Blastrac BS 180 User manual

BLASTRAC® BS 180
HEAVY DUTY HYDRAULIC
SELF-PROPELLED STRIPPER
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Read Manual Before Operating Machine
13201 SANTA FE• OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73114• U.S.A.
PHONE: [phone]

Page 2
BS180 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ....................................................................................................2-3
Hydraulic ................................................................................................................4-5
A. Maintaining A Safe Work Environment ................................................................4
B. Pressure............................................................................................................4-5
C. Flammability ........................................................................................................5
D. Hydraulic Fluid......................................................................................................5
Rules for Safe Operation..........................................................................................6-9
A. Grounding ............................................................................................................8
B. Extension Cords ..................................................................................................9
Specifications ............................................................................................................10
Transportation ..................................................................................................10.1-12
A. Transport Wheels ............................................................................................10.1
B. Wheels Engaged/Disengaged ........................................................................10.1
C. Loading ..............................................................................................................11
D. Unloading ..........................................................................................................12
General Operation................................................................................................13-15
A. Machine Start-up Procedure ..............................................................................13
B. Maintenance ................................................................................................13-14
C. Removal Tips ....................................................................................................15
Angle Attachments ....................................................................................................16
A. Mounting Angle Attachments ............................................................................16
Blades ..................................................................................................................17-24
A. Blade Setting ................................................................................................17-18
B. Carbide Shank Setting ......................................................................................18
C. Blade Changing..................................................................................................19
D. Blade Sharpening ..............................................................................................20
E. Blade Chart ..................................................................................................21-22
F. Types of Tearouts..........................................................................................23-24
Procedures ..........................................................................................................25-28
A. Counterweights ..................................................................................................25
B. Wheel Adjustment/Removal ..............................................................................25
C. Hydraulic Fluid Level and Changing ..................................................................26
D. Tank Removal ....................................................................................................26
E. Inspection of Internal Parts ................................................................................27
F. Speed Control and Replacement ......................................................................27
G. Pressure Valve Replacement ............................................................................27
H. Forward and Reverse Switch Replacement ......................................................28

Page 3
BS180 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Procedures (continued) ........................................................................................25-28
I. Power Cord ........................................................................................................28
J. On/Off Switch Wire Diagram ..............................................................................28
K. Cartridge Replacement ......................................................................................28
Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................29
Complete Parts List ..............................................................................................30-34
Part Numbers and Diagrams................................................................................35-45
A. External Parts ....................................................................................................35
B. Base Plate Parts ................................................................................................36
C. Idler Assembly Parts ..........................................................................................37
D. Pump Drive Assembly Parts ..............................................................................37
E. Eccentric Assembly Parts ..................................................................................37
F. Body Parts..........................................................................................................38
G. Bottom Cover Parts............................................................................................38
H. Axle Assembly Parts ..........................................................................................39
I. Wheel Parts........................................................................................................39
J. Internal Handle Parts..........................................................................................40
K. Handle Parts ......................................................................................................40
L. Hose Parts..........................................................................................................41
M. Tank Parts ..........................................................................................................41
N. Motor Parts ........................................................................................................42
O. Cutting Head Parts ............................................................................................43
P. Switch Parts ......................................................................................................43
Q. Internal Parts ......................................................................................................44
Labels ..................................................................................................................45-46
Accessories ..............................................................................................................47
110 Volt Wiring Diagram ............................................................................................48
Hydraulic Line Layout Diagram ................................................................................49
Material Safety Data ............................................................................................50-55
Guarantee..................................................................................................................56
Return Sheet ............................................................................................................57

