RIDGID HC-450 User manual

Hole Cutting Tools
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
• Français – 15
• Castellano – pág. 31
HC-450
HC-300
WARNING!
Read this Operator’s Manual
carefully before using this
tool. Failure to understand
and follow the contents of
this manual may result in
electrical shock, fire and/or
serious personal injury.

HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Ridge Tool Company
ii
Table of Contents
General Safety Information
Work Area Safety........................................................................................................................................................2
Electrical Safety..........................................................................................................................................................2
Personal Safety...........................................................................................................................................................2
Tool Use and Care......................................................................................................................................................3
Service........................................................................................................................................................................3
Specific Safety Information
Tool Safety..................................................................................................................................................................4
Model HC-450 Description, Specifications and Accessories
Description..................................................................................................................................................................4
Specifications..............................................................................................................................................................4
Standard Equipment...................................................................................................................................................4
Accessories.................................................................................................................................................................4
Inspect Hole Cutting Tool.............................................................................................................................................5
Setup Instructions
Model HC-450.............................................................................................................................................................5
Operating Instructions
Model HC-450.............................................................................................................................................................7
Locating Level Vial Instructions..................................................................................................................................7
Model HC-300 Description, Specifications and Accessories
Description..................................................................................................................................................................8
Specifications..............................................................................................................................................................8
Standard Equipment...................................................................................................................................................9
Accessories.................................................................................................................................................................9
Inspect Hole Cutting Tool.............................................................................................................................................9
Setup Instructions
Model HC-300.............................................................................................................................................................9
Operating Instructions
Model HC-300...........................................................................................................................................................12
Maintenance
Motor Brush Replacement........................................................................................................................................12
Machine Storage..........................................................................................................................................................12
Service and Repair......................................................................................................................................................12
Lifetime Warranty .........................................................................................................................................Back Cover

Hole Cutting Tools
Record Serial Number below and retain product serial number which is located on nameplate.
Serial
No.
HC-450/HC-300
Hole Cutting Tools
Model HC-450
Model HC-300

HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
•When operating a power tool outside, use an out-
door extension cord marked “W-A” or “W”. These
cords are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk of
electrical shock.
•Use only three-wire extension cords which have
three-prong grounding plugs and three-pole re-
ceptacles which accept the machines plug. Use of
other extension cords will not ground the tool and in-
crease the risk of electrical shock.
•Use proper extension cords. (See chart.) Insufficient
conductor size will cause excessive voltage drop, loss
of power and overheating.
•Before using, test the Ground Fault Circuit Inter-
rupter (GFCI) provided with the power cord to in-
sure it is operating correctly. GFCI reduces the
risk of electrical shock.
•Extension cords are not recommended unless
they are plugged into a Ground Fault Circuit Inter-
rupter (GFCI) found in circuit boxes or outlet re-
ceptacles. The GFCI on the machine power cord will
not prevent electrical shock from the extension cords.
•Keep all electric connections dry and off the
ground. Do not touch plug with wet hands. Re-
duces the risk of electric shock.
Personal Safety
•Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use
common sense when operating a power tool. Do
not use tool while tired or under the influence of
drugs, alcohol, or medications. A moment of inat-
tention while operating power tools may result in seri-
ous 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.
Ridge Tool Company
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General Safety Information
WARNING! Read and understand all instructions. Failure
to follow all instructions listed below may
result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious
personal injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Work Area Safety
•Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
benches and dark areas invite accidents.
•Do not operate power tools in explosive atmos-
pheres, 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.
Electrical Safety
•Grounded tools must be plugged into an outlet,
properly installed and grounded in accordance
with all codes and ordinances. Never remove the
grounding prong or modify the plug in any way. Do
not use any adapter plugs. Check with a quali-
fied electrician if you are in doubt as to whether the
outlet is properly grounded. If the tools should elec-
trically malfunction or break down, grounding pro-
vides a low resistance path to carry electricity away
from the user.
•Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces such
as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There
is an increased risk of electrical shock if your body is
grounded.
•Don’t expose power tools to rain or wet condi-
tions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk
of electrical shock.
•Do not abuse 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 electrical shock.
Minimum Wire Gauge for Cord Set
Nameplate
Amps Total Length (in feet)
0 – 25 26 – 50 51 – 100
0 – 6 18 AWG 16 AWG 16 AWG
6 – 10 18 AWG 16 AWG 14 AWG
10 – 12 16 AWG 16 AWG 14 AWG
12 – 16 14 AWG 12 AWG NOT RECOMMENDED
Grounding prong
Cover of
grounded
outlet box
Grounding prong

