 - 9.
Kickback occurs when the blade stalls rapidly and the saw
is driven back towards you. Blade stalling is caused by any
action which pinches the blade in the wood.
Fig. 6
INCORRECT
SUPPORT
DANGER:
Release switch immediately if blade binds or saw stalls.
Kickback could cause you to lose control of the saw. Loss
of control can lead to serious injury.
To guard against kickback, avoid dangerous practices such
as the following.
5
0
4
5
3
0
2
2
.
5
nSetting blade depth incorrectly.
1
5
0
nSawing into knots or nails in workpiece.
nTwisting the blade while making a cut.
nMaking a cut with a dull, gummed up, or improperly set
WRONG
blade.
Fig. 7
nSupporting the workpiece incorrectly.
nForcing a cut.
CORRECT BLADE DEPTH SETTING = BLADE EXPOSED 1/4 in.
(6.35 mm) OR LESS ON UNDERSIDE OF WORKPIECE
nCutting warped or wet lumber.
nOperating the tool incorrectly or misusing the tool.
To lessen the chance of kickback, follow these safety prac-
tices.
nKeep the blade at the correct depth setting. The depth
setting should not exceed 1/4 in. below the material being
cut.
nInspect the workpiece for knots or nails before cutting.
Never saw into a knot or nail.
nMake straight cuts. Always use a straight edge guide
when rip cutting. This helps prevent twisting the blade.
nUse clean, sharp, and properly set blades. Never make
Fig. 8
cuts with dull blades.
nSupport the workpiece properly before beginning a cut.
CORRECT
SUPPORT
nUse steady, even pressure when making a cut. Never
force a cut.
nDo not cut warped or wet lumber.
nHold the saw firmly with both hands and keep your body
in a balanced position so as to resist the forces if kickback
should occur.
5
0
4
5
3
0
2
1
2
.
5
5
0
WARNING:
When using the saw, always stay alert and exercise con-
trol. Do not remove the saw from the workpiece while the
blade is moving.
Fig. 9
14
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OPERATION
SAW BLADES
LOWER BLADE GUARD
IS IN UP POSITION
WHEN MAKING A CUT
The best of saw blades will not cut efficiently if they are not
kept clean, sharp, and properly set. Using a dull blade will
place a heavy load on the saw and increase the danger of
kickback. Keep extra blades on hand, so that sharp blades
are always available.
Gum and wood pitch hardened on blades will slow the saw
down. Remove saw blade from the saw and use gum and
pitch remover, hot water, or kerosene to remove these ac-
cumulations. DO NOT USE GASOLINE.
BLADE GUARD SYSTEM
See Figure 10.
The lower blade guard attached to your circular saw is there
for your protection and safety. Do not alter it for any reason.
If it becomes damaged, do not operate the saw until you
have the guard repaired or replaced. Always leave guard in
operating position when using the saw.
BLADE EXPOSED ON
Fig. 10
UNDERSIDE OF WORKPIECE
LOCK-OFF
BUTTON
DANGER:
SWITCH
When sawing through work, lower blade guard does not
cover blade on the underside of work. Since blade is
exposed on underside of work, keep hands and fingers
away from cutting area. Any part of your body coming in
contact with moving blade will result in serious injury.
CAUTION:
Never use saw when guard is not operating correctly.
Check the guard for correct operation before each use.
The guard is operating correctly when it moves freely and
readily returns to the closed position. If you drop the saw,
check the lower blade guard and bumper for damage at
all depth settings before reuse.
Fig. 11
LOCK-OFF BUTTON
See Figure 11.
STARTING/STOPPING THE SAW
See Figure 11.
The lock-off button reduces the possibility of accidental
starting. The lock-off button is located on the handle above
the switch trigger. The lock-off button must be depressed
before you pull the switch trigger. The lock resets each time
the trigger is released.
To start the saw: Depress the switch trigger.
Always let the blade reach full speed, then guide the saw
into the workpiece.
WARNING:
NOTE: You can depress the lock-off button from either the
left or right side.
The blade coming in contact with the workpiece before
it reaches full speed could cause the saw to “kickback”
towards you resulting in serious injury.
To stop the saw: Release the switch trigger.
After you release the switch trigger, allow the blade to
come to a complete stop. Do not remove the saw from
the workpiece while the blade is moving.
15
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OPERATION
ADJUSTING BLADE DEPTH
See Figure 12.
TO RAISE
SAW
Always keep correct blade depth setting. The correct blade
depth setting for all cuts should not exceed 1/4 in. below
the material being cut. More blade depth will increase the
chance of kickback and cause the cut to be rough. For more
depth of cut accuracy, a scale is located on the upper blade
guard.
nLoosen the depth adjustment knob.
nDetermine the desired depth of cut.
nLocate the depth of cut scale on the back of the upper
blade guard.
nHold the base flat against the workpiece and raise or
lower the saw until the indicator mark on bracket aligns
with the notch on the blade guard.