Page 4
SAFE OPERATION
MAINTAINING A SAFE WORK ENVIRONMENT
Establishing a safe working environment in and around your hydraulic equipment is just common sense.
The easiest and most effective way to avoid problems is to make sure associates understand their
equipment, know how to operate it safely and recognize the danger it represents if handled carelessly. A
few things you must be aware of include:
1. PRESSURE: Hydraulic fluid under pressure is dangerous and can cause serious injury.
2. FLAMMABILITY: When ignited, some hydraulic fluids can explode and/or cause fires.
3. MECHANICAL: Hydraulic fluid creates movement, which causes parts of your equipment to move or
rotate. Always be aware of what you are doing.
4. MOISTURE: Never operate in wet or high moisture conditions without a proper GFI grounded switch.
Make sure all electrical fittings, switches, cords plus stain reliefs are in good condition. Always unplug
when not in use and when doing any service work.
5. ELECTRICAL: Disconnect power before servicing. Unplug cord so it can’t be started. Faulty wiring
can also be an electrical hazard. A regular preventive maintenance program should always include a
wiring check.
6. TEMPERATURE: Because this machine operates at a relatively low pressure, overheating is not
common. If surface of tank becomes too hot to touch by hand (above 130º), shut off machine and
allow to cool off.
PRESSURE
Our system runs at or below 1,200 psi. Never look for a leak when unit is under pressure. Using your
hand could cause serious injury. A few common ways to encounter hydraulic fluid under pressure include:
1. PINHOLE: Fluid under pressure can cause serious injury. It can be almost invisible escaping from a
pinhole, and it can pierce the skin into the body. Do not touch a pressurized hydraulic hose
assembly with any part of your body. If fluid punctures the skin, even if no pain is felt, a serious
emergency exists. Obtain medical assistance immediately. Failure to do so can result in loss of the
injured part or death.
2. LEAK: Keep fittings and hoses tight. Only check and service when not under pressure. Leaking
hydraulic fluid is not only unsightly, it’s hazardous. In addition to making workplace floors slippery and
dangerous, leaks also contaminate the environment. Before cleaning an oil spill, always check EPA,
state and local regulations.
LEAK AT THREAD END/SEAT
Problem: Coupling leaks at thread or seat. This may be caused by any of the following:
a. Missing or damaged O-rings.
b. Damaged threads or seat angle.
c. Thread alignment.
d. Incompatible thread ends or seat angles.
e. Over or undertorquing.
Solution: Remove the connection and inspect.
1. Certain couplings require the use of an O-ring. If it is missing, replace it. If an O-ring is used,
check for damage caused by installation or possible material breakdown from heat or fluid
incompatibility. Alternative O-ring materials may be required. Replace if necessary.
BS180 HYDRAULIC SAFE OPERATION

Page 5
BS180 HYDRAULIC SAFE OPERATION
PRESSURE (continued)
2. Check the threads and/or seat angle for damage that may have occurred prior to or during
installation. Any ding or burr may be a potential leak path. Replace if necessary.
3. If the coupling was misaligned during installation, threads may have been damaged. Replace
and carefully install.
4. Overtorquing of a threaded connection can stretch and damage threads and mating seat
angles. Overtorquing can also damage the staking area of the nut. Undertorquing does not
allow proper sealing.
3. BURST: Whether due to improper selection or damage, a ruptured hose can cause injury. If it bursts,
a worker can be burned, cut, injected or may slip and fall.
4. COUPLING BLOW-OFF: If the assembly is not properly made or installed, the coupling could
come off and hit or spray a worker, possibly resulting in serious injury. Never operate machine
without guards.
FLAMMABILITY
With the exception of those comprised primarily of water, all hydraulic fluid is flammable when exposed to
the proper conditions (including many “fire-resistant” hydraulic fluids).
Leaking pressurized hydraulic fluids may develop a mist or fine spray that can flash or explode upon contact
with a cause of ignition. These explosions can be very severe and could result in serious injury or death.
Precautions should be taken to eliminate all ignition sources from contact with escaping fluids, sprays or
mists resulting from hydraulic failures. Sources of ignition could be electrical discharges (sparks), open
flames, extremely high temperatures, sparks caused by metal-to-metal contact, etc.
HYDRAULIC FLUID
Only use Texaco Rando 46 Hydraulic Oil or Compatible Fluid Light IS032. Non-compatible fluids could
cause damage to unit or serious injury.
CAUTION: Never check for leaks over hose or hydraulic connections. Instead, use a piece of
cardboard to locate a pressurized leak. For drips (low pressure leaks), use a rag to clean the area and
determine where the leak originates.
CAUTION: Never touch a pressurized hose assembly. Shut down the hydraulic system before
checking hose temperature.
WARNING: When using electric tools, always follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk
of electric shock and personal injury.