Ridge Tool Company 3
•Remove adjusting keys or switches before turning
the tool ON. A wrench or a key that is left attached to
a rotating part of the tool may result in personal injury.
•Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and bal-
ance at all times. Proper footing and balance en-
ables better control of the tool in unexpected situations.
•Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protec-
tion. Dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or
hearing protection must be used for appropriate con-
ditions.
Some dust created by power sanding,
sawing, grinding, drilling and other construction activi-
ties contains chemicals known to the State of California 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
• arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lum-
ber
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on
how often you do this type of work. To reduce your ex-
posure 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 mi-
croscopic particles.
•Wear hearing protectors, ear plugs or muffs when
using tool. Noise level my affect hearing with pro-
longed use.
Tool Use and Care
•Use clamp 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 will 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 the power source before
making any adjustments, changing accessories,
or storing the tool. Such preventive safety mea-
sures 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 cutting
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 handles dry and clean; free from oil and
grease. Allows for better control of the tool.
Service
•Tool service must be performed only by qualified
repair personnel. Service or maintenance performed
by unqualified repair personnel could result in injury.
•When servicing a tool, use only identical replace-
ment parts. Follow instructions in the Maintenance
Section of this manual. Use of unauthorized parts or
failure to follow maintenance instructions may create a
risk of electrical shock or injury.
Specific Safety Information
WARNING! Read and follow safety labels on the tool!
Know the location and function of all con-
trols before using this hole cutting tool.
WARNING
Clothing/gloves can be caught in moving parts.
Fingers, hands, arms or other body parts can be cut,
crushed or broken.
• Keep fingers and hands away from cutter blade.
• Do not reach across cutter or pipe because
clothing can be drawn into moving parts.
• Do not disconnect or block switch.
• Keep switch in working order.
• When cutting into existing system, pipe must
be drained and de-pressurized.
• Wear safety glasses and ear protection.
• Test Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to
insure proper operation.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
WARNING

Tool Safety
•Hole Cutting Tools are made to cut holes in pipe.
Follow instructions in Operator’s Manual on proper
use. Other uses may increase the risk of injury.
•To prevent entanglement do not reach across the
hole saw or wear loose cloth gloves. Because this
tool has high torque, clothing can entangle with enough
force to crush or break bone.
•Keep fingers and hands away from the hole saw
blade. Reduces the risk of being cut.
•Secure the hole cutting tool properly to the pipe.
Carefully follow set-up instructions. Position the
electric cord clear of the base and hole saw.
Improper set-up increases the risk of injury.
•Do not use dull, bent, or damaged hole saws or ar-
bors. Less likely to bind and lose control.
•When cutting into an existing system, the pipe
must be drained and de-pressurized. Reduces the
risk of electrical shock.
Model HC-450 Description,
Specifications and Accessories
Description
The RIDGID Model HC-450 Hole Cutting Tool is de-
signed to cut holes up to 43/4″into steel pipe. The multiple
hole sizes allow the use of Mechanical T’s®, Hookers®, Vic-
O-Lets™, and other fittings for branching unpressurized
pipe lines.
The HC-450 has a 5/8″capacity drill chuck to accommo-
date all sizes of hole saws and hole saw arbors. An inte-
gral motor and gear reduction optimizes performance of
large diameter hole saws. A unique two-feed handle and
switch actuation allows the operator to use the Hole
Cutting Tool from either the left or right side. A rotating lev-
eling vial in the base allows repeated holes to line up. Only
12″high, the compact design, allows the HC-450 to be
used in tight quarters or above installed pipe close to
ceilings.
NOTE! Mechanical T’s, Hookers, and Vic-O-Lets are
registered trademarks of Victaulic Tool Company
WARNING
The HC-450 is not a Hot Tapping Tool. Care must be
taken to ensure the system is drained and de-pres-
surized to prevent serious injury and/or property
damage!
Ridge Tool Company
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Specifications
Cutting Capacity............Up to 43/4″(120 mm)
Pipe Mounting
Capacity ........................11/4″- 8″(30mm-200 mm)
Drill Chuck Capacity......1/16″- 5/8″(2mm-16 mm)
Drill Chuck Speed..........110 RPM
Motor Horsepower.........1.2 HP
Current Draw Rating......12 Amps @ 115V
Dimensions
Height - “A”....................11.5″(29 cm)
Length - “B”...................17″(43 cm)
Width - “C”.....................17″(43 cm)
Weight............................42 lbs. (19 Kg)
Standard Equipment
•Hole Cutting Tool
•Chuck Key
•5/8″Hole Saw Arbor w/Backing Plate and 1/4″Pilot
Drill
Accessories
•Hole Saws and Arbors
•Integral Hole Saws w/Arbors
•Carrying Case
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 1 – Dimension A & C
C
A

