Craftsman 315.275120 User manual

SEARS
OWNER'S
MANUAL
MODEL NO.
315.275120
CAUTION:
Read and follow
ALL safety rules
and instructions
before operating
this equipment.
I:RRI:TSHRN °
Industrial
Laminate Trimmer
Double Insulated
Thank You For Buying A
Craftsman Laminate
Trimmer
Warranty
Rules For Safe Operation
Introduction
Table Of Contents
Unpacking
Features
Adjustments
Operation
Maintenance
Repair Parts
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
972000-336
11-00 Printed in U.S.A.

FULL ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN INDUSTRIAL LAMINATE TRIMMER
Ifthis Craftsman Industrial Laminate Trimmer fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within one year from
the date of purchase, Sears will repair it free of charge.
WARRANTY SERVICE IS AVAILABLE BY SIMPLY RETURNING THE TOOL TO THE NEAREST SEARS STORE
IN THE UNITED STATES.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.
SEARS, ROEBUCK AND CO.
DEPT. 817 WA
HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL 60179
The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols, and the
explanations with them, deserve your careful attention and understanding. The safety warnings do not by
themselves eliminate any danger. The Instructions or warnings they give are not substitutes for proper accident
prevention measures.
SYMBOL MEANING
ASAFETY ALERT SYMBOL:
Indicates caution or warning. May be used in conjunction with other symbols or pictographs.
AWARNING: Failure to obey a safety warning can result in serious injuryto yourself or to others. Always
follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal injury.
ACAUTION: Failure to obey a safety warning may result in propertydamage or personal injuryto yourself
or to others. Always follow the safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and personal
injury.
NOTE: Advises you of information or instructionsvital to the operation or maintenance of the equipment.
m
DOUBLE INSULATION is aconcept in safety, in electric
power tools, which eliminates the need for the usual three-
wire grounded power cord. All exposed metal parts are
isolatedfrom internalmetal motorcomponents withprotecting
insulation.Doubleinsulated toolsdo notneed tobegrounded.
IMPORTANT - Servicing of a tool with double insulation
requires extreme care and knowledge of the system and
should be performed only by a qualified service technician.
For service we suggest you return the tool to your nearest
Sears Store forrepair.Always useoriginalfactory replacement
parts when servicing.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
Your laminate trimmer has a precision built electric motor. Itshould be connected to a power supply that Is 120 volts, 60
Hz, AC only (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 your tool does not operate when plugged into an outlet, double-check
the power supply.
i
[AI
Look for this symbol to point out important safety precautions. [
It means attentionlH Your safety is involved. I
Page 2

