OPERATOR’S MANUAL

13 in. PORTABLE PLANER

AP1301

Your portable planer has been engineered and manufactured to our 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 your purchase.

SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE

 TABLE OF CONTENTS
 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 2
� Warranty .......................................................................................................................................................................... 2
 General Safety Rules .................................................................................................................................................... 3-4
� Specific Safety Rules.................................................................................................................................................... 4-5
� Symbols ........................................................................................................................................................................ 6-7
 Electrical .......................................................................................................................................................................... 8
� Glossary of Terms ............................................................................................................................................................ 9
� Features .................................................................................................................................................................... 10-11
 Loose Parts ................................................................................................................................................................... 11
� Assembly .................................................................................................................................................................. 12-13
� Operation .................................................................................................................................................................. 14-16
 Adjustments................................................................................................................................................................... 17
� Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................................. 18-19
 Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................................................. 20
� Parts Ordering / Service ................................................................................................................................................ 22

INTRODUCTION
This tool has many features for making its use more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety, performance, and dependability have been
given top priority in the design of this product making it easy to maintain and operate.

WARRANTY
RYOBI® POWER TOOL - LIMITED TWO YEAR WARRANTY AND 30 DAY EXCHANGE POLICY
One World Technologies, Inc., warrants its RYOBI® power tools with the following conditions:
30-DAY EXCHANGE POLICY: During the first 30 days after date of purchase, you may either request service under this warranty
or you may exchange any RYOBI® power tool which does not work properly due to defective workmanship or materials by return-
ing the power tool to the dealer from which it was purchased. To receive a replacement power tool or requested warranty service,
you must present proof of purchase and return all original equipment packaged with the original product. The replacement power
tool will be covered by the limited warranty for the balance of the two year period from the date of the original purchase.
WHAT THIS WARRANTY COVERS: This warranty covers all defects in workmanship or materials in your RYOBI® power tool for
a period of two years from the date of purchase. With the exception of batteries, power tool accessories are warranted for ninety
(90) days. Batteries are warranted for two years.
HOW TO GET SERVICE: Just return the power tool, properly packaged and postage prepaid, to an Authorized Service Center. You
can obtain the location of the Service Center nearest you by contacting a service representative at One World Technologies, Inc.,
P.O. Box 1207, Anderson, SC 29622-1207, by calling 1-800-525-2579 or by logging on to www.ryobitools.com. When you request
warranty service, you must also present proof of purchase documentation, which includes the date of purchase (for example, a bill
of sale). We will repair any faulty workmanship, and either repair or replace any defective part, at our option. We will do so without
any charge to you. We will complete the work in a reasonable time, but, in any case, within ninety (90) days or less.
WHAT’S NOT COVERED: This warranty applies only to the original purchaser at retail and may not be transferred. This warranty
only covers defects arising under normal usage and does not cover any malfunction, failure or defects resulting from misuse,
abuse, neglect, alteration, modification or repairs by other than Authorized Service Centers. One World Technologies, Inc. makes
no warranties, representations or promises as to the quality or performance of its power tools other than those specifically stated
in this warranty.
ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS: Any implied warranties granted under state law, including warranties of merchantability or fitness
for a particular purpose, are limited to two years from the date of purchase. One World Technologies, Inc. is not responsible for
direct, indirect, or incidental damages, so the above limitations and exclusions 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.

2
 GENERAL SAFETY RULES
 ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WITH SIDE
WARNING: SHIELDS. Everyday eyeglasses have only impact-
resistant lenses, they are NOT safety glasses.
Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow
all instructions listed below, may result in electric shock,  SECURE WORK. Use clamps or a vise to hold work when
fire and/or serious personal injury. practical. It’s safer than using your hand and frees both
hands to operate tool.

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS  DON’T OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and

