Benchmark 1262-301 User manual

WEAR CSA APPROVED
EYE PROTECTION
WEAR EAR
PROTECTION
WEAR A
FACE MASK
5 year limited warranty on tool
1/4 SHEET
PALM SANDER
JD2446U

1
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
BENCHMARK 2A 1/4 SHEET SANDER
Rating: 120V, 60Hz, AC
Amperes: 2 Amp
Speed: 14,000 OPM (no load)
Sanding pad size: 1/4 sheet
Weight: 2.6 lb (1.2 kg)
NEED ASSISTANCE?
Call us on our toll-free customer support line:
1-866-349-8665 (Monday through Friday 9am – 5pm Eastern Standard Time)
• Technical questions
• Replacement parts
• Parts missing from package

1262-301
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Product Specifications .................................................................................. 1
Table of Contents .......................................................................................... 2
General Safety Warnings ............................................................................... 3
Power Tool Safety ....................................................................................... 4-5
Specific Safety Rules ..................................................................................... 6
Guidelines for Extension Cords ...................................................................... 7
Symbols ........................................................................................................ 8
Know your 2A 1/4 Sheet Sander .................................................................... 9
Assembly and Operating ........................................................................ 10-14
Installing the Dust Box Assembly ................................................................. 10
Removing & Cleaning the Dust Box .............................................................. 10
Installing Sandpaper ................................................................................... 11
Punching Holes in Sandpaper ..................................................................... 12
Sandpaper Selection ................................................................................... 12
ON/OFF Switch ........................................................................................... 13
Sanding ................................................................................................. 13-14
Maintenance ............................................................................................... 15
Exploded View ............................................................................................ 16
Parts List ............................................................................................... 17-18
Warranty ..................................................................................................... 19

3
GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS
WARNING:
Before using this tool or any of its accessories, read this manual and follow all Safety
Rules and Operating Instructions. The important precautions, safeguards and
instructions appearing in this manual are not meant to cover all possible situations.
It must be understood that common sense and caution are factors which cannot be
built into the product.
EYE, EAR & LUNG PROTECTION
ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION THAT CONFORMS WITH CSA
REQUIREMENTS or ANSI SAFETY STANDARD Z87.1
FLYING DEBRIS can cause permanent eye damage. Prescription eyeglasses ARE NOT
a replacement for proper eye protection.
WARNING:
Non-compliant eyewear can cause serious injury if broken during the operation of a
power tool.
WARNING:
Use hearing protection, particularly during extended periods of operation of the
tool, or if the operation is noisy.
WEAR A DUST MASK THAT IS DESIGNED TO BE USED WHEN
OPERATING A POWER TOOL IN A DUSTY ENVIRONMENT.
WARNING:
Dust that is created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other
construction activities may contain chemicals that are known to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other genetic abnormalities. These chemicals include:
• Lead from lead-based paints
• Crystalline silica from bricks, cement, and other masonry products
• Arsenic and chromium from chemically treated lumber
The level of risk from exposure to these chemicals varies according to how often this
type of work is performed. In order to reduce exposure to these chemicals, work in a
well-ventilated area, and use approved safety equipment, such as a dust mask that
is specifically designed to filter out microscopic particles.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
WARNING:
To avoid electrical hazards, fire hazards or damage to the tool, use proper circuit
protection.
This tool is wired at the factory for 120V AC operation. It must be connected to a
120V AC, 15 A circuit that is protected by a time-delayed fuse or circuit breaker. To
avoid shock or fire, replace power cord immediately if it is worn, cut or damaged in
any way.

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POWER TOOL SAFETY
WARNING:
Read all safety warnings and instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and
instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
WORK AREA SAFETY
Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or 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 create sparks which may ignite the
dust or fumes.
Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can
cause you to lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not
use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and
matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators,
ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is
earthed or grounded.
Do not 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 for carrying, pulling or unplugging the
power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or
entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor
use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current
device (RCD) protected supply. Use of a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
reduces 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 a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of
drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools
may result in serious personal injury.
Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective
equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing
protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the OFF position before
connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool.