WARNING:
Do not attempt to operate this tool until you have
read thoroughly and understand completely all
instructions, safety rules, etc. contained in this
manual. Failure to comply can result in accidents
involving fire, electric shock, or serious personal
injury. Save owner's manual and review frequently
for continuingsafe operation, and instructingothers
who may use this tool. I
READ ALL INSTRUCTIQNS
.
.
KNOW YOUR POWER TOOL. Read owner's
manual carefully. Learn its applications and
limitations as well as the specific potential hazards
related to this tool.
GUARD AGAINST ELECTRICAL SHOCK by
preventing body contact with grounded surfaces.
Forexample: Pipes, radiators,ranges, refrigerator
enclosures.
WARNING:
The double insulated system is intended to protect thq
'user from shock resultingfrom a break in the tool's
internalwiring. Observe all normalsafety precautions
relatedto avoidingelectricalshock. i
12.
13.
14.
15.
3. KEEP GUARDS IN PLACE and inworkingorder. 16.
4. KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN. Cluttered areas
and benches invite accidents.
5. AVOID DANGEROUS ENVIRONMENT. Don't 17.
use powertoolin damp or wet locationsor expose
to rain. Keep work area well lit.
6. KEEP CHILDREN AND VISITORS AWAY. All
visitors shouldwear safety glasses and be kept 18.
a safe distance from work area. Do not let
visitors contact tool or extension cord.
STORE IDLE TOOLS. When not in use tools
should be stored in a dry and high or locked-up
place - out of the reach of children.
DON'T FORCE TOOL. It will do the job better
and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
USE RIGHT TOOL. Don't force small tool or
attachment to do the job of a heavy duty tool.
Don't use tool for purpose not intended - for
example - A circular saw should never be used
for cuttingtree limbsor logs.
.
.
9.
10. WEAR PROPER APPAREL. Do not wear loose
clothing or jewelry that can get caught in tool's
moving partsand cause personal injury. Rubber
gloves and nonskid footwear are recommended
when working outdoors. Wear protective hair
covering to contain long hair and keep it from
being drawn intonearby air vents.
11 ." ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES. Everyday
19.
20.
21.
eyeglasses have only impact-resistant lenses;
they are NOT safety glasses.
PROTECT YOUR LUNGS. Wear a face or dust
mask if operation isdusty.
PROTECT YOUR HEARING. Wear hearing
protection during extended periods of operation.
DON'T ABUSE CORD. Never carry tool by cord
or yank it to disconnect from receptacle. Keep
cord from heat, oil and sharp edges.
SECURE WORK. Use clamps or a vise to hold
work. It's safer than usingyour hand and it frees
both hands to operate tool.
DON'T OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times. Do not use on a ladder or
unstable support.
MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE. Keep tools
sharp at all times, and clean for best and safest
performance. Follow instructions for lubricating
and changing accessories.
DISCONNECT TOOLS. When not tn use, before
servicing,or when changing attachments, blades,
bits,cutters,etc., alltool#should be disconnected
from power supply.
REMOVE ADJUSTING KEYS AND WRENCHES.
Form habit of checking to see that keys and
adjustingwrenches are removed fromtoolbefore
turning it on.
AVOID ACCIDENTAL STARTING. Don't carry
plugged-in tools with finger on switch. Be sure
switch is off when plugging in.
MAKE SURE YOUR EXTENSION CORD IS IN
GOOD CONDITION. When using an extension
cord, besuretouseone heavyenoughto carrythe
currentyourproductwilldraw. Anundersized cord
will cause a drop in line voltage resultinginloss of
powerand overheating. A wire gage size (A.W.G.)
of at least 16 is recommended for an extension
cord 100 feet or less in length. A cord exceeding
100 feet is not recommended. If in doubt, use the
next heavier gage. The smaller the gage number,
the heavier the cord.
Page 3

RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION (Continued)
22. OUTDOOR USE EXTENSION CORDS. When tool
is used outdoors, use only extension cords suitable 32.
for use outdoors. Outdoor approved cords are
marked with the suffix W-A, for example -SJTW-A
or SJOW-A. 33.
23. KEEP cu'n'ERS CLEAN AND SHARP. Sharp
cutters minimize stalling and kickback.
24. KEEP HANDS AWAY FROM CUTTING AREA.
Keep hands away from cutters. Do not reach
underneath work while cutter is rotating. Do not
attempt to remove material while cutter is rotating.
25. NEVER USE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE.
Normal sparking of th_ motor could ignite fumes.
26. INSPECT TOOL CORDS PERIODICALLY and
if damaged, have repaired at your nearest Sears
Repair Center. Stay constantly aware of cord
location.
27. INSPECT EXTENSION CORDS PERIODI-
CALLY and replace if damaged.
28. KEEP HANDLES DRY, CLEAN, AND FREE
FROM OIL AND GREASE. Always use a clean
cloth when cleaning. Never use brake fluids,
gasoline, petroleum-based products or any strong
solvents to clean your tool.
29. STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing and
use common sense. Do not operate tool when
you are tired. Do not rush.
30. 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. 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 unless indicated
elsewhere in this instruction manual.
31. DO NOT USE TOOL IF SWITCH DOES NOT
TURN IT ON AND OFF. Have defective switches
34.
35.
36.
37.
replaced by an authorized service center.
INSPECT FOR and remove all nails from lumber
before trimming.
DRUGS, ALCOHOL, MEDICATION. Do not
operate tool while under the influence of drugs,
alcohol, or any medication.
WHEN SERVICING USE ONLY IDENTICAL
CRAFTSMAN REPLACEMENT PARTS.
POLARIZED PLUGS. To reduce the risk of
electric shock, this tool has apolarized plug (one
blade is wider than the other). This plug will fit in
a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does
not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still
does not fit, contact aqualified electrician to
install the proper outlet. Do not change the plug
in any way.
DO NOT USE TOOL UNDER "BROWN-OUT"
OR OTHER LOW VOLTAGE CONDITIONS.
Also, do not use with any device that could cause
the power supply voltage to change.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. Review them
frequently and use them to instruct others who
may use this tool. If you loan someone this tool,
loan them these instructions also.
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. Setne 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 i
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
[WARNING: Joutmicroscopic particles. ,
f_ The operation of any laminate trimmer can result in foreign objects being thrown Into your
|_/uu'_t ,,_UL_,._)] eyes, which can result In severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation,
|p_ always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields and a full face shield when
i_needed. We recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over eyeglasses or standard
L_safety glasses with side shields, available at Sears Retail Stores.
Page 4