Page 6
BS180 RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
READ AND SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE USE. Before use, be sure everyone
operating this equipment reads and understands this manual as well as any labels packaged with or
attached to the machine and components and view the instruction video. Extra copies of the manual and
video are available upon request.
1. KNOW YOUR EQUIPMENT: Read this manual and view instruction video carefully to learn
equipment applications and limitations as well as potential hazards associated with this type of
equipment.
2. GROUND YOUR TOOL: See Grounding.
3. AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENTS: Do not use in rain, damp or wet locations, or in the
presence of explosive atmospheres (gaseous fumes, dust or flammable materials). Remove materials
or debris that may be ignited by sparks.
4. KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN AND WELL LIT: Cluttered, dark work areas invite accidents.
5. DRESS PROPERLY: Do not wear loose clothing. These may be caught in moving parts. When
working outdoors, wear rubber gloves and insulated non-skid footwear. Keep hands and gloves away
from moving parts.
6. USE SAFETY EQUIPMENT: Everyone in the work area should wear safety goggles or glasses
complying with current safety standards. Wear hearing protection during extended use and a dust
mask for dusty operations. Hard hats, face shields, safety shoes, etc. should be worn when specified
or necessary.
7. KEEP BYSTANDERS AWAY: Children and bystanders should be kept at a safe distance from the
work area to avoid distracting the operator and contacting the tool or extension cord. Operator should
be aware of who is around them and their proximity.
8. PROTECT OTHERS IN THE WORK AREA: Provide barriers or shields as needed to protect others
from debris and machine operation.
9. USE PROPER ACCESSORIES: Using accessories that are not recommended may be hazardous.
Be sure accessories are properly installed and maintained. Do not delete a guard or other safety
device when installing an accessory or attachment.
10. CHECK FOR DAMAGED PARTS: Inspect guards and other parts before use. Check for
misalignment, binding of moving parts, improper mounting, broken parts and any other conditions that
may affect operation. If abnormal noise or vibration occurs, turn the tool off immediately and have the
problem corrected before further use. Do not use damaged equipment. Tag damaged tools “DO NOT
USE” until repaired. A guard or other damaged parts should be properly repaired or replaced. For all
repairs, insist on only identical National replacement parts.
11. REMOVE ALL ADJUSTING KEYS AND WRENCHES: Make a habit of checking that the adjusting
keys, wrenches, etc. are removed from the tool before turning it on.
12. GUARD AGAINST ELECTRIC SHOCK: Prevent body contact with grounded surfaces such as pipes,
radiators, ranges and refrigerators. When scoring or making cuts, always check the work area for
hidden wires or pipes. Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to reduce shock hazards.
13. AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING: Be sure equipment is turned off before plugging it in. Do not use
if the power switch does not turn the machine on and off.
14. DO NOT FORCE EQUIPMENT: Equipment will perform best at the rate for which it was designed.
Excessive force only causes operator fatigue, increased wear and reduced control.

