Alpha Professional Tools VSP-120 User manual

Model No.: VSP-120
Alpha®Variable
Speed Wet Polisher
Instruction Manual
MANUAL
WARNING:To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand instruction manual!
103 Bauer Drive, Oakland, NJ 07436 • 800-648-7229 • Fax: [phone]
www.alpha-tools.com
Version 5

ii
VSP-120 Overview ..............................................................................................3
Specifications...........................................................................................3
Accessories..............................................................................................4
Introduction..........................................................................................................5
About Symbols.........................................................................................5
General Safety Rules .........................................................................................6
Work Area ................................................................................................6
Electrical Safety .......................................................................................6
Personal Safety........................................................................................6
Tool Use and Care ...................................................................................7
Service.....................................................................................................7
Specific Safety Rules...............................................................................8
Use Proper Extension Cords ...................................................................9
Grounding Instructions.............................................................................9
Additional Precautions for using the VSP-120.......................................10
Laws and Regulations Of Noise Levels ................................................. 11
VSP-120 Variable Speed Wet Polisher Operation.............................................12
Main Connection....................................................................................12
Switching On and Off.............................................................................12
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) .................................................13
Testing In-line GFCI Unit........................................................................14
Variable Speed Adjustment....................................................................14
Speed Pot Feedback Sensor.................................................................15
Water Control Valve ...............................................................................15
Side Handle Installation .........................................................................16
Customizing Splash Guard ....................................................................17
Splash Guard Installation.......................................................................18
Profiler and other approved Spindle Attachments..................................19
Water-Feed Attachment .........................................................................19
Maintenance......................................................................................................20
Daily.......................................................................................................20
Periodic..................................................................................................20
Bearings and gears................................................................................20
Carbon Brush Replacement...................................................................21
Rear Cover Removal .............................................................................22
Alpha® VSP-120 Schematic .............................................................................27
Alpha® VSP-120 Parts List ...............................................................................28
Services and Warranty Information ...................................................................30
Loaner Program.................................................................................................30
Need More Information......................................................................................30
Alpha® Tool Repair Service...............................................................................31
Warranty ............................................................................................................31
Appendix A............................................................................................................ i
TABLE OF CONTENTS

1
VSP-120 OVERVIEW
SPECIFICATIONS
Working Power Supply.........................................................Single-phaseAC, 50/60 Hz
Voltage..................................................................................120V
Plug Type..............................................................................A(120V)
Amperage.............................................................................7A
Wattage................................................................................800W
Motor....................................................................................Single-phase
No Load................................................................................500~2800 RPM
Polishing Disc Size...............................................................4”
Cord......................................................................................10’ single-phase cable
Weight..................................................................................7.3 Lbs
Machine/Cord/GFCI/Water-Line
Splash Guard
Speed Adjuster
Power Switch
In-line GFCI
Garden Hose
Adapter
Water Line
Center Water Feed
“C” Handle
Water Valve
Splash Guard

2
ACCESSORIES
COMPONENTS:
1. Side Handle (Part No. 210074)
2. Wrench (Part No. 210073)
3. Band Clamp (Part No. 210088)
4. Splash Guard (Part No. 210089)
5. Spare Set of Carbon Brushes (Part No. 210048)
Figure-2




3
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the Alpha® Wet Polisher. Please read this instruction
manual thoroughly to ensure safety and correct use of the polisher. Keep this manual
in a place where operators can access it easily whenever necessary.
ABOUT THE SYMBOLS
According to the hazard level, all safety notes in this manual are classified into
“DANGER”, “WARNING”, and “CAUTION”.
DANGER! Death or serious personal injury is imminent when handling
this polisher incorrectly.
WARNING! There is a possibility of death or serious personal injury when
handling this polisher incorrectly.
CAUTION! There is a possibility of personal injury or property damage when
handling this polisher incorrectly.
NOTE: In some situations, failing to observe WARNING notes could result in d e
a t h o r serious personal injury. Be sure to read and observe the safety notes to
ensure safety and correct
use of the polisher.
ELECTRICAL SYMBOLS
The following show the symbols used for tool.
V Volts
A Amperes
W Watts
Hz Hertz
~ or a.c. Alternating Current
n0 No load speed
…/min Revolution or reciprocation per minute
kg Kilograms
mm Millimeters
lbs Pounds
Protective Earth