Congratulations and thank you for buying this
Craftsman laminate trimmer. It hasbeendesigned,
engineeredandmanufactured to provideyou with Sears high
standard of dependability, ease of operation, and operator
safety. Properly cared for, it will give you years of rugged,
trouble-free performance.
Your trimmer has many features for making trimming
operations more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety,
performance and dependability have been given top priority
in the design of this trimmer making it easy to maintain and
operate.
CAUTION:
Carefullyread throughthisentireowner'smanualbefore
usingyournewtrimmer.Pay closeattentiontothe Rules
ForSafe Operation,Warningsand Cautions.If youuse
your trimmerproperlyand onlyfor what it is intended,
youwillenjoyyearsof safe, reliableservice.
,W
SPECIFICATIONS:
MaximumCutterDiameter 1-3/8 in.
Collet 1/4 in.
Horsepower 3/4
Rating 120 volts, 60 Hz, AC only, 3.8 Amperes
No LoadSpeed 23,000 RPM
PowerCord 10ft.
NetWeight 3.0 Ibs.
•Warranty ................................................ 2
•Rules For Safe Operation ................. 2-4
•Introduction and Product
Specifications ....................................... 5
•Table Of Contents ................................. 5
•Unpacking ............................................. 6
•Features .............................................. 6-7
Know Your Trimmer ................................ 6
Heavy Duty Motor ................................... 6
Switch .................................................. 6
Depth Of Cut Scale ................................. 6
Applications ............................................ 6
•Adjustments ....................................... 7-8
Installing/Removing Cutters .................... 8
To Set Depth Of Cut ............................... 8
•Operation .......................................... 9-12
How To Operate Your Trimmer .............. 9
Feed Direction ........................................ 9
Rate Of Feed .......................................... 9
Proper Feeding ....................................... 9
Ball Bearing Piloted_Bit ........................... 9
Force Feeding ...................................... 10
Too Slow Feeding ................................. 10
Depth Of Cut ......................................... 10
Direction Of Feed And Thrust ............... 11
Helpful Hints ......................................... 11
Extension Cords ................................... 12
•Maintenance ........................................ 13
General ................................................ 13
Brush Replacement .............................. 13
Lubrication ............................................ 13
Proper Care Of Cutters ......................... 13
Proper Care Of Collet ........................... 13
•Exploded View andParts List ....... 14-15
•Parts Ordering /Service ..................... 16
Page 5