Ridge Tool Company 5
Inspect Hole Cutting Tool
WARNING
To prevent serious injury, inspect your Hole Cutting
Tool on a regular basis. The following inspection
procedures should be performed before each use of
the tool:
1. Inspect the power cord and plug for damage. If the
grounding prong is missing or the cord or GFCI is
damaged, do not use the tool until the cord has been
replaced.
2. Make sure the switches turn the tool ON and OFF. If
broken, do not use until they are replaced.
3. Inspect the power drive for any broken, missing, mis-
aligned, or binding parts as well as any conditions,
which may affect the safe and normal operation of the
tool. If any of these conditions are present, do not use
the tool until the problem has been repaired. Do not
use dull, bent, or damaged hole saws or arbors.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 2 – Dimension B
Figure 3 – HC-450 with Standard Equipment
B4. Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to in-
sure it is operating correctly. When test button is
pushed in, the indicator light should go OFF. Re-
activate by pushing the reset button in. If the indicator
light goes ON, the tool is ready to use. If broken, do
not use the tool until it is replaced.
5. Clean any oil, grease, or dirt from the handles. This
reduces the risk of injury due to the tool slipping
from your grip.
6. Use only accessories recommended for your tool.
Accessories used for other tools may be hazardous
when used on a hole saw and lead to serious injury.
7. Inspect the cutting edges of your hole saws. If nec-
essary, replace prior to using in your hole-cutting
tool. Dull or damaged cutting edges can lead to injury,
tool breakage, or excessive heat buildup in the work-
piece and the tool.
Set-Up Instructions
Model HC-450
WARNING
When setting up the hole saw, it should be un-
plugged and the switch should be in the OFF posi-
tion. To prevent serious injury the tool must be
properly set up.
1. Determine the size and location of hole to be cut.
Follow coupling manufacturer’s recommendations
for hole size to coupling size.
2. Select hole saw and arbor to correct hole size. Integral
arbor hole saws are recommended to reduce chatter.
See Table 1 for ordering information.
3. Place HC-450 on a bench or ground to install hole
saw and arbor into drill chuck.
Hole Saw Ordering Information – Table #1
Hole Diameter Hole Arbor Integral
Saw Cat. Saw
Inches mm Cat. No. No. w/Arbor
2 51 52865 53080 56902
21/264 52895 53080 56907
23/470 52910 53080 56912
31/289 52940 59502 56917
41/2114 52980 59502 56922
NOTE! 53080 Arbor is 5/8″Hex; requires 5/8″Chuck.
59502 Arbor and backing plate is for hole saws
larger than 3″.

4. The 1/4″pilot drill is recommended for pipe that is
installed. If pilot is used make sure it is tight in arbor
and exposed no more than 3/8″.
NOTE! Pilot drills are recommended when cutting holes
in installed systems.
5. Ensure chain assembly and swivel handle are in
working order and free to move.
6. Make sure there is adequate clearance to mount
and position the HC-450.
When cutting into an existing system, the
pipe must be drained and depressurized. Do not use in
the presence of flammable liquids, vapors or dust.
7. Lift HC-450 using front and rear carrying handles.
Rear handle can be used for a rope and pulley sys-
tem when working on existing overhead pipe. (See
Figure 4.) Do not lift HC-450 above your shoulder.
(Figure 5)
8. Mount unit in the proximity to hole location.
NOTE! If hole location is on the bottom or sides of pipe,
place unit on top of pipe. Put chain around pipe
and place chain pins into base latch. (See Figure
6.) To prevent cord damage and electrical
shock position electrical cord away from the base of the
tool.
9. Fully tighten chain when pilot drill or saw is over the
hole location. To move unit, loosen chain swivel han-
dle half a rotation and slide or rotate unit.
Unit stability must be maintained using ei-
ther front or rear carrying handles.
10. Secure the unit in the final location. The HC-450 will
operate at all angles relative to the vertical or hori-
zontal pipe. (See Figure 7.)
Ridge Tool Company
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HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 4 – Carrying the HC-450
Figure 6 – HC-450 Base Latch
Figure 5 – DO NOT lift HC-450 above your shoulders.
May result in loss of balance.
Base Chain
Latch
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING

Ridge Tool Company 7
11. By using either feed handle, raise the hole saw to the
pipe.
12. Plug the hole-cutting tool into the electrical outlet,
making sure to position the power cord along the
clear path. If the power cord does not reach the out-
let, use an extension cord in good condition.
WARNING
To avoid electric shock and electrical fires, never
use and extension cord that is damaged or does not
meet the following requirements:
• The cord has a three-prong plug similar to shown
in Electrical Safety.
• The cord is rated as “W” or “W-A” if being used
outdoor.
• The cord has a wire thickness gauge that does
not exceed 14 AWG if shorter than 30 feet or 12
AWG if 30 feet or longer. If the cord is too long or
if the wire thickness is too small, the cord may
overheat, melting the cord’s insulation or causing
nearby objects to ignite.
Operating Instructions
Model HC-450
WARNING
Do not use a hole-cutting tool without proper eye
protection.
1. The HC-450 is actuated by depressing one of the
lock out switches located in the front carrying han-
dle. (See Figure 8.)
2. With one hand on a feed handle and the other hand
on a switch, feed the hole saw into the pipe.
Keep fingers and hands away from the
saw blade. Do not reach across the hole saw or wear
loose gloves that may become entangled and cause se-
rious injury.
3. Rotate the feed handle to apply downward pressure
on the hole saw.
Do not overfeed saw while cutting. Doing
so will result in premature saw failure and possible serious
injury.
4. After completing the hole cut, retract the saw from the
pipe by turning feed wheel clockwise.
NOTE! When branching off an existing system, use a
hole saw with the 1/4″pilot drill. The pilot drill
helps retain the pipe slug in the hole saw.
5. Turn unit OFF by releasing the actuator switch and let
hole saw come to a complete stop.
6. Remove unit by unclamping chain and using both
front and rear carrying handles.
7. Brush away all metal chips created by the hole saw
from the area around the hole.
Locating Level Vial Instructions
The rear base of the HC-450 Hole Cutting Tool houses a
level vial. This vial is used to ensure that series of holes
align. (See Figure 9.)
In the event that the hole location is angled by a certain
amount, the vial can be rotated within the base to reflect
the deviated angle.
In new pipe installation, the vial can be pre-set and used
to repeat hole orientation. As long as the vial is showing
level, the hole angles will align.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 7 – HC-450 on a Horizontal Cut
Figure 8 – Model HC-450 Lock Out Switches
WARNING
WARNING

Ridge Tool Company
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Model HC-300 Description,
Specifications and Accessories
Description
The RIDGID Model HC-300 Hole Cutting Tool is de-
signed to cut holes up to 3″diameter into steel pipe.
The multiple hole size allows the use of Mechanical T’s®,
Hookers®, Vic-O-Lets™, Weld-O-Let™and other fittings
for branching unpressurized pipelines.
The HC-300 features a 1/2″capacity chuck to accommo-
date all size of holes up to 3″diameter and standard
hole saw arbors up to 7/16″Hex (1/2″chuck size). An integral
motor and gear reduction optimizes the performance
and saw life in the capacity range. A single feed handle
and ON/OFF switch allows for easy operation. The com-
pact two-piece design allows the HC-300 to be used in
tight quarters and difficult-to-reach locations.
NOTE! Mechanical T’s, Hookers, and Vic-O-Lets are
registered trademarks of Victaulic Tool Company.
The HC-300 is not a hot tapping tool.
Care must be taken to ensure the system is drained and
de-pressurized to prevent serious injury and/or property
damage.
Specifications
Cutting Capacity............Up to 3″(76mm)
Pipe Mounting
Capacity ........................11/4″- 8″(30mm-200mm)
Drill Chuck Capacity......1/16″- 1/2″(2mm-13mm)
Drill Chuck Speed..........360 RPM
Motor Horsepower.........1.2 HP
Current Draw Rating......11 Amps @ 115V
Dimensions
Height............................12.8″(32.5 cm)
Length ...........................11.9″(30.2 cm)
Width.............................13.2″(33.4 cm)
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 9 – Model HC-450 Level Vial Figure 11 – Model HC-300 Front View
Figure 10 – Model HC-300 Rear View
Figure 12 – Model HC-300 Isometric
WARNING

