Craftsman 315.277150 User manual

'S MANUAL
ICRRFrSMRN°I
PROFE SIONA I
_ WARMNG: To reduce the risk of injury,
the user must read and understand the
operator's manual before using this product.
Customer HeUp Line: 1-800-932-3188
Sears, Roebuck and Co., 3333 Bevedy Rd., Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 USA
Visit the Craftsman web page: www.sears.com/craftsman
983000-481
6-04 Save this manual for future reference

ONE YEAR FULL WARRANTY ON CRAFTSMAN PROFESSIONAL TOOL
if this Craftsman Professional tool fails to give complete satisfaction within one year from date of purchase, RETURN IT
TO THE NEAREST SEARS STORE OR SEARS PARTS & REPAIR CENTER IN THE UNITED STATES, and Sears wil!
repair it, free of charge.
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. 817WA, Noffman Estates, IL 60179
This tool has many features for making its use more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety, performance, and dependability
have been given top priority in the design of this product making it easy to maintain and operate.

WARNING: Read and understand all instruc-
tions. Failure to follow al! instructions listed below,
may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious
personal injury.
SAVE THESE mNSTRUCTmONS
WORK AREA
[] Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
benches and dark areas invite accidents.
[] Do not operate power tools in explosive atmo-
spheres, such as in the presence of flammable liq-
uids, gases, or dust. Power tools create sparks which
may ignite the dust or fumes.
[] Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to
lose control.
ELECTRmCAL SAFETY
[] Double insulated tools are equipped with a polar-
ized 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 a qualified electrician
to install a polarized outlet. Do not change the plug
in any way. Double insulation [] eliminates the need
for the three=wire grounded power cord and grounded
power supply system.
[] Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces such
as pipes, radiators, ranges, and refrigerators. There
is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is
grounded.
[] Don't expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
Water entering a power tool wil! increase the risk of
electric shock.
[] Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord to carry
the tools or pull the plug from an outlet. Keep cord
away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.
Replace damaged cords immediately. Damaged
cords increase the risk of electric shock.
[] When operating a power tool outside, use an outdoor
extension cord marked "W-A" or "W'. These cords
are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk of electric
shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
[] Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use com-
mon sense when operating a power tool. Do not
use tool while tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention while
operating power tools may result in serious personal
injury.
[] Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewelry. Contain long hair. Keep your hair, clothing,
and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes,
jewelry, or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
[] Avoid accidental starting. Be sure switch is off
before plugging in. Carrying tools with your finger on
the switch or plugging in tools that have the switch on
invites accidents.
[] Remove adjusting keys or wrenches before turning
the tool on. A wrench or a key that is left attached to a
rotating part of the too! may result in personal injury.
[] Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times. Proper footing and balance enables better
control of the too! in unexpected situations.
[] Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection.
Dust mask, nonskid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing
protection must be used for appropriate conditions.
[] Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long
hair. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be drawn
into air vents.
[] Do not use on a ladder or unstable support. Stable
footing on a solid surface enables better control of the
tool in unexpected situations.
TOOL USE AND CARE
[] Use clamps or other practical way to secure and
support the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding
the work by hand or against your body is unstable and
may lead to loss of control.
[] Do not force tool. Use the correct tool for your ap-
plication. The correct tool wil! do the job better and
safer at the rate for which it is designed.
[] Do not use tool if switch does not turn it on or off.
Any tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is
dangerous and must be repaired.
[] Disconnect the plug from power source before
making any adjustments, changing accessories,
or storing the tool. Such preventive safety measures
reduce the risk of starting the tool accidentally.
[] Store idle tools out of the reach of children and
other untrained persons. Tools are dangerous in the
hands of untrained users.
[] Maintain tools with care. Keep cutting tools sharp
and clean. Properly maintained tools with sharp cut=
ting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to
control.
[] Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts, and any other condition that
may affect the tool's operation, if damaged, have
the tool serviced before using. Many accidents are
caused by poorly maintained tools.
[] Use only accessories that are recommended by the
manufacturer for your model. Accessories that may
be suitable for one tool, may become hazardous when
used on another tool.
[] Keep the tool and its handle 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. Following this rule will reduce the risk of loss of
control and deterioration of the enclosure plastic.

