RIDGID FlexShaft K9-102 User manual

Model K9-102 & K9-204
FlexShaft™Drain Cleaning
Machines
•Français – 15
•Deutsch – 33
K9-102 & K9-204 Manual
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A
ii
Table of Contents
Safety Symbols.................................................................................................................... 2
General Safety Rules
Work Area Safety.............................................................................................................. 2
Electrical Safety ................................................................................................................ 2
Personal Safety................................................................................................................. 2
Tool Use and Care ............................................................................................................ 3
Service.............................................................................................................................. 3
Specific Safety Information ................................................................................................ 3
FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machine Safety ........................................................................ 3
RIDGID Contact Information............................................................................................... 4
Description........................................................................................................................... 4
Specifications ...................................................................................................................... 5
Specifications - Acceptable Battery Powered Drills........................................................... 5
Standard Equipment ......................................................................................................... 5
Pre-Operation Inspection.................................................................................................... 5
Machine and Work Area Set-up .......................................................................................... 6
Installing/Adjusting Chain Knocker ................................................................................... 8
Operating Instructions ........................................................................................................ 9
Draining the Drum .......................................................................................................... 12
Transportation.................................................................................................................12
Storage ...............................................................................................................................12
Maintenance Instructions................................................................................................. 13
Cleaning ......................................................................................................................... 13
Lubrication....................................................................................................................... 13
Cable Assembly Replacement ......................................................................................... 13
Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................. 14
Service And Repair......................................................................................................... 14
Optional Equipment .......................................................................................................... 14
Disposal.............................................................................................................................. 14
Lifetime Warranty.................................................................................................Back Cover
*Original Instructions - English
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Model K9-102 & K9-204
FlexShaft
™
Drain Cleaning
Machines
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.
Drain Cleaning Machines
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A
2
This symbol indicates the risk of hands,
fingers or other body parts being caught,
wrapped or crushed in the drain cleaning
FlexShaft.
Safety Symbols
In this operator’s manual and on the product, safety symbols and signal words are used to
communicate important safety information. This section is provided to improve understand-
ing of these signal words and symbols.
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey
all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death
or serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor
or moderate injury.
NOTICE indicates information that relates to the protection of property.
Electrical Safety
• Avoid body contact with earthed or
grounded surfaces such as pipes, radi-
ators, ranges and refrigerators. There is
an increased risk of electrical shock if your
body is earthed or grounded.
• Do not expose power tools to rain or
wet conditions. Water entering a power
tool will increase the risk of electrical
shock.
• If operating a power tool in a damp
location is unavoidable, use a ground
fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected
supply. Use of a GFCI reduces the risk of
electric shock.
Personal Safety
• Stay alert, watch what you are doing
and use common sense when oper-
ating tools. Do not use tools while
you are tired or under the influence of
drugs, alcohol, or medication. A mo-
ment of inattention while operating tools
may result in serious personal injury.
• Use personal protective equipment.
General Safety Rules
WARNING
Read and understand all warnings and
instructions. Failure to follow all warn-
ings and instructions may result in elec-
tric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Work Area Safety
• Keep work area clean and well lit. Clut-
tered or dark areas invite accidents.
• Do not operate tools in explosive at-
mospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases, or dust. Tools
create sparks which may ignite the dust or
fumes.
• Keep children and by-standers away
while operating tools. Distractions can
cause you to lose control.
• Keep floors dry and free of slippery
materials such as oil. Slippery floors
invite accidents.
NOTICE
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION
This symbol means read the operator’s
manual carefully before using the equip-
ment. The operator’s manual contains im-
portant information on the safe and proper opera-
tion of the equipment.
This symbol means always wear safety
glasses with side shields or goggles while
using this equipment to reduce the risk
of eye injury.
This symbol indicates the risk of the elec-
trical shock.
This symbol indicates the risk of fingers or
other body parts being caught, wrapped,
crushed or struck by the chain knocker.
Do not operate tool with the cable end outside
of the drain.
This symbol means always wear gloves
when handling or using this equipment to
reduce the risk of infections, burns or other
serious personal injury from the drain contents.
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A 3
FlexShaft Drain Cleaning
Machine Safety
• Always use safety glasses and gloves
in good condition while handling or
using. Use latex or rubber gloves, face
shields, protective clothing, respirators or
other appropriate protective equipment
when chemicals, bacteria or other toxic
or infectious substances are suspected to
be present to reduce the risk of infections,
burns or other serious personal injury.
• Do not use with a corded drill. Opera-
ting with a corded drill increases the risk
of electrical shock and other injuries.