Ridge Tool Company 9
Total Weight..................31 lbs. (14 kg)
Base ...........................10 lbs. (4.5 kg)
Motor Assembly..........21 lbs. (9.5 kg)
Standard Equipment
•Hole Cutting Tool (Base and Motor Assembly)
•Chuck Key
Accessories
•Hole Saws Arbors
•Hole Saws
•Carrying Case
Inspect Hole Cutting Tool
WARNING
To prevent serious injury, inspect your Hole Cutting
Tool on a regular basis. The following inspection
procedures should be performed before each use of
the tool:
1. Inspect the power cord and plug for damage. If the
grounding prong is missing or the cord or GFCI is
damaged, do not use the tool until the cord has been
replaced.
2. Make sure the switches turn the tool ON and OFF. If
broken, do not use until they are replaced.
3. Inspect the hole cutting tool for any broken, missing,
misaligned, or binding parts as well as any conditions,
which may affect the safe and normal operation of the
tool. If any of these conditions are present, do not use
the tool until the problem has been repaired. Do not
use dull, bent, or damaged hole saws or arbors.
4. Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to in-
sure it is operating correctly. When test button is
pushed in, the indicator light should go OFF. Re-
activate by pushing the reset button in. If the indica-
tor light goes ON, the tool is ready to use. If broken,
do not use the tool until it is replaced.
5. Clean any oil, grease, or dirt from the handles. This
reduces the risk of injury due to the tool slipping
from your grip.
6. Use only accessories recommended for your tool.
Accessories used for other tools may be hazardous
when used on a hole saw and lead to serious injury.
7. Inspect the cutting edges of your hole saws. If nec-
essary, replace prior to using in your hole-cutting
tool. Dull or damaged cutting edges can lead to injury,
tool breakage, or excessive heat buildup in the work-
piece and the tool.
Set-Up Instructions
Model HC-300
WARNING
When setting up the hole saw, it should be un-
plugged and the switch should be in the OFF posi-
tion. To prevent serious injury, the tool must be
properly set up.
1. Determine the size and location of the hole to be
cut. Follow coupling manufacturer’s recommenda-
tions for hole size to coupling size.
2. Select hole saw and arbor to the hole size required.
See the RIDGID catalog for saw ordering information.
3. Place the HC-300 on a clean bench or ground to
install hole saw and arbor into drill chuck.
NOTE! The 1/4″pilot drill is recommended for pipe that is
installed for it prevents the pipe slug from falling
into the system. If pilot is used, make sure it is
tight in arbor and exposed no more than 3/8″.
4. Ensure the chain assembly and sliding bar handle is
in working order and free to move.
NOTE! It is possible to attach the HC-300 to the pipe as
a complete assembly or in two pieces.
5. For two-piece mounting, separate the base from the
motor assembly by lifting the motor while pulling the
plunger (Figure 13) located in rear of the left post
(front view). When lifting the motor assembly, use the
handle.
6. Make sure there is adequate clearance to mount
and position the HC-300.
When cutting into an existing system, the
pipe must be drained and depressurized. Do not use in
the presence of flammable gas, vapor or dust.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 13 – Model HC-300 Plunger
WARNING

Ridge Tool Company
10
7. Mount the base in the proximity of the place to be cut.
To do so, place the base on top of the workpiece. The
front edge of the base is 19/16″inches from the chuck
centerline. (Figure 14)
8. Turn crank handle fully counterclockwise to make
sure the hook is completely lowered and aligned with
the mark in casting.
9. Hook the chain into the base latch.To do so, pull the
chain slightly to compress the spring mechanism.
Once the chain is latched into hook, the spring tension
keeps the chain engaged. Use the screw mecha-
nism to fully tighten the chain. (Figures 15 & 16)
NOTE! Completely lower hook until it reaches the casting
marks. Failure to do so will result in inadequate
travel to properly tension the chain.
NOTE! If the hole location is on the bottom or side of the
pipe, rotate the HC-300 to the desired location be-
fore tightening the swivel handle.The unit is de-
signed to drill in any position.
NOTE! The HC-300 features a spring loaded hooking
mechanism that allows for easier tool pre-set-
ting. Always tighten the chain using the swivel
handle when the exact location of the cut is de-
termined.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 14 – HC-300 Chuck Centerline
Figure 15 – Hooking the Chain
Figure 16 – Tightening Chain
19/16″
40mm

Ridge Tool Company 11
10. Machined flats are provided on the tool’s base and
posts to assist leveling by using a torpedo level.
(Figures 17 & 18) Once the tool is properly posi-
tioned, tighten crank handle securely.
NOTE! The flat area with the RIDGID lettering in the
back of the base and the machined areas on
the side of the posts are designed for level
mounting. They are useful when series of holes
need to be aligned.
Never let go of the tool until the chain is
fully tightened. Doing so may result in the tool becoming
loose and falling, resulting in serious injury.
11. Lift the HC-300 motor assembly and mount on the
two posts by pushing firmly against the post springs
until you hear a click sound, indicating that the plunger
latch mechanism is properly engaged. (Figure 19)
NOTE! The click sound indicates that the plunger has
captured the base and the motor assembly.
Do not attempt to start, detach or carry the
tool without the plunger engaged. The motor assembly
and the base could separate resulting in serious injury.
Position electrical cord clear of the
base of hole saw to prevent cord damage and elec-
trical shock.
12. Plug the hole cutting tool into the electrical outlet,
making sure to position the power cord along the
clear path. If the power cord does not reach the outlet,
use an extension cord in good condition. (See page 2.)
WARNING
To avoid electric shock and electrical fires, never
use and extension cord that is damaged or does not
meet the following requirements:
• The cord has a three-prong plug similar to shown
in Electrical Safety.
• The cord is rated as “W” or “W-A” if being used
outdoor.
• The cord has a wire thickness gauge that does
not exceed 14 AWG if shorter than 30 feet or
12 AWG if 30 feet or longer. If the cord is too long
or if the wire thickness is too small, the cord may
overheat, melting the cord’s insulation or causing
nearby objects to ignite.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 17 – Model HC-300 Level Mounting Area
Figure 18 – Model HC-300 Level Mounting Area
Figure 19 – Model HC-300 Putting the Motor and Base
Assembly Together
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING

Ridge Tool Company
12
Operating Instructions
Model HC-300
WARNING
Do not use a hole cutting tool without proper eye
protection.
1. The Model HC-300 is turned on by depressing an
ON/OFF switch located on the side of the unit behind
the feed wheel. (Figure 20)
2. Feed the hole saw into the pipe by turning feed
wheel handle counterclockwise using moderate force
so as to not overload the motor.
Keep fingers and hands away from the
saw blade. Do not reach across the hole saw or wear
loose gloves or clothing that may become entangled and
cause serious injury.
3. Rotate feed handle counter-clockwise to apply down-
ward pressure on the hole saw.
Forcing hole saw into pipe will not re-
duce cutting time. Therefore, do not overfeed saw while
cutting. Doing so will result in premature saw failure or
possible serious injury.
4. After completing the hole cut, retract the saw from the
pipe by turning the feed wheel clockwise.
NOTE! When branching off an existing pipe system,
use a hole saw with the 1/4″pilot drill. The pilot drill
helps retain the pipe slug in the hole saw.
5. Turn unit OFF by depressing ON/OFF switch to the
OFF position.
6. Remove unit by:
A. Unclamping entire assembly or
B. Retrieving motor assembly by pulling plunger
and then unclamping the base.
7. Brush away all metal chips created by the hole saw
from the area around the hole.
NOTE! The flat area with the RIDGID lettering in the
back of the base and the machined areas on
the side of the posts are designed for level mount-
ing. They are useful when series of holes need to
be aligned.
Maintenance
WARNING
Always unplug power cord before servicing the
hole saw.
Motor Brush Replacement
Check motor brushes every 6 months and replace when
worn to less than 1/2″. If commutator is worn, the outer di-
mension of the commutator should be turned and the
mica should be undercut before replacing the brushes. This
should only be done by qualified personnel.
Machine Storage
Motor-driven equipment must be kept in-
doors or well-covered in rainy weather. Store the ma-
chine in a locked area that is out of reach of children
and people unfamiliar with hole cutters. This machine
can cause serious injury in the hands of untrained users.
Service and Repair
WARNING
The "Maintenance Instructions" will take care of most of
the service needs of this machine. Any problems not ad-
dressed by this section should only be handled by an au-
thorized RIDGID service technician.
Tool should be taken to a RIDGID Independent Authorized
Service Center or returned to the factory. All repairs
made by Ridge service facilities are warranted against de-
fects in materials and workmanship.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 20 – Model HC-300 ON/OFF Switch
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING

Ridge Tool Company 13
When servicing this machine, only identi-
cal replacement parts should be used. Failure to follow
these steps may create a risk of electrical shock or other
serious injury.
If you have any questions regarding the service or repair
of this machine, call or write to:
Ridge Tool Company
Technical Service Department
400 Clark Street
Elyria, Ohio 44035-6001
Tel: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
For name and address of your nearest Independent
Authorized Service Center, contact the Ridge Tool Com-
pany at [phone] or http://www.ridgid.com
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
WARNING

Ridge Tool Company
14
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools

Scies à cloche HC-450/300
Modèle HC-450
Modèle HC-300
Scies à cloche
Noter ci-dessous le numéro de série indiqué sur la plaque signalétique de l’appareil pour
future référence.
No. de
Série

Scies à cloche HC-450 – HC-300
Ridge Tool Company
16
Table des matières
Consignes générales de sécurité
Sécurité du chantier..................................................................................................................................................17
Sécurité électrique....................................................................................................................................................17
Sécurité personnelle.................................................................................................................................................18
Utilisation et entretien des appareils.........................................................................................................................18
Réparations...............................................................................................................................................................18
Consignes de sécurité particulières
Sécurité de l’appareil ................................................................................................................................................19
Modèle HC-450 – Description, spécifications et accessoires
Description................................................................................................................................................................19
Spécifications............................................................................................................................................................20
Equipements de base...............................................................................................................................................20
Accessoires...............................................................................................................................................................20
Examen de la scie à cloche........................................................................................................................................20
Installation de l’appareil
Modèle HC-450.........................................................................................................................................................21
Mode d’emploi
Modèle HC-450.........................................................................................................................................................23
Utilisation du niveau de positionnement..................................................................................................................23
Modèle HC-300 – Description, spécifications et accessoires
Description................................................................................................................................................................24
Spécifications............................................................................................................................................................25
Equipements de base...............................................................................................................................................25
Accessoires...............................................................................................................................................................25
Examen de la scie à cloche........................................................................................................................................25
Installation de l’appareil
Modèle HC-300.........................................................................................................................................................25
Mode d’emploi
Modèle HC-300.........................................................................................................................................................28
Entretien
Remplacement des balais du moteur .......................................................................................................................29
Rangement de l'appareil.............................................................................................................................................29
Entretien et réparations..............................................................................................................................................29
Garantie à vie...........................................................................................................................................Page de garde