5
Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing power tools that
have the switch on invites accidents.
Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a
key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better
control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and
gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught
in moving parts.
If devices are provided for dust extraction and collection, ensure these are
connected and properly used. Use of dust collection facilities can reduce dust-related
hazards.
POWER TOOL USE AND CARE
Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The
correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was
designed.
that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or the battery pack from the
power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power
tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool
accidentally.
Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons
unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power
tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage
damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by
poorly maintained power tools.
Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp
cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these
instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be
result in a hazardous situation.
SERVICE
Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.

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6
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES FOR SHEET SANDERS
WARNING:
Know your ¼ sheet sander. Do not plug in the sander until you have read and
understand this Instruction Manual. Learn the tool’s 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.
Always wear eye protection. Any power tool can throw foreign objects
into your eyes and cause permanent eye damage. ALWAYS wear
safety goggles (not glasses) that comply with ANSI safety standard
Z87.1.
Everyday glasses have only impact resistant lenses. They ARE NOT safety glasses.
WARNING: Glasses or goggles not in compliance with ANSI Z87.1 could cause
serious injury when they break.
WARNING: Always use a dust mask when sanding.
WARNING: Always use hearing protection when sanding, particularly during
extended periods of operation.
WARNING: Always unplug the tool from the power source before changing the
sandpaper and when cleaning the tool.
Do not wear gloves, neckties or loose clothing.
Secure the workpiece. Use clamps or a vice to hold the work when practical. It is
safer than using your hand and it frees both hands to operate the tool.
Do not sand material too small to be securely held.
Make sure there are no nails or foreign objects in the part of the workpiece to be
sanded.
Always keep hands out of the path of the sanding pad. Avoid awkward hand
positions where a sudden slip could cause your hand to move into the path of the
sanding pad.
To avoid injury from accidental starting, always remove the plug from the power
source before installing or removing sandpaper or the vacuum adaptor.

7
GUIDELINES FOR EXTENSION CORDS
Make sure your extension cord is the proper size. When using an extension
cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry the current the tool will draw. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and
overheating. The table below shows the correct size to use according to cord length
and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller
the gauge number the heavier the cord.
Be sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good condition. Always
replace a damaged extension cord or have it repaired by a qualified electrician
before using it. Protect your extension cord from sharp objects, excessive heat and
damp or wet areas.
Use a separate electrical circuit for your power tools. This circuit must not be
less than 14 gauge wire and should be protected with either a 15A time delay fuse
or circuit breaker. Before connecting the power tool to the power source, make sure
the switch is in the OFF position and the power source is the same as indicated on
the nameplate. Running at lower voltage will damage the motor.
WARNING: Repair or replace damaged or worn extension cords
immediately.
Select the appropriate extension cord gauge and length using the chart below.
When operating a power tool outdoors, use an outdoor extension cord marked
"W-A" or "W". These cords are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk of electric
shock.
WARNING: Keep the extension cord clear of the working area. Position the
cord so it will not get caught on the workpiece, tools or any other obstructions
while you are working with the power tool.
MINIMUM GAUGE (AWG)
EXTENSION CORDS (120V USE ONLY)
Amperage rating Total Length
More than Not more
than
25'
(7.5 m)
50'
(15 m)
100'
(7.5 m)
150'
(7.5) m
0 6 18 16 16 14
6 10 18 16 14 12
10 12 16 16 14 12
12 16 14 12 Not Applicable