Page 7
BS180 RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
15. KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM ALL CUTTING EDGES AND MOVING PARTS.
16. WEAR GLOVES WHEN CHANGING BLADES.
17. DO NOT ABUSE CORD: Never unplug by yanking the cord from the outlet. Pull plug rather than cord
to reduce the risk of damage. Keep the cord away from heat, oil, sharp objects, cutting edges and
moving parts. Do not unplug cord while machine is operating.
18. DO NOT OVERREACH. MAINTAIN CONTROL: Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
Maintain a firm grip.
19. STAY ALERT: Watch what you are doing, and use common sense. Do not use when you are tired,
distracted or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or any medication causing decreased control.
20. STARTING MACHINE: On/off switch must be in off position before connecting to power source.
21. UNPLUG EQUIPMENT: When it is not in use, unplug tool before changing blades, accessories or
performing recommended maintenance or when not in use.
22. MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT CAREFULLY: Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Keep
cutting edges sharp and clean. Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories.
Periodically inspect tool cords and extension cords for damage. Have damaged parts repaired
or replaced.
23. STORE IDLE EQUIPMENT: When not in use, store in a dry, secured place. Keep away
from children.
24. MAINTAIN LABELS AND NAMEPLATES: These carry important information. If unreadable or
missing, contact Blastrac for a free replacement.
25. MACHINE IS HEAVY, DO NOT DROP: Counter weights are heavy. Take caution when removing
or reassembling. Take caution when moving or transporting.
WARNING: Exposure to dust may cause respiratory ailments. Use approved NIOSH or OSHA
respirators, safety glasses or face shields, gloves and protective clothing. Provide adequate ventilation
to eliminate dust, or to maintain dust level below the Threshold Limit Value for nuisance dust as
classified by OSHA.

Page 8
BS180 RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
WARNING: Improperly connecting the grounding wire can result in the risk of electric shock.
Check with a qualified electrician if you are in doubt as to whether the outlet is properly grounded. Do
not modify the plug provided with the tool. Never remove the grounding prong from the plug. Do not
use the tool if the cord or plug is damaged. If the plug will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet
installed by a qualified electrician.
GROUNDED TOOLS: TOOLS WITH THREE PRONG PLUGS
Tools marked “Grounding Required” have a three wire cord and three prong grounding plug. The plug
must be connected to a properly grounded outlet (See Figure A). If the tool should electrically malfunction
or break down, grounding provides a low resistance path to carry electricity away from the user, reducing
the risk of electric shock.
The grounding prong in the plug is connected through the green wire inside the cord to the grounding
system in the tool. The green wire in the cord must be the only wire connected to the tool's grounding
system and must never be attached to an electrically “live” terminal.
Your tool must be plugged into an appropriate outlet, properly installed and grounded in accordance with
all codes and ordinances. The plug and outlet should look like those in Figure A.
Figure A
2
1
3
GROUNDING
1. Cover of grounded outlet box
2. Outlet ground
3. Grounding prong
WARNING: Electrical cords can be hazardous. Misuse can result in fire or death by electrical
shock. Read carefully and follow all directions.

Page 9
BS180 RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
EXTENSION CORDS
Grounded tools require a three wire extension cord. Double insulated tools can use either a two or three
wire extension cord. As the distance from the supply outlet increases, you must use a heavier gauge
extension cord. Using extension cords with inadequately sized wire causes a serious drop in voltage,
resulting in loss of power and possible tool damage.
The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity of the cord. For example, a 14 gauge
cord can carry a higher current than a 16 gauge cord. When using more than one extension cord to make
up the total length, be sure each cord contains at least the minimum wire size required. If you are using
one extension cord for more than one tool, add the nameplate amperes and use the sum to determine the
required minimum wire size.
GUIDELINES FOR USING EXTENSION CORDS
• If you are using an extension cord outdoors, make sure it is marked with the suffix “W-A” (“W” in
Canada) to indicate that it is acceptable for outdoor use.
• Be sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical condition. Always replace a
damaged extension cord or have it repaired by a qualified person before using it.
• Protect your extension cords from sharp objects, excessive heat and damp or wet areas.
• Keep away from water. Do not use if wet.
• Inspect thoroughly before each use. DO NOT USE IF DAMAGED.
• Make sure equipment is OFF before connecting cord outlet.
• FULLY INSERT plug into outlet.
• Do not remove, bend or modify any metal prongs or pins of cord.
• Do not use excessive force to make connections.
• Do not connect a three prong plug to a two-hole cord.
• Avoid overheating. Uncoil cord and do not cover it with any material.
• Do not walk on cord.
• Do not drive, drag or place objects over cord.
READ AND SAVE ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
WARNING: Electrical cords can be hazardous. Misuse can result in fire or death by electrical
shock. Read carefully and follow all directions.

