RIDGID PowerClear User manual

PowerClear™
Drain Cleaning Machine
Drain Cleaner Manual
99 Washington Street
Melrose, MA 02176
Phone [phone]
Toll Free 1-800-517-8431
Visit us at www.TestEquipmentDepot.com

ii
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
Table of Contents
Recording Form for Machine Serial Number ..................................................................................................................................1
Safety Symbols ..................................................................................................................................................................................2
General Power Tool Safety Warnings
Work Area Safety ............................................................................................................................................................................2
Electrical Safety ..............................................................................................................................................................................2
Personal Safety ..............................................................................