balance at all times.
 KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL. Read the operator’s
manual carefully. Learn the tool’s applications and  MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE. Keep tools sharp
limitations as well as the specific potential hazards and clean for better and safer performance. Follow instruc-
related to this tool. tions for lubricating and changing accessories.
 GUARD AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK BY  DISCONNECT TOOLS. When not in use, before
PREVENTING BODY CONTACT WITH GROUNDED servicing, or when changing attachments, blades, bits,
SURFACES. For example: pipes, radiators, ranges, cutters, etc., all tools should be disconnected.
refrigerator enclosures.  AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING. Be sure switch is off
 KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE and in good working when plugging in any tool.
order.  USE RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES. Consult the
 REMOVE ADJUSTING KEYS AND WRENCHES. Form operator’s manual for recommended accessories. The
habit of checking to see that keys and adjusting wrenches use of improper accessories may risk injury.
are removed from tool before turning it on.  NEVER STAND ON TOOL. Serious injury could occur if
 KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN. Cluttered areas and benches the tool is tipped or if the cutting tool is unintentionally
invite accidents. DO NOT leave tools or pieces of wood contacted.
on the tool while it is in operation.
 CHECK DAMAGED PARTS. Before further use of the
 DO NOT USE IN DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS. Do tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should be
not use power tools in damp or wet locations or expose carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly
to rain. Keep the work area well lit. and perform its intended function. Check for alignment
 KEEP CHILDREN AND VISITORS AWAY. All visi- of moving parts, binding of moving parts, breakage of
tors should wear safety glasses and be kept a safe parts, mounting and any other conditions that may affect
distance from work area. Do not let visitors contact its operation. A guard or other part that is damaged must
tool or extension cord while operating. be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized service
 MAKE WORKSHOP CHILDPROOF with padlocks and center to avoid risk of personal injury.
master switches, or by removing starter keys.  USE THE RIGHT DIRECTION OF FEED. Feed work into
 DON’T FORCE TOOL. It will do the job better and safer a blade or cutter against the direction of rotation of blade
at the feed rate for which it was designed. or cutter only.
 USE RIGHT TOOL. Don’t force the tool or attachment to  NEVER LEAVE TOOL RUNNING UNATTENDED. TURN
do a job it was not designed for. Don’t use it for a purpose THE POWER OFF. Don’t leave tool until it comes to a
not intended. complete stop.
 USE THE PROPER EXTENSION CORD. Make sure your  PROTECT YOUR LUNGS. Wear a face or dust mask if
extension cord is in good condition. Use only a cord heavy the cutting operation is dusty.
enough to carry the current your product will draw. An  PROTECT YOUR HEARING. Wear hearing protection
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage result- during extended periods of operation.
ing in loss of power and overheating. A wire gauge size
(A.W.G.) of at least 14 is recommended for an extension  DO NOT ABUSE CORD. Never yank cord to discon-
cord 50 feet or less in length. If in doubt, use the next nect from receptacle. Keep cord from heat, oil, and sharp
heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier edges.
the cord.  USE OUTDOOR EXTENSION CORDS. When tool
 DRESS PROPERLY. Do not wear loose clothing, gloves, is used outdoors, use only extension cords with
neckties, or jewelry. They can get caught and draw you approved ground connection that are intended for use
into moving parts. Rubber gloves and nonskid footwear outdoors and so marked.
are recommended when working outdoors. Also wear  NEVER USE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE.
protective hair covering to contain long hair. Normal sparking of the motor could ignite fumes.

3
 GENERAL SAFETY RULES
 INSPECT TOOL CORDS PERIODICALLY. If dam- use brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-based products, or
aged, have repaired by a qualified service technician at any solvents to clean tool.
an authorized service facility. The conductor with insulation  STAY ALERT AND EXERCISE CONTROL. Watch what
having an outer surface that is green with or without yellow you are doing and use common sense. Do not operate
stripes is the equipment-grounding conductor. If repair tool when you are tired. Do not rush.
or replacement of the electric cord or plug is necessary,
 DO NOT USE TOOL IF SWITCH DOES NOT TURN IT
do not connect the equipment-grounding conductor to a
ON AND OFF. Have defective switches replaced by an
live terminal. Repair or replace a damaged or worn cord
authorized service center.
immediately. Stay constantly aware of cord location and
keep it well away from the rotating blade.  NEVER TOUCH BLADE or other moving parts during
use.
 INSPECT EXTENSION CORDS PERIODICALLY and
replace if damaged.  NEVER START A TOOL WHEN ANY ROTATING COM-
PONENT IS IN CONTACT WITH THE WORKPIECE.
 GROUND ALL TOOLS. If tool is equipped with three-
prong plug, it should be plugged into a three-hole  DO NOT OPERATE A TOOL WHILE UNDER THE
electrical receptacle. INFLUENCE OF DRUGS, ALCOHOL, OR ANY
 CHECK WITH A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN or service MEDICATION.
personnel if the grounding instructions are not completely  WHEN SERVICING use only identical replacement parts.
understood or if in doubt as to whether the tool is properly Use of any other parts may create a hazard or cause
grounded. product damage.
 USE ONLY CORRECT ELECTRICAL DEVICES: 3-wire  USE ONLY RECOMMENDED ACCESSORIES listed
extension cords that have 3-prong grounding plugs and in this manual or addendums. Use of accessories that
3-pole receptacles that accept the tool’s plug. are not listed may cause the risk of personal injury.
 DO NOT MODIFY the plug provided. If it will not fit the Instructions for safe use of accessories are included
outlet, have the proper outlet installed by a qualified with the accessory.
electrician.  DOUBLE CHECK ALL SETUPS. Make sure blade is
 KEEP TOOL DRY, CLEAN, AND FREE FROM OIL AND tight and not making contact with tool or workpiece
GREASE. Always use a clean cloth when cleaning. Never before connecting to power supply.

SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES

 NEVER PERFORM THE PLANING OPERATION with  STOP THE MACHINE and recheck the hex head
the cutter head or cutter guard removed. bolts and blades for tightness after about 50 hours of
 NEVER MAKE A PLANING CUT deeper than 1/8 in. operation.

 DO NOT PLANE MATERIAL shorter than 14 in. or  DO NOT FORCE FEED THE WORKPIECE through the
narrower than 3/4 in. machine. Let the planer apply the proper feed rate.

 MAINTAIN THE PROPER RELATIONSHIP between the  CHECK THE FEED ROLLERS occasionally to be
infeed and outfeed surfaces and the cutter head blade sure there are no chips or sawdust between any
path. components.

