Yep you guessed it .... cut the cable :-(

Need to get inside case for proper repair. Cannot get it apart ... removed 5 obvious screws plus handle and 1 screw under handle but case will still not separate at blade end.
Anyone know what is stopping it and how to get it apart please?

Michael, October 2015

My problem turned out to be the blades were jammed. Once I had loosened the (star-shaped) screws, I could rotate the drum. NB the teeth on the drum were worn, so I may have to find replacements....

Mikest, May 2021

I know this was posted a while ago, but just managed to disassemble this hedge trimmer.

There two further screws hidden under the black blade cover.

Remove all of the screws in the black blade cover and rotate the blade section 90 degrees to allow the screw side of the black cover to pass the blade rotation button. You may just need to gently tease the housing apart. As it opens you will see the drive spindle and cog wheel and the green switch and trigger section will separate from the blade section. You will see the hidden screws.

Be careful to note the position of the triggers for reassembly. Also note the position of the collar surrounding the drive spindle, it has two flat sided.

Also be careful when removing the trigger switch as it is mounted on two plastic pillars which can be easily broken.

Hope this help.

Richard, April 2017

When this happens to me it's usually down to a screw I had not noticed.

If you can separate the two halves slightly with a small screwdriver then the place where they remain close will point you towards where the rogue screw(s) is.

Miles Tools & Machinery site has exploded diagrams of some Qualcast Trimmers - might help you.

mtmc.co.uk/Spare-Parts

Good Luck..., October 2015