Your trimmer has been shipped completely assembled and
ready for use. After removing it from the carton, inspect it
carefully to make sure no breakage ordamage has occurred
duringshipping. Ifany parts are damaged ormissing, contact
your nearest Sears Retail Store to obtain replacement parts
before attempting tooperate trimmer. A 1/2 in.diameter flush
trim bit,owner's manual, twowrenches, and case areincluded
in the carton.
WARNING:
If any parts are missing, do notoperate your trimmer until
the missing parts are replaced. Failure to do so could
result in possible serious personal injury.
i
KNOW YOUR TRIMMER
See Figure 1.
Before attempting to use your trimmer, familiadze yourself
with all operating features and safety requirements.
Your trimmer isaversatile woodworking toolwhich willgive
you years of trouble-free performance. It isengineered with
the professional in mind, but its ease of operation allows the
amateur to produce work which is beautiful and precise.
As the name implies your trimmer can be used for trimming
laminates. When used with recommended accessories, it
becomes even more versatile.
WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with your trimmer to make you
careless. Remember that a careless fraction ofasecond
is sufficient to inflict severe injury.
HEAVY DUTY MOTOR
Your trimmer has a powerful 3.8 amp motor with sufficient
powerto handle many trimmingjobs. Itiscapable ifdelivering
3/4 horsepower for heavy duty performance. The motoralso
has removable brushes for ease of servicing.
SWITCH
To turn your trimmer ON, slide the switch on top of the
trimmer to ON position. Return the switch to OFF position
when finished.
DEPTH OF CUTSCALE
Your tdmmer's cutting depth can be adjusted by using the
depth of cut scale. To adjust to desired depth, loosen the
wing bolt and move the base untilthe tip of the cutter lightly
comes in contact with the surface. The depth of cutting is
zero at this point. Move the base further tothe relative mark
on the scale that corresponds with your desired cutting
depth. Finally, tighten the wingbolt. You willgetyour desired
depth of cutting.
WARNING:
The operation ofany trimmer can result inforeign objects
being thrown into your eyes, which can result in severe
eye damage. Beforestarting powertooloperation, always
wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields
and a full face shield when needed. We recommend wide
vision safety mask for use over eyeglasses or standard
safety glasses with side shields.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to modify this tool or create accessories
notrecommended for usewiththistool.Any suchalteration
or modification ismisuse and could result in a hazardous
condition leading to possible serious personal injury.
APPLICATIONS
(Use only for the purpose listed below)
•Smooth, professional trimming of laminates.
•Cabinet making, trimming counter tops, and finishing
work.
• Trimming wood and plastics.
Page 6

ON-OFF
SWITCHOFF
BASE
USHCAP
DEPTHOF
HOUSING WINGBOLT
WRENCH(2)
'SUBBAS_
COLLETNUT
COLLET
Fig. 1 J
WARNING:
Your laminate trimmer should never be connected
to power supply when you are assembling parts,
making adjustments, installing or removing cutters,
or when not in use. Disconnecting your trimmer will
prevent accidental starting that could cause serious
injury.
k
WARNING:
Do not use cutters with undersized shanks. Undersized
shanks will nottighten properly and could be thrown from
tool causing injury.
k
,WARNING:
Do not use cutters that are larger in diameter than
the opening in trimmer base. Use of such cutters
will come in contact with the trimmer base. This
situation could also cause possible loss of control
or create other hazardous conditions that could
cause possible serious personal injury.
WARNING:
Avoid hand positions that may expose fingers to cutter
through open areas of trimmer base.
Page 7

INSTALLING/REMOVING cu'rrERS
See Figure 2.
• UNPLUG YOUR TRIMMER.
WARNING:
Failure to unplug your trimmer could result in accidental
starting causing serious injury.
i
•Place your trimmer upside down on a workbench in
order to gain easy access to spindle and collet nut.
• Place the small end of one,of the wrenches provided on
the spindle flats. This will hold the spindle stationary.
• Place the larger end of the other wrench provided onto
the collet nut. Rotate wrench counterclockwise to loosen
collet nut. See Figure 2.
WARNING:
If you are changing a cutter immediately after use, be
careful not to touch the collet nut, cutter, orcoUet with your
hands or fingers. They will get burned because of the heat
buildup from cutting. Always use the wrench provided. I
• If installing cutter for the first time, it can be installed
once collet nut is loose. If changing cutters, cutter will
easily slip from collet after loosening collet nut.
• The collet is machined to precision tolerances to fit
cutters with 1/4 in. diameter shanks.
•With your trimmer still upside down on a workbench,
insert shank of cutter into collet. The shank of your cutter
should be close to but not touching bottom of collet. This
allows for expansion when the cutter gets hot.
• Tighten the collet nut securely by turning clockwise with
the wrench provided. See Figure 2.
WARNING:
If collet nut is not tightened securely, cutter may come out
during use, causing serious personal injury.
TO SET DEPTH OF CUT
See Figure 3.
•UNPLUG YOUR TRIMMER.
WARNING:
Failure to unplug your trimmer could result in accidental
starting causing serious injury.
•Loosen the wing bolt and move the base until the tip of
cutter touches the work surface. The depth of cut is
zero at this point. See Figure 3.
WRENCHON
COLLETNUT
Fig. 2
INDICATOR
(s) DEPTHOF
/
• Position your trimmer so that the cutter can extend
Ibelow the subbase for desired depth of cut setting.
• Move the base to obtain the desired depth of cut. The
distance the cutter moves can be read on the depth
indicator scale. Each mark on the scale indicates a 1/16
in. change in depth setting. Indicator points are located
on the base.
•Securely tighten the wing bolt.
, WARNING:
Avoid open area of trimmer base. Serious personal injury
will result from contact with a rotating cutter.
Page 8