 SUPPORT THE WORKPIECE ADEQUATELY at all  PLANE ONLY SOUND LUMBER; there should be no
times during operation; maintain control of the work at loose knots and as few tight knots as possible. Make sure
all times. the workpiece is free from nails, screws, stones, or other
foreign objects that could break or chip the blades.
 NEVER FEED THE WORK from the rear of the planer.
 NEVER STAND DIRECTLY IN LINE with either the infeed
 DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PERFORM an abnormal or little or outfeed sides. Stand off to one side.
used operation without the use of sturdy and adequate
jigs, fixtures, stops, and the like.  MAKE SURE THE BLADES ARE ATTACHED as
described in the operation section. The blades are sharp
 NEVER plane more than one piece at a time. DO NOT and can easily cut your hand. Use caution in handling the
PLANE more than one workpiece on the planer table at blades and cutter head guard.
a time.
 BEFORE STARTING UP, recheck to make certain all
holding screws are tight.
4
 SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
 NEVER PUT YOUR FINGERS into the dust hood or under mistake. ALWAYS REMEMBER that a careless fraction
the cutter guard. of a second is sufficient to inflict serious injury.
 ALLOW THE CUTTER HEAD to reach full speed before  MAKE SURE THE WORK AREA HAS AMPLE LIGHTING
using the planer. to see the work and that no obstructions will interfere with
 REPLACEMENT PARTS. All repairs, whether electrical or safe operation BEFORE performing any work using your
mechanical, should be made at your nearest authorized planer.
service center.  ALWAYS TURN OFF TOOL before disconnecting it, to
 DO NOT attempt to turn cutter head with hands. avoid accidental starting when reconnecting to power
supply.
 IF ANY PART OF THIS TOOL IS MISSING or should
break, bend, or fail in any way, or should any electrical  IF THE POWER SUPPLY CORD IS DAMAGED, it must
component fail to perform properly, shut off the power be replaced only by the manufacturer or by an authorized
switch, remove the plug from the power source and service center to avoid risk.
have damaged, missing, or failed parts replaced before  SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. Refer to them
resuming operation. frequently and use to instruct other users. If you loan
 ALWAYS STAY ALERT! Do not allow familiarity (gained someone this tool, loan them these instructions also.
from frequent use of your planer) to cause a careless

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.

5
 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

A Amperes Current

Hz Hertz Frequency (cycles per second)

W Watt Power

min Minutes Time

Alternating Current Type of current

Direct Current Type or a characteristic of current

no No Load Speed Rotational speed, at no load

Class II Construction Double-insulated construction

.../min Per Minute 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

Read The Operator’s Manual operator’s manual before using this product.

Always wear safety goggles, safety glasses with side shields, or

Eye Protection
a full face shield when operating this product.

Safety Alert Precautions that involve your safety.

No Hands Symbol Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.

Hot Surface To reduce the risk of injury or damage, avoid contact with any
hot surface.

6
 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

DANGER: in death or serious injury.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result

WARNING: in death or serious injury.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result in

CAUTION: minor or moderate injury.

(Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in property
CAUTION: damage.

SERVICE
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge and should WARNING:
be performed only by a qualified service technician. For To avoid serious personal injury, do not attempt
service we suggest you return the product to the nearest to use this product until you read thoroughly and
AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER for repair. When servic- understand completely the operator’s manual.
ing, use only identical replacement parts. If you do not understand the warnings and in-
structions in the operator’s manual, do not use
this product. Call Ryobi customer service for
assistance.

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, when needed, a full face shield. 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

7
 ELECTRICAL
EXTENSION CORDS SPEED AND WIRING
Use only 3-wire extension cords that have 3-prong ground- The no-load speed of this tool is approximately 10,000
ing plugs and 3-pole receptacles that accept the tool’s plug. r/min. (RPM). This speed is not constant and decreases
When using a power tool at a considerable distance from the under a load or with lower voltage. For voltage, the wiring
power source, use an extension cord heavy enough to carry in a shop is as important as the motor’s horsepower rat-
the current that the tool will draw. An undersized extension ing. A line intended only for lights cannot properly carry a
cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting in a loss of power tool motor. Wire that is heavy enough for a short dis-
power and causing the motor to overheat. Use the chart tance will be too light for a greater distance. A line that can
provided below to determine the minimum wire size required support one power tool may not be able to support two
in an extension cord. Only round jacketed cords listed by or three tools.
Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) should be used.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
**Ampere rating (on tool data plate) In the event of a malfunction or breakdown, grounding
0-2.0 2.1-3.4 3.5-5.0 5.1-7.0 7.1-12.0 12.1-16.0 provides a path of least resistance for electric current to
Cord Length Wire Size (A.W.G.) reduce the risk of electric shock. This tool is equipped with
an electric cord having an equipment-grounding conduc-
25' 16 16 16 16 14 14
tor and a grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into a
50' 16 16 16 14 14 12 matching outlet that is properly installed and grounded in
100' 16 16 14 12 10 — accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
**Used on 12 gauge - 20 amp circuit. Do not modify the plug provided. If it will not fit the outlet,
NOTE: AWG = American Wire Gauge have the proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
When working with the tool outdoors, use an extension cord Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conduc-
that is designed for outside use. This is indicated by the tor can result in a risk of electric shock. The conductor with
letters “WA” on the cord’s jacket. insulation having an outer surface that is green with or without
yellow stripes is the equipment-grounding conductor. If repair
Before using an extension cord, inspect it for loose or or replacement of the electric cord or plug is necessary, do
exposed wires and cut or worn insulation. not connect the equipment-grounding conductor to a live
terminal.
WARNING: Check with a qualified electrician or service personnel if the
Keep the extension cord clear of the working area. grounding instructions are not completely understood, or if
Position the cord so that it will not get caught on in doubt as to whether the tool is properly grounded.
lumber, tools or other obstructions while you are Repair or replace a damaged or worn cord immediately.
working with a power tool. Failure to do so can This tool is intended for use on a circuit that has an outlet
result in serious personal injury. like the one shown in figure 1. It also has a grounding pin
like the one shown.