• Do not allow the chain knocker/end of
cable to stop turning while drill switch
is depressed. This can over-stress the
cable and may cause twisting, kinking or
breaking of the cable assembly and may
result in serious personal injury.
• Practice good hygiene. Do not eat or
smoke while handling or operating the
tool. After handling or operating drain
cleaning equipment, use hot, soapy
water to wash hands and other body
parts exposed to drain contents. This
will help reduce the risk of health hazards
due to exposure to toxic or infectious
material.
• Only use the FlexShaft Drain Clean-
ing Machine for the recommended
drain sizes. Using the wrong size drain
cleaner can lead to twisting, kinking or
breaking of the cable and may result in
personal injury.
• Keep hand on the cable assembly
whenever the FlexShaft Machine is run-
ning. This provides better control of the
cable and helps prevent twisting, kinking
and breaking of the cable and reduces the
risk of injury.
• Position machine cable outlet within
3' (1 m) of the drain inlet or properly
support exposed cable assembly when
the distance exceeds 3' (1 m). Greater
distances can cause control problems lead-
ing to twisting, kinking or breaking of the
cable. Twisting, kinking or breaking cable
may cause striking or crushing injuries.
• One person must control both the
cable assembly and cordless drill. Do
not lock drill switch in the ON position
during operation. If the cable stops rotat-
ing, the operator must be able to release
the drill switch to prevent twisting, kinking
Always wear eye protection. Protective
equipment such as dust mask, non-skid
safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protec-
tion used for appropriate conditions will
reduce personal injuries.
• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing
and balance at all times. Proper footing
and balance enables better control of the
tool in unexpected situations.
Tool Use and Care
• Do not force tool. Use the correct tool
for your application. The correct tool will
do the job better and safer at the rate for
which it is designed.
• Store idle tools out of the reach of chil-
dren and do not allow persons unfamil-
iar with the tool or these instructions to
operate the tool. Tools can be dangerous
in the hands of untrained users.
• Maintain tools. Check for misalignment
or binding of moving parts, breakage
of parts and any other condition that
may affect the tool’s operation. If dam-
aged, have the tool repaired before use.
Many accidents are caused by poorly
maintained tools.
• Keep handles dry, clean and free from
oil and grease. Allows for better control
of the tool.
Service
• Have your tool serviced by a qualified
repair person using only identical re-
placement parts. This will ensure that
the safety of the tool is maintained.
Specific Safety
Information
WARNING
This section contains important safety
information that is specific to this tool.
Read these precautions carefully be-
fore using the FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning
Machine to reduce the risk of electrical
shock or other serious injury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS
AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR
FUTURE REFERENCE!
Keep this manual with machine for use by
the operator.
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A
4
for use on roots and cleaning the pipe wall of
scale. Plain chain knockers are for general use,
including grease. FlexShaft Drain Cleaners
are well suited to use with inspection cameras
during the drain cleaning process.
The FlexShaft Machines are lightweight and
compact for ease of transport.
Figure 1A – RIDGID®FlexShaft Drain Cleaning
Machine
Figure 1B – RIDGID®FlexShaft Drain Cleaning
Machine
Figure 1C – Cable End/Chain Knocker
and breaking of the cable and reduce the
risk of injury.
•Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry.
Keep your hair and clothing away from
moving parts. Loose clothing, jewelry or
hair can be caught in moving parts.
•Do not operate this machine if oper-
ator or machine is standing in water.
Operating machine while in water in-
creases the risk of electrical shock.
•Do not use if there is the risk of con-
tact with other utilities (such as natural
gas or electric) during operation. Visual
inspection of the drain with a camera is
a good practice. Crossbores, improperly
placed utilities and damaged drains could
allow the cutter to contact and damage the
utility. This could cause electrical shock,
gas leaks, fire, explosion or other serious
damage or injury.
•Read and understand these instruc-
tions, the battery drill instructions and
the instructions for any other equip-
ment used with this tool before oper-
ating. Failure to follow all instructions may
result in property damage and/or serious
injury.
Description
The RIDGID®Model K9-102 and K9-204
FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines are de-
signed to clean and descale pipes and drain
lines as called out in the Specifications.
A user supplied battery powered drill is used to
drive the FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machines.
The FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machine cable
assembly is manually fed in and out of the
drain. A chain knocker that expands to the
pipe inside diameter is used to break up the
blockage and clean the walls of the pipe. Chain
knockers with carbide cutting tips are available
Carry Handle
Chain
Knocker
Drill
Shaft
Cable/
Knocker
Hook
Cable
Assembly
Cable
Bushing
Warning
&
Operation
Label
Feet
Drain
Hole
Foot
(Horizontal-
Use Position)
Cable
Hook
Chain
Knocker
Cable
Bushing
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A 5
Pre-Operation
Inspection
WARNING
Before each use, inspect your Drain
Cleaning Machine and correct any prob-
lems to reduce the risk of serious injury
from electric shock, twisted or broken
cables, chemical burns, infections and
other causes and prevent Drain Cleaning
Machine damage.