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SYMBOLS
WARNING: Some of the following symbols may appear on the sheet sander.
Study these symbols and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these
V Volts
~
Three-phase alternating
current
A Amperes n
~
Three-phase alternating
current with neutral
Hz Hertz direct current
W Watts noNo load speed
kW Kilowatts Alternating or direct current
Microfarads Class II Construction
L Liters Splash-proof construction
kg Kilograms Watertight construction
H Hours Protective grounding at
terminal, Class I tools
N/cm² Newtons per square
centimetre .../min Revolutions or reciprocations
per minute
Pa Pascals Diameter
OPM Oscillation per minute 0
Min Minutes Directional Arrow
S Seconds Warning symbol
~or AC Alternating current Wear your safety glasses
This symbol designates that this tool is listed with U.S. and
Canadian requirements by cTUVus Testing Laboratories, Inc.
UL62841-1，UL62841-2-4;
CSA C22.2#62841-1，CSA C22.2#62841-2-4.
JD2446U

9
KNOW YOUR ¼ SHEET SANDER
ON/OFF switch Palm grip
Dust box
assembly
Sandpaper
clamping lever
Backing pad
Cooling vents
Sandpaper
clamp
Sandpaper hole
punch

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ASSEMBLY AND OPERATING
INSTALLING THE DUST BOX ASSEMBLY
1. Insert the dust box assembly sleeve (1) onto
the dust chute (2) (Fig. 1).
NOTE: Make sure the locking tabs insert into
the matching slots in the rear of the sander
housing.
2. Push the dust box assembly sleeve fully
onto the dust chute until the locking tabs
“snap” into place to hold the dust box firmly
onto the sander.
NOTE: Remove and clean the dust box
assembly periodically to remove accumulated
dust from the dust box.
Fig. 1
CLEANING THE DUST BOX
The dust box will collect much of the sanding dust that is generated during sanding
operations. As a result, it must be cleaned out periodically so the dust collection will
1. Squeeze the sides of the dust box (1) and pull it away from the rear of the sander
(2) (Fig. 2).
2. Pry the top of the dust box (3) away from the bottom of the dust box (4) (Fig. 3).
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
NOTE: It is best to perform this function either outside or over a trash can, as loose
dust will come out of the dust box very easily.
3. Shake all the dust out of the dust box.
4. Use a soft DRY brush to remove the dust from the filter located inside the top of
the dust box.
5. Once all the sanding dust is removed form the dust box, press the upper and
lower sections together. They will “snap” into place when properly assembled.
6. Reinstall the dust box onto the rear of the sander.
NOTE: The locking tabs (5) will “snap” into place when the dust box is fully pushed
onto the rear of the sander.

11
INSTALLING SANDPAPER
WARNING: Unplug the sander from the power source before installing or
changing the sandpaper.
NOTE: Cut a standard 9" x 11" sheet of sandpaper into quarters (4½" x 5½").
1. Lift up and outward on the front and rear sandpaper clamp levers (1) at the front
and rear of the backing pad (Fig. 4).
2. Insert one end of the ¼ sheet sandpaper (3) with grit side up into the open front
sandpaper clamp (4), making sure it is aligned with the backing pad. Lift the
sandpaper clamp lever up and inward to lock the sandpaper into the clamp.
3. Wrap the sandpaper sheet (3) over the backing pad (2) and insert it into the
open rear sandpaper clamp (5) (Fig. 5).
NOTE: Make sure the sandpaper is pulled tight over the backing pad for proper
sanding operation.
4. Lift the sandpaper clamp lever up and inward to lock the sandpaper into the
clamp.
Fig. 4 Fig. 5