WARNING:
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields when using your trimmer. Failure to do so could
result in dust, shavings, chips, loose particles, or foreign
objects being thrown intoyour eyes resulting in possible
serious injury. If the operation is dusty, also wear a face
or dust mask.
WARNING:
When turning your trimmer ON, be prepared for start-up
torque. Always have a firm grasp of your trimmer before
starting. Because of the high cutter speed rotation your
trimmer has a tendency to twist, jerk, or grab in your
hands during start-up. If not prepared, this can cause a
loss of control resulting in possible sedous injury.
HOW TO OPERATE YOUR TRIMMER
Before starting your trimmer, unplug it and make sure
cutter is securely tightened in collet and that depth of cut is
properlyset. Never start trimmer while cutter is in contact
with the workpieee.
After completing a cut, pull cutter slightly away from cut
surface. Turn trimmer off and wait for rotating cutter to
completely stop before removing base from work surface.
Your trimmer is turned on by means of aslide switch
located on top of the tool. Make a few cuts on a piece of
scrap material to determine the desired depth or shape of
cut. When cutting, fit the base of your trimmer over the
work surface and firmly hold the body of your trimmer with
your hand. Make sure the trimmer is running at full speed.
Forbest results, move your trimmer from leftto right,against
the turning direction of the trimmer cutter. See Figure 4. Be
sure not to move trimmer too rapidly.
Remain alert and watch what you are doing. DO NOT
operate trimmer when fatigued or under the influence of
drugs, alcohol, or any medication.
FEED DIRECTION
When trimming, the cutter rotates clockwise. Therefore,
you should feed the trimmer into the workpiece from left to
right. When fed from left to right, the rotation of the cutter
pulls the trimmer against the workpiece. Iffed in the opposite
direction, the rotation forces of the spinning cutter will tend
to throw the trimmer away from the workpiece. This could
cause loss of control of your trimmer.
RATE OF FEED
IMPORTANT: The whole "secret" of professional trimming
and edge shaping lies in making a careful set-up for the cut
to be made and in selecting the proper rate of feed.
The proper rate of feed depends on several factors: the
hardness and moisture content of the workpiece, the depth
of cut, and the cutting diameter of the cutter. When cutting
shallow grooves in soft woods such as pine, a faster rate of
feed can be used. When making cuts in hardwoods such as
oak, a slower rate of feed will be required.
The best rate of feed is one that does not slow down the
trimmer motor more than one-third of itsno-load speed. Ifthe
trimmer isfed too fast, itwilltake large chips out ofthe wood
and leave gouge marks. If the trimmer isfed too slow, itwill
scorch or burn the wood.
PROPER FEEDING
The right feed isneither too fast nor too slow. It isthe rate at
which the cutter is being advanced firmly and surely to
produce a continuous spiral of uniform chips or asmooth trim
edge on laminate. If you are making a small diameter,
shallow groove in soft, dry wood, the proper feed may be
about asfast as you can travel your trimmer along your guide
line. On the other hand, ifthe cutter is a large one, the cut is
deep orthe workpiece is hard to cut, the proper feed may be
a very slow one. A cross-grain cut may require a slower pace
than an identical with grain cut in the same workpiece.
There is no fixed rule. You will learn by experience from
practice and use, The best rate of feed is determined by
listening to the sound of the trimmer motor and by feeling the
progress of each cut. Always test a cut on a scrap piece of
the workpiece wood or laminate beforehand.
BALL BEARING PILOTED BIT
See Figure 4.
Use of ball bearing piloted trimmer cutters provide a conve-
nient method of laminate trimming. Guide the ball bearing
surface along the edge of workpiece. Be careful to follow
instructionsfor correct direction of feed.
Page 9