Always wear safety glasses, and other
appropriate protective equipment when
inspecting your Drain Cleaning Machine.
1. Clean the machine, including handles
and controls. This aids inspection and
helps prevent the machine or control
from slipping from your grip. Clean and
maintain the machine per the mainte-
nance instructions.
2. Inspect the machine for:
• Proper assembly and completeness.
• Any broken, worn, missing, misaligned
or binding parts.
• Presence and readability of the warning
label (see Figure 2).
Figure 2 – Warning Label
It is not recommended to clean glass, ceramic,
porcelain or similar fixtures with the FlexShaft
Drain Cleaners as it may damage the fixture.
Specifications - Acceptable
Battery Powered Drills
Rotational Speed .... 1800 to 2500 RPM
Chuck Size ............. 3/8" or greater
Clutch ..................... Equipped with torque
adjustment
Switch Lock ............ Not equipped with
Do not use corded drills, hammer drills or
impact drivers. Use of an inappropriate drill
increases the risk of equipment damage and
personal injury.
Standard Equipment
Refer to the RIDGID catalog for details on
equipment supplied with specific drain cleaning
machine catalog numbers.
This machine is made to clean
drains. If properly used it will not damage a
drain that is in good condition and properly
designed, constructed and maintained. If the
drain is in poor condition, or has not been
properly designed, constructed and main-
tained, the drain cleaning process may not be
effective or could cause damage to the drain.
The best way to determine the condition of
a drain before cleaning is through visual in-
spection with a camera. Improper use of this
drain cleaning machine can damage the drain
cleaning machine and the drain. This machine
may not clear all blockages.
Specifications
Model..........................................................K9-102 K9-204
Drain Capacity (Nom.)................................11/4" to 2" (32 – 50 mm) 2" to 4" (50 – 100 mm)
Cable Diameter (without Sheath)................1/4" (6 mm) 5/16" (8mm)
Cable Assy. Diameter (with Sheath) ...........3/8" (9.5 mm) 1/2" (12.7 mm)
Cable Assembly Length..............................50' (15.2 m) 70' (21.3 m)
Rotational Speed ........................................Maximum 2500 RPM Maximum 2500 RPM
Drill Attachment..........................................5/16" Hex (8 mm) 5/16" Hex (8 mm)
Weight (without Drill/Knocker).................. 24.3 lbs. (11.0 kg) 37.3 lbs. (16.9 kg)
Dimension (without Drill) ...........................19.2" × 7.5" × 22.1" 21.1" x 10.8" x 24.2"
(488 mm × 191 mm × 562 mm) (536 mm x 274 mm x 615 mm)
Operating temperature................................20°F to 140°F (-6°C to 60°C) 20°F to 140°F (-6°C to 60°C)
NOTICE
FOR
1800 - 2500/min
0
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A
6
1. Check for an appropriate work area.
Operate in a clear level, stable, dry lo-
cation. Do not use the Drain Cleaning
Machine while standing in water.
2. Inspect the drain to be cleaned. If possi-
ble, determine the access point(s) to the
drain, the size(s), length(s), and materi-
al(s) of the drain, distance to mainlines,
the nature of the blockage, presence of
drain cleaning chemicals or other chem-
icals, etc.
If chemicals are present in the drain, it
is important to understand the specific
safety measures required to work around
those chemicals. Contact the chemical
manufacturer for required information.
Confirm no other utilities are present in
the drain or area to reduce the risk of
damage. Visual inspection of the drain
with a camera is a good practice.
If needed, remove fixture (water closet,
etc.) to allow access to drain. Do not run
the chain knocker in a fixture. This could
damage the FlexShaft Machine or the
fixture.
Best drain cleaning results will occur if
water is flowing during the drain cleaning
process to wash away debris. For 11/4”
and 11/2” sink drains, cut away wall pipes
are available to allow this. See Figure 3
for installation. Place a container to catch
any drain contents that may spill.
Figure 3 – Wall Pipe Installation
3. Determine the correct equipment for the
application. See Specifications.
4. Make sureall equipment has been prop-
erly inspected.
• Smooth and free movement of the ca-
ble assembly in and out of the machine.
• Any condition which may prevent safe
and normal operation.