BASE
ASSEMBLY
nTighten the depth adjustment knob securely.
TO
TO
TIGHTEN
LOWER SAW
DEPTH
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
TO
LOOSEN
Fig. 12
16
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OPERATION
OPERATING THE SAW
See Figures 13 - 15.
It is important to understand the correct method for operat-
ing the saw. Refer to the figures in this section to learn the
correct and incorrect ways for handling the saw.
WARNING:
5
0
4
5
3
2
0
2
To make sawing easier and safer, always maintain proper
control of the saw. Loss of control could cause an ac-
cident resulting in possible serious injury.
DANGER:
When lifting the saw from the workpiece, the blade is
exposed on the underside of the saw until the lower blade
guard closes. Make sure the lower blade guard is closed
before setting the saw down.
WRONG
Fig. 13
To make the best possible cut, follow these helpful hints.
nHold the saw firmly with both hands.
nAvoid placing your hand on the workpiece while making
a cut.
nSupport the workpiece so that the cut (kerf) is always to
your side.
nSupport the workpiece near the cut.
5
4
0
5
nClamp the workpiece securely so that the workpiece will
3
0
2
2
not move during the cut.
nAlways place the saw on the workpiece that is supported,
not the “cut off” piece.
nPlace the workpiece with the “good” side down.
nDraw a guideline along the desired line of cut before
Fig. 14
beginning your cut.
nKeep the cord away from the cutting area. Always place
the cord to prevent it from hanging up on the workpiece
while making a cut.
5
4
0
5
3
0
2
2
WRONG
Fig. 15
17
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CROSS CUTTING/RIP CUTTING
See Figure 16.
TOP VIEW OF SAW
GUIDELINE
BLADE
GUIDE NOTCH
When making a cross cut or rip cut, align the line of cut with
the outer blade guide notch on the base.
Sincebladethicknessesvary,alwaysmakeatrialcutinscrap
materialalongaguidelinetodeterminehowmuch, ifany, you
must offset the guideline to produce an accurate cut.
NOTE: The distance from the line of cut to the guideline is
the amount you should offset the guide.
RIP CUTTING
See Figure 17.
FRONT
OF SAW
Use a guide when making long or wide rip cuts with the
saw.
nSecure the workpiece.
nClamp a straight edge to the workpiece using
C-clamps.
nSaw along the straight edge to achieve a straight rip
Fig. 16
cut.
NOTE: Do not bind the blade in the cut.
WORKPIECE
WIDTH OF CUT SCALE
See Figure 18.
A width of cut scale has been provided on the base of your
saw. When making straight cross cuts or rip cuts, the scale
can be used to measure up to four inches to the right side
of the blade. It can be used to measure up to one inch to
the left side of the blade.
STRAIGHT
EDGE
5
4
5
0
3
2
0
2
C-CLAMP
Fig. 17
WIDTH OF CUT
SCALE
Fig. 18
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OPERATION
BEVEL CUTTING
BEVEL
ADJUSTMENT KNOB
See Figures 19 - 21.
nAlign the line of cut with the inner blade guide notch on
the base when making 45° bevel cuts.
nMake a trial cut in scrap material along a guideline to
determine how much you should offset the guideline on
the cutting material.
nAdjust the angle of the cut to any desired setting between
zero and 51.5°. Refer to “Adjusting the Bevel Setting”
next.
4
0
5 4
3
1
2
1
BEVEL
SCALE
ADJUSTING THE BEVEL SETTING
See Figure 20.
BLADE
GUIDE NOTCH
nLoosen the bevel adjustment knob.
GUIDELINE
nRaise the motor housing end of the saw until you reach
the desired angle setting on the bevel scale.
Fig. 19
nTighten the bevel adjustment knob securely.
MOTOR
HOUSING
WARNING:
Attempting a bevel cut without having the bevel ad-
justment knob securely tightened can result in serious
injury.
MAKING A BEVEL CUT
See Figure 21.
nHold the saw firmly with both hands as shown.
nRest the front edge of the base on the workpiece.
nStart the saw and let the blade reach full speed.
nGuide the saw into the workpiece and make the cut.
5
0
4
5
3
0
1
5
3
2
1
5
4
0
nRelease the trigger and allow the blade to come to a
complete stop.
BEVEL SCALE
nLift the saw from the workpiece.
BEVEL
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
BLADE GUIDE NOTCH
Fig. 20
5
0
4
5
3
0
1
5
3
2
1
5
4
0
LOWER
BLADE GUARD
Fig. 21
19
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OPERATION
n Release the trigger and allow the blade to come to a
POCKET CUTTING
See Figure 22.
complete stop.
n Lift the saw from the workpiece.
n Clear corners out with a hand saw or sabre saw.