Page 10
BS180 SPECIFICATIONS
SPECIFICATIONS BS180
Length: 33''
Width: 13½''
Height: 41''
Weight (machine only): 318 lbs. (w/o weights)
515 lbs. (w/ weights)
Speed: 30 feet per minute
MOTOR INFORMATION
RPM: 1725 / 1424
Volts: 115 / 230
HP: 1½
Amps-Full Load: 13
Continuous Duty Additional Side Weight, Right
Additional Side Weight, Left
Additional Front Weight

Page 10.1
BS180 TRANSPORTATION
Wheels engage and disengage for easier maneuverability. Wheels in the “engage mode” are secured
with the axle pins (See Figure A). This engages the wheels for the machine to be self-propelled.
When wheels are in the “disengage mode” (See Figure B). Machine can be moved around freely when
the machine IS NOT under power.
WHEELS ENGAGING OR DISENGAGING
DISENGAGING WHEELS
Move machine so pin is vertical (See Figure C). Pull up on end of pin to release. Slide pin out. Repeat on
second wheel. Note: Keeping axle pin facing straight up will make re-engaging easier.
RE-ENGAGING WHEELS
Line up wheel hub hole and axle hole (See Figure D). Insert axle pin and secure pin end. Repeat on
second wheel.
WARNING: Never load or unload machine on a ramp or incline when wheels are in the disengage
mode. Failure to do so could cause machine runaway, damage to machine, damage to property or
cause serious injury.
Figure A Figure B
Figure C Figure D
Axle Pin
Engaged Disengaged
Pin is
Vertical
Line up
Holes

Page 11
LOADING
ALWAYS REMOVE ALL COUNTERWEIGHTS AND BLADES BEFORE LOADING OR UNLOADING.
LIFTING BAIL
• Easy loading when not driving or using a ramp.
• Use rope, hook system or chain through eyelets located on top of machine (See Figure A).
• Location on lifting bails centrally locates balance of the machine to safely pick-up machine.
• Raise machine with a lifting device rated for the weight of the machine.
RAMP
• All counterweights, blades and transport wheels must be removed before unloading (or loading).
• Make sure ramp is clean and dry, free of grease or oil.
• Attach ramp securely to back of vehicle, making sure there is good contact (See Figure C).
• Position machine at back of ramp (See Figure A). Engage power switch and drive onto vehicle.
Figure A
WARNING: Keep hands and feet out from
under machine.
WARNING: Make sure ramp is secure before using. Failure to do so could cause ramp to fall away
from truck, causing damage to the machine and/or injury to the operator.
BS180 TRANSPORTATION
WARNING: When maneuvering machine on any type of a incline (ramp, hill, etc.), wheel engage
pins MUST be in place (in engaged mode) (See Figure B) and counterweights removed.
WARNING: Only load or unload machine on a ramp with wheel pins engaged (engage mode) (See
Figure B) and counterweights removed. Failure to do so could cause machine runaway, damage to
machine, damage to property or cause serious injury. See Page 10 for wheel engage mode.
Figure C
Figure B
CORRECT INCORRECT

Page 12
BS180 TRANSPORTATION
UNLOADING
• Position machine at the back of the truck in line with the ramp (See Figure B).
• Carefully move machine onto ramp leaving cutting head down (in contact with ramp surface).
• Even without counterweights machine weighs 318 pounds
• Make sure you have machine under control. Failure to do so could cause machine runaway, damage to
machine, damage to property or cause serious injury.
• Slowly back machine down ramp. This is done the easiest with the machine under power and driving
the on or off.
• Ramp is designed to work from a van height. Easy for most loads up to 26'' or 19° angle. Somewhat
difficult for large loads up to 32'' or a 23° angle. Not recommended for anything higher. A pickup is too
high.
WARNING: Ramp must have good contact with the back of the vehicle. Failure to do so could
cause ramp to lose contact with back of vehicle resulting in damage to the machine or injury to
the operator.
Figure A
WARNING: Never load or unload machine on a ramp or incline when wheels are in the disengage
mode. Failure to do so could cause machine runaway, damage to machine, damage to property or
cause serious injury.
CORRECT INCORRECT
Figure B