SERVICE
[] Tool service must be performed only by qualified
repair personnel. Service or maintenance performed
by unqualified personne! may result in a risk of injury.
[] When servicing a tool, use only identical replace-
merit parts. Follow instructions in the Maintenance
section of this manual. Use of unauthorized parts or
failure to follow Maintenance hstructions may create a
risk of shock or injury.
[] Hold tool by insulated gripping surfaces when be carefully checked to determine that it will op=
performing an operation where the cutting tool may erate properly and perform its intended function.
contact hidden wiring or its own cord. Contact with Check for alignment of moving parts, binding of
a "live" wire wit! make exposed metal parts of the cut- moving parts, breakage of parts, mounting, and
ting tool "live" and shock the operator, any other conditions that may affect its opera-
[] Know your power tool. Read operator's manual tion. A guard or other part that is damaged should
be properly repaired or replaced by an authorized
carefully. Learn its applications and limitations, as
well as the specific potential hazards related to this service center. Following this rule wil! reduce the risk
tool. Following this rule wil! reduce the risk of electric of shock, fire, or serious injury.
shock, fire, or serious injury. [] Make sure your extension cord is in good condition.
[] Always wear safety glasses. Everyday eyeglasses When using an extension cord, be sure to use one
have only impact-resistant lenses; they are NO'[" heavy enough to carry the current your product will
safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce the risk draw. A wire gauge size (A.W.G.} of at least 16 is
of serious personal injury, recommended for an extension cord 50 feet or less
[] Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the in length. A cord exceeding 100 feet is not recom-
mended. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge.
operation is dusty. Fo!lowing this rule wil! reduce the
risk of serious personal injury. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the
cord. An undersized cord wil! cause a drop in line volt-
[] Protect your hearing. Wear hearing protection dur- age resulting in loss of power and overheating.
ing extended periods of operation. Following this rule [] Inspect for and remove all nails from lumber before
wil! reduce the risk of serious personal injury. using this tool. Following this rule win reduce the risk
[] inspect tool cords periodically and, if damaged, of serious personal injury.
have repaired at your nearest Authorized Service [] Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and
Center. Constantly stay aware of cord location. FoJ- use them to instruct others who may use this tool. If
lowing this rule wil! reduce the risk of electric shock or you Joansomeone this too!, loan them these instruc-
fire. tions also.
[] Check damaged parts. Before further use of the
tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should
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. Some 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 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 out microscopic particles.

Someofthefollowingsymbolsmaybeusedonthistool.Pleasestudythemandlearntheirmeaning.Proper
interpretationofthesesymbolswil!allowyoutooperatethetoolbetterandsafer.
SYMBOL NAMEDEStG NATION/EXPLANATION
V Volts Voltage
A Amperes Current
Hz Hertz Frequency (cycles per second)
W Watt Power
min Minutes Time
Alternating Current Type of current
Direct Current Type or a characteristic of current
no No Load Speed Rotational speed, at no load
Class HConstruction Doubleqnsulated construction
.../rain Per Minute Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits etc., per minute
Wet Conditions Alert Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
Read The Operator's Manual To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand
operator's manual before using this product.
Eye Protection Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side
shields and a full face shield when operating this product.
Safety Alert Precautions that involve your safety.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
No Hands Symbol serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
No Hands Symbol serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
No Hands Symbol serious personal injury.
No Hands Symbol Failure to keep your hands away from the blade wil! result in
serious personal injury.
Hot Surface To reduce the risk of injury or damage, avoid contact with
any hot surface.

Thefol!owingsignalwordsandmeaningsareintendedtoexplainthelevelsofriskassociatedwiththisproduct.
SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING
DANGER: hdicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING: hdicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTmON: hdicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury.
CAUTmON: (Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in
property damage.
SERWCE
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge and
should be performed only by a qualified service tech-
nician. For service we suggest you return the product to
your nearest AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER for repair.
When servicing, use only identical replacement parts.
WARNING: To avoid serious personal injury, do
not attempt to use this product until you read
thoroughly and understand completely the
operator's manual. Save this operator's manual
and review frequently for continuing safe opera-
tion and instructing others who may use this
product.
WARNING: The operation of any power too! can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which
can result in severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation, 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.
Always use eye protection which is marked to comply with ANSI Z87.!.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