WARNING:
Check extension cords before each use. If damaged
replace immediately. Never use tool with a dam-
aged cord since touching the damaged area
could cause electrical shock resulting in serious
injury.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
This tool is powered by a precision built electric motor. It
should be connected to a power supply that is 120 V, AC
only, 60 Hz, (normal household current). Do not operate
this tool on direct current (DC). A substantial voltage drop
will cause a loss of power and the motor will overheat. If the GROUNDING
saw does not operate when plugged into an outlet, double PIN 120 V GROUNDED OUTLET
check the power supply.
Fig. 1

8
 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Anti-Kickback Pawls (radial arm and table saws) Non-Through Cuts
A device which, when properly installed and maintained, Any cutting operation where the blade does not extend
is designed to stop the workpiece from being kicked back completely through the thickness of the workpiece.
toward the front of the saw during a ripping operation. Pilot Hole (drill presses)
Arbor A small hole drilled in a workpiece that serves as a guide for
The shaft on which a blade or cutting tool is mounted. drilling large holes accurately.
Bevel Cut Push Blocks and Push Sticks
A cutting operation made with the blade at any angle other Devices used to feed the workpiece through the saw blade
than 90° to the table surface. during cutting operations. A push stick (not a push block)
Chamfer should be used for narrow ripping operations. These aids
A cut removing a wedge from a block so the end (or part of help keep the operator's hands well away from the blade.
the end) is angled rather than at 90°. Resaw
Compound Cut A cutting operation to reduce the thickness of the workpiece
A cross cut made with both a miter and a bevel angle. to make thinner pieces.
Cross Cut Resin
A cutting or shaping operation made across the grain or the A sticky, sap-based substance that has hardened.
width of the workpiece. Revolutions Per Minute (r/min.)
Cutter Head (planers and jointers) The number of turns completed by a spinning object in one
A rotating piece of adjustable blades. The cutter head minute.
removes material from the workpiece. Ripping or Rip Cut
Dado Cut A cutting operation along the length of the workpiece.
A non-through cut which produces a square-sided notch or Riving Knife/Spreader/Splitter (table saws)
trough in the workpiece (requires a special blade). A metal piece, slightly thinner than the blade, which helps
Featherboard keep the kerf open and also helps to prevent kickback.
A device used to help control the workpiece by guiding Saw Blade Path
it securely against the table or fence during any ripping The area over, under, behind, or in front of the blade. As it
operation. applies to the workpiece, that area which will be or has been
FPM or SPM cut by the blade.
Feet per minute (or strokes per minute), used in reference Set
to blade movement. The distance that the tip of the saw blade tooth is bent (or
Freehand set) outward from the face of the blade.
Performing a cut without the workpiece being guided by a Snipe (planers)
fence, miter gauge, or other aids. Depression made at either end of a workpiece by cutter
Gum blades when the workpiece is not properly supported.
A sticky, sap-based residue from wood products. Through Sawing
Heel Any cutting operation where the blade extends completely
Alignment of the blade to the fence. through the thickness of the workpiece.
Kerf Throw-Back
The material removed by the blade in a through cut or the The throwing back of a workpiece usually caused by the
slot produced by the blade in a non-through or partial cut. workpiece being dropped into the blade or being placed
Kickback inadvertently in contact with the blade.
A hazard that can occur when the blade binds or stalls, Workpiece or Material
throwing the workpiece back toward operator. The item on which the operation is being done.
Leading End Worktable
The end of the workpiece pushed into the tool first. Surface where the workpiece rests while performing a
Miter Cut cutting, drilling, planing, or sanding operation.
A cutting operation made with the workpiece at any angle
to the blade other than 90°.

9
 FEATURES
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Feed Rate ................................................................26 FPM Max Planing Height ...................................................... 6 in.
No Load Speed ................................... 10,000 r/min. (RPM) Max. Planing Width .................................................... 13 in.
Motor .................................................................. 2 HP Peak Max. Planing Depth ................................................... 1/8 in.
Input .........................................120 V, AC Only, 60Hz, 15 A Net Weight ............................................................. 53.5 lbs.

DEPTH
ADJUSTMENT
HANDLE

SWITCH
KEY

DUST
POWER PORT
SWITCH

WORK
TABLE

THICKNESS
SCALE

Fig. 2

10
 FEATURES
KNOW YOUR PLANER DUST COLLECTION HOOD
See Figure 2. The dust collection hood features a quick flip-up dumping door
Before attempting to use your portable planer, familiarize and a 2-1/4 in. dust port for connecting to a shop vac.
yourself with all the operating and safety requirements. HIGH-SPEED REVERSIBLE BLADES
15 AMP MOTOR Two reversible high-speed blades provide twice the cutting
Your planer has a powerful 15 amp motor with sufficient life.
power to handle tough cutting jobs. POWER SWITCH AND SWITCH KEY
AUTOMATIC FEED Your planer has an easy access power switch with a remov-
Infeed and outfeed rollers feed the wood through the able switch key.
planer. THICKNESS SCALE
CUTTER HEAD ASSEMBLY The thickness scale accurately displays the height of the
cutter blades to a maximum of 6 in.
The cutter head assembly controls the depth of cut.
DEPTH ADJUSTMENT HANDLE WORK TABLE
The work table supports your workpiece.
The depth adjustment handle is used to raise and lower the
cutter head assembly.