WARNING:
Always adjust bevel setting to zero before making a
pocket cut. Attempting a pocket cut at any other setting
can result in loss of control of the saw possibly causing
serious injury.
WARNING:
Never tie the lower blade guard in a raised position. Leav-
ing the blade exposed could lead to serious injury.
nAdjust the bevel setting to zero.
nSet the blade to the correct blade depth setting.
LOWER BLADE
GUARD HANDLE
nSwing the lower blade guard up using the lower blade
guard handle.
NOTE: Always raise the lower blade guard with the handle
to avoid serious injury.
nHold the lower blade guard by the handle.
5
4
0
5
nRest the front of the base flat against the workpiece with
the rear of the handle raised so the blade does not touch
the workpiece.
3
0
2
2
nStart the saw and let the blade reach full speed.
nGuide the saw into the workpiece and make the cut.
WARNING:
Always cut in a forward direction when pocket cutting.
Cutting in the reverse direction could cause the saw to
climb up on the workpiece and back toward you.
LOWER BLADE GUARD
POCKET CUT
Fig. 22
20
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ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING:
ADJUSTMENT
SCREW
Before performing any adjustment, make sure the bat-
tery pack is removed from tool and the switch is in the
OFF position. Failure to heed this warning could result in
serious personal injury.
BEVEL
ADJUSTMENT
KNOB
5
0
4
5
3
2
0
2
15
0
4
5
0
1
POSITIVE 0° BEVEL STOP
See Figure 24.
2
The saw has a positive 0° bevel stop that has been factory
adjusted to assure 0° angle of the saw blade when making
90° cuts.
HEX NUT
BLADE
POSITIVE 0°
BEVEL STOP
CHECKING POSITIVE 0° BEVEL STOP
nPlace the saw in an upside down position on a work-
bench.
nCheck the squareness of the saw blade to the base of
the saw using a carpenter’s square.
ADJUSTING POSITIVE 0° BEVEL STOP
nLoosen bevel adjustment knob.
nTurn setscrew with hex key and adjust base until it is
CARPENTER'S
SQUARE
square with the saw blade.
nTighten bevel adjustment knob securely.
WARNING:
Fig. 23
Attempting a bevel cut without having the bevel ad-
justment knob securely tightened can result in serious
injury.
21
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MAINTENANCE
BATTERIES
Thebatterypackforthistoolisequippedwithnickel-cadmium
rechargeablebatteries.Lengthofservicefromeachcharging
will depend on the type of work you are doing.
WARNING:
When servicing, use only identical Ryobi replacement
parts. Use of any other parts may create a hazard or
cause product damage.
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.
WARNING:
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.
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.
To avoid serious personal injury, always remove the
battery pack from the tool when cleaning or performing
any maintenance.
For battery storage longer than 30 days:
nStore the battery pack where the temperature is below
80°F.
nStore battery packs in a "discharged" condition.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
BATTERY PACK REMOVAL AND
PREPARATION FOR RECYCLING
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.
To preserve natural resources, please
recycle or dispose of batteries properly.
This product contains nickel-cadmium
batteries. Local, state or federal laws may
prohibit disposal of nickel-cadmium bat-
teries in ordinary trash.
WARNING:
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.
Consult your local waste authority for information regarding
available recycling and/or disposal options.
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 Ryobi Authorized Service Center.
Upon removal, cover the battery pack’s termi-
nals with heavy-duty adhesive tape. Do not at-
tempt 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.
ACCESSORIES
The following recommended accessories are currently available at retail stores:
n 5-1/2 in. Thin Kerf Blade
WARNING:
Current attachments and accessories available for use with this tool are listed above. Do not use any attachments or ac-
cessories not recommended by the manufacturer of this tool. The use of attachments or accessories not recommended
can result in serious personal injury.
22
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NOTES
23
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OPERATOR’S MANUAL
5-1/2 in., 18 VOLT
CIRCULAR SAW
P501
• SERVICE
Now that you have purchased your tool, should a need ever exist for repair parts or
service, simply contact your nearest Ryobi Authorized Service Center. Be sure to provide
all pertinent facts when you call or visit. Please call 1-800-525-2579 for your nearest Ryobi
complete list of Authorized Service Centers.
• MODEL NO. AND SERIAL NO.
The model number of this tool will be found on a plate attached to the motor housing.
Please record the model number and serial number in the space provided below.
• HOW TO ORDER REPAIR PARTS
When ordering repair parts, always give the following information:
P501
• MODEL NUMBER
• SERIAL NUMBER
RYOBI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
1428 Pearman Dairy Road, Anderson, SC 29625
Post Office Box 1207, Anderson, SC 29622-1207
Phone 1-800-525-2579
983000-575
12-04
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