RIDGID 918-i User manual

Heavy Duty
Roll Grooving
Machine
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
918-I
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.
99 Washington Street
Melrose, MA 02176
Phone [phone]
Toll Free 1-800-517-8431
Visit us at www.TestEquipmentDepot.com

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company2
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 electric tools in explosive atmo-
spheres, such as in the presence of flammable
liquids, gases, or dust. Electric motors create sparks
which may ignite the dust or fumes.
•Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while
operating a tool. Distractions can cause you to lose
control.
•Keep floors dry and free of slippery materials such
as oil. Slippery floors invite accidents.
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 qualified
electrician if you are in doubt as to whether the out-
let is properly grounded. If the tools should electrically
malfunction or break down, grounding provides a low
resistance path to carry electricity away from the user.
•Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces. There
is an increased risk of electrical shock if your body is
grounded.
•Don’t expose electrical tools to rain or wet condi-
tions. Water entering an electrical tool will increase the
risk of electrical shock.
•Do not abuse cord. Never use the cord to 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.
•When operating a tool outside, use an outdoor
extension cord marked “W-A” or “W”. These cords
are rated for outdoor use and reduce the risk of elec-
trical shock.
•Keep all extension cord connections dry and off the
ground. Do not touch plugs with wet hands. This
practice reduces 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 machine 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.
Personal Safety
•Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use com-
mon sense when operating a tool. Do not use tools
while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol,
or medications. A moment of inattention while oper-
ating tools may result in serious personal injury.
•Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jew-
elry. Contain long hair. Keep your hair and clothing
away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry, or
long hair can be caught in moving parts.
•Avoid accidental starting. Be sure switch is OFF be-
fore plugging in. Plugging tools in that have the
switch ON invites accidents.
•Remove wrenches or adjusting keys 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 over-reach. Keep proper footing and bal-
ance at all times. Proper footing and balance enables
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
conditions.
Grounding prong
Cover of
grounded
outlet box
Grounding prong
Minimum Wire Gauge for Extension Cord
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

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company 3
Tool Use and Care
•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 plug from the power source before
making any adjustments, changing accessories, or
storing the tool. Such preventive safety measures re-
duce 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.
•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. This 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 this operator’s manual carefully before using
the Roll Groover. Failure to understand and follow
the contents of this manual may result in electrical
shock, fire and/or serious personal injury.
Foot Switch Safety
Using this machine without a foot switch increases the
risk of serious injury. A foot switch provides better control
by letting you shut off the motor by removing your foot. If
clothing should become caught in the machine, it will con-
tinue to wind up, pulling you into the machine. Because the
machine has high torque, the clothing itself can bind around
your arm or other body parts with enough force to crush or
break bones.
Roll Groover Safety
•Roll Groover is made to groove pipe and tubing.
Follow instructions in Operator’s Manual on ma-
chine uses. Other uses may increase the risk of injury.
•Keep hands away from grooving rolls. Do not wear
loose fitting gloves when operating unit. Fingers
could get caught between grooving and drive rolls.
•Keep guards in place. Do not operate the groover
with guard removed. Exposure to grooving rolls may
result in entanglement and serious injury.
•Set-up groover on a flat, level surface. Be sure
the groover and stands are stable. Will prevent tip-
ping of the unit.
•Do not wear loose clothing. Keep sleeves and
jackets buttoned. Do not reach across the ma-
chine or pipe. Clothing can be caught by the pipe
resulting in entanglement and serious injury.
•Do not use this Roll Groover without a foot switch.
Foot switch is a safety device to prevent serious injury.
•Properly support pipe with pipe stands. Use two
pipe stands to groove pipe over recommended
minimum lengths. Prevents tipping of the unit.
•When grooving pipe, keep hands away from the
end of the pipe. Do not reach inside pipe end. Will
prevent being cut on sharp edges and burrs.
•Lock foot switch when not in use. (See Figure 1.)
Avoids accidental starting.
Figure 1 – Locked Foot Switch
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Description, Specifications,
Standard Equipment and
Accessories
Description
The RIDGID 918-I Roll Groover forms rolled grooves in
steel, stainless steel, aluminum, PVC pipe and copper
WARNING