DOUBLE mNSULATmON
Double insulation is a concept in safety in electric power
tools, which eliminates the need for the usual three-wire
grounded power cord. All exposed metal parts are
isolated from the internal metal motor components with
protecting insulation. Double insulated tools do not need
to be grounded.
WARNING: The double insulated system is
intended to protect the user from shock resulting
from a break in the tool's internal insulation. Observe
all normal safety precautions to avoid electrical
shock.
NOTE: 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
authorized service center for repair. Always use original
factory replacement parts when servicing.
ELECTRmCAL CONNECTmON
This tool has a precision-built electric motor. Htshould be
connected to a power supply that is 120 volts, 60 Hz,
AC only (normal household current). Do not operate
this too! 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.
EXTENSmON CORDS
When using a power tool at a considerable distance from
a power source, be sure to use an extension cord that has
the capacity to handle the current the tool will draw. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting
in overheating and loss of power. Use the chart to deter-
mine the minimum wire size required in an extension cord.
Only round jacketed cords tisted by Underwriter's Labora-
tories (UL) should be used.
When working outdoors with a tool, use an extension
cord that is designed for outside use. This type of cord is
designated with "WA" on the cord's jacket.
Before using any extension cord, inspect it for loose or
exposed wires and cut or worn insulation.
**Ampere rating (on tool faceplate)
0-2.0 2.1-3.4 3.5-5.0 5.1-7.0 7.1-12.0 12.1-16.0
Cord Length Wire Size (AoWoGo}
25' 16 16 16 16 14 14
50' 16 16 16 14 14 12
100' 16 16 14 12 10 --
**Used on 12 _e - 20 amp c_uit
NOTE: AWG = American W{re Gauge
WARNING: Keep the extension cord clear of the
working area. Position the cord so that it will not get
caught on lumber, tools or other obstructions while
you are working with a power tool. Failure to do so
can result in serious personal injury.
WARNING: Check extension cords before each
use. If damaged reptace immediately. Never use tool
with a damaged cord since touching the damaged
area could cause electrical shock resulting in serious
injury.

PRODUCT SPECmNCATmONS
Maximum Cutter Diameter ........... 1-1/8 in. (29 mm)
Collet .............................. 1/4 in. (6 mm)
No Lead Speed ........................ 25,000/min.
input ............... 120 V, 60 Hz, AC enly, 4.5 Amps
Net Weight ......................... 3 Ibs. (1.86 kg)
Cord Length ........................... 10 ft. (8 m)
WRENCHES
ON-OFF SWITCH
E
1/2
DEPTHOFgUT
SCALE
HANDLE(S) DEPTH
ADJUSTMENT
LATCH BASE
COLLETNUT
WOODWOBKING
SUB-BASE
Fig. 1

KNOW YOUR LAMmNATE TRmMMER
See Figure 1.
Before attempting to use this product, familiarize yourself
with all operating Features and Safety Rules.
SWmTCH
The ON/OFF switch is located on top of the motor hous-
ing.
HEAVY DUTY MOTOR
The trimmer has a powerful 4.5 amp motor with sufficient
power to handle many trimming jobs. The motor also has
replaceable brushes for ease of servicing.
DEPTH OF CUT SCALE
The trimmer has an adjustable depth of cut scale.
LAMINATE SUB-BASE
The sub-base gives the operator better visibility of the
workpiece.
WOODWORKING SUB-BASE
The woodworking sub-base is used to rout circular and
paralle! grooves. Htallows the operator to grasp the trim-
mer with both hands
UNPACKING
This product has been shipped completely assembled.
[] Carefully remove the tool and any accessories from the
box. Make sure that all items listed in the packing list
are included.
[] hspect the tool carefully to make sure no breakage or
damage occurred during shipping.
[] Do not discard the packing material unti! you have
carefully inspected and satisfactorily operated the tool.
[] If any parts are damaged or missing, please call
1-800-932-3188 for assistance.
PACKING LIST
Laminate Trimmer with Laminate Sub-base
Woodworking Sub-base
Sub-base Handles (2)
Ball Bearing Flush Trim Bit
Carrying Case
Wrenches (2)
Operator's Manual
WARNING: If any parts are missing do not operate
this tool unti! the missing parts are replaced. Failure
to do so could result in possible serious personal
injury.
WARNING: Do not attempt to modify this tool
or create accessories not recommended for use
with this tool. Any such alteration or modification is
misuse and could result in a hazardous condition
leading to possible serious personal injury.
WARNING: Do not connect to power supply until
assembly is complete. Failure to comply could result
in accidental starting and possible serious injury.