Page 13
BS180 GENERAL OPERATION
MACHINE START UP PROCEDURE
TO RUN MACHINE:
1. Machine MUST be off before plugging machine into
power source.
2. Plug machine into outlet.
3. Turn speed control to slowest position.
4. Turn machine on.
5. Engage forward or reverse switch.
6. Increase speed control to desired speed.
MAINTENANCE
1. Always wear eye protection.
2. Keep flammable and fragile objects away
from this tool.
3. Always check nuts and bolts to make sure
they are tight.
4. Always use the tool with proper voltage
specified in the machine’s name plate.
5. Always keep guards in place.
6. Do not operate around water or wet conditions
without use of GFI on cord.
7. Use properly grounded cord and receptacle.
8. Unplug from power before servicing.
9. Use 12 gauge or heavier wire cord, not
exceeding 50 feet in length.
10. Do not force machine.
11. Do not alter machine.
12. Pressure valve has been factory set and
should NOT be tampered with.
A well-maintained machine is a productive machine. If not properly maintained, it could be unsafe
and could break down. A scheduled maintenance program should insure a long system life and a safe
work environment.
Reverse
Switch
Forward
Switch
Speed
Control
On/Off
Switch

Page 14
BS180 GENERAL OPERATION
MAINTENANCE (continued)
13. Hydraulic Fluid: Keep clean and at a proper level. See page 5 and 26.
14. Keep wheels free from debris. See page 25.
INSPECTION PROCEDURE HYDRAULIC
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
By following this preventive maintenance checklist, you can maintain your equipment
hose efficiently, safely and with very little effort. Each step is covered in detail in the
following section.
• Always turn off and unplug electrical source before servicing.
• Place equipment and components in a safe or neutral position.
• Remove access panels (if any) and inspect hose and fittings for damage or leaks.
• Repair or replace as needed.
• Inspect all hydraulic components.
• Reinstall the access panels.
• Turn power back on.
• Be aware of your equipment, always look and listen for anything unusual.
WARNING: Do not lock wheel drive into a permanent on position. If operator would lose control or
be disabled, machine continues to operate.

Page 15
BS180 GENERAL OPERATION
REMOVAL TIPS
• Keep Blades Sharp!
• Dull blades greatly affect the performance of the machine.
• Wood or wood like floors: pound down or remove any nails or metal obstruction to avoid blade damage.
• Keep your work area clean and clear of debris.
• After you have removed a portion of material, remove it out of the way. This will give the machine
maximum performance and help to keep the work area safe.
• The harder a job comes up, for best results, use a smaller blade.
DIALING IN THE MACHINE
Dialing in the machine is matching the correct cutting head, blade size, blade angle, speed and added
weight to the machine to make the material removal as easy as possible. For every material being
removed, there is an optimum blade width, thickness, sharpness, angle and bevel (bevel up or bevel
down).
SHEAR POINT
The shear point is the point where material to be removed will cut cleanly from the floor. If the blade is
too wide, too dull, or too steep, the shear point is lost.
CUTTING HEAD ANGLE
Set the cutting head angle to where the material comes up the easiest. The lowest is usually the best.
CAUTION: Blades are sharp, use extreme caution.
CAUTION: Never change an angle attachment, a cutting head or service blades while machine is
running. Unplug machine from the power source before doing so.