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company4
Standard Equipment
918-I Roll Groover Only
• 918-I Groover with 2″– 6″Drive Shaft and Groove
Set
•8″– 12″Drive Shaft and Groove Set
• Carrying Case for Drive Shaft and Groove Set
•1/8″T-Handle Hex Wrench (groove roll changeout)
•3/16″Hex Wrench (transmission coupling)
•5/32″Hex Wrench (transmission cover)
• Spanner Wrench (Drive shaft changeout)
• Nipple Bracket/Pipe Stabilizer
A pipe stabilizer is available as an accessory to aid in the
grooving of short lengths of pipe.
918-I Roll Groover Models
Accessories
• Groove and drive roll set for 11/4″– 11/2″ Schedule 10
and Schedule 40. (set includes drive shaft, groove roll
and carrying case.)
• Groove and drive roll set for 1″Schedule 10 and
Schedule 40, groove and drive roll for 11/4″– 11/2″
Schedule 10, 40. (Set includes groove rolls, drive
shaft, and carrying case.)
NOTE! Drive shaft change-out is necessary for roll groov-
ing below 2″.
• Groove Roll and Drive Roll Set for Copper 2″– 6″
(Types K, L, M and DWV)
• VJ-99 Pipe Stand
Figure 2 – 918-I Roll Groover
tubing. The grooves are formed by the hydraulic feeding
of a grooving roll into the pipe which is supported by a
drive roll.
The 918-I Roll Groover includes two (2) groove and
drive shaft sets that can groove the following pipe:
•2″– 6″Schedule 10 and 40
•8″– 12″Schedule 10 and 8″Schedule 40
With additional roll sets, the groover can also be adapted
to groove the following:
•2″– 6″copper tubing (Types K, L, M, DWV)
•1″Schedule 10 and 40
•1
1/4″– 11/2″Schedule 10 and 40
When properly used, the Model 918-I makes
grooves that are dimensionally within the specifications of
AWWA C606-87. Selection of appropriate materials and
joining methods is the responsibility of the system de-
signer and/or installer. Before any installation is attempted,
careful evaluation of the specific service environment, in-
cluding chemical environment and service temperature,
should be completed.
Specifications
Roll Grooving Capacity
(See Table II for wall thickness)
•1″to 12″Schedule 10
•1″to 8″Schedule 40
•2″– 6″Copper Types K, L, M, DWV
•2″– 8″Schedule 40 PVC
Do not use to groove 8″Schedule 40 steel
pipe harder than 150 BHN. Doing so may result in im-
properly formed grooves that do not meet required
specifications.
Depth Adjustment .......Indexed Adjustment Knob
Actuation......................Hydraulic Hand Pump
Motor
Type ...........................Universal
Horsepower................1.2
Volts ...........................120V Single Phase AC, 60Hz
Amps..........................12 Amps
Controls........................Rotary Type ON/OFF Switch
and ON/OFF Foot switch
Weight ..........................185 lbs. (84.1 kg)
Operating Speed..........45 RPM (no load)
CAUTION
CAUTION
Catalog Model Weight
No. No. Description lb. kg.
64977 918-I Roll Grooving Machine Complete, 115V 185 84,1
65902 918-I Roll Grooving Machine Complete, 230V 185 84,1
(Export Only)

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company 5
Roll Groover Assembly
Instructions
WARNING
To prevent serious injury, proper assembly of the
Roll Groover is required. The following procedures
should be followed:
Assembling Roll Groover
1. To identify the parts for the 918-I Roll Groover, refer
to the parts diagram and parts list.
2. Attach right and left legs to the rear support/handle as-
sembly using 3/8″– 16 x 21/2″hex screws and lock
washers. Do not tighten screws.
3. Attach the tool tray assembly to the rear and front legs
using the four (4) 3/8″– 16 x 23/4″hex screws and lock
washers. Do not tighten screws.
4. Insert axle into tabs extending from the rear sup-
port/handle assembly and secure using four (4)
retaining rings.
5. Mount the roll groover/base assembly to the stand
using four (4) 3/8″– 16 x 21/2″hex screws, washers and
wing nuts. Be careful not to “hook” the switch assem-
bly on the stand rail. Movement of the stand legs may
be required to align the base assembly.
Bolt heads go to top, wing nuts and lock washers to the
bottom (stand) side. Installation of the last bolt re-
quires opening of the motor cover.
6. Tighten the six (6) screws and four (4) wing nuts
holding the leg and tray assemblies together. Slide the
wheels onto the axle and install retaining rings to
hold the wheels on the axle.
7. Cut the tie wrap that holds the hydraulic pump in
place for shipping. Remove the bolts/wing screws
from the bottom of the pump’s mounting plate.
8. Place the pump mounting plate over the hole and slot
on the left side of the 918-I (left side as you look at the
front of the 918-I). From the bottom of the base plate,
insert the 3/8- 16 x 1″bolt with washer into the hole and
screw into pump mounting plate. Secure the bolt with
the 3/8″nut.
9. From the bottom of the base plate, insert the wing
screw with lock washer into the pump mounting plate
(through the slot) and tighten as required.
NOTE! During 918-I operation, the hydraulic pump should
be in the outermost position. During transportation,
the hydraulic pump should be in the innermost po-
sition.
Bolting the 918-I Stand to the Shop Floor
1. Mark the spot where the 918-I is to be bolted.
2. Align spot with the 918-I stand bolt-down attachment
holes (Figure 3) .
Figure 3 – Bolt-Down Attachment Holes
Machine Inspection
WARNING
Do not use this Roll Groover without a foot switch.
To prevent serious injury, inspect your Roll Groover.
The following inspection procedures should be per-
formed on a daily basis.
1. Make sure machine is unplugged and the switch is set
to the OFF position.
2. Make sure the foot switch is present and attached to
the machine.
3. Inspect the power cord and plug for damage. If the
plug has been modified, is missing the grounding
pin or if the cord is damaged, do not use the machine
until the cord has been replaced.
4. Make sure all bolts holding the Roll Groover and hy-
draulic pump to the base are tight.
5. Check that guard mounted to the roll groover is in
place (Figure 3) .
Do not operate Roll Groover with guard
removed. Exposure to moving grooving rolls may result
in fingers being crushed.
WARNING