LOOSE PARTS

3 2
6

Fig. 3

Key No. Description Qty.

1 Depth Adjustment Handle ...................................................................................................................1
2 Screw ...................................................................................................................................................1
3 Switch Key ...........................................................................................................................................1
4 Magnetic Blade Wrench ......................................................................................................................1
5 Hex Key ...............................................................................................................................................1
6 Open-end Wrench ...............................................................................................................................1

11
 ASSEMBLY
UNPACKING
This product requires assembly. WARNING:
 Carefully remove the tool and any accessories from the If any parts are damaged or missing do not operate this
box. Place it on a level work surface. tool until the parts are replaced. Failure to heed this warn-
NOTE: This tool is heavy. To avoid back injury, lift with ing could result in serious personal injury.
your legs, not your back, and get help when needed.
 Inspect the tool carefully to make sure no breakage or
damage occurred during shipping.
WARNING:
 Do not discard the packing material until you have Do not attempt to modify this tool or create accesso-
carefully inspected the tool, identified all loose parts, ries not recommended for use with this tool. Any such
and satisfactorily operated the tool. alteration or modification is misuse and could result in a
hazardous condition leading to possible serious personal
 If any parts are damaged or missing, please call
injury.
1-800-525-2579 for assistance.

WARNING:
Do not connect to power supply until assembly is
complete. Failure to comply could result in accidental
starting and possible serious personal injury.

12
 ASSEMBLY
MOUNTING THE PLANER
See Figure 4.
If the planer is to be used in a permanent location, it is rec-
ommended you secure it to a workbench or to a mounting MOUNTING
BOARD
board that can be easily clamped to a workbench or other
stable surface.
When mounting the planer to a workbench, holes should be
drilled through the supporting surface of the workbench. WORKBENCH
When mounting the planer to a mounting board, the board
should be of sufficient size to avoid tipping while planer is
in use. Any good grade plywood or chipboard with a 3/4 in.
minimum thickness is recommended.
 Mark holes on surface where planer is to be mounted
using holes in planer base as a template for hole
pattern.
 Drill four holes through the mounting surface.
 Place planer on mounting surface, aligning holes in the
planer base with holes drilled in the mounting surface.
Fig. 4
 Insert four bolts (not included) and tighten securely with
lock washers and hex nuts (not included).
NOTE: All bolts should be inserted from the top. Install
the lock washers and hex nuts from the underside of the
mounting surface. If lag bolts are used, make sure they DEPTH
are long enough to go through holes in planer base and ADJUSTMENT
material the planer is being mounted to. If machine bolts HANDLE WITH
are used, make sure bolts are long enough to go through SCREW
holes in planer base, the material being mounted to, and
the lock washers and hex nuts.
Supporting surface where planer is mounted should be
examined carefully after mounting to insure that no move-
ment during use can result. If any tipping or walking is noted,
secure workbench or support surface before beginning plan-
ing operation.
INSTALLING DEPTH ADJUSTMENT HANDLE
See Figure 5.
 Locate the hex key, depth adjustment handle, and hex
head screw among the loose parts. Fig. 5
 Place the depth adjustment handle onto the depth gauge
shaft.
 Insert the screw through the hole in the handle and into
the threaded opening in the shaft.
 Using the hex key, rotate the screw clockwise to tighten
handle securely.

13
 OPERATION
THICKNESS PLANING
WARNING: Thickness planing sizes the workpiece to a desired thick-
Do not allow familiarity with tools to make you careless. ness while creating a smooth, level surface. The thickness of
Remember that a careless fraction of a second is suf- each cut will depend on the type of wood (hardwood versus
ficient to inflict serious injury. softwood), width of workpiece, straightness, dryness, and
grain composition. Whenever working with a new type of
wood, make thin test cuts on a scrap piece of wood first to
WARNING: determine potential problems with the workpiece.

Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side PLANING TIPS
shields when operating power tools. Failure to do so  Thickness planers work best if at least one side of the
could result in objects being thrown into your eyes re- workpiece has a flat surface. When both sides of a
sulting in possible serious injury. workpiece are rough, use a surface planer or jointer first
to define the initial flat surface. Plane one side of the
workpiece, then flip the workpiece and plane the surface
WARNING: of the reverse side.
Do not use any attachments or accessories not recom-  Always plane both sides of a workpiece to reach the
mended by the manufacturer of this tool. The use of at- desired thickness. This will leave the workpiece with
tachments or accessories not recommended can result uniform moisture to prevent warping during the drying
in serious personal injury. process.
 When one end of the workpiece is thicker than the
opposite end by more than 1/8 in., make several cuts with
the planer starting with light planing cuts first. Remember,
WARNING:
light cuts create a finer finish than heavier cuts.
The use of this planer on materials not recommended  Do not plane a workpiece less than 3/16 in. thick.
may damage the planer and may cause serious personal
injury.  Do not plane a workpiece less than 3/4 in. wide.
 Do not plane a workpiece shorter than 14 in. long as this
will cause kickback.
WARNING:  Do not plane more than one workpiece at a time.
Never plane a workpiece with loose knots or foreign ob-  Do not lower the cutter head assembly lower than
jects. Do not plane workpieces that are severely bowed, 3/16 in.
twisted, or knotted. Cutter blades can dull, chip, or break, � Do not use the planer set at the maximum depth of cut
causing possible serious personal injury. (1/8 in.) and at full width of cut (13 in.). Continuous use
at maximum cutting capacity will damage the motor.
 Worn cutter blades will affect cutting accuracy. Planing
WARNING: with dull or nicked cutter blades may produce ridges or
Do not force feed the workpiece through the machine. rough workpiece surfaces.
Let the planer apply the proper feed rate.  Gum and pitch on the cutter blades will cause them to
wear prematurely. Using a gum and pitch remover to keep
the cutter blades clean will prolong their wear.
APPLICATIONS
 Refer to the Maintenance section of this operator’s
You may use this tool for the purpose listed below: manual for instructions on how to remove and replace
 Planing the surface of solid wood and wood products or turn the cutter blades.
NOTE: Cutter blades are double-edged and can be turned
once to the opposite, unused edge before replacement
is required. Cutter blades must ALWAYS be replaced as
a set.

14
 OPERATION
AVOIDING SNIPE POWER SWITCH
Snipes, or depressions made at either end of a workpiece See Figure 6.
by cutter blades, can occur when the board is not properly The planer is equipped with a power switch that has a built-in
supported. Although snipe may be barely noticeable, it is locking feature. This feature is intended to prevent unauthor-
important to keep the workpiece parallel and flat with the ized and possible hazardous use by children and others.
planer table to minimize snipe. Butting workpieces end-to- TO TURN THE PLANER ON:
end as they are fed through the planer will minimize the
 With the switch key inserted into the switch, lift the switch
problem, especially for shorter pieces, because it provides
to turn ON ( l ).
a more stable feed.
TO TURN THE PLANER OFF:
For workpieces longer than 48 in., greater care must be
taken to reduce the problem because the additional length  With the switch key inserted into the switch, push the
means more of the total weight is unsupported by the planer switch down to turn OFF ( O ).
table and rollers, causing the shifting weight to work against TO LOCK THE PLANER:
keeping the stock flat.  Place the switch in the OFF ( O ) position.
To remove snipe from a finished workpiece, cut off the end  Remove the switch key from the switch and store in a
of the workpiece where snipe is noticeable. secure location.
WARPED WOOD
Little or no warpage is the ideal condition for planing a WARNING:
workpiece. Simply turn the workpiece over and plane it to
the desired thickness. Otherwise, plane the top flat first, turn Always remove the switch key when the tool is not in
the workpiece and plane the bottom half. use and keep it in a safe place. In the event of a power
failure, turn the switch OFF ( O ) and remove the key. This
For a board that is cupped or bowed across its width, the best action will prevent the tool from accidentally starting when
method is to rip the board lengthwise down the middle and power returns.
plane the pieces separately. This method eliminates much
of the waste in planing cupped or bowed workpieces.
The only way to remove the bow from a workpiece that is WARNING:
cupped or bowed down its length is to use a jointer.
Always make sure the workpiece is not in contact with
Avoid using severely warped wood as it can jam the planer.
the blade before operating the switch to start the tool.
If it must be used, rip it in half before planing to help mini-
Failure to heed this warning may cause the workpiece to
mize the possibility of jamming. If jamming does occur, turn
be kicked back toward the operator and result in serious
the switch off and unplug the planer immediately. Raise the
personal injury.
cutter head assembly high enough to remove the workpiece
easily. Carefully check to make sure no damage to the tool
has occurred before making the next planing pass.
Always feed the workpiece in the direction of the grain. This
allows the cutter blades to sever the wood fibers instead of SWITCH
tearing them. Feeding against the grain can also cause the KEY
cutter blades to chip the workpiece.

Fig. 6

15
 OPERATION
ADJUSTING THE PLANING DEPTH
See Figure 7.
DEPTH
The depth adjustment knob is used to set the amount of wood ADJUSTMENT
being removed in a planing pass. HANDLE
TO ADJUST THE PLANING DEPTH: DEPTH
 Rotate the depth adjustment handle counterclockwise ADJUSTING
to lower the cutter head to the current depth of your KNOB
workpiece.
 Turn the depth adjusting knob until the zero on the knob
aligns with the groove on the handle.
 Select the amount to be removed by rotating the depth
adjustment handle. Each full revolution of the handle will SCALE
raise or lower the cutter head 1/16 in. ADJUSTMENT
NOTE: Never make a planing cut deeper than 1/8 in. for
material up to 6 in. wide or 1/16 in. for material between Fig. 7
6 in. and 13 in. wide.
NOTE: Do not continuously use the planer at the maxi-
mum depth of cut (1/8 in.) as it will damage the motor.
PLANING
See Figure 8.
Use scrap wood for your first planing attempt. Once you have
planed the wood, check all measurements for accuracy. If
measurements are not exact, see Adjustments section for
further instructions.
Before each use of the planer, check for loose fasteners,
fittings, or hardware; be sure the dust hood is securely
mounted; and ensure the blade cutter rotates freely. Lower
the cutter head assembly to approximately 1 in. above the CEN
planer table surface. Without putting any load on the planer, T
test the motor by turning the planer on and allowing it to
LIN ER
E
reach full speed. If the planer sounds excessively loud or
has excessive vibration, turn off the machine immediately
and check again for any loose hardware, retightening any
you may find.

WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury, do not stand directly
in line with the front or rear of the planer. If an object is Fig. 8
thrown from the planer, it will travel in this direction.

 Stand to one side of the planer infeed area.  Push slightly on the board and allow the automatic feed
 Turn switch ON ( l ). to move the board through the planer.
 Lift the work to the table by grasping the edges of the  Release the board to allow the automatic feed to function
board at approximately the middle of the length. Rest the properly. Do not push or pull on the workpiece.
board end on the feed table and direct the board into the  Move to one side at the rear of the planer and receive
planer. the planed lumber by grasping it in the same manner as
NOTE: Boards longer than 24 in. should have additional it was fed. Do not grasp any portion of the board which
support from free-standing material stands. has not gone past the outfeed area of the table.

16
 ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING:
Before performing any adjustment, make sure the tool is
unplugged from the power supply. Failure to heed this
warning could result in serious personal injury.

THICKNESS SCALE ADJUSTMENT

See Figure 9.
The thickness scale, located on the right front of the planer,
shows the depth of the finished workpiece. Inaccurate cuts
can be prevented by routinely checking the alignment of the
thickness scale.
 Plane a scrap piece of wood and measure the depth of
the finished piece.
 If properly adjusted, the depth of the finished piece should
be the same as indicated on the thickness scale.
 If out of adjustment, loosen the two screws holding the
scale indicator and adjust the thickness indicator to the Fig. 9
correct setting.
 Retighten screws securely.
BLADE ADJUSTMENT THUMB
See Figures 10 - 11. SCREWS
Tiny nicks may appear on the blades as a result of picking
up sand or other particles on a workpiece and then run-
ning the workpiece through the planer. Slight adjustments
can be made to one or both blades to offset such planing
imperfections.
 Unplug the planer and remove the switch key.
 Lower the cutter head assembly.
 Remove the two thumb screws holding the dust hood in
place; remove hood and set aside.
 Rotate the cutter head, which is most easily accomplished
from beneath the cutter head assembly.
• Using the planer table as a mirror, touch the threaded
spindle where it meets the planer table.
• Carefully move your fingers up the spindle until you
touch the drive belt.
• Turn the drive belt with your fingers until the cutter
head locks in place.
Fig. 10

WARNING:
SLIDE
To avoid injury, NEVER rotate the cutter head by hand. BLADE

 Using the open-end wrench, loosen the blade locking

bolts that secure the blade in the cutter head.
 Push the notched end of the cutter blade on either the
left or right side to shift the blade as desired. The blade
can be shifted up to 3/64 in.
 Retighten the blade locking bolts securely.
 Replace dust hood; reinstall thumb screws to secure. LOOSEN Fig. 11
17
 MAINTENANCE
BLADE REPLACEMENT
WARNING: See Figure 12.
When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. The planer is equipped with two double-edged blades
Use of any other parts may create a hazard or cause (replacement part number AC8630) attached to a rotating
product damage. cutter head. Worn blades will affect cutting accuracy and
may produce ridges on the workpiece.
TO REPLACE:
WARNING:  Unplug the planer and remove the switch key.
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side  Lower the cutter head assembly.
shields during power tool operation or when blowing  Remove the two thumb screws holding the dust hood in
dust. If operation is dusty, also wear a dust mask. place; remove dust hood and set aside.
NOTE: With the dust hood removed, the cutter head lock
will engage when the head is rotated. Do not operate the
WARNING: planer without the dust hood in place or the planer will
be damaged.
To prevent accidental starting that could cause possible
serious personal injury, turn off the tool, remove the  Rotate the cutter head until the lock engages. This will
switch key, and unplug the planer before performing correctly position one of the blades for removal.
any maintenance or adjustment. NOTE: Rotating the cutter head is accomplished from
beneath the cutter head assembly. Using the planer table
GENERAL MAINTENANCE as a mirror, touch the threaded spindle on the right side
of the planer where it attaches to the planer table. Care-
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most fully move your fingers up until you touch the drive belt.
plastics are susceptible to damage from various types of Turn the drive belt with your fingers until the cutter head
commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. Use locks into place.
clean cloths to remove dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.

WARNING:
WARNING: To avoid injury, never rotate the cutter head by hand.
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 CUTTER HEAD
destroy plastic which may result in serious personal LOCK
injury.

LUBRICATION
Periodically, check all moving parts (spindle, roller surfaces,
handles, etc.) to ensure they are clean and well lubricated. A
light film of oil wiped on the face of the cutter blades will keep
them rust-free. All of the bearings in this tool are lubricated
with a sufficient amount of high grade lubricant for the life 2.
of the unit under normal operating conditions. No further
lubrication is required.
1.
MOTOR/ELECTRICAL
The universal motor is easy to maintain but must be kept
clean. Do not allow water, oil or sawdust to accumulate on
or in it. The sealed bearings are permanently lubricated and
need no further attention.