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PUNCHING HOLES IN SANDPAPER
The sandpaper must have 8 holes punched in it to allow the sanding dust to
escape from the working surface. The pattern of these holes must match the hole
pattern on the sanding pad. If the sandpaper you are using does not have the holes
punched, use the hole punch supplied with the tool to pierce the sandpaper in the
correct locations.
1. Lift up and outward on the front and rear sandpaper clamp levers (1) at the front
and rear of the backing pad (Fig. 4).
Install the sandpaper as shown in Fig. 4 & 5.
2. Place the hole punch (1) on a sturdy flat
surface (Fig. 6).
3. Align the corner of the sanding pad (2) with
the corner of the hole punch (3). This will
ensure the holes are punched in the correct
location.
4. When the sanding pad is correctly aligned
on the hole punch, press the sanding pad
firmly onto the hole punch.
NOTE: The sharp pegs (4) in the hole punch
will pierce the sandpaper in the correct
location.
Fig. 6
SANDPAPER SELECTION
Selecting the correct grit and type of sandpaper is extremely important in achieving
a high quality sanded finish. Aluminum oxide, silicon carbide and other synthetic
abrasives are best for power sanding. Natural abrasives such as flint and garnet
are too soft for economical use in power sanding.
In general, coarse grit will remove the most material and finer grit will produce the
best finish in all sanding operations. The condition of the surface to be sanded will
determine which grit will do the best job. If the surface is rough, start with a coarse
grit and sand until the surface is uniform. Medium grit may then be used to remove
scratches left by the coarser grit. Fine grit should be used for finishing the surface.
Always continue sanding with each grit until the surface is uniform.

13
WARNING: For safety reasons, the operator must read the sections of
this Owner’s Manual entitled "GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS", "POWER
TOOL SAFETY", "SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES", "GUIDELINES FOR
EXTENSION CORDS" and "SYMBOLS" before using this sander.
Verify the following every time the sander is used:
1. Sander cord is not damaged.
2. Safety glasses and dust mask arebeing worn.
3. Hearing protection is being worn.
4. Sandpaper is the correct type forthe job.
5. Sandpaper is in good condition andis properly installed.
Failure to observe these safety rules willsignificantly increase the risk of
injury.
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
when operating your sander. Failure to do so could result in foreign objects
being thrown into your eyes resulting in possible serious eye damage.
Always wear an appropriate dust mask and hearing protection when using your
sander.
ON/OFF SWITCH
To turn the switch ON, press the right hand side of the ON/OFF switch (2) (Fig. 7). To
turn the switch OFF, press the left hand side of the ON/OFF switch (1).
SANDING
Clamp or otherwise secure your workpiece to
prevent it from moving under the sander while
being sanded.
WARNING: An unsecured workpiece
could be thrown toward the operator causing
injury.
Place the sander on the workpiece so that
the complete sandpaper surface is in contact
with the workpiece. Turn the sander ON by
pressing on the side of the ON/OFF switch.
Move the sander slowly over workpiece making
successive passes in parallel lines, circles or
crosswise movements.
Fig. 7
Upon completion of the sanding operation, turn the sander OFF by pressing on the
opposite side of the ON/OFF switch. Wait until the sanding pad comes to a complete
stop before removing it from the workpiece.
WARNING: Your sander should only be turned ON when the entire surface
of the sanding pad is in contact with the workpiece. Failure to follow this
sanding procedure could result in loose sandpaper which could result in
possible injury.

1262-301
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NOTE: Hold the sander using the grip on top of the sander. Be careful NOT to cover
the motor cooling vents with your hand. Motor damage may occur from over heating
if the cooling vents are covered.
DO NOT FORCE THE SANDER. The weight of the sander usually provides
adequate pressure. Let the sander and the sandpaper do the work. Applying added
pressure will slow the motor, increase the wear on the sandpaper and greatly reduce
the sander speed. Motor damage may occur if excessive downward pressure is
applied. It will also create an inferior finish on sanded work. Any finish or resin on
wood will soften from the frictional heat, causing the sandpaper to become clogged
very quickly. Do not sand in one spot too long as the sander’s rapid action may
remove too much material, making the surface uneven.
Extended periods of sanding may tend to overheat the motor. If this occurs, turn
sander OFF, wait until the sanding pad comes to a complete stop and remove it
from the workpiece. Check to make sure your hand has not been covering the
cooling vents. Let the motor cool before continuing the sanding operation.