4
CAUTION
The following are important notes for products, operation, and maintenance
applicable to this polisher.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WORK AREA
• Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered benches and dark areas
invite accidents.
• Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the
presenceofflammableliquids,gases,ordust. Power tools may create
sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
• Keepbystanders,children,andvisitorsawaywhileoperatingapower
tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
• Groundedtoolsmustbepluggedintoanoutletproperlyinstalledand
groundedinaccordancewithallcodesandordinances.Never remove the
grounding prong or modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adaptor plugs.
Check with a qualified electrician if you are in doubt as to whether the outlet is
properly grounded. If the tools should electrically malfunction or break down
grounding provides a low resistance path to carry electricity away from the user.
• Avoidbodycontactwithgroundedsurfaces,suchaspipes,radiators,
ranges,andrefrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your
body is grounded. Don’t expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water
entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
• Donotabusethecord. Never use the cord to carry the tools or pull the plug
from an outlet. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.
Replace damaged cords immediately. Damaged cords increase the risk of
electric shock.
• Whenoperating a power tool outside,use anoutdoor extensioncord
marked “W-A” or “W”. These cords are rated for outdoor use and reduce
the risk of electric shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
• Stay 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.

5
• Dress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 or drawn into air vents.
• Avoidaccidentalstarting. Be sure switch is off before plugging in. Carrying
tools with your finger on the switch or plugging in tools that have the switch
on, invites accidents.
• Remove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.
• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Proper footing
and balance enables better control of the tool in unexpected situations. Do
not use on a ladder or unstable support.
• Usesafetyequipment. Always wear eye protection. Dust mask, nonskid
safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection must be used for appropriate
conditions.
•
TOOL USE AND CARE
• Use clamps or other practical way to secure and support the workpiece to
astableplatform. Holding the work by hand or against your body is unstable
and may lead to loss of control.
• Do 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.
• Do not use tool if switch does not turn it on or off. Any tool that cannot be
controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
• Disconnecttheplugfrompowersourcebeforemakinganyadjustments,
changingaccessories,orstoringthetool. Such preventive safety measures
reduce the risk of starting the tool accidentally.
• Store idle tools out of the reach of children and other untrained persons.
Tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
• Maintain tools with care. Keep tools sharp and clean for better and safer
performance. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.
Inspect the electrical cord periodically and if damaged, have it repaired by
authorized service facility. Inspect extension cords periodically and replace if
damaged. Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
• Checkfordamagedparts. Before using the tool each day, 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, 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 unless otherwise indicated
elsewhere in this instruction manual. Have defective switches replaced by
authorized service center. Do not use the tool if it cannot be turned on and
off by the switch.

6
• Useonlyaccessoriesthatarerecommendedbythemanufacturerforyour
model. Accessories that may be suitable for one tool, may become hazardous
when used on another tool.
SERVICE
1. Tool service must be performed only by qualified repair personnel.
Service or maintenance performed by unqualified personnel could result in
a risk of injury.
2. When servicing a tool, use only identical replacement parts. Follow
instructions in the Maintenance section of this manual. Use of unauthorized
part or failure to follow Maintenance Instructions may create a risk of electric
shock or injury.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
1. Accessoriesmustberatedforatleastthespeedrecommendedonthe
toolwarninglabel. Wheels and other accessories running over rated speed
can fly apart and cause injury.
2. 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.
3. Know your power tool. Read operator`s manual carefully. Learn its
application 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.
4. Alwayswearsafetyglasseswithsideshields. Everyday eye-glasses have
only impact resistant lenses; they are NOT safety glasses.
5. Protectyourlungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the operation is dusty.
6. Protectyourhearing. Wear hearing protection during extended periods of
operation.
7. Inspecttool cordsperiodicallyand ifdamaged,have repaired atyour
nearestFactoryServiceCenterorotherAuthorizedServiceOrganization.
Constantly stay aware of cord location.
8. 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.
9. Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts, 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.