INSTALLING/REMOVmNGCUTTERS
See Figure 2.
[] Unplug the trimmer.
[] Place the trimmer upside down on a workbench to gain
easy access to the spindle and coflet nut.
[] Place the small end of one of the wrenches provided
on the spindle fiats. This wil! hold the spindle station-
ary.
[] Place the larger end of the other wrench provided onto
the collet nut. Rotate the wrench counterclockwise to
loosen the collet nut as shown in figure 2.
_ WARNING: Hfyou are changing a cutter immedi-
ately after use, be careful not to touch the collet nut,
cutter, or collet with your hands or fingers. They will
get burned because of the heat buildup from cutting.
Always use the wrench provided.
[] If installing the cutter for the first time, it can be in-
stalled once the collet nut is loose. If changing cutters,
the cutter win easily slip from the collet after loosening
coliet nut.
NOTE: The tip of the cutter has a protective wax coat-
ing that must be removed before first-time use. Simply
peel off the wax coating and be sure that all traces of
wax are removed before using the trimmer.
[] The collet is machined to precision tolerances to fit
cutters with 1/4 in. (6.4 mm) diameter shanks.
[] With the trimmer stil! upside down on a workbench,
insert the shank of the cutter into the collet. The shank
of the cutter should be close to but not touching the
bottom of the collet. This aNows for expansion when
the cutter gets hot. A clearance of 1/16 in. is adequate.
[] Tighten the collet nut securely by turning clockwise
with the wrench provided as shown in figure 2.
_ WARNmNG: If the collet nut is not tightened se-
curely, the cutter may come out during use, causing
serious personal injury.
WRENCHON CUTTER WRENCHON
COLLETNUT SPINDLEFLATS
TO ATTACH THE WOODWORKING
SUB-BASE AND HANDLES
See Figure 3.
[] Unplug the trimmer.
[] Turn the trimmer upside down to remove the four sub-
base screws and laminate sub-base.
[] Attach the woodworking sub-base using the same four
sub-base screws.
[] Tighten the sub-base screws securely. Do not overtight-
en.
[] Turn the trimmer upright and thread the handles
provided into the threaded holes in the woodworking
sub-base
[] Tighten the handles securely. Check often to assure
the handles remain securely tightened.
LAMINATE
TRIMMER
HANDLE(S)
m
WOODW __SUB-BASE
SUB-BASE
SCREW(S)
Fig. 2
10

WARNING:Donotallowfamiliaritywithtools
tomakeyoucareless.Rememberthatacareless
fractionofasecondissufficienttoinffictserious
injury.
WARNING:Alwayswearsafetygogglesorsafety
glasseswithsideshieldswhenoperatingpower
tools.Failuretodosocouldresultinobjectsbeing
thrownintoyoureyesresultinginpossibleserious
injury,
WARNING:Donotuseanyattachmentsoracces-
soriesnotrecommendedbythemanufacturerof
thistoo!.Theuseofattachmentsoraccessoriesnot
recommendedcanresultinseriouspersonalinjury.
APPUCATIONS
You may use this tool for the purposes listed below:
[] Smooth, professional trimming of laminates
[] Cabinet making, trimming counter tops and finishing
work
[] Trimming wood and plastics
TURNING ON/OFF THE TRmMMER
See Figure 4.
To turn the trimmer ON, slide the switch on top of the
trimmer to the ON position. Return the switch to the OFF
position when finished.
OFF
ON
HOW TO OPERATE THE TRIMMER
See Figure 5.
Before starting the trimmer, unplug it and make sure the cut-
ter is securely tightened in the collet and that the depth of
cut is properly set. Never start the trimmer while the cutter
is in contact with the workpiece.
After completing a cut, pull the cutter slightly away from the
cut surface. Turn the trimmer off and wait for the rotating
cutter to completely stop before removing the base from
the work surface.
When cutting, fit the base of the trimmer over the work
surface and firmly hold the body of the trimmer with your
hand. Make sure the trimmer is running at full speed be-
fore contacting the workpiece.
WARNmNG: Avoid hand positions that may expose
fingers to cutter through open areas of trimmer base.
Fingers entering the opening in the trimmer base can
be seriously cut or burned.
_ WARNmNG: Never install a cutter larger than
1-!/8 in. in this trimmer. The use of larger bits can
result in loss of control and possible serious personal
injury,
Fig. 5
Fig. 4
11