Fig. 12

18
 MAINTENANCE
 Using the open-end wrench, carefully loosen the blade
locking screws ( 1 ).
 Using the notched end of the magnetic blade wrench,
remove the blade from the cutter head by hooking the
notch over the end of the blade and pulling straight out.
Use the magnet on the other end of the tool to help re-
move the blade from the planer ( 2 ).
 If you are changing to the second edge of the blade, rotate
the blade “end for end” keeping the same flat side down.
This will correctly position the blade to reinstall.
NOTE: Blades should be cleaned of gum and pitch before
reinstalling.
 If you are installing a new set of cutter blades, lightly oil
each blade before installing.
 Place blade into the opening on the cutter head and push
in firmly to seat. Visually check that the blade edge is
parallel to the cutter head slot. BRUSH
 Retighten the blade locking screws securely.
BRUSH CAP Fig. 13
 Depress the cutter lock lever and begin to rotate the cut-
ter head to the next blade. Release the lock lever once
the cutter head begins to rotate and continue to rotate CLEANING
until the lock engages and the second blade is in correct Sawdust buildup and other debris can cause the tool to
position for removal. plane inaccurately. Periodic cleaning and waxing is needed
 Replace second blade using the same procedures as for accurate, precision planing.
outlined above. Do not allow sawdust to accumulate on the planer. Clean
 Replace the dust hood and reinstall thumb screws to the dust hood after each use.
secure.
DANGER:
BRUSH REPLACEMENT
See Figure 13. Rotating blades under dust hood. In order to avoid
Externally accessible brush assemblies are located at the personal injury, keep fingers away.
right front and the left rear of the planer. These brushes
Moving parts should be cleaned regularly with penetrating
should be inspected every 10 to 15 operating hours for wear.
oil and lubricated with a light coating of medium-weight
Replace both brushes when either brush has less than 1/4 in.
machine oil.
of carbon remaining.
Paste wax should be applied to the planing table surface to
NOTE: The dust hood may be removed for easier access
ease the movement of workpieces across it, but be careful
when removing the rear brush cap.
not to use so much that it will be absorbed into the wood
 Unplug planer and remove the switch key. and interfere with staining.
 Using a flat-head screwdriver, unscrew the brush cap. Check feed rollers after each use for resin buildup, because
The brush assembly is spring-loaded and will pop out feed rollers must be clean to be effective. If buildup occurs,
when you remove the cap. use a mild, nonflammable tar and pitch remover.
 Remove the brush assembly (brush and spring) and
inspect for wear. If less than 1/4 in. of carbon remains
on brush, replace both brush assemblies. Never replace
one side without replacing the other.
 Install new brush assembly, if required, or reinstall old
brush assembly.
 Replace cap and tighten to secure.

19
 TROUBLESHOOTING

Problem Possible Cause Solution

Snipe (depressions at ends of Dull cutter blades Replace or turn cutter blades.
workpiece) Incorrect butted stock Butt pieces end-to-end as they are
fed into planer.
Unit not securely mounted Tighten lag bolts.

Torn grain Too deep a blade setting Reduce depth of cut.

Workpiece being fed against grain Feed other end of board first.
Dull cutter blades Replace or turn cutter blades.

Fuzzy/rough grain High wood moisture content Dry wood before planing.
Dull cutter blades Replace or turn cutter blades.
Too deep a blade setting Reduce depth of cut.
Incorrect feeding speed Check for adequate power supply.
Check cord and plug for damage.
Check condition of motor brushes.

Uneven depth of cut Cutter head assembly not level with Adjust elevation screws.
planer surface
Unstable roller spring pressure Have service performed by an
authorized service center.
Feed roller worn unevenly Have service performed by an
authorized service center.

Board thickness does not match Depth scale incorrectly set Adjust depth scale.
depth scale indicator Dirty planing table Clean and wax planing table.

Cutter head height difficult to Dirty spindle Clean and lubricate spindle.
adjust Worn chain Have service performed by an
authorized service center.

Will not start Not plugged in Check power source.

Blown circuit Replace fuse, reset breaker, or call
electrician.
Motor failure Have service performed by an
authorized service center.
Loose wire Have service performed by an
authorized service center.
ON/OFF switch malfunction Have service performed by an
authorized service center.

Interrupted operation Unit overloaded Reduce load.

Circuit overloaded Operate on circuit separate from
other appliances or motors or con-
nect to circuit with adequate amp
rating.

20
NOTES

21
 OPERATOR’S MANUAL
13 in. PORTABLE PLANER
AP1301

• SERVICE
Now that you have purchased your tool, should a need ever exist for repair parts or service,
simply contact your nearest Authorized Service Center. Be sure to provide all pertinent
facts when you call or visit. Please call 1-800-525-2579 for your nearest Authorized
Service Center. You can also check our web site at www.ryobitools.com for a 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:

• MODEL NUMBER AP1301

• SERIAL NUMBER

Ryobi® is a registered trademark of Ryobi® Limited used under license.

ONE WORLD TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

1428 Pearman Dairy Road, Anderson, SC 29625
Phone 1-800-525-2579
www.ryobitools.com

983000-828
9-10-07 (REV:03)
22