7
10. Donotabusecord. Never carry the tool by the cord or yank it to disconnect
it from the receptacle. Keep cord away from heat, oil, and sharp edges.
Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock or fire.
11. 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. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting
in loss of power and overheating.
12. Inspect for and remove all foreign objects from workpiece before
polishing. Follow this rule will reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
13. Drugs,alcohol,medication,Donotoperatetoolwhileundertheinfluence
ofdrugs,alcohol,oranymedication. Follow this rule will reduce the risk of
electric shock, fire, or serious personal injury.
14. Keephandsawayfrompolishingarea. Follow this rule will reduce the risk
of cuts, scrapes, or serious personal injury.
15. GroundFaultCircuitInterrupter(GFCI)protectionshouldbeprovided
onthecircuitoroutlettobeusedforthetool. Receptacles are available
having built-in GFCI protection and may be used for this measure of safety.
16. Save these instruction. 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.
USE PROPER EXTENSION CORDS
Use only three-wire extension cords that have three-prong grounding-type plugs
and three-pole receptacles that accept the tool’s plug. Make sure your extension
cord is in good condition. Replace or repair damaged or worn cord immediately.
When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry the
current your product will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage
resulting in loss of power and overheating. Below table shows the correct size to
use depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the
next heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord.
Ampere Rating Total length of cord in feet (120V )
25ft 50ft 100ft
More Than Not More Than AWG
0 6 18 16 16
610 18 16 14
10 12 16 16 14
12 16 14 12 Not Recommended

8
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This tool should be grounded while in use to protect the operator from electric shock.
The tool is equipped with a three-conductor cord and three-prong grounding type
plug to fit the proper grounding type receptacle. The green (or green and yellow)
conductor in the cord is the grounding wire. Never connect the green (or green and
yellow) wire to a live terminal.
ADDITIONAL PRECAUTIONS FOR USING THE VSP-120
In addition to the general safety notes described on the preceding pages, please
read and observe the following precautionary notes before using the polisher.
DANGER!
1. Checktheworkingvoltage.
Be sure the voltage available at power outlet matches specified voltage on
the name- plate. If the polisher is used with higher voltage than specified, the
motor will burnout. Any attempts to do so may damage the polisher or cause
an accident or injury.
2. Inspectallpolishingdiscs.
Never use cracked, chipped or damaged polishing discs.
3. Holdthepolishertightlyatstart-up.
Failure to do so may cause an injury due to high impact at initial start up.
4. Stopusingthepolisherimmediatelywhennoticinganymalfunctionsor
anysuspiciousabnormalnoises.
Turn the power switch OFF and contact your dealer or Alpha Professional
Tools® for repair.
5. Handle the polisher with care.
If you accidentally drop the polisher, do not use it until checking that it is not
cracked, deformed, or damaged in any way.
6. Donotpourwateroranyliquidsontoorinsidethepolisher.
It may cause electric shocks.
7. Do not hold the polisher in a vice.
8. Donottouchanyrotatingparts.
Never touch the polishing disc of the polisher during operation with your
hands.

9
9. Donotleavethediscwhilespinningonthebench,floororsurfaceof
your workpiece.
It may cause an accident or injury.
10. Attachthebackerpadandpolishingdisccorrectlybyfollowingthe
procedure in this instruction manual.
Attaching the polishing discs incorrectly may cause an accident.
11. Observeanysuspiciousabnormalnoiseswhenapolishingdiscis
attachedforthefirsttimeandpolisheristurnedON.
It may cause bodily injury if the polishing disc flies off.
12. Donottouchthepolishingdiscwhilespinning.
The polishing disc spins very fast and you may hurt yourself.
13. Becarefulofyoursurroundingswhenworkinginhighplaces.
When working in high places, make sure there are no people below. Do not
trap the power supply cord on anything or drop the polisher or any materials,
otherwise, It may cause an accident.
LAWS AND REGULATIONS OF NOISE LEVELS
Please observe local laws and regulations regarding noise level in order to avoid
disturbing surrounding areas. Install a soundproof wall if required to comply with
the local laws and regulations.

