GE GCG1500BB How to use

GCG1500BB
GCG1500WW
GCG1580SS
GCG1700II
ZCGS150SS
ZCGP150II
GE Appliances
General Electric Company
Louisville, Kentucky 40225
31-9143
15-in. Built-In
Compactors
Technical Service Guide
JULY 2006
GE Consumer & Industrial

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IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE
The information in this service guide is intended for use by
individuals possessing adequate backgrounds of electrical,
electronic, and mechanical experience. Any attempt to repair a
major appliance may result in personal injury and property
damage. The manufacturer or seller cannot be responsible for the
interpretation of this information, nor can it assume any liability in
connection with its use.
WARNING
To avoid personal injury, disconnect power before servicing
this product. If electrical power is required for diagnosis or test
purposes, disconnect the power immediately after performing the
necessary checks.
RECONNECT ALL GROUNDING DEVICES
If grounding wires, screws, straps, clips, nuts, or washers used to
complete a path to ground are removed for service, they must be
returned to their original position and properly fastened.
GE Consumer & Industrial
Technical Service Guide
Copyright © 2006
All rights reserved. This service guide may not be reproduced in whole or in part
in any form without written permission from the General Electric Company.

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Table of Contents
Built-In Compactor Components ..............................................................................................................................13
Care and Cleaning of the Built-In Compactor .................................................................................................... 10
Chain ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Component Locator Views ........................................................................................................................................... 11
Control Panel ......................................................................................................................................................................13
Control Features ............................................................................................................................................................... 7
Diagnostics and Service Information ......................................................................................................................23
Directional Switch ............................................................................................................................................................. 14
Features ................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
Installation Requirements ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Motor Assembly ................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Nomenclature .................................................................................................................................................................... 6
ON-OFF Switch ................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Power Screw Assembly .................................................................................................................................................. 21
Ram Assembly ................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Schematic ............................................................................................................................................................................ 25
Start Switch ......................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Switch Bracket ................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Tilt Switch ............................................................................................................................................................................. 15
Tilt Switch (Drawer) ..........................................................................................................................................................16
Top Cover Panel ................................................................................................................................................................. 16
Top Limit Switch ................................................................................................................................................................ 14
Using the Built-In Compactor ...................................................................................................................................... 8
Warranty .............................................................................................................................................................................. 26

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ZCGP150LII ZCGS150LSS GCG1500LBB/WW GCG1580LSS GCG1700LII
CAPACITY Capacity 1,4 cu. ft. 1.4 cu. ft. 1.4 cu. ft. 1.4 cu. ft. 1.4 cu. ft.
FEATURES Compression Ratio (Avg.) 75% Reduction or 4:1 75% Reduction or 4:1 75% Reduction or 4:1 75% Reduction or 4:1 75% Reduction or 4:1
Control Location Hidden Hidden Hidden Hidden Hidden
Cycle Time Less than 25 seconds Less than 25 seconds Less than 30 seconds Less than 30 seconds Less than 30 seconds
Drive System 2-point 2-point 2-point 2-point 2-point
Motor Horsepower 1/3 hp 1/3 hp 1/3 hp 1/3 hp 1/3 hp
Ram Force (lb.) 2300 lbs. 2300 lbs. 2300 lbs. 2300 lbs. 2300 lbs. Automatic Anti-Jam Yes Yes No No No
Lock/Start Control w/Removable Key Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Side Release Bin Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Slide-Out Drawer Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Bag Caddy Yes Yes No No No
Built-In Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes APPEARANCE Leveling Legs Yes (w/ rear wheels) Yes (w/ rear wheels) Yes (w/ rear wheels) Yes (w/ rear wheels) Yes (w/ rear wheels)
Color Appearance Custom Panels Required Stainless Steel Black/White Stainless Steel Custom Panels Required
Color Appearance Code II SS BB/WW SS II Door/Control Panel Color SS Toe Kick Black and Stainless Steel Black and Stainless Steel Black and Stainless Steel Black and Stainless Steel Black and Stainless Steel
3/4" Panel Capability Yes No No No Yes WEIGHTS & DIMENSIONS Approximate Shipping Weight 144 lb 144 lb 144 lb 144 lb 144 lb Cabinet Width 15 1/8 in 15 1/8 in 15 in 15 in 15 in
Net Weight (lbs.) 128 lb 128 lb 128 lb 128 lb 128 lb
Overall Depth 24 in 24 in 23 in 24 in 23 in
Overall Height 33 3/4 in 33 3/4 in 33 3/4 in 33 3/4 in 33 3/4 in Overall Width 14 7/8 in 14 7/8 in 14 7/8 in 14 7/8 in 14 7/8 in
Cutout Dimensions (H x W x D inches) 34-1/4 x 15-1/8 x 24-3/4 34-1/4 x 15-1/8 x 24-3/4 34-1/4 x 15-1/8 x 24-3/4 34-1/4 x 15-1/8 x 24-3/4 34-1/4 x 15-1/8 x 24-3/4 Height w/Legs Extended (in.) 35 35 35 35 35 Height With Legs Retracted (In.) 33-3/4 33-3/4 33-3/4 33-3/4 33-3/4
POWER / RATINGS Volts/Hertz/Amps 120 V; 60 Hz; 7.0 A 120 V; 60 Hz; 7.0 A 120 V; 60 Hz; 6.5 A 120 V; 60 Hz; 6.5 A 120 V; 60 Hz; 6.5 A
WARRANTY Parts and Labor Warranty Limited 1-year entire appliance Limited 1-year entire appliance Limited 1-year entire appliance Limited 1-year entire appliance Limited 1-year entire appliance
Features