Page 16
BS180 ANGLE ATTACHMENTS
The Angle Attachments angles the cutting head and blade or carbide shank to where the material comes
up the easiest. Lower is usually the best.
MOUNTING ANGLE ATTACHMENT
06-7280-2B Standard Angle
Attachment - 22 degree
06-7280-2C Steep Angle
Attachment - 30 degree
WARNING: Failure to block up the machine could cause
damage to the machine or cause serious injury.
•Insert desired cutting head or carbide shank into
the angle attachment.
•Secure with Retainer Cap (See Figure B).
•Disconnect machine from power source.
•Tilt machine back.
•Securely block machine up (See Figure A).
•Mount angle attachment onto the cutting head
support (See Figure C).
•Securely tighten all five mounting bolts.
NOTE: Cutting head or carbide shank should freely swivel in
the angle attachment. This movement allows the
blade to stay in contact with the floor. Grease may
need to be applied to the shaft of the attachment
before inserting.
Figure A
Figure B
Figure C
22° 30°
Block

Page 17
BS180 BLADES
• Match the cutting head to the blade size.
• Dull blades greatly reduce cutting ability and affect the performance of the machine. Re-sharpen or
replace as needed.
• Proper blade size and placement, depending on material and sub-floor typed, affects performance.
• Start with a narrow blade, then increase blade size to optimize cutting pass. Narrower blades work
easier than wider blades and usually clean the floor surface better. Wider is not always better or faster.
• Blades are sharp. Always wear gloves when handling blades.
• KEEP BLADES AND CARBIDES SHARP!
• Everyone in the work area should wear eye protection.
Figure A
BLADE SETTING
• Normally bevel on blade is up or concrete. Bevel down for wood or soft sub-floors.
• Blades get inserted into a cutting head. Typically, the cutting head
size it the same size as the blade. If the blade is wider than the
cutting head, center the blade in the head. It is imperative to have
the same size cutting head when using self scoring blades.
• Cutting heads swivel in the angle attachment to keep the blade in
contact with the floor. Grease may need to be applied to the shaft of
the cutting head to allow easy movement and longer life.
• When using razor blades a razor blade cutting head is needed.
• For best removal results on sheet vinyl, solid vinyl, rubber tile,
urethane or PVC sheet roofing they will need to be scored first (See
Figure A). #584 Scoring Tool or use self scoring blades.
• Score flooring to the width of the blade being used (See Figure B).
Figure B
SHOE BLADE
SOFT SUB-FLOORS

Page 18
BS180 BLADES
BLADE SETTING (continued)
CARBIDE SHANK SETTING
• Carbide shanks do not require a cutting head.
• Shanks get inserted into angle shank attachments
and are secured with a retainer cap (See Figure C).
• The carbide tip allows for longer sharpness, and has
greater durability for hard to remove materials such
as ceramic.
• Shanks swivel in the angle attachment to keep the
shank in contact with the floor. Grease may need to
be applied to the shaft of the shank to allow easy
movement.
• Self scoring blades eliminate the need for pre-scoring material (See Figure A). They are available in a
number of sizes. Depending upon the type of material being removed and the sharpness of the blades
and scoring wings, self scoring blades may make it harder to control the machine.
• Keep scoring wings sharp at all times.
Figure A
• Blades can be offset in cutting head for easier access to toe kicks or removal along the wall (See
Figure B).
Wings
Wings
Figure B
Figure C

Page 19
BS180 BLADES
• Because the cutting head swivels in the angle attachment, it is
recommended to remove the cutting head from the angle
attachment before changing the blades.
• Loosen hex head bolts with extended bolt wrench (See Figure
B). It is not necessary to remove bolts.
• Place blade into cutting head to the back of the bolts (See Figure
C).
• If the blade is wider than the cutting head, center blade to head.
• If blade is smaller than the cutting head, first pass blade should
be mounted in center of the cutting head.
• Use supplied extended wrench or a socket wrench with at least a
3" extension to keep a hand safely away from the sharp edge of
the blade.
• Securely block machine up (See Figure A).
Figure A
CAUTION: Never change cutting head or service blades
while machine is running
Figure B
Figure C
BLADE CHANGING
CAUTION: Blades are sharp.
• Sharp blades are imperative for good performance.
• Always wear gloves when changing blades.
• Tilt machine back.