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company6
6. Inspect the Roll Groover for any broken, missing,
misaligned or binding parts as well as any other con-
ditions which may affect the safe and normal oper-
ation of this equipment. If any of these conditions are
present, do not use the Roll Groover until any problem
has been repaired.
7. Lubricate the Roll Groover if necessary according
to the Maintenance Instructions.
8. Use groover rolls and accessories that are designed
for your Roll Groover and meet the needs of your ap-
plication. The correct groover tools and accessories
allow you to do the job successfully and safely. Ac-
cessories suitable for use with other equipment may
be hazardous when used with this Roll Groover.
9. Clean any oil, grease or dirt from all equipment han-
dles and controls. This reduces the risk of injury due
to a tool or control slipping from your grip.
10. Inspect the groove rolls to insure they are not dam-
aged or worn. Worn groover rolls can lead to pipe
slippage and poor quality grooves.
Machine and Work Area Set-Up
WARNING
To prevent serious injury, proper set-up of the ma-
chine and work area is required. The following
procedures should be followed to set-up the ma-
chine:
1. Locate a work area that has the following:
• Adequate lighting
• No flammable liquids, vapors or dust that may ignite.
• Grounded electrical outlet
• Clear path to the electrical outlet that does not
contain any sources of heat or oil, sharp edges or
moving parts that may damage electrical cord.
• Dry place for machine and operator. Do not use
the machine while standing in water.
• Level ground
2. Clean up the work area prior to setting up any equip-
ment. Always wipe up any oil that may be present.
3. Place machine on a flat, level surface. Be sure the
groover and stands are stable. See Assembly In-
structions for bolting 918-I stand to shop floor.
4. Properly support the pipe with pipe stands. See Chart
“A” for maximum lengths with one (1) stand.
Failure to properly support the pipe can
result in the unit tipping or the pipe falling.
5. Make sure switch is in the OFF position.
6. Position the foot switch so that the operator can
safely control the roll groover and workpiece. It should
allow the operator to do the following:
• Stand with left hand on pump handle.
• Use the foot switch with his left foot.
• Have convenient access to the groover without
reaching across the machine.
Machine is designed for one person operation.
7. Plug the machine into the electrical outlet making
sure to position the power cord along the clear path
selected earlier. If the power cord does not reach
the outlet, use an extension cord in good condition.
To avoid electrical shock and electrical
fires, never use an 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 section.
• The cord is rated as “W” or “W-A” if being used out-
doors.
• The cord has sufficient wire thickness (14 AWG
below 25′/12AWG 25′- 50′). If the wire thickness is
too small, the cord may overheat, melting the cord’s
insulation or causing nearby objects to ignite.
To reduce risk of electrical shock, keep
all electrical connections dry and off the ground. Do
not touch plug with wet hands.
8. Check the unit to insure it is operating properly.
• Flip the switch to ON. Press and release the foot
switch. Check that the groove roll rotates in a clock-
wise direction as you are facing the groover. Have
the machine serviced if it rotates in the wrong di-
rection or if the foot switch does not control its
stopping or starting.
• Depress and hold the foot switch. Inspect the mov-
ing parts for misalignment, binding, odd noises or
any other unusual conditions that may affect the
safe and normal operation of the machine. If such
conditions are present, have the roll groover drive
serviced.
• Release the foot switch and flip the switch to OFF.
9. Check the groove and drive rolls to insure they are the
correct size.
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING

Ridge Tool Company 7
Use of roll sets on both carbon and stainless
steel pipe can lead to contamination of the stainless steel
material. This contamination could cause corrosion and
premature pipe failure. To prevent ferrous contamination,
use roll sets dedicated for stainless steel grooving.
Operating the 918-I Roll Groover
WARNING
Do not wear loose clothing when operating a Roll
Groover. Keep sleeves and jackets buttoned. Do
not reach across the machine or pipe.
Do not use this Roll Groover if it has a broken or
missing foot switch. Always wear eye protection to
protect eyes from dirt and other foreign objects.
Keep hands away from grooving rolls. Do not wear
loose fitting gloves when operating groover. Use
pipe stands to support pipe.
When grooving, keep hands away from end of pipe.
Do not reach inside pipe end.
Pipe Preparation
1. Pipe ends must be cut square. Do not use cutting
torch.
2. Pipe out-of-roundness must not exceed the total O.D.
tolerance listed in groove specifications, Table 1 .
NOTE! Determine out-of-roundness by measuring max-
imum and minimum O.D. at 90 degrees apart.
3. All internal or external weld beads, flash or seams
must be ground flush at least 2 inches back from
pipe end.
NOTE! Do not cut flats on gasket seat area.
Pipe/Tubing Length
The following chart lists the minimum length of pipe or tub-
ing to be grooved and the maximum length to be grooved
with one (1) pipe stand.
Pipe Set-Up
1. Pipe or tubing longer than the specified maximum
lengths listed in Chart A must be supported with two
(2) pipe stands. The second pipe support should be lo-
cated 3/4of pipe length from roll groover.
Failure to use two stands may result in the
unit tipping or the pipe falling.
2. Raise upper groove roll housing by placing pump re-
lease lever in RETURN position (away from operator)
(Figure 4) .
3. Square pipe and pipe support to roll groover making
sure pipe is flush against drive roll flange (Figure 5) .
Figure 4 – Close-up of Release Lever on 918-I Pump
918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Groovable Pipe Lengths – Inches
Nom. Min. Max. Nom. Min. Max.
Size Length Length Size Length Length
1 8 36 4 8 36
11/48364
1/2832
11/2836 5 832
2 8 36 6 O.D. 10 30
21/28 36 6 10 28
383681024
31/2836101024
4 8 36 12 10 24
Chart A – Minimum/Maximum Pipe Length
WARNING
CAUTION

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company8
Figure 5 – Squaring Pipe up against Flange of Drive Roll
4. Level pipe by adjusting pipe stand (Figure 6) .
5. Slightly offset pipe and pipe stand (approximately 1/2
degree) toward operator (Figure 7) .
Figure 6 – Leveling Pipe on Pipe Support and 918-I Roll
Groover
Figure 7 – Offset Pipe on 918-I (exaggerated for clarity)
Adjusting Roll Groove Depth
NOTE! Due to differing pipe characteristics, a test groove
should always be performed when setting up or
changing pipe sizes. The index depth adjust-
ment knob must be reset for each diameter of
pipe/tube.
1. Advance the upper groove roll by placing the pump re-
lease lever in ADVANCE position (toward operator)
and pump the handle until the upper roll contacts
the pipe to be grooved.
NOTE! Upper roll should only touch the pipe surface.
Care must be taken not to penetrate pipe surface
with upper roll by applying excessive pressure.
2. Turn down the indexed depth adjustment knob (clock-
wise) until it stops against the top of the machine
(Figure 8).
3. Back the depth adjustment knob off one turn.
Figure 8 – Close-up of Depth Adjustment Knob Being
Turned Down Against Top Casting
Forming the Roll Groove
Pipe wall thickness cannot exceed the max-
imum wall thickness specified in the “Pipe Maximum
and Minimum Wall Thickness” Table II. Do not use to
groove 8″schedule 40 steel pipe that is harder than
150 BHN.
1. Flip the switch from OFF and step on machine foot
switch while applying downward pressure on the
918-I pump handle. Allow one full pipe rotation be-
tween quarter strokes of the pump handle.
If pipe begins to “walk off” the drive roll,
stop the machine and check “Pipe Set-Up” procedure.
2. To help prevent “walking”, apply pressure on outside
of pipe with right hand
(Figure 9) .
CAUTION
WARNING