FORCE FEEDING
Clean, smooth laminate trimming and edge shaping can be
done only when the cutter is revolving at a relatively high
speed and is taking very small bites to produce tiny, cleanly
severed chips. Ifyour trimmer isfomed to move forward too
fast, the speed of the cutter becomes slower than normal in
relationto itsforward movement. As a result, thecutter must
take bigger bites as it revolves. "Bigger bites" mean bigger
chips, and a rougher finish• Bigger chips also require more
power, which could result in the trimmer motor becoming
ovedoaded.
Under extreme force-feeding conditions the relative speed
of the cutter can become so stow -- and the bites it has to
take solarge-- that chips willbe partially knocked off (rather
than fully cut off), with resulting splintering and gougingofthe
workpiece. See Figure 5.
Your trimmer is an extremely high-speed tool (23,000 RPM
no-load speed), and willmake clean, smooth cuts ifallowed
to runfreely without the ovedoad of a forced (too fast) feed•
Three things that cause "force feeding" are cutter size, depth
ofcut, and workpiece characteristics. The larger the cutteror
the deeper the cut, the more slowly the trimmer should be
moved forward. If the wood is very hard, knotty, gummy or
damp, the operation must be slowed still more.
You can always detect "force feeding" by the sound of the
motor. Its high-pitched whine willsound lower and stronger
as it loses speed. Also, the strain of holding the tool will be
noticeably increased.
TOO SLOW FEEDING
Itisalso possible tospoil a cutby moving thetrimmer forward
too slowly• When it is advanced into the work too slowly, a
revolving cutter does not dig into new wood fast enough to
take a bite; instead, it simply scrapes away sawdust-like
particles. Scraping produces heat, which can glaze, burn, or
marthe cut-- in extreme cases, can even overheat thecutter
soas to destroy itshardness. Dull cutters can also contribute
to scraping and burning.
In addition, it is more difficult to control a trimmer when the
cutter is scraping instead of cutting• With practically no load
on the motor the cutter will be revolving at close totop RPM,
and will have a much greater than normal tendency to
bounce offthe sides of the cut (especially, ifthe wood has a
pronounced grain with hard and soft areas). As a result, the
cut produced may have sides that are rippled instead of
straight.
"Too-slow feeding" can also cause yourtrimmer totake offin
a wrong direction from the intended line of cut. You can
detect "foo-slow feeding" by the high-pitched sound of the
motor. Always grasp and hold your trimmer firmly with
both hands when trimming.
DEPTH OF CUT
See Figure6.
As previously mentioned, the depth of cut is important
because itaffects the rate of feed which, in turn, affects the
Page
JTO SLOW
TOFAST
DEPTH
OF CUT
Fig. ,=
,,.. WIDTH
OF CUT
2ND.
PASS
1ST.
PASS
IST'PAS_6
hn 2ND. PASS
quality of a cut (and, also, the possibilityof damage to your
trimmer motorand cutter), Adeep cut requires a slowerfeed
than a shallow one, and a too deep cut willcause you toslow
the feed so much that the cutter is no longer cutting, it is
scraping, instead.
Making a deep cut is never advisable. The smaller cutters--
especially those only 1/16 in. in diameter-- are easily broken
off when subjected to too much side thrust. A large enough
cutter may not be broken off, but ifthe cut is too deep a rough
cut will result -- and it may be very difficult to guide and
control the cutter as desired. For these reasons, we
recommend that you do not exceed 1/8 in. depth of cut in a
single pass, regardless of the cutter size or the softness or
condition of the workpiece. This will result in a higher quality
cut.
To make deeper cuts it is therefore necessary to make as
many successive passes as required, lowering the cutter
1/8 in. for each new pass. In order to save time, do all the
cutting necessary at one depth setting, before lowering
the cutter for the next pass. This will also assure a uniform
depth when the final pass is completed.
10