If any problems are found, do not use the
drain cleaning machine until the prob-
lems have been repaired.
3. Clean any debris from the cable assem-
bly and chain knockers. Inspect sheath
for wear and damage. There should not
be any cuts, kinks, breaks or excessive
wear. Inspect the cable near the chain
knocker. Cable assemblies should not be
bent or deformed. Cable strands should
be tight to one another without separa-
tion. Inspect chain knocker for damaged
or lost carbide cutting tips (if equipped)
and wear of the chain itself. If chain links
are worn more than ¼ through or dam-
aged, replace the chain knocker. Replace
worn and damaged equipment before
using drain cleaning machine.
Confirm that the chain knocker is prop-
erly set up and is secure on the cable.
4. Inspect the battery powered drill per its
instructions. Make sure that the drill is in
good operating condition and the switch
controls the drill operation. Confirm that
the drill meets the requirements in the
Specification section and is properly set
for use with the machine.
5. Inspect and maintain any other equip-
ment being used per its instructions to
make sure it is functioning properly.
Machine and Work Area
Set-up
WARNING
Set up the Drain Cleaning Machine and
work area according to these proce-
dures to reduce the risk of injury from
electric shock, fire, machine tipping,
twisted or broken cables, chemical
burns, infections and other causes, and
prevent machine damage.
Always wear safety glasses and other
appropriate protective equipment when
setting up your Drain Cleaning Machine.
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A 7
Figure 5 – Example of Extending Drain Access
to within 3’ of Machine Cable Outlet
9. Disconnect the chain knocker from the
hook and pull approximately 4’ (1.2 m) of
cable assembly out of the machine.
10. Mark the sheath to indicate when the
chain knocker is approaching the drain
opening when withdrawn. This can be
done with tape. This reduces the risk of
the chain knockers coming out of the
drain and whipping around. The distance
depends on the configuration of the drain,
but should be at least 4’ (1.2 m) from the
chain knocker.
11. Ensure chain knocker is properly installed
(see Installing/Adjusting Chain Knocker).
12. Insert chain knocker end at least 1’ (0.3 m)
into drain.
13. Evaluate the work area and determine if
any barriers are needed to keep bystand-
ers away from the drain cleaning ma-
chine and work area. The drain cleaning
process can be messy, and bystanders
can distract the operator.
14. Position the machine for easy accessibil-
ity. You must be able to hold and control
the cable assembly and the drill switch.
15. With dry hands, insert the battery into
the drill.
Installing/Adjusting Chain
Knocker
1. Select proper chain knocker for the con-
ditions.
5. If needed, place protective covers in the
work area. The drain cleaning process
can be messy.
6. Place the Drain Cleaning Machine on
the ground with the drill shaft vertical.
Machine should sit squarely and firmly
on the ground. Do not operate with the
drill shaft horizontal. This will reduce the
risk of tipping.
7. Remove the battery from the drill (see
Specifications). Securely attach the drill
chuck to the hex of the drill shaft (Figure
4). Set the battery powered drill torque
adjustment to the maximum setting (do
not place in the “drill” setting). Set the drill
speed in the 1800 to 2500 RPM range,
and place the direction selector in the
FORWARD (FOR) position (see direction
marking on the front housing).
Figure 4 – Attaching Drill To Drill Shaft
8. Position the Drain Cleaning Machine so
that the cable outlet is within 3’ (1 m) of
the drain access. Greater distances from
the drain access increases the risk of
the cable assembly twisting or kinking. If
the FlexShaft Machine cannot be placed
with the cable outlet within 3’ (1 m) of the
drain access, extend the drain access
with similar sized pipe and fittings (see
Figure 5). Improper cable assembly sup-
port can allow the cable to kink and twist
and can damage the cable or injure the
operator. Extending the drain back to the
Drain Cleaning Machine also makes it
easier to feed cable assembly into drain.
FOR
Arrow
Drill
Shaft
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A
8
eter, and is generally set using a spacer
made from sheath (“Collar Spacer”). If
additional flexibility is required to navigate
a bend, the collar spacer can be removed
and the collar distance can be set with a
tape measure. Operating without a collar
spacer makes it more likely for the cable
to flip over in use and be damaged. Do
not operate carbide cutters without a
collar spacer to reduce risk of cable
damage.
Exposed Cable: Minimize the amount
of exposed cable (cable not covered by
sheath). The more exposed cable there
is, the more likely the cable will flip over
in use and be damaged. Exposed cable
should be limited to no more than ¼” (6
mm), and is set with a bushing made from
sheath (“Knocker Bushing”).