DIRECTION OF FEED AND THRUST
See Figures 6 and 7.
The trimmer motor and cutter revolve in a clockwise direc-
tion. This gives the tool a Might tendency to twist in your
hands in a counterclockwise direction, especially when
the motor starts.
Feed the trimmer into the workpiece from left to right.
When fed from left to right, the rotation of the cutter pulis
the trimmer against the workpiece. Hffed in the opposite
direction, the rotation forces of the spinning cutter will
tend to throw the trimmer away from the workpiece, caus-
ing kickback. This could result in loss of control of the
trimmer.
Because of the extremely high speed of cutter rotation
during a proper feeding operation, there is very !ittle kick-
back to contend with under normal conditions. However,
shoutd the cutter strike a knot, hard grain, foreign object,
etc. that would affect the normal progress of the cutting
action, there will be a slight kickback. Kickback could be
sufficient to spoil the trueness of your cut if you are not
prepared. Such a kickback is always in the direction op-
posite the direction of cutter rotation.
To guard against kickback, plan your set-up and direction
of feed so that you will always be thrusting the tool--to
hold it against whatever you are using to guide the cut--in
the same direction that the leading edge of the cutter is
moving. The thrust should be in a direction that keeps the
sharp edges of the cutter continuously biting straight into
new (uncut) wood.
NOIIO3UI(]
TRIMMER FEED
DIRECTION
_w
p-
ROTATION
Fig. 6
GUIDEOUTSIDE
ROTATIO.
GUIDE
GUIDEINSIDE
FEED
ROTATIONE__
GUID
THRUST
Fig. 7
12

PROPER RATE OF FEED
Professional trimming and edge shaping depend upon
careful set-up and selecting the proper rate of feed.
The proper rate of feed is dependent upon:
[] the hardness and moisture content of the workpiece
[] the depth of cut
[] 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 win be
required.
Several factors will help you select the proper rate of feed.
[] Choose a rate that does not slow down the trimmer
motor.
[] Choose the rate at which the cutter advances firmly
and surely to produce a continuous spiral of uniform
chips or a smooth trim edge on laminate.
[] Listen to the sound of the trimmer motor. A high-
pitched sound means you are feeding too slowly. A
strained, lower-pitched sound signals force-feeding.
[] Check the progress of each cut. Too-slow feeding can
cause the trimmer to take off in a wrong direction from
the intended line of cut. Force-feeding increases the
strain of holding the tool and results in loss of speed.
[] Notice the chips being produced as you cut. if the trim-
mer is fed too slowly, it will scorch or burn the wood. if
the trimmer is fed too fast, it will take large chips out of
the wood and leave gouge marks.
Always test a cut on a scrap piece of the workpiece wood
or laminate before you begin. Always grasp and hold the
trimmer firmly with both hands when trimming.
if you are making a smalPdiameter, shallow groove in soft,
dry wood, the proper feed rate may be determined by the
speed at which you can travel the trimmer along the guide
line. if the cutter is a large one, the cut is deep or the
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. Proper rate of feed is learned
through practice and use.
FORCE FEEDmNG
See Figure 8.
The trimmer is an extremely high-speed tool (25,000/min),
and will make clean, smooth cuts if al!owed to run freely
without the overload of a forced feed. Three things that
cause force feeding are cutter size, depth of cut, and
workpiece characteristics. The larger the cutter or 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.
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, if the trimmer is forced to move
forward too fast, the speed of the cutter becomes slower
than normal in relation to its forward movement. As a
result, the cutter must take bigger bites as it revolves.
Bigger bites mean bigger chips and a rougher finish. Big-
ger chips also require more power, which could result in
overloading the motor.
Under extreme force-feeding conditions, the relative
speed of the cutter can become so slow--and the bites it
has to take so large--that chips will be partially knocked
off rather than fully cut off. This will result in splintering
and gouging of the workpiece.
TOOSLOW
TOOFAST
Fig. 8
TOO SLOW FEEDmNG
See Figure 8.
When the trimmer is advanced into the work too slowly,
the revolving cutter does not dig into new wood fast
enough to take a bite; instead, it scrapes away sawdust-
like particles. Scraping produces heat, which can glaze,
burn, or mar the cut, and can overheat the cutter. Dull cut-
ters can also contribute to scraping and burning.
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 wil! be revolving near top RPM, and
will have a greater than normal tendency to bounce off the
sides of the cut, especially if the wood has a pronounced
grain with hard and soft areas. The cut that results may
have rippled sides instead of straight.
13