10
VSP-120 VARIABLE SPEED WET POLISHER OPERATION
Always be sure that the tool is switched off and unplugged before adjusting or
checking function on tool.
MAIN CONNECTION
Connect only to single-phase AC current supply and only to the main voltage
specified on the rating plate.
SWITCHING ON AND OFF
Before plugging in the tool, always check the working voltage be sure that the voltage
specified is on the name plate. Before plugging in the tool, always check to see
that the slide switch actuates properly and returns to the “OFF” position when the
rear of the slide switch is depressed.
Switchingon:
Switch can be locked in “ ON” position for ease
of operator comfort during extended use. Apply
caution when locking tool in “ON” position and
maintain firm grasp on tool. Push power switch
to the forward position until it locks into position
as shown in Figure 3.
Switchingoff:
Push down on power switch to release to the
rear position as shown in Figure 4.
DANGER!
DANGER!
Figure-3
ON POSITION
OFF POSITION
Figure-4

11
GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI)
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter is built in-line with the power supply cord to
protect the operator from electric shock.
1. GFCI Information.
– Alpha® Wet Polisher is provided with an in-line GFCI as a standard accessory
for your safety, and to prevent possible electric shocks. It is strongly advised
to test the GFCI on a regular basis.
Neverattachadamagedextensioncordtothepolisher.
NOTE: Use the appropriate extension cord, see table on page 7.
When the GFCI trips, this could be the result of water entering the polisher housing.
Turn OFF the power switch, disconnect polisher from power supply and blow dry
air inside the motor cover through the air vents.
Re-connect power supply and press the GFCI reset button. The polisher is ready
to start working once the reset button is pressed down.
Always check that the GFCI unit is working correctly (reset, test, and reset) before
using this tool. Do not use the tool if the GFCI is not working correctly. Do not bypass
the GFCI if this condition occurs, a real shock hazard may exist.
If the GFCI fails to trip when the test button is pressed, or fails to reset, the device
is defective and should replaced.
The GFCI is a safety device, do not use as an on/off switch.
The GFCI on the tool will not protect you if you cut into another current carrying
conductor.
Do not use where water may enter GFCI case.
DANGER!
CAUTION!
DANGER!
WARNING!
CAUTION!

12
TESTING IN-LINE GFCI UNIT (Before Each Use Of The Polisher)
• Connect polisher to a single phase AC power supply.
• Verify that the indicator lens shows red (indicating output voltage).
• Press the test button to verify that the red in the indicator lens disappears.
• Press the reset button to verify the red indicator is visible.
• The GFCI is now ready for use.
DO NOT USE IF ABOVE TEST FAILS!
VARIABLE SPEED ADJUSTMENT
This polisher is equipped with a Variable Speed control that will allow the spindle
speed to be adjusted from 500 RPM to 2800
RPM. Speed adjustment is controlled by rotation
of the wheel as shown in the Figure 4.
NOTE- Wheel numbers are for reference point
of motor speed (#1 is 500 RPM and #6 is 2800
RPM).
Adjust the RPM of the tool to match the
recommended RPM of the product being used.
WARNING!
Indicator viewing lens.
RED lens shows power to
polisher.
CLEAR lens shows no power
to polisher.
RESET BUTTON
TEST BUTTON
Figure-5 Figure-6
INCREASE SPEED
DECREASE SPEED
Figure-7

13
SPEED POT FEEDBACK SENSOR
This polisher is equipped with a Closed Loop Feedback sensor that is attached to
the speed pot. When a load is applied to the tool, the sensor will re-adjust the RPM
to maintain a constant speed.
WATER CONTROL VALVE
Adjust the water flow to wet the stone and remove waste, excessive spray and
mist will get inside the tool and cause premature failure of the tool and/or cause
the GFCI to trip.
This polisher is equipped with a center water-feed system. Water flow to the spindle
shower bolt can be controlled by throttling the valve stem as seen in Figure 8, Figure
9 and Figure 10.
CAUTION!
Water Valve in
closed position Water Valve in
half open position
Water Valve in full open position
Figure-8 Figure-9
Figure-10

14
SIDE HANDLE INSTALLATION
During the use of Alpha® Core Bits and Profilers, use of the center handle is
recommended. The center handle will allow the operator to have better control and
ease of operation during these applications.
To switch from center handle to side handle, follow the steps below:
CAUTION!
Figure-12
Figure-13
Figure-14
Remove both side crews from
center handle.
Pull handle forward and clear
of polisher.
Thread the sidehandle into
either the left or right side of
the polisher, then thread one
screw into the opposite side
of the handle.