Sheath is supplied with the drain cleaner
and is available as a service part to allow
configuration as needed for your specific
application. Only use RIDGID FlexShaft
Drain Cleaner sheath of the correct size
for the cable. Any time sheath is cut, it
should be cut cleanly and squarely. Do
not damage the cable when cutting the
sheath.
3. Chain knockers are retained to the cable
with set screws that use a supplied 3
mm hex key. Loosen set screws and re-
move chain knocker, spacer and bushing
from cable.
4. Inspect the sheath end for damage or
wear. The sheath end should be square
and clean. If needed, the sheath end can
be trimmed slightly.
5. If needed, cut a section of sheath to use
as the collar spacer to the appropriate
size (See Collar Distance Chart).
Collar distance can be modified to your
preference for the specific pipe/applica-
tion. As collar distance increases, the di-
ameter of the chains decreases, and vice
versa. Improperly set collar distance can
reduce the efficiency of pipe cleaning.
6. Test fit the chain knocker, knocker bushing
and collar spacer on the cable as shown
in Figure 7. Chains should be straight – do
not assemble with chains twisted. To pre-
vent excessive cable end wear, cable end
should be flush with the end of the collar.
Chain knockers are sized based on col-
lar inside diameter and are designed for
specific cable sizes. ¼” chain knockers
are used on ¼” cable, etc. Do not use a
larger size chain knocker on a smaller
cable (for instance 5/16” on ¼”). See Figure
6 and Collar Distance Chart.
Figure 6 – Chain Knockers
Chain knockers without carbide cutting
tips can be used in common pipe types.
These chain knockers work well in grease
and similar blockages.
Chain knockers with carbide cutting tips
are used for removing scale from the
inside of the pipe and can be used for
roots. Carbide cutting tips are used for
aggressive cleaning and could damage
pipe, especially softer materials (such
as plastics and Orangeburg), thin walled
pipe, or if the chain knocker is kept in
one position for an extended time.
Do not use chain knockers for cleaning in
glass, ceramic, porcelain or similar ma-
terial fixtures or pipes. They could be
damaged.
2. Figure 7 shows a schematic of proper
chain knocker installation and adjustment.
There are two key points when installing/
adjusting chain knockers.
Collar Distance: Set the chain knocker
collars the correct distance apart (“Collar
Distance”) to allow the chains to spread
an appropriate amount when rotated to
clean the pipe walls. Collar Distance var-
ies based on cable size and pipe diam-
1 Chain
2 Chain
3 Chain
Carbide
Cutting Tips
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A 9
Machine Cable Number Number of Nominal Recommended Collar
Size of Chains Links/Chain Pipe Size Distance
K9-102 1/4"1 7 11/4" to 11/2" (32 mm to 38 mm) 13/4" (44.5 mm)
2 7 11/2" to 2" (38 mm to 50 mm)
K9-204 5/16"
2 9 2" (50 mm) 21/2" (63.5 mm)
3 13 3" (75 mm) 4" (101.6 mm)
3 15 4" (100 mm) 41/2" (114.3 mm)
Collar Distance Chart
Knocker
Figure 7 – Chain Knocker Installation/Adjustment
Sheath End
Collar Spacer
Cable
Set Scew
(3 mm HEX)
Sheath
Collar Distance
Knocker Collar
Knocker Chain
Cable End
Flush To
Collar
Carbide Cutting Tip
(If Equipped)
Knocker Bushing Knocker Collar
Set Scew
(3 mm HEX)
Exposed Cable
.25" (6.35 mm)
Maximum
Check length of exposed cable. To reduce
the risk of cable flip over and damage,
exposed cable cannot exceed ¼” (6 mm).
If needed, cut a knocker bushing from
sheath to limit exposed cable. Always
use a knocker bushing to reduce wear
on the sheath end.
7. With the chain knocker correctly installed
on the cable as shown in Figure 7, use
the supplied hex wrench to securely
tighten the collar set screws. If the set
screws are not secure, the chain knocker
could slip and damage the cable or be
lost down the drain.
Operation Instructions
WARNING
Always use safety glasses and gloves in good
condition while handling or using. Use latex or
rubber gloves, face shields, protective clothing,
respirators or other appropriate protective equip-
ment when chemicals, bacteria or other toxic or
infectious substances are suspected to be present
to reduce the risk of infections, burns or other
serious personal injury.
Do not use with a corded drill. Operating with a
corded drill increases the risk of electrical shock.
Do not allow the chain knocker/end of cable
to stop turning while drill switch is depressed.
This can overstress the cable and may cause
twisting, kinking or breaking of the cable assembly
and may result in serious personal injury.