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company 9
Do not reach inside of pipe. Keep hands
away from sharp edges and burrs on end of pipe.
NOTE! Do not overfeed upper groove roll. Maintain con-
stant even downward pressure, pausing to allow
one pipe revolution per quarter stroke of the
pump handle.
3. When the depth adjustment knob contacts the ma-
chine casting, allow two complete pipe revolutions
to even out groove depth.
4. Release foot switch and retract upper groove roll by
placing the pump release lever in the RETURN posi-
tion (toward operator).
5. Check groove diameter before proceeding with addi-
tional grooves.
Figure 9 – Grooving Pipe While Exerting Light Hand
Pressure Toward Operator
NOTE! Groove diameter should be measured using a di-
ameter tape. To decrease groove diameter (in-
crease groove depth), rotate the index depth ad-
justment knob one mark counter-clockwise. To in-
crease groove diameter (decrease groove depth),
rotate the depth adjustment knob clockwise.
Roll Grooving Tips with Model 918-I
1. If pipe tends to “walk off” drive roll, increase offset di-
mension (Figure 7) .
2. If drive roll flange shaves pipe end, decrease offset di-
mension.
3. If pipe end flare is excessive, lower pipe end to level
with roll groover.
4. If pipe wobbles and/or “walks off” drive roll, raise pipe
end to level with roll groover.
5. Short lengths of pipe (under three feet) may require
slight pressure to maintain the 1/2degree offset di-
mension.
Grooving Short Lengths of Pipe
Without Stabilizer
1. Properly set-up pipe to ensure pipe is level and square
on the shoulder of the drive roll.
2. When grooving, exert pressure on the pipe towards
the operator (Figure 9) .
Do not attempt to groove any pieces of
pipe shorter than 8″ (See Chart A) . Increases risk of fingers
being crushed in the grooving rolls.
Do not reach inside of pipe. Keep hands
away from sharp edges and burrs on end of pipe.
With Stabilizer
NOTE! Once stabilizer is adjusted for a selected pipe
diameter and wall thickness, it does not have to
be readjusted.
1. Properly set up pipe to ensure pipe is level and square
on the shoulder of the drive roll.
2. Engage hydraulic pump and bring groove roll (upper
roll) down until it contacts outside diameter of the
pipe.
3. Tighten down stabilizer roll until roll contacts outside di-
ameter of the pipe. Continue to tighten stabilizer one
full turn after making contact on outside diameter of
pipe (Figure 10) .
Do not reach across pipe to adjust stabilizer.
NOTE! If pipe “walks off” of drive shaft during the roll
grooving operation, the stabilizer will need to be
further tightened 1/2turn.
Do not use the pipe stabilizer on 8″or
shorter workpieces. Increases risk of fingers being crushed
in the grooving rolls.
WARNING
WARNING
Figure 10 – Adjusting Pipe Stabilizer
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company10
Removing and Installing Groove Roll
and Drive Shaft
NOTE! As groove dimensions are determined by the roll
set geometry, specific roll sets are required when
grooving the following:
• 2″– 6″Schedule 10, 40
• 8″– 12″Schedule 10, 8″Schedule 40
• 2″– 6″Copper tubing (Types K, L, M, DWV)
• 1″Schedule 10, 40
• 11/4″- 11/2″Schedule 10, 40
Make sure machine is unplugged from
power source before changing the roll sets.
When removing groove rolls and shafts,
be sure they are properly supported. Failure to provide
support may cause them to drop suddenly.
Removing and Installing Roll Sets with
Solid Drive Shafts (2″ – 6″, 8″– 12″)
1. Removing Groove Rolls:
• Fully raise the upper roll assembly by moving the
pump release lever to the DOWN position.
• Loosen set screw in grooving roll and remove
groove roll shaft and groove roll
(Figures 11 & 12) .
2. Removing Solid Drive Shaft:
• Open motor and transmission cover.
•Use
3/16″hex key to loosen the two screws on the
front half of the transmission coupling (Figure 13) .
Figure 13 – Loosen the Two Screws on the Transmission
Coupling
• Use the spanner wrench to loosen and remove the
drive shaft retaining nut (Figure 14) .
• Remove drive shaft (Figure 15) .
Figure 14 – Loosen and Remove Drive Shaft Retaining Nut
3. Installing Solid Drive Shaft aligning hex with opening
in coupling.
• Install new drive shaft through the 918-I housing and
the drive shaft bearing retaining nut (with text out),
aligning hex with opening in coupling.
• Use spanner wrench to tighten the drive shaft bear-
ing retaining nut.
• Tighten transmission coupling set screws.
• Close motor and transmission cover.
Do not use groover with motor cover re-
moved or open.
4. Installing Groove Roll:
• With upper roll housing fully raised and drive shaft
in place, insert groove roll into upper roll assembly
and fully insert upper roll shaft through bearings
and groove roll.
WARNING
WARNING
Figure 11 – Loosen Set
Screw in
Groove Roll
Figure 12 – Remove Groove
Roll Shaft and
Groove Roll
WARNING