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Clearance Requirements
WARNING: DO NOT OPERATE FREE-STANDING. This
compactor is designed as a built-in appliance only.
Weight on the compactor drawer could cause the
compactor to tip and result in injury.
The compactor must be securely installed in
a cabinet that is firmly attached to the house
structure.
The compactor drawer should be able to be fully
opened to 23 inches (58.4 cm) for drawer removal.
Six inches (15.2 cm) is required on the right side of
the compactor for bag removal.
29-5/16″
14-7/8″
3/4″
Thick
Custom
Panel
Custom Panel Size Requirements
Models with a custom
door panel (ZCGP150II
and GCG1700II) require a
3/4-in. thick custom panel
29 5/16 inches high and
14 7/8 inches wide.
Note: Maximum panel
weight is 12 lbs.
Pub. No. 31-30597
includes complete panel
installation instructions
and a custom door panel
template.
Installation Requirements
Power Supply Requirements
The power supply cord and plug should be brought
to a separate 15 or 20 amp branch circuit single
grounded receptacle. The outlet box should be
located within reach of the 36-in. power cord.
This appliance must be supplied with 120V, 60Hz
and connected to an individual properly grounded
branch circuit, protected by a 15 or 20 ampere
circuit breaker or time delay fuse.
33-3/4″
min. to
35″max.
14-7/8″
23″
34″
to
35″
15-1/8″
min
24″
min
Locate the outlet 18” min
from the floor, 3” min from
either side
The fully integrated design has hidden controls and
a slide-out compactor drawer. A removable ON-
OFF knob prevents unwanted use. With 2300 lbs.
maximum compacting force, the GE 15-in. built-In
compactor reduces trash volume by 75%.
The compactor installs flush to the surrounding
cabinetry. A foot pedal provides hands-free
operation. Pushing the foot pedal down opens the
drawer and lifting the pedal up starts the 30-second
maximum-cycle-time compacting operation.
Heavy-duty trash bags (part # WC60X5017) are
supplied with the compactor.
 1/3 HP Motor
 Automatic Anti-Jamming
 Slide-Out Compactor Drawer
 Foot Pedal Opening and Start
 Large 1.4 Cubic Foot Capacity
 5 Amps @ 120V
 150 lbs. Approximate Shipping Weight
 Model ZCGP150LII accepts 3/4-in. custom panel
and handle
 Model ZCGS150LSS has a stainless steel drawer
and tubular handle