Practice good hygiene. Do not eat or smoke
while handling or operating the tool. After han-
dling or operating drain cleaning equipment,
use hot, soapy water to wash hands and other
body parts exposed to drain contents. This
will help reduce the risk of health hazards due to
exposure to toxic or infectious material.
Keep hand on the cable assembly whenever
the FlexShaft Machine is running. This provides
better control of the cable and helps prevent twist-
ing, kinking and breaking of the cable and reduces
the risk of injury.
Position the FlexShaft Machine cable outlet
within 3' (1 m) of the drain inlet or properly
support exposed cable assembly when the
distance exceeds 3' (1 m). Greater distances can
cause control problems leading to twisting, kinking
or breaking of the cable. Twisting, kinking or break-
ing cable may cause striking or crushing injuries.
One person must control both the cable as-
sembly and cordless drill. Do not lock drill switch
in the ON position during operation. If the cable
stops rotating, the operator must be able to re-
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FlexShaft™ Drain Cleaning Machines
999-995-158.08_REV. A
10
lease the drill switch to prevent twisting, kinking
and breaking of the cable and reduce the risk
of injury.
Follow operating instructions to reduce the
risk of injury from twisted or broken cable,
cable ends whipping around, machine tipping,
chemical burns, infections and other causes.
1. Make sure that machine and work area is
properly set-up and that the work area is
free of bystanders and other distractions.
2. Pull cable assembly from the machine
and feed into drain. At least 1' (0.3 m) of
cable must be in drain so that the chain
knocker will not come out of the drain and
whip around when the machine is started.
Directly route the cable assembly from
the machine cable outlet to the drain
opening, minimizing exposed cable and
changes in direction. Do not tightly bend
the cable assembly – this can increase
the risk of twisting or breaking.
If using a camera to view the drain clean-
ing process, the camera can be fed in
at the same time. Typically the cable as-
sembly and the camera push rod can be
gripped and advanced/retrieved at the
same time. Keep the camera at least 1.5’
( 0.5 m) behind the chain knocker.
Do not allow the spinning chain
knocker to hit the camera head/push rod.
It can damage it.
3. Assume a proper operating position to
help maintain control of the cable assem-
bly and drill (see Figure 8):
• Be sure you can quickly release the drill
switch.
• Your gloved hand must be on the cable
assembly to control and support as the
cable assembly is fed into the drain and
blockage.
• Be sure that you have good balance, do
not have to overreach, and cannot fall
on machine, drain, etc.. This operating
position will help to maintain control
of the cable assembly and FlexShaft
Machine.
Figure 8 – In Operating Position
4. Confirm that at least 1' (0.3 m) of cable
assembly is in the drain.
5. Confirm that the drill directional switch in
the forward direction, and depress and
release the drill switch, noting the direc-
tion of the drill chuck. Drill rotation should
match the FOR arrow on the drum (See
Figure 4). Do not rotate the cable in re-
verse except as specifically described in
these instructions. Running in reverse can
damage the cable.
6. Place one hand on the cable assembly
and other hand on the drill grip.
7. The FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machine uti-
lizes high rotational speed and low torque
to clean drains. FlexShaft cable assem-
blies are more flexible than other types
of drain cleaning cables. The FlexShaft
machine is best used by applying light
pressure and slowly working the chain
knocker into the blockage. It’s important
to let the speed of the chain knocker
clean the drain – do not force chain
knockers into blockages.
3' (1 m) MAX.
NOTICE
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8. Advancing/Retrieving the Cable
Assembly
In some cases it may be beneficial to
apply RIDGID FlexShaft lubricant to the
outside of the sheath when feeding the
cable down the drain. This can make it
easier to advance the cable assembly
down the drain and allow greater clean-
ing distance. If doing so, place a clean
towel with lubricant on it in the palm of the
gloved hand used for advancing the cable
assembly, and apply lubricant as feed-
ing the cable assembly (Figure 10). Add
lubricant to the towel as needed during
the process. RIDGID FlexShaft markings
are printed on the sheath every 5' (1.5
m) to aid in determining how much cable
assembly has been fed from the machine.
Only use RIDGID FlexShaft lubricant.
Other lubricants may not be appropriate
for use in a drain and could contaminate
the water.
When retrieving the cable assembly, it is
good practice to use a towel to wipe dirt
and debris from the cable sheath as it is
pulled from the drain and fed back into
the drum.
9. Rotating the Chain Knocker
Only rotate the cable/chain knocker when
the chain knocker is at least 1' in the
drain. To rotate the cable, firmly grip the
drill handle and depress the drill switch.