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company 11
• Tighten groove roll set screw into detent on upper
roll shaft.
• Using a grease gun, grease the drive shaft through
the fitting on the side of the groover.
Figure 15 – Remove Drive Shaft
Removing and Installing Roll Sets with
Two-Piece Drive Shafts (1″, 11/4″– 11/2″,
2″– 6″Copper)
1. Removing Groove Roll:
• Fully raise the upper roll housing by moving the
pump release lever to the return position, away
from the operator.
• Loosen groove roll set screw
(Figure 11) . Grasp
groove roll and remove upper shaft and groove roll
from the Groover (Figure 12) .
2. Removing Drive Roll From Drive Shaft:
• Open motor and transmission cover.
•Use
3/16″hex key to loosen the two screws on the
front half of the transmission coupling (Figure 13).
• Use the spanner wrench to loosen and remove the
drive shaft retaining nut (Figure 14) .
• Pull the drive shaft assembly forward. Remove
drive shaft bearing retaining nut and the front half
of the coupling
(Figure 16) . Reinsert drive shaft .
Figure 16 – Removing Bearing, Retaining Nut and Front
Half of Coupling
• Manually rotate the drive shaft while applying
pressure to the spindle lock pin until the lock pin
engages the spindle lock hole in the drive shaft.
• With the spindle lock engaged, use a 15/16″wrench
to loosen the draw bolt (Figure 17) .
• Tap draw bolt with a mallet to release drive roll
from drive shaft.
• Unthread draw bolt from drive roll, remove drive
roll.
Figure 17 – Engaging Spindle Lock and Loosen Draw Bolt
3. Installing New Drive Roll:
• Install new drive roll, insert and hand-tighten draw
bolt.

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company12
• Manually rotate the drive shaft/drive roll assembly
while applying pressure to the spindle lock pin until
the lock pin engages the spindle lock hole in the
drive shaft.
• With the spindle lock engaged, use a wrench to
tighten the draw bolt.
• Release pressure on the spindle lock pin, allowing
to retract.
• Pull drive shaft assembly forward. Insert front half of
coupling onto back half. Insert drive shaft assembly
through the bearing retaining nut, aligning hex with
opening in coupling.
• Use spanner wrench to tighten the drive shaft bear-
ing retaining nut.
• Tighten transmission coupling set screws.
• Close motor and transmission cover.
Do not use groover with cover removed or
open.
4. Installing Groove Roll:
• With upper roll housing fully raised and drive shaft in
place, insert groove roll into upper roll assembly and
fully insert upper roll shaft through bearings and
groove roll.
• Tighten groove roll set screw into detent on upper
roll shaft.
5. Using a grease gun, grease the drive shaft through the
fitting on the side of the Groover.
Changing from Solid Drive Shaft Roll Set
to Two-Piece Drive Shaft
1. Removing Groove Roll:
• Fully raise the upper roll housing by moving the
pump release lever to the return position, away
from the operator.
• Loosen groove roll set screw
(Figure 11) . Grasp
groove roll and remove upper roll shaft and groove
roll from Groover (Figure 12) .
2. Changing Solid Drive Shaft Roll Set to Two-Piece
Drive Shaft:
• Open motor and transmission cover.
•Use
3/16″hex key to loosen the two screws on the
transmission coupling (Figure 13) .
• Use the box wrench to remove the drive shaft bear-
ing retaining nut (Figure 14) .
• Remove the drive shaft
(Figure 15) .
• Remove the front half of the coupling.
• Assemble proper drive roll to drive shaft (two-
piece style) with draw bolt hand-tight.
• Insert two-piece drive shaft assembly into 918-I.
• Manually rotate the drive shaft while applying pres-
sure to the spindle lock pin until the lock pin engages
the spindle lock hole in the drive shaft assembly.
• With the spindle lock engaged, use a wrench to
tighten the draw bolt.
• Release pressure on the spindle lock pin, allowing
to retract.
• Pull drive shaft assembly forward. Insert front half of
coupling onto back half. Insert drive shaft assembly
through the bearing retaining nut, aligning hex with
opening in coupling.
• Use spanner wrench to tighten the drive shaft
bearing retaining nut.
• Tighten transmission coupling set screw.
• Close motor and transmission cover.
Do not use groover with cover removed
or open.
3. Installing groove roll:
• With upper housing fully raised and drive shaft in
place, insert groove roll into upper roll assembly and
fully insert upper roll shaft through bearings and
groove roll.
• Tighten groove roll set screw into detent on upper
roll shaft.
4. Using a grease gun, grease the drive shaft through the
fitting on the side of the groover.
Accessories
Only the following RIDGID products have
been designed to function with the 918-I Roll Groover.
Other accessories suitable for use with other tools may
become hazardous when used on this Roll Groover.
To prevent serious injury, use only the accessories listed
below.
NOTE: A Roll Set consists of a Groove Roll and a Drive Roll.
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
Catalog
No. 918-I Accessories
48405 Roll Set for 8″ − 12″Sch. 10, (8″Sch.40) with Carrying Case
48407 Roll Set for 11/4″to 11/2″Sch. 10/40 with Carrying Case
48412 Roll Set for 1″Sch. 10/40 and 11/4″to 11/2″Sch. 10/40 with
Carrying Case
48417 Roll Set for Copper (2″- 6″)
76822 English Diameter Tape
76827 Metric Diameter Tape
Pipe Stands (See Ridge Tool Catalog)