DEPTH OF CUT
See Figure 9.
Depth of cut affects the rate of feed and the qual}ty of a
cut. Using the proper depth of cut can lessen the possibil-
ity of damage to the trimmer motor and cutter.
A deep cut requires a s!ower feed than a shallow one. A
cut that is too deep wil! slow the feed so that the cutter is
scraping, rather than cutting.
A too-deep cut can cause smaller cutters to be broken
off. Cutters that are 1/16 in. (1.6 mm)in diameter are eas-
ily broken off when subjected to too much side thrust. A
larger cutter is not as likely to break, but attempting a cut
that is too deep may result in a rough cut, and may make
it difficult to guide and control the cutter as desired.
it is recommended that you do not exceed 1/8 in. (3.2 mm)
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 necessary to make as many
successive passes as required, lowering the cutter
1/8 in. (3.2 mm) for each new pass. To save time, perform
a!l the cutting necessary at one depth setting, then lower
the cutter for the next pass. This wil! assure uniform depth
when the final pass is completed.
NOTE: if desired depth of cut is greater than can be safely
cut in one pass, make cuts in two or three passes.
_ WARNING: if the desired depth of cut is greater
than can be safely cut in one pass, make cuts in two
or more passes. Do not remove more than 1/8" in
a single pass. Excessive depth of cut can result in
loss of control and the possibility of serious personal
injury.
WIDTH
1$T. PASS
!8T.
2ND. PASS
PASS
m
Fig. 9
14

TO SET DEPTH OF CUT
See Figure 10.
[] Unplug the tr(mmer.
[] Open the depth adjustment latch as indicated by the
arrow in figure 10.
[] Slide the motor housing section of the trimmer upward
unti! the tip of the cutter reaches the work surface. The
depth of cut ls zero at this point.
[] Position the trimmer so that the cutter can extend be-
(ow the sub-base for the desired depth of cut setting.
[] Adjust the position of the trimmer to obtain the desired
depth of cut by moving the motor housing section up
or down, as shown by the up/down arrow in figure
10. The distance the cutter moves can be read on the
depth of cut scale. Each mark on the scale indicates
a 1/16 (n. (1.6 mm) change in depth setting, indicator
points are (ocated on the base.
[] Securely close the depth adjustment latch.
WARN(NG: Avo(d the open area of tr(mmer base.
Serious personal injury w((I resu(t from contact w(th a
rotating cutter.
NOTE: When adjusting the base, note the groove that
serves as a stop to prevent the motor housing from
s(iding directly off and separating from the base.
REMOV(NG THE BASE
See Figure 11.
[] Unp(ug the trimmer.
[] Open the depth adjustment (atch.
[] HoMing the tr(mmer by the motor housing, slide the
base downward and over. Continue to slide the base
downward to remove it.
NOTE: Replace the base before using the trimmer. Do
not attempt to operate the trimmer without the base
(nsta((ed.
WARN(NG: Always use the laminate sub-base
for (am(hate trimming. A)ways use the woodworking
sub-base for trim routing operations. Use of the trim-
mer without a sub-base or using the incorrect base
can resu(t in sedous personal injury.
STOP
GROOVE
/
DEPTHOF
OUTS0ALE
Fig. 10
F(g. 11
15

USING THE WOODWORKmNG SUB-BASE
WroTH HANDLES
The woodworking sub-base with handles is convenient
when routing 4 in. (101.6 mm), 5 in. (127 mm), or 6 in.
(152.4 mm) circular grooves. Htcan also be used when
routing grooves parallel to the edge of the workpiece.
The handles allow you to grasp and hold the trimmer with
two hands, similar to grasping and holding a router.
ROUTmNG GROOVES mNA CmRCLE
See Figure 12.
[] There are three holes marked R2", R2-1/2", and R3"
on the sub-base. Each number represents a radius and
may be used when cutting circular grooves that are 4
in. (101.6 mm), 5 in. (127 mm) or 6 in. (152.4 mm) in
diameter.
[] Select the radius for the desired circle, place a finish-
ing nail through the hole and securely tack it into the
workpiece. This will create a pivot axis for that size
radius.
[] Rout a circular groove in a clockwise direction only.
See the arrow in figure 12.
ROUTCIRCULARGROOVECLOCKWISE
FINISHING
NAIL
WORKPIECE
Fig. 12
16