The person controlling the cable assem-
bly must also control the drill switch. Do
not operate the machine with one person
controlling the cable assembly and an-
other person controlling the drill. Do not
allow cable assembly to build up outside
the drain, bow or curve. This can lead
to twisting, kinking and breaking of the
cable. At any time, release the drill trig-
ger to stop cable rotation. When clearing
blockages, operate the cable at full speed
for best cleaning. Do not force the chain
knocker into blockages. In some cases,
using variable speed will assist with nav-
igating turns. Rotating the chain knocker
in FORWARD or REVERSE for a short
time while advancing the cable assembly
can help it negotiate the drain and block-
ages.
The general operating steps for the FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machines (see below):
1
3
2
4
5
6
1. Advance the chain knocker (generally not
rotating) to the area of the drain that needs
cleaned.
2. If there is a blockage, pass the chain
knocker through the blockage.
3. If possible, start a flow of water through the
drain to carry cuttings and debris away as
the drain is cleaned.
4. Rotate the cable/chain knocker at full speed.
5. Continue to rotate knocker. Gradually with-
draw the cable assembly so that the chain
knocker can break up the blockage.
6. Continue to gradually withdraw the cable
assembly while rotating so that the chain
knocker can clean the walls of the drain.
Figure 9 – General Operating Steps
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12
Figure 10 – Applying Lubricant to the Cable
Sheath
10. To advance the cable assembly into the
drain, grasp the sheath near where it
exits the machine housing. Pull 6" to 12"
(150 to 300 mm) of cable assembly out
of the FlexShaft Machine so that there
is a slight bow in the cable. Gloved hand
must be on cable assembly to control
and support. Improper cable support can
allow the cable assembly to kink or twist
and can damage the cable or injure the
operator. Feed the cable assembly into
the drain.
11. Continue to advance the cable assem-
bly until the resistance is encountered.
Carefully work the chain knocker through
the blockage. Do not force the cable
assembly – if the chain knocker can-
not turn, it cannot clean the drain. Pay
attention to how far the cable has gone.
Do not overrun the cable into a larger
drain. This can cause the cable to knot up
or cause other damage.
12. Once the drain is open, if possible, start
a flow of water down the drain to flush
the debris out of the line and help clean
the cable assembly as it is retrieved. This
can be done by turning on a faucet in the
system or other methods. Pay attention
to the water level, as the drain could plug
again.
13. With the chain knocker past the blockage/
area to be cleaned, fully depress the drill
switch to rotate the chain knocker. Slowly
pull the cable assembly from the drain,
allowing the rotating chain knocker to
clean the drain walls and break up the
blockage. If the cable stops turning, do
not continue operating the drill. This
may cause the cable to twist and kink.
Monitor the feedback from the feel of the
cable assembly in your hand and the
sound of the drill/knocker in the drain.
It may be necessary to move the chain
knocker out of the blockage to allow it to
come back up to speed.
If the chain knocker becomes stuck, it
may be able to be freed by running the
drill in reverse for a short time. Do not run
in reverse for more than a few seconds to
prevent cable damage. In some cases,
it may be possible to pull the cable as-
sembly and the blockage out of the drain
by hand. If this is done, be careful to not
damage the cable assembly. Remove the
blockage from the knocker and cable and
continue cleaning the drain as detailed
above.
If using with a camera, do not run the
chain knocker into the camera head or
push rod.
14. Continue to clean the rest of the drain
while retrieving the cable. Once the drain
has been cleaned, retrieve the cable and
feed back onto the drain cleaning ma-
chine. Pay close attention, as the cable
may lodge in a blockage while being re-
tracted.
15. Watch for the sheath marking as the
cable assembly is retrieved. Release
the drill switch when the chain knocker
nears drain opening. Do not pull the chain
knocker from drain while it is rotating. The
chain knocker can whip around and could
cause serious injury.
16. If needed for complete cleaning, repeat
the above procedure.
17. Pull any remaining cable assembly from
the line by hand and push back into the
drum. Prepare the machine for transport.
Draining the Drum
If needed, the drain cleaner can be turned to
allow any liquid in the housing to be drained
(see Figure 1 for drain hole location).
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Transportation
Feed all of cable assembly into the drum
and secure the chain knocker in the hook.
Remove the drill from the drill shaft. Do not
leave the drill attached during transport to
prevent tipping and damage to the drain
cleaner. See Figure 1.
Storage
The Drain Cleaning Machine
must be kept dry and indoors or well cov-
ered if kept outdoors. Store the machine in
a locked area that is out of reach of children
and people unfamiliar with drain cleaning
machines. This machine can cause serious
injury in the hands of untrained users.