15
MAINTENANCE
GENERAL
WARNING: When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. Use of
any other replacement parts may create a hazard or cause product damage.
DO NOT use 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 a clean cloth to remove dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.
WARNING: Do not at any time allow brake fluids, gasoline, petroleum-
based products, penetrating oils, etc. to come in contact with plastic parts.
They contain chemicals that can damage, weaken or destroy plastic.
DO NOT abuse power tools. Abusive practices can damage the tool as well as the
workpiece.
WARNING: DO NOT attempt to modify tools or create accessories not
recommended. Any such alteration or modification is misuse and could result
in a hazardous condition leading to possible serious injury. It will also void the
warranty.
It has been found that electric tools are subjected to accelerated wear and possible
premature failure when they are used on fiberglass boats and automotive parts,
wallboard, spackling compounds or plaster. The chips and grindings from these
materials are highly abrasive to electric tool parts such as bearings, brushes,
commutators, etc. Consequently, it is not recommended that this tool be used
for extended work on any fiberglass material, wallboard, spackling compounds or
plaster. During any use on these materials it is extremely important that the tool is
cleaned frequently by blowing the dust out of the tool with an air jet.
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
during all sanding operations. It is critical that you also wear safety goggles or
safety glasses with side shields and a dust mask while blowing dust out of the
sander with an air jet. Failure to take these safety precautions could result in
permanent eye or lung damage.
LUBRICATION
grade lubricant for the life of the unit under normal conditions. Therefore, no further
lubrication is required.

1262-301
1/4 SHEET PALM SANDER
16
EXPLODED VIEW

17
PARTS LIST
WARNING When servicing, use only original equipment replacement parts. The
use of any other parts may create a safety hazard or cause damage to the sander
Always order by PART NUMBER, not by key number.
Key # Part # Part Name Quantity
1 4030010099 TAPPING SCREW 2
2 2030050009 STRAIN RELIEF 1
3 3150210013 SUPPORT 1
4 1130080019 PCB 1
5 3140080029 SWITCH CAP 1
6 1061250001 SWITCH 1
7 4030010026 TAPPING SCREW ST2.9X9 2
8 1230010144 CARBON BRUSH 2
9 2050050052 TORSIONAL SPRING 2
10 1020080049 STATOR 1
11 4010010034 BALL BEARING 1
12 3150130124 INSULATION BARRIER 1
13 1010080051 ROTOR 1
14 4030010179 TAPPING SCREW 1
15 4010010048 BALL SPRING 1
16 3150010136 FAN 1
17 3011080039 HOUSING 1
18 3180050028 DUST COLLECTION BOX COVER 1
19 3150130179 O RING 2
20 3150110038 SUPPORT 2
21 3190010055 WOOL RING 1
22 2050080224 STEEL WIRE 2
23 2020120053 ALUMINUM BASE PLATE 1
24 4020010206 TAPPING SCREW 2
25 2030160015 CLAMP 2
26 4010010055 BEARING 1
27 2010130064 COUNTERBALANCE 1
28 4020020008 TAPPING SCREW 1
29 2020210016 ALUMINUM PLATE 1
30 3190020089 SPONGE PLATE 1

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Key # Part # Part Name Quantity
31 4020010005 TAPPING SCREW 4
32 3190110008 DUST BAG 1
33 3180060023 SUPPORT 1
34 1190030016 CORD 1
35 3140010004 CABLE SHEATH 1
36 4030010102 TAPPING SCREW 6

19
WARRANTY
BENCHMARK 2A 1/4 SHEET SANDER WARRANTY
If this Benchmark tool fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within five
years from the date of purchase, return it to any Home Hardware store with the
original bill of sale for exchange. 3-year warranty for the battery and charger. This
warranty does not include expendable parts including but not limited to blades,
brushes, belts, light bulbs.
This warranty covers defects in material or workmanship only. It does not cover
normal wear and tear, failure due to abuse/misuse, or defects caused by careless or
accidental mishandling. If this Benchmark product is used for commercial or rental
purposes, this warranty does not apply.