WARNING:
If desired depth of cut is greater than can be safely cut in
one pass, make cuts in two or three passes.
DIRECTION OF FEED AND THRUST
See Figures 7 and 8.
The trimmer motor and cutter revolve in a clockwise direc-
tion. This gives the tool a slight tendency to twist (in your
hands) in a countemlockwise direction, especially when the
motor starts.
Because ofthe extremely high speed ofcutter rotationduring
a"proper feeding" operation, there is very little kickback to
contend with under normal conditions. However, should the
cutter strike aknot, hard grain, foreign object, etc.that would
affect the normal progress of the cutting action, there will be
a slightkickback-- sufficientto spoilthe trueness ofyour cut
if you are not prepared. Such a kickback is always in the
direction opposite to the direction of cutter rotation.
To guard against such a kickback, plan your set-up and
direction of feed so that you willalways be thrusting the tool
-- to hold itagainst whatever you are using to guide the cut
-- in the same direction that the leading edge ofthe cutter is
moving. In short, the thrust should be in a direction that
keeps the sharp edges of the cutter continuously biting
straight into new (uncut) wood.
HELPFUL HINTS
J" Always clamp workpiece securely before trimming.
,/ A safe operator is one who thinks ahead.
I/ Always wear eye protection when trimming.
JMake set-up adjustments carefully. Then double
check. Measure twice and cut once.
J" Keep cutters clean and properly sharpened.
JDon't let familiarity make you careless.
Study all safety rules and do the job safely.
,/ NEVER place your hands in jeopardy.
JMake certain clamps can't loosen while in use.
J" Test difficult set-ups on scrap -- Don't waste lum-
ber.
/Plan each operation before you begin.
/Provide for smoother operation by cleaning your
trimmer frequently. Shake trimmer or blow with an
air jet to remove sawdust build-up.
,/ THINK SAFETY BY THINKING AHEAD.
TRIMMERFEED
DIRECTION
9
I= "_OTATION
TRIMMERFEED
DIRECTION Fig.
GUIDEOUTSIDE
ROTATION_._
___./THRUST J) "
GUIDE
_FEED
GUIDEINSIDE
'_--._-__r,,, FEED
\
THRUST Fig. 8
Page 11

EXTENSION CORDS
The use of any extension cord willcause some lossofpower.
To keepthe losstoa minimum andto preventtooloverheating,
use an extension cord that is heavy enough to carry the
current the tool will draw.
A wire gage size (A.W.G.) of at least 16 is recommended for
an extension cord 100 feet or less in length. When working
outdoors, use an extension cord that is suitable for outdoor
use. The cord's jacket will be marked WA.
CAUTION:
Keep extensions cords away from trimming area and
position the cord so that it will not get caught on lumber,
tools, etc., during trimming operation.
WARNING:
Check extension cords before each use. If damaged
replace immediately. Never use tool with a damaged cord
since touching the damaged area could cause electrical
shock resulting in serious injury.
I
NOTES
Page 12

WARNING:
When servicing use only identicalCraftsman replacement
parts. Use of any other parts may create a hazard or
cause product damage.
h
GENERAL
Only the parts shown on parts list, page 15 are intended to
be repaired or replaced by the customer. All other parts
represent an important part of the double insulation system
and should be serviced only by a qualified Sears service
technician.
Avoid using 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
clean cloths to remove dirt, carbon dust, etc.
WARNING:
BRUSH REPLACEMENT
See Figure 9.
Your trimmer has externally accessible brush assemblies
that should periodically be checked for wear. Proceed as
follows when replacement is required.
•UNPLUG YOUR TRIMMER.
WARNING:
Failure to unplug your trimmer could result in accidental
starting causing serious injury.
• Remove brush cap with aflat blade screwdriver. Brush
assembly is spring loaded and will pop out when you
remove brush cap.
• Remove brush assembly (brush and spring).
• Check for wear. If worn, always replace in pairs. DO
NOT replace one side without replacing the other.
• Reassemble using new brush assemblies. Make sure
curvature of brush matches curvature of motor and that
brush moves freely in brush tube.
• Make sure brush cap is oriented correctly (straight) and
replace.
• Tighten brush cap securely. DO NOT over torque.
When electric tools are used on fiberglass boats, sports
cars, wallboard, spackling compounds, or plaster, it has
been found that they are subject to accelerated wear and
possible premature failure, as the fiberglass chips and
grindings are highly abrasive to 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 with an air jet.
WARNING:
Always wear safety goggles, or safety glasses with side
shields during power tool operation or when blowing
dust. If operation is dusty, also wear a dust mask.
LUBRICATION
All of the bearings in this tool are lubricated with a sufficient
amount of high grade lubricant for the life of the unit under
normal operating conditions. Therefore, no further lubrication
is required.
PROPER CARE OFCUTTERS
Get faster more accurate cutting results by keeping cutters
clean and sharp. Remove all accumulated pitch and gum
from cutters after each use.
When sharpening cutters, sharpen only the inside of the
cutting edge. Never grind the outside diameter. Be sure
when sharpening the end of a cutter to grind the clearance
angle the same as originally ground.
PROPER CARE OFCOLLET
From time to time, it also becomes necessary to clean your
collet and collet nut. To do so, simply remove collet nut from
collet and clean the dust and chips that have collected. Then
return collet nut to its original position.
BRUSHCAP
BRUSH
ASSEMBLY
BRUSHCAP
BRUSH
ASSEMBLY
Page13
Fig.