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company 13
Table I. Standard Roll Groove Specifications(1)
NOTE! All Dimensions are in Inches.
TA B C D
NOM. PIPE MIN. GASKET GROOVE GROOVE NOM.
PIPE DIAMETER WALL SEAT WIDTH DIAMETER GROOVE
SIZE O.D. TOL. THK. +.015/-.030 +.030/-.015 O.D. TOL. DEPTH (Ref.) (2)
1 1.315 +.013 .065 .625 .281 1.190 +.000 .063
-.013 -.015
11/41.660 +.016 .065 .625 .281 1.535 +.000 .063
-.016 -.015
11/21.900 +.016 .065 .625 .281 1.775 +.000 .063
-.016 -.015
2 2.375 +.024 .065 .625 .344 2.250 +.000 .063
-.016 -.015
21/22.875 +.029 .083 .625 .344 2.720 +.000 .078
-.016 -.015
33.50+.030 .083 .625 .344 3.344 +.000 .078
-.018 -.015
31/24.00 +.030 .083 .625 .344 3.834 +.000 .083
-.018 -.015
44.50+.035 .083 .625 .344 4.334 +.000 .083
.020 -.015
5 5.563 +.056 .109 .625 .344 5.395 +.000 .084
.022 -.015
6 6.625 +.050 .109 .625 .344 6.455 +.000 .085
-.024 -.015
8 8.625 +.050 .109 .750 .469 8.441 +.000 .092
-.024 -.020
10 10.75 +.060 .134 .750 .469 10.562 +.000 .094
-.025 -.025
12 12.75 +.060 .156 .750 .469 12.531 +.000 .110
-.025 -.025
Table II. Pipe Maximum and Minimum Wall Thickness
NOTE! All Dimensions are in Inches.
CARBON STEEL OR STAINLESS STEEL
ALUMINUM PIPE OR TUBE PIPE OR TUBE PVC PIPE
Pipe Size Wall Thickness Wall Thickness Wall Thickness
Min. Max. Min. Max. Min. Max.
1″.065 .133 .065 .109 .133 .133
11/4″.065 .140 .065 .140 .140 .140
11/2″.065 .145 .065 .145 .145 .200
2″.065 .154 .065 .154 .154 .154
21/2″.083 .203 .083 .188 .203 .276
3″.083 .216 .083 .188 .216 .300
31/2″.083 .226 .083 .188 .226 .318
4″.083 .237 .083 .188 .237 .337
5″.109 .258 .109 .188 .258 .258
6″.109 .280 .109 .188 .280 .280
8″.109 .322 .109 .188 .322 .322
10″.134 .165 .134 .188 — —
12″.156 .180 .156 .188 — —
(1) As per AWWA C606-87
(2) Nominal Groove Depth is provided as a reference dimension only. Do not use groove depth to determine acceptability of a groove.
CAUTION: Do not use to groove 8″schedule 40 steel pipe that is harder than 150 BHN. Attempting to groove this harder pipe may result in
improperly formed grooves that do not meet required specifications.
NOTE! Fitting manufacturer's recommendations should be followed regarding maximum allowable flare diameters.

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company14
Table III. Troubleshooting
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Rolled groove too
narrow or too wide.
Rolled groove not per-
pendicular to pipe axis.
Pipe does not track
while grooving.
Pipe flared at groove end.
Pipe drifts back and forth
on driving roll axis while
grooving.
Pipe rocks from side to
side.
Groover does not roll
groove in pipe.
Groove does not meet
specification.
Pipe slips on driving
roll.
Incorrect size of grooving and driving rolls.
Mismatched grooving and driving rolls.
Grooving roll and/or driving roll worn.
Pipe length not straight.
Pipe end not square with pipe axis.
Pipe not level.
Groover not level.
Pipe axis not offset 1/2degree from drive roll axis.
1/2degree offset not sufficient.
Not applying pressure to pipe.
Not using stabilizer.
Excessive weld seam.
Pipe end not square.
Pipe not level.
Operator is advancing groove roll too fast.
Pipe is too hard.
Stabilizer too tight.
Pipe length not straight.
Pipe end not square with pipe axis.
Pipe stand too close to end of pipe.
Pipe end flattened or damaged.
Hard spots in pipe material or weld seams harder
than pipe.
Grooving roll feed rate too slow.
Pipe support stand rollers not in correct location for
pipe size.
Pipe wall maximum thickness exceeded.
Wrong rolls.
Pipe material too hard.
Adjustment nut not set.
Maximum pipe diameter tolerance exceeded.
Mismatched grooving and driving rolls.
Grooving 8″Sch.40 steel pipe harder than 150
BHN.
Driving roll knurling plugged with metal or worn flat.
Grooving roll feed rate too slow.
Install correct size of grooving and driving rolls.
Match grooving and driving rolls.
Replace worn roll.
Use straight pipe.
Cut pipe end square.
Adjust stand to level pipe.
Level groover.
Offset pipe 1/2degree (See Figure 7).
Offset pipe slightly more.
Apply pressure to pipe (See Figure 9).
Use stabilizer.
Grind flush 2″from end of pipe.
Cut pipe end square.
Adjust stand to level pipe.
Slow down pumping action. Refer to proper oper-
ating instructions.
Replace pipe.
Adjust stabilizer.
Use straight pipe.
Cut pipe end square.
Move pipe stand in 1/4distance from end of pipe.
Cut off damaged pipe end.
Use high quality pipe of uniform hardness.
Feed grooving roll into pipe faster.
Position pipe stand rollers for pipe size being used.
Check pipe capacity chart.
Install correct rolls.
Replace pipe.
Set depth.
Use correct diameter pipe.
Use correct set of rolls.
Do not groove hard pipe.
Clean or replace driving roll.
Feed grooving roll into pipe faster.