Maintenance
Instructions
WARNING
Drill should be removed from drain
cleaner before any maintenance is per-
formed.
Always wear safety glasses and other
appropriate protective equipment when
performing any maintenance.
Cleaning
It is good practice to use a towel to wipe dirt
and debris from the sheath as the cable as-
sembly is pulled from the drain and fed back
into the drum. This will help to keep the drum
clean and reduce the likelihood of the cable
assembly sticking in the drum. If needed,
cable assembly can be pulled from the ma-
chine and the housing opened for flushing/
cleaning.
Clean the machine as needed with hot soapy
water and/or mild disinfectants. Drain the ma-
chine as needed.
Lubrication
The FlexShaft Drain Cleaning Machines are
lubricated for life from the factory.
Cable Assembly Replacement
1. Pull entire cable assembly from housing.
2. Remove the fasteners holding the hous-
ing closed (4 mm hex wrench) and open
the housing (Figure 11).
Figure 11 – Drain Cleaner Housing Opened
3. Remove retention plate fasteners and re-
tention plate (Figure 11).
4. Loosen gear box plate fasteners 3-4 turns
but do not remove. (4 mm hex wrench).
5. Remove the detent pin from the cable
coupling.
6. Remove the cable coupling from the gear
box shaft and remove the cable assembly.
Lift the gearboxes slightly to allow cable
coupling removal.
7. Reverse process to assemble, securely
attaching all fasteners. Ensure sheath is
tight to the stop in the drum cable slot to
minimize exposed cable (see Figure 12).
Figure 12 – Changing the Cable Assembly
Gear Boxes
Gear Box
Plate
Fastener
Detent Pin
Retention
Plate
Sheath Tight
To Stop
Cable Coupling
WARNING
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14
Service and Repair
WARNING
Improper service or repair can make
the machine unsafe to operate.
The “Maintenance Instructions” will take
care of most of the service needs of this ma-
chine. Any problems not addressed by this
section should only be handled by a RIDGID
Independent Service Center. Use only RIDGID
service parts.
For information on your nearest RIDGID In-
dependent Service Center or any service or
repair questions see Contact Information sec-
tion in this manual.
Optional Equipment
WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury,
only use accessories specifically de-
signed and recommended for use with
the RIDGID FlexShaft Drain Cleaning
Machine, such as those listed.
Disposal
Parts of these tools contain valuable
materi-als and can be recycled. There are
compa-nies that specialize in recycling that
may be found locally. Dispose of the
components in compliance with all
applicable regulations. Contact your local
waste management au-thority for more
information.
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE REASON SOLUTION
Cable kinking or
breaking.
FlexShaft Machine
wobbles or moves
while cleaning drain.
Troubleshooting
Cable assembly is being forced..
Incorrect FlexShaft Machine or chain
knocker used for pipe diameter.
Drill being run in reverse.
Cable assembly exposed to acid/
corroded.
Cable/sheath worn out.
Cable assembly not properly
supported.
Chain knocker not properly set up/
adjusted
Improper drill or drill settings.
Ground not level.
Do no force cable assembly. Follow op-
erating instructions.
Use correct FlexShaft Machine or chain
knocker for pipe size.
Use reverse only if flex shaft gets
caught in pipe.
Clean cable assembly routinely.
Replace worn cable assembly.
Support cable assembly properly, see
instructions.
Properly set up/adjust chain knocker,
see instructions.
Choose proper drill and settings, see
instructions.
Place on level stable surface.
Catalog
No. Description
64283 Knocker, 1/4" cable, 11/2"-2" pipe, single chain,
carbide tip
64288 Knocker,
1/4" cable, 2" pipe, 2 chain, carbide tip
64293 Knocker,
1/4" cable, 11/2"-2" pipe, single chain
64298 Knocker,
1/4" cable, 2" pipe, 2 chain
64308 Knocker,
5/16" cable, 2" pipe, 2 chain, carbide tip
64313 Knocker,
5/16" cable, 3" pipe, 3 chain, carbide tip
64318 Knocker,
5/16" cable, 4" pipe, 3 chain, carbide tip
64323 Knocker,
5/16" cable, 2" pipe, 2 chain
64328 Knocker,
5/16" cable, 3" pipe, 3 chain
64333 Knocker,
5/16" cable, 4" pipe, 3 chain
64338 FlexShaft Lubricant, 8 oz, 12 per case
64343 1/4" Assembly, cable, sheath, couplings, 50'
64348 5/16" Assembly, cable, sheath, couplings, 70'
64363 11/4" RIDGID Wallpipe Accessory
64368 11/2" RIDGID Wallpipe Accessory
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