CRAFTSMAN INDUSTRIAL LAMINATE TRIMMER -MODEL NUMBER 315.275120
1
SEE NOTE"A"
2
12
3
10
14
NOTE: "A" - The assembly shown represents an Important part of the Double Insulated System. To avoid the
possibility of alteration or damage to the System, service should be performed by your nearest Sears
Repair Center. Contact your nearest Sears Retail Store for Service Center InformaUon.
Page 14

CRAFTSMAN INDUSTRIAL LAMINATE TRIMMER - MODEL NUMBER 315.275120 ---.
The model number willbefound on a plate attached tothe motorhousing. Always mention the model number I
in all correspondence regarding your LAMINATE TRIMMER or when ordering repair parts. I
SEE BACK PAGE FOR PARTS ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS
Key Part
No. Number
I 974795-O01
2 065700-700
3 976699-001
4 974796-001
5 974786-001
6 989985-003
7093006-000
8 974115-001
9 662932`001
10 092406-350
11 06850t-433
12 063600-722
13 622210-039
14 975096-001
15 ***
16 060720-630
17 974843-001
972000-336
PARTS LIST
Description Qusn.
Logo Plate ............................................................................................. I
Brush Cap ............................................................................................. 2
Brush Assembly ................................. ................................................... 2
Data Plate ............................................................................................. I
Scale Label ........................................................................................... I
Collet Nut (114 in.) ................................................................................. 1
Hex Nut (M6) ........................................................................................ 1
Compression Spring ............................................................................. 1
Spacer ................................................................................................... I
Wing Bolt (M6 x 35) .............................................................................. I
Base ....................................................................................................... I
Subbase ................................................................................................. I
Screw (#8-32 x 3/8 in. FiL Hd. T.C.) ..................................................... 4
Wrench .................................................................................................. 2
1/2 in. Cutter (Item No. 9-25413) .......................................................... I
Optional Edge Guide ............................................................................ I
Carrying Case - Not Shown .................................................................. I
Owner's Manual
* Standard Hardware Item uMay Be Purchased Locally
*** Avallable At Your Nearest Sears Retall Store
Page 15

For repair of major brand appliances in your own home...
no matter who made it, no matter who sold it!
1-800-4-MY-HOME sMAnytime, day or night
(1-800-469-4663)
www.sears.com
To bring in products such as vacuums, lawn equipment and electronics
for repair, call for the location of your nearest Sears Parts & Repair Center.
1-800-488-1222 Anytime, day or night
www.sears.com
For the replacement parts, accessories and owner's manuals
that you need to do-it-yourself, call Sears PartsDirect sM!
1-800-366-PART 8 a.m.- 11 p.m. CST,
(1-800-366-7278) 7 days a week
www.sears.condpartsdirect
To purchase or inquire about a Sears Service Agrel_ment:
1-800-827-6655
7 a.m. - 5 p.m. CST, Mon. - Sat.
Para pedir servicio de reparacibn a domicilio,
y para ordenar piezas con entrega a domicilio:
1"888-SU-HOGAR sM
(1-888-784-6427)
Au Canada pour service en fran(;ais:
1-877-LE-FOYER s.
SEARS }
HomeCentrar
(1-877-533-6937)
®Registered Trademark /TMTrademark of Seam, Roebuck and Co.
O Sears, Roebuck and Co. ® Marca Registrada /T. Mama de F;lbdca de Sears, Roebuck and Co.