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company 15
12345678
ABCD T
Nom. Tubing Outside Gasket Groove Groove Nominal Min. Max.
Size Diameter O.D. Seal Width Dia. Groove Allow. Allow.
Inches A +.03 +.00 Depth Wall Flare
Basic Tolerance +.03 –.00 –.02 (1) Thick. Dia.
–.00
2″2.125 ±0.002 0.610 0.300 2.029 0.048 0.064 2.220
21/2″2.625 ±0.002 0.610 0.300 2.525 0.050 0.065 2.720
3″3.125 ±0.002 0.610 0.300 3.025 0.050 0.045 3.220
4″4.125 ±0.002 0.610 0.300 4.019 0.053 0.058 4.220
5″5.125 ±0.002 0.610 0.300 5.019 0.053 0.072 5.220
6″6.125 ±0.002 0.610 0.300 5.999 0.063 0.083 6.220
Table IV. Copper Roll Groove Specifications
(1) Nominal groove depth is provided for reference only. Do not use groove depth to determine acceptability of groove.
Table III. Troubleshooting (cont.)
PROBLEM CAUSE CORRECTION
Pipe raises or tends to
tip groover over back-
wards.
Pump not delivering oil,
cylinder does not
advance.
Pump handle operates
with “spongy” action.
Cylinder extends only
partially.
Not level.
Pump release valve open.
Low oil in reservoir.
Dirt in pump body.
Seats worn or not seating.
Too much oil in reservoir.
Air trapped in system.
Too much oil in reservoir.
Pump reservoir is low on oil.
Depth adjustment set incorrectly.
Adjust stands to level pipe.
Close release valve.
Check oil level per instructions.
Have serviced by qualified technician.
Have serviced by qualified technician.
Check oil level per instructions.
Position ram lower than pump by tipping the ma-
chine on its side opposite the operator. Extend
and return the cylinder piston several times to per-
mit air to return to the pump reservoir.
Check oil level per instructions.
Fill and bleed system.
Follow depth adjustment instructions.

Figure 19
3. As the base unit is being removed, be careful to
not “hook” the switch assembly on to the stand rail
(Figure 20) .
Figure 20 – Removing Base Assembly From Stand
Machine Storage
Motor-driven equipment must be kept
indoors 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 roll groover equipment. This ma-
chine can cause serious injury in the hands of untrained
users.
Maintenance Instructions
Make sure machine is unplugged from
power source before performing maintenance or making
any adjustments.
Hydraulic Fluid Level
Remove the reservoir filler cap (Figure 18) . The oil level
should come to the fill line when the pump is resting on
its base and the ram is fully retracted. Use only high
grade hydraulic oil.
Figure 18
Lubrication
Drive Shaft and Groove Roll Shaft Bearings.
Lubricate with multi-purpose grease through fittings lo-
cated on groove roll shaft and lower roll housing once a
month, and after roll change.
Removing the Base Unit From the Stand
1. Unplug the 918-I from the power source.
2. Remove the four bolts that hold the base unit plate to
the stand (Figure 19) .
918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company16
WARNING
WARNING

918-I Heavy Duty Roll Grooving Machine
Ridge Tool Company 17
Service and Repair
Service and repair work on this Roll Groover must be
performed by qualified repair personnel. Machine 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 defects in
material and workmanship.
WARNING When servicing this machine, only iden-
tical replacement parts should be used. Failure to follow
these instructions may create a risk of serious injury.
918-I Wiring Diagram

Printed in U.S.A. 11/12 999-998-676.10
EC39404 Rev. B
99 Washington Street
Melrose, MA 02176
Phone [phone]
Toll Free 1-800-517-8431
Visit us at www.TestEquipmentDepot.com