15
CUSTOMIZING THE SPLASH
GUARD
Thesplashguardcanbecuttodifferent
heights according to the application to
be performed.
Cutting:  Using a pair of scissors or
other cutting instrments, choose the
desired height according to the
application to be performed adn
cut along the grooved cut lines,
as shown in Figure-15
RECOMMENDED HEIGHTS:
Profiling: When using Alpha®
Prolers the splash guard can be
used at its full height.
Polishing: When polishing, you may cut the
splash guard at one of the grooved lines for
easier access to the workpiece.
Grooved Cut Lines
Splash Guard cut to
accomodate polishing
application
Full Height
Figure-16
Figure-17
Figure-15

16
SPLASH GUARD INSTALLATION
The splash guard should be used to prevent the
water and dust from going inside the tool. Failure to
do so can shorten the life of your tool and void the
limited warranty.
1. Install the rubber splash guard
into the tool so that the lip on
the splash guard fits into the
groove on the tool and the
cutout is around the water
fitting.
2. Open the band clamp
completely and wrap around
the splash guard under the
water fitting.
3. Tighten the clamp until snug.
CAUTION!
Groove
Figure-18
Figure-19
Figure-20

17
PROFILER AND OTHER APPROVED SPINDLE ATTACHMENTS
Do not leave threaded accessories on the spindle of the tool for extended periods
of time, as this may result in making it difficult to remove these accessories.
The VSP-120 polisher has a 5/8”-11 center water-feed spindle thread.
To attach a profiler wheel or other
approved spindle attachments, follow
the steps below:
Screw the attachment onto the spindle
by hand.
Tighten with supplied wrench.
NOTE:Ifattachmentdoes not thread
in freely, check threads on both
surfaces for damage or dirt. Clean,
repairorreplaceasneededtoensure
a safe and tight connec- tion to the
polisher.
WATER-FEED ATTACHMENT
Attach the polisher water-line fitting to any garden hose connection.
OPERATION
WARNING!
To reduce the risk of electric shock, check the tool’s water supply system to ensure
there is no damage to the seals or hoses. A damaged water supply system may
result in abnormal water flow to the tool which could be dangerous.
CAUTION!
Figure-21
Figure-22

18
Always wear safety goggles or a face shield during operation. Never switch on the
tool when it is in contact with the workpiece, it may cause an injury to operator.
Never run the tool without properly installed accessories.
Make sure that the water valve is closed. Connect the garden hose adapter to the
water source. Make sure that water comes out when the water valve is opened.
Hold the tool firmly. Turn the tool on and begin your application. Apply slight pressure
only. Excessive pressure will result in poor performance and premature wear.
MAINTENANCE
CAUTION!
Always be sure that the tool is switched off and unplugged before attempting to
perform inspection or maintenance.
DAILY
1. Before daily start-up inspect tool, power cord, GFCI, and backer pad or other
spindle attachments.
2. If damage has occurred, repair affected areas before use.
3. Connect the tool to the correct power source and test the Ground Fault Circuit
Inter- rupter (GFCI) before using the tool. Push the RESET button and confirm
that the red light is on, push the TEST button and confirm that the red run light
is off and push the RESET button to use the tool.
4. Turn the unit on and run in a no-load condition to ensure that backer pad or
other spindle attachment is balanced.
5. After daily use of the tool, clean and blow off the exterior of tool and around the
rear air intake vents to remove any standing water or dust. Failure to do this
will shorten the life of your tool, and could void your warranty.
PERIODIC
WARNING!
Preventive maintenance preformed by unauthorized personnel may result in
misplacing of internal wires and/or components which voids the warranty and could
cause serious hazards. We recommend that tool service and repairs not covered
in the manual be preformed by an Alpha® Repair Center.
CAUTION!