ROUTING GROOVES PARALLEL TO AN EDGE
See Figure 13.
You can use the scale provided on the woodworking sub-
base to cut a straight parallel line up to 1 in. (25.4 mm) from
the edge of the workpiece.
[] The intersection of the horizontal and vertical lines at
the center of the woodworking sub-base indicates the
center of the cutter. This is also the center of groove
being cut.
[] For grooves more than 1 in. (25.4 mm) from the edge
of workpiece, align the center of desired groove on
the workpiece with the centedine on the woodworking
sub-base. Then measure from the centedine on the
sub-base to the guiding portion of the straight guide.
Tighten the knob on the straight guide securely.
[] Using "C" clamps and a board to act as the straight
edge, place the cutter at the desired position on the
workpiece and make the cut from right to left as shown
by the arrow in figure 13.
NOTE: The board being used as a straight edge must
be 1/4 in. (6.4 mm) thick or tess to prevent contact with
the trimmer base. Htmust also be at least as long as
the workpiece in order to be a guide.
[] The thrust is from the trimmer against the straight
edge.
[] Do not make a cut that is too heavy in one pass. If
a deep cut is required, make successive passes at
increasing depths with each new pass until you reach
the desired groove depth.
ROUTGROOVEFROMRIGHTTOLEFT
Fig. 13
17

WARNING:Whenservicing,useonlyidentical
Craftsman replacement parts. Use of any other parts
may create a hazard or cause product damage.
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles or safety
glasses with side shields during power tool operation
or when blowing dust. Hfoperation is dusty, also wear
a dust mask.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
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, dust, oil, grease, etc.
WARNING: Do not at any time let brake fluids,
gasoline, petroleum-based products, penetrating
oils, etc., come in contact with plastic parts. Chemi-
cals can damage, weaken or destroy plastic which
may result in serious personal injury.
Electric tools used on fiberglass material, wallboard,
spackling compounds, or piaster are subject to accel-
erated wear and possible premature failure because the
fiberglass chips and gdndings are highly abrasive to bear-
ings, brushes, commutators, etc. Consequently, we do not
recommended using this tool for extended work on these
types of materials. However, if you do work with any of
these materials, it is extremely important to clean the tool
using compressed air.
LUBRICATmON
All of the bearings in this tool are lubricated with a suffi-
cient amount of high grade lubricant for the life of the unit
under normal operating conditions. Therefore, no further
lubrication is required.
Only the parts shown on the parts list are intended to be
repaired or replaced by the customer. A!I other parts
should be replaced at a Sears Service Center.
ADJUSTmNG TENSION ON THE DEPTH
ADJUSTMENT LATCH
With use, the depth adjustment latch may loosen. Periodi-
cally check the latch and adjust it when necessary.
[] Unplug the trimmer.
[] Open the depth adjustment latch.
[] Using a small adjusting wrench, tighten the hex nut by
turning it clockwise. Do not overtighten.
[] Close the latch and assure the latch is securely tight-
ened by checking the sub-base. It should not move.
18

BRUSH REPLACEMENT
See Figure 14.
[] Unp(ug the trimmer.
[] Remove screws from the top cover of the trimmer.
[] Remove the top cover.
[] Remove the c(amp screws.
[] Remove the brush tube clamps.
[] Disconnect the red and black (cad termina(s from the
brush tubes.
TOP
COVER
SCREWS
[] Replace the brush assemb(ies.
[] Reconnect the red and Mack lead terminals to the
brush tubes.
[] Ensure that the wires are placed secure(y in the (ead
traps to prevent (oose wires.
[] Replace the brush tube c(amps.
[] Replace the top cover.
[] Replace the screws on the top cover of the trimmer.
[] Reassemble by reversing the steps listed above.
[] Tighten a(l screws securely. Do not overtighten.
RED BLACK
LEAD LEAD
CLAMP
SCREWS
BRUSHTUBE
CLAMPS
BRUSH
ASSEMBW
BLACK
LEAD
BRUSH
ASSEMBLY F(g. 14
[] Remove the brush assemblies.
[] Check for wear. Rep(ace both brush assemblies when
either has (ess than 1,,/4in. length of carbon remaining.
Do not rep(ace one side without replacing the other.
[] Make sure the wire termina(s are secured to the brush
tubes prior to reassembly.
[] Reassemb(e using new brush assemblies. Make sure
the curvature of the brush matches the curvature of
the motor and that the brush moves freely in the brush
tube.
19

2 2O
16
19
17
18
13
15
12
4
6
5 8
9
11
NOTE: "A" = The assembly shown represents an important part of the Double hsulated 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 information.
2O
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