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Monogram
The nomenclature plate is located on
the interior front panel at the top, left
corner of the compactor drawer.
The mini-manual is located behind
the control panel.
Nomenclature
The letter designating
the year repeats every
12 years.
Example:
T - 1974
T - 1986
T - 1998
Serial Number
The first two characters of the serial number
identify the month and year of manufacture.
Example: AL123456S = January, 2006
A - JAN 2006 - L
D - FEB 2005 - H
F - MAR 2004 - G
G - APR 2003 - F
H - MAY 2002 - D
L - JUN 2001 - A
M - JUL 2000 - Z
R - AUG 1999 - V
S - SEP 1998 - T
T - OCT 1997 - S
V - NOV 1996 - R
Z - DEC 1995 - M
Nomenclature
Mini-Manual
Width
150 = 15 inch
Z C G S 1 5 0 L S S
Brand
Z = Monogram
Product Type
CG - Built-In Compactor
Exterior Color
SS = Stainless Steel
II = Requires Custom
Cabinetry Panel
Model Year Designator
Door
S = Stainless
P = Panel
Model Designator
Designates features – the higher
the number, the more features.
G C G 1 5 0 0 L S S
Brand
G = General Electric
Product Type
CG - Built-In Compactor
Exterior Color
BB = Black
SS = Stainless Steel
WW = White
II = Requires Custom
Cabinetry Panel
Model Year Designator
GE Profile
Monogram
Model Shown

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Throughout this manual, features and appearance may vary from your model.
Control Features
Features
1. DRAWER HANDLE
2. DOOR PANEL
3. FOOT PEDAL DRAWER OPENER AND
COMPACTOR ACTIVATION
4. TOE KICK
5. ON-OFF KNOB
6. DRAWER SAFETY SWITCH
7. MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBER LABEL
8. BAG RETAINER BUTTONS
9. MOVEABLE SIDE DOOR LATCH
GE Profile
Model Shown

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What It Does and How It Works
Your compactor reduces household trash to as little
as one-fourth of its original volume.
It compacts most refuse, including paper, cans,
bottles, jars, plastic containers, wrappings,
sweepings and some food wastes.
Drop trash into the disposable bag (designed for
compactor use) that lines the compactor trash
drawer and close the drawer. When you start the
compactor, an electrically-operated ram moves
down into the drawer, compacts trash, moves
back up again―and the compactor shuts off
automatically.
Note: The trash drawer must be at least 1/2 full
before you will notice compaction because the ram
does not travel all the way down into the drawer. By
adding trash, compaction is transferred to earlier
discarded items until all trash is compacted.
ON-OFF Knob
The removable knob is provided for your protection
as a safety measure. When the knob switch is in the
OFF position, the compactor will not operate.
Child Lockout Instructions:
Lock the compactor when it is not in use, by
removing the knob. This will keep children from
operating the compactor and prevent anyone from
tampering with it.
Drawer Safety Switch
The compactor has two safety switches to ensure
that the drawer is in its fully closed position before
operation. The compactor will not cycle without the
drawer being fully closed.
Trash Bag Installation
Before installing a new bag, be sure that:
1. The drawer side is securely locked.
2. The container is clean and free of sharp debris
that may puncture the bag.
Reinforced plastic bags came with your compactor
and are ready to be installed.
You must use the specially designed heavy-duty
trash bags included with your compactor. These
bags are available from your dealer or Factory
Service Center. Ask for catalog number WC60X5017.
If you prefer, you can order by mail. A handy
order form is provided with your compactor and is
included in every replacement bag package.
To install a new bag:
1. Place the bag in the drawer. Open the bag and
pull the top edges over the drawer top.
2. Lock the bag in place
by pulling the four
prepunched holes over
the bag retainer buttons.
Holes will expand over
the buttons without
harming the bag.
3. Press inside of bag
against the drawer
bottom, sides and
corners for a smooth fit.
Loading
Slightly lift and pull the
compactor door handle or
press the foot pedal and pull
the drawer out.
Remember:
 To help keep the ram clean
when compacting messy food waste, place a
couple of folded sheets of newspaper on top of
the load to be compacted.
 An item that is too bulky to go into the drawer
can be folded to fit. If an item cannot be folded
to fit into the drawer, do not force it in.
 Folded newspaper is also helpful when
compacting a large glass bottle, or several
bottles or jars, or any other item that might
shatter.
 Although it is not necessary to compact until
the drawer is full or nearly full, we suggest that,
for maximum compaction, start the compactor
each time a significant amount of trash is
added.
Using the Built-In Compactor
(Continued next page)

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Compacting
To start the compactor:
1. Turn the knob to ON.
2. Make sure the drawer is fully closed.
3. Lift the foot pedal up to start cycle.
The ram travels downward into the drawer,
compacting the trash. At the bottom of the stroke,
the ram automatically reverses direction, retracts
from the drawer, returns to its starting position, and
the compactor shuts off automatically.
The cycle takes less than 30 seconds. As the trash
drawer fills with trash, cycle time gets progressively
shorter.
WARNING: When bottles and cans are compacted,
small tears in the bag may occur. This is normal
and in no way affects the performance of the
compactor. Keep the bag away from your body to
prevent injury from sharp objects that may have
pierced the bag.
Caution: Do not apply too much force when turning
the knob. The knob should always rotate easily.
Forcing may break the knob and damage the
switch.
When emptying waste baskets into the trash
drawer, some items may spill into the compactor
behind the drawer. Items behind the drawer could
prevent it from closing completely and prevent
the compactor from operating. To remove such
items from behind the drawer, open the drawer
and remove it to clean them out. See the Care and
Cleaning section.
Notes: You will not see compacting of trash the first
few times you load. The compactor drawer should
be about 1/2 full before the compactor can begin to
compress the load.
Glass bottles can make a loud noise when they
break during compaction. This is normal. Also,
bottles in the trash drawer will not always break
during the first cycle. Breaking glass and associated
noise may occur several cycles later, depending on
the type and volume of the trash.
To stop the compactor:
The compactor may be stopped at any time.
1. Attempting to open the drawer while the ram is
moving will stop the ram. The safety switch will
activate.
2. Close the drawer completely and the ram will
travel back to the UP position.
3. Open the drawer fully and turn the knob to OFF.
Removing a Full Trash Bag
1. Pull the drawer completely open.
2. Remove the top of the bag from the bag retainer
buttons. Pull up all four bag cuffs.
3. Push the side-lock latch down and tilt the
drawer side open.
4. Lift the bag out.

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As is true of most appliances, proper care is needed
to give you continued satisfaction. Before cleaning
the compactor, turn the knob to the OFF position
and remove it. If you will be away for more than a
couple of days, remove the compactor bag. Lock
the compactor by removing the knob and store it in
a safe place.
Cleaning the Unit
To clean the outside:
Wipe with a clean damp cloth.
Painted panels:
Apply a coat of kitchen/appliance wax when the
compactor is new, and then several times a year.
Stainless steel panels:
Stainless steel panels can be cleaned with Cerama
Bryte® or a similar product using a clean, soft cloth.
Cerama Bryte is available from GE Parts by calling
800.626.2002 (U.S.) or 800.661.1616 (Canada).
To clean the drawer interior:
1. Remove the bag. (See Removing a Full Trash Bag.)
2. Wear protective
gloves. There may
be bits of glass in
the drawer. Press
the side door latch
down.
3. Hold the side door
latch and tilt the side
of the drawer until
the latch clears the
drawer front. The
drawer side can be
removed by tilting
and sliding it out.
4. Wash with a damp cloth using warm, soapy
water. Rinse and then dry with a soft cloth.
5. If the drawer side was removed, slide it back into
the tilted position.
6. Press the side door latch down while pressing
the side to the upright position. Lock the side
door latch.
To clean the cabinet interior:
1. Pull the drawer out until it stops. Note the tracks
in which the drawer rollers move.
Caution: The drawer can
scratch a finished floor.
Place the drawer on a
protected surface.
2. Lift the front to clear the
drawer stops. Grab the
drawer on both sides. Pull
it out the rest of the way
and set it aside.
3. Vacuum inside of the
cabinet. Liquid spills
or wet trash should be
cleaned up by hand, or
use a vacuum designed
to pick up liquid.
4. Wash, rinse and dry the
inside.
Care and Cleaning of the Built-In Compactor

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15-in. Built-In Compactor
Component Locator Views
(Continued next page)

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Top View (top cover removed) Bottom View (bottom pan removed)
Rear View (rear motor cover removed)
Actuator Bracket
Shaft Plate
Power Screw Assembly
Ram Assembly
Drive Gear
Motor
Chain
Top Limit-Directional
Switch

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Built-In Compactor Components
Control Panel
To remove the control panel:
1. Open the compactor drawer. Turn the knob to
the off position and remove it by pulling straight
out.
2. Remove the 2 Phillips-head screws from the
knob recess.
Switch Bracket
To remove the switch bracket:
Disconnect power.
Remove the control panel. (See Control Panel.)
Remove the 3 Phillips-head screws that attach
the switch bracket to the frame.
1.
2.
3.
Insert a small-bladed screwdriver between the top
of the control panel and the front cover.
Pry the control panel forward and release it
from the 3 top tabs.
3.
4.
Lift the control panel from the 3 bottom tabs. 5.
Raise the switch wiring harness parallel to the
bottom of the switch bracket.
4.
Pull the bottom of the switch bracket out to
clear the bottom of the front cover opening.
Rotate it approximately 45° counterclockwise
then remove the switch bracket from the front
cover opening.
5.
Switch Wire
Harness
Switch Bracket
(Continued next page)

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Top Limit Switch
Note: Disconnect power to the compactor before
accessing the top limit switch.
The top limit switch is located on the switch bracket.
It is necessary to remove the switch bracket and
the ON-OFF switch to access the top limit switch.
(See Switch Bracket and ON-OFF Switch.) The top
limit switch is positioned on the right side of the
directional switch, furthest from the ON-OFF switch.
It is connected with blue and brown wires. Both
switches are attached to the inside of the switch
bracket with 2 Phillips-head screws.
Directional Switch
Note: Disconnect power to the compactor before
accessing the directional switch.
The directional switch is located on the switch
bracket. It is necessary to remove the switch
bracket and the ON-OFF switch to access the
directional switch. (See Switch Bracket and ON-OFF
Switch.) The directional switch is positioned on the
left side of the top limit switch, closest to the ON-
OFF switch. It is connected with blue, yellow, and red
wires. Both switches are attached to the inside of
the switch bracket with 2 Phillips-head screws.
Caution: Ensure the switch bracket is installed
with the switch arms resting in front of the switch
actuator bracket. Damage to the top limit and/or
directional switch will occur if the switch arms are
positioned below the switch actuator bracket.
Actuator Bracket
Switch Arms
Knurl-Nut
ON-OFF Switch
Note: Disconnect power to the compactor before
accessing the ON-OFF switch.
The ON-OFF switch is attached to the front of the
switch bracket with a knurl-nut. It is necessary to
remove the switch bracket to access the ON-OFF
switch. (See Switch Bracket.) Use a pair of pliers to
remove the knurl-nut. The switch can then be pulled
off the bracket and the 2 wire leads disconnected.

– 15 –
Start Switch
Note: Disconnect power to the compactor before
accessing the start switch.
The start switch is located in the front of the
compactor on the lower right side. The start switch
is secured in the front cover with locking tabs
located on the top and bottom of the switch. It is
necessary to use a small flat blade screwdriver to
press and release the locking tabs.
Tilt Switch
Note: Disconnect power to the compactor before
accessing the tilt switch.
The tilt switch is located in the front of the
compactor above the drawer opening. The tilt
switch is secured in the front cover with a locking
tab located on the right side of the switch. It is
necessary to use a small flat blade screwdriver to
press and release the locking tab.
The switch can then be pulled out and the 2 wire
leads disconnected.
The switch can then be pulled out and the 2 wire
leads disconnected.
Start Switch Tilt Switch

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Tilt Switch (Drawer)
Note: Disconnect power to the compactor before
accessing the tilt switch (drawer).
The tilt switch (drawer) is located inside the cabinet
on the right side wall. The tilt switch (drawer) is
secured in the wall with a locking tab located on
the bottom of the switch. It is necessary to use a
small flat blade screwdriver to press and release the
locking tab.
The switch can then be pulled out and the 2 wire
leads disconnected.
Tilt
Switch
(Drawer)
Top Cover Panel
Note: To access the top cover panel, the compactor
must be removed from installation.
The top cover panel is attached to the frame with 6
Phillips-head screws.
After removal of the 6 screws, the top cover can be
slid to the rear and removed.

– 17 –
Motor Assembly
Note: To access the motor assembly, the compactor
must be removed from installation.
Remove the 2 Phillips-head screws and the side
track shield from the motor cover.
Disconnect the motor wire harness and the
black neutral wire from the motor (protector).
3.
4.
Motor Wire Harness
Neutral Wire
Track Shield
Place the compactor on a protected surface and
stand the compactor on its top.
Remove the 3 Phillips-head screws and the
bottom pan from the frame.
5.
6.
Bottom Pan
(Continued next page)
To remove the motor assembly:
Disconnect power and remove the drawer.
Remove the 3 Phillips-head screws and the rear
motor cover from the frame.
1.
2.
Motor
Motor Gear
Gear Pin
Ring Clip
Sprocket
Drive Gear
Chain
Teflon Washer
Wave Washer
Shaft Plate
Washer

– 18 –
Remove the four 3/8-in. bolts that attach the
motor assembly to the frame.
Slide the motor assembly towards the front to
loosen the chain.
7.
8.
Using a flat-blade screwdriver, pry off the clip
ring and remove the metal washer and drive
gear with sprocket from the shaft plate.
9.
Carefully lift the motor assembly from the
frame.
10.
Metal Washer Clip Ring
Drive Gear
Place the motor on it's side and support the
motor gear with a piece of ¾-in. wood.
Use a 3/16-in. punch to drive the slotted pin
from the motor gear, then slide the gear off the
motor shaft.
4.
5.
Shaft Plate
Motor Gear
To replace the motor:
Place the motor assembly on a protected
surface.
Mark the position of the motor on the shaft
plate.
Remove the four 7/16-in. nuts and the shaft
plate from the motor.
1.
2.
3.

– 19 –
Ram Assembly
Note: To access the ram assembly, the compactor
must be removed from installation.
To remove the ram assembly:
Remove the top cover. (See Top Cover.)
Plug in compactor, turn ON-OFF switch to the
ON position, and close the drawer.
Note: The ram is in the normal stop position,
approximately ¾ inch recessed from top of frame.
1.
2.
Lift the foot kick, then release to start down
travel of the ram.
After the ram reverses and begins up travel, lift
and maintain the foot kick in the lifted position
until the ram runs off the top of the power screw
assemblies.
Note: The ram is now in an over stop position,
approximately flush with top of frame. A repetitive
thumping sound will be heard.
3.
4.
¾-in. Recess
Flush
Ram Assembly
Frame
Frame
Ram Assembly
Disconnect power.
Remove the switch bracket. (See Switch Bracket.)
Lift and remove the ram assembly from the top
of the power screws.
5.
6.
7.
Actuator Bracket
Switch Arms
(Continued next page)
To replace the ram assembly:
Note: Be sure to position the actuator bracket at the
front of the compactor.
1. Lower the ram assembly to rest on top of the
power screw assemblies.
Caution: Insure the switch bracket is installed
with the switch arms resting in front of the switch
actuator bracket. Damage to the top limit and/or
directional switch will occur if switch arms are
positioned below the switch actuator bracket.
2. Replace the switch bracket. (See Switch Bracket.)

– 20 –
Ram Slides
A ram slide is located on each vertical flange of the
ram (2 on each side). Each vertical flange has 2 tabs
that hold each ram slide. Each ram slide is inserted
under the tabs.
Power Screw Nut
A power screw nut is attached to the bottom of
each side of the ram. It is necessary to use a small
flat-blade screwdriver to remove the retaining clip
and pin that hold each power screw nut to the ram.
Caution: Discard the removed retaining clips and
pins. Use the new retaining clips and pins included
with the replacement power screw nut assembly.
Power Screw Nut
Pin
Clip
Tab
Slide
Power Screw Nut
Connect power and check operation of ram
before installing top cover.
3.