Ridge Tool Company 17
Scies à cloche HC-450 – HC-300
•Ne maltraitez pas le cordon électrique de l’ap-
pareil. Ne jamais porter l’appareil par son cordon
électrique, ni tirer sur celui-ci pour débrancher
l’appareil. Gardez le cordon à l’abri des sources
de chaleur, de l’huile, des angles tranchants et
des dispositifs mécaniques. Remplacez immédi-
atement tout cordon endommagé. Les cordons
endommagés augmentent les risques de choc élec-
trique.
•Lorsqu’à l’extérieur, utilisez une rallonge élec-
trique marquée “W-A” ou “W”. Ce type de cordon
est prévu pour être utiliséàl’extérieur et réduit les
risques de choc électrique.
•Utilisez uniquement des rallonges à trois fils
équipées d’une fiche bipolaire plus terre à trois
barrettes et d’une prise bipolaire plus terre qui
correspond à la fiche de l’appareil. L’utilisation
d’autres types de rallonges électriques n’assurera
pas la mise àla terre de l’appareil et augmentera les
risques de choc électrique.
•Utilisez la section de rallonge appropriée. (voir le
tableau). Une section de conducteurs insuffisante
entraînera des pertes de charge excessives, une
perte de puissance et la surchauffe de l’appareil.
•Avant toute utilisation de l’appareil, vérifier le
bon fonctionnement du disjoncteur différentiel
dont est équipé le cordon d’alimentation. Ce dis-
joncteur différentiel réduit les risques de choc élec-
trique.
•Il est déconseillé d’utiliser des rallonges élec-
triques lorsque le circuit d’alimentation existant
n’est pas protégé par un disjoncteur différentiel.
Le disjoncteur différentiel de l’appareil lui-même ne
protège pas contre les décharges électriques éven-
tuelles au niveau des rallonges.
•Gardez toutes connexions électriques au sec et
surélevées. Ne pas toucher la fiche avec les
mains mouillées. Cela réduit les risques de choc
électrique.
Consignes générales de sécurité
MISE EN GARDE ! Familiarisez-vous avec l’ensemble des
instructions. Le respect des consignes
suivantes vous permettra d’éviter les
risques de choc électrique, d’incendie
et de blessure corporelle grave.
CONSERVEZ CES INSTRUCTIONS !
Sécurité du chantier
•Gardez le chantier propre et bien éclairé. Les
établis encombrés et les locaux mal éclairés sont
une invitation aux accidents.
•N’utilisez pas d’appareils électriques dans un
milieu explosif tel qu’en présence de liquides de
gaz ou de poussière inflammable. L’appareil pro-
duit des étincelles qui pourraient causer la pous-
sière ou les vapeurs de s’enflammer.
•Gardez les tiers, les enfants et les visiteurs à
l’écart lorsque vous utilisez un appareil élec-
trique. Les distractions peuvent vous faire perdre le
contrôle de l’appareil.
Sécurité électrique
•Les appareils électriques avec terre doivent être
branchés sur une prise avec terre appropriée et
conforme aux normes en vigueur. Ne jamais
enlever la barrette de terre ou tenter de modifier
la fiche d’aucune manière. Ne jamais utiliser
d’adaptateurs de prise. Consultez un électricien
qualifié en cas de doute sur la bonne mise à la
terre de la prise. Dans le cas d’une panne ou d’une
défaillance électrique de l’appareil, la terre assure
un passage de faible résistance qui éloigne le
courant électrique de l’opérateur.
•Evitez de venir en contact avec des masses telles
que les tuyaux, les radiateurs, les cuisinières et
les réfrigérateurs. Les risques de choc électrique
augmentent lorsque votre corps est àla masse.
•N’exposez pas les appareils électriques à la
pluie ou aux intempéries. Toute pénétration d’eau
àl’intérieur d’un appareil électrique augmente les
risques de choc électrique.
Barrette de terre
Prise avec
terre
Barrette de terre
Section minimale des fils conducteurs des rallonges
Ampères indiqués
sur la plaque Longueur totale (en pieds)
signalétique 0 à25 26 à50 51 à100
0 à6 18 AWG 16 AWG 16 AWG
6 à10 18 AWG 16 AWG 14 AWG
10 à12 16 AWG 16 AWG 14 AWG
12 à16 14 AWG 12 AWG Déconseillé

Ridge Tool Company
18
Scies à cloche HC-450 – HC-300
Sécurité personnelle
•Soyez attentif, faites attention à ce que vous
faites et faites preuve de bon sens lors de l’utili-
sation d’un appareil électrique. N’utilisez pas ce
type d’appareil lorsque vous êtes fatigués ou
lorsque vous prenez des médicaments, de
l’alcool ou des produits pharmaceutiques. Un in-
stant d’inattention peut entraîner de graves bles-
sures lors de l’utilisation de ce type d’appareil.
•Habillez-vous de manière appropriée. Ne portez
pas de vêtements amples ni de bijoux. Attachez
les cheveux longs. Gardez vos cheveux, vos
vêtements et vos gants à l’écart du mécanisme.
Les vêtements amples, les bijoux et les cheveux
longs peuvent être entraînés dans le mécanisme.
•Evitez les démarrages accidentels. Assurez-
vous que l’interrupteur est en position ARRET
(OFF) avant de brancher l’appareil. Porter un ap-
pareil électrique avec le doigt sur la gâchette ou le
brancher avec son interrupteur en position de
marche est une invitation aux accidents.
•Enlever les clés de réglage ou autres dispositifs
de serrage avant de mettre l’appareil en marche.
Une cléde réglage ou un dispositif de serrage
restant sur l’appareil lors de sa mise en marche con-
stitue un risque de blessure corporelle.
•Ne vous mettez pas en porte-à-faux. Gardez une
bonne assise et un bon équilibre à tous mo-
ments. Une bonne assise et un bon équilibre vous
assurent de mieux contrôler l’appareil en cas d’im-
prévu.
•Utilisez les équipements de sécurité appropriés.
Portez une protection oculaire systématique-
ment. Un masque àpoussière, des chaussures de
sécurité, le casque et/ou une protection auditive
doivent être portés selon les conditions d’utilisation.
Certaines poussières produites lors
du ponçage, sciage, meulage et perçage électrique,
ainsi que par d'autres activités de chantier, contiennent
des agents chimiques que l'état de la Californie a dé-
créte être cancérigène ou responsable de malforma-
tions congénitales et autres dégâts au niveau du sys-
tème reproductif, parmi ces agents se trouvent:
•Le plomb que contiennent les peintures àbase de
plomb;
•La silice cristalline contenue dans les briques, le ci-
ment et autres matériaux construction;
•L'arsénique ou le chrome contenu dans le bois
soumis àtraitement chimique.
Les risques que représentent ces agents varient selon
la fréquence d'exposition àcetype de travaik. Afin de
limiter votre exposition àces agents chimiques, tra-
vaillez dans un endroit bien ventiléet portez l'équip-
ement de sécuritéprévu, tel qu'un masque àpoussière
conçu pour filtrer les particules microscopiques.
•Protégez vos oreilles en portant in casque ou
des bouchons d'oreille lors de l'utilisation de cet
appareil. Les niveaux sonores élevés qu'il émet peu-
vent, àterme, endommager votre capacitéauditive.
Utilisation et entretien de l’appareil
•Servez-vous d’un serre-joint ou autre moyen
pratique pour arrimer et soutenir l’ouvrage sur
une plate-forme stable. Tenir l’ouvrage àla main
ou contre votre corps n’offre pas suffisamment de
stabilitéet risque de vous faire perdre le contrôle de
l’appareil.
•Ne forcez pas l’appareil. Utilisez l’outil prévu
pour votre application particulière. L’outil appro-
priéfera mieux le travail et assurera une meilleure
sécuritéd’emploi s’il est utiliséau régime prévu.
•N’utilisez pas d’appareil dont l’interrupteur mar-
che/arrêt ne fonctionne pas correctement. Les
appareils qui ne peuvent pas être contrôlés par leur
interrupteur sont dangereux et doivent être réparés.
•Débranchez l’appareil avant son réglage, le
changement de ses accessoires ou son range-
ment. De telles mesures préventives réduisent les
risques de démarrage accidentel de l’appareil.
•Rangez les appareils non utilisés hors de la por-
tée des enfants et autres individus non initiés.
Ces appareils peuvent être dangereux entre les
mains de personnes non initiées.
•Entretenez ces appareils soigneusement. Main-
tenez les trépans bien affûtés et en bon état de
propreté. Les outils bien entretenus et bien affûtés
ne risquent pas de se gripper aussi facilement et
sont plus faciles àcontrôler.
•Assurez-vous qu’il n’y a pas de mauvais aligne-
ment ou de grippage des pièces rotatives ou
d’autres conditions qui pourraient entraver le
bon fonctionnement de l’appareil. Le cas échéant,
faire réparer l’appareil avant de vous en servir. De
nombreux accidents sont le résultat d’un appareil
mal entretenu.
•Utilisez exclusivement les accessoires recom-
mandés par le fabricant pour votre appareil par-
ticulier. Des accessoires prévus pour un certain
type d’appareil peuvent être dangereux lorsqu’ils
sont montés sur un autre type d’appareil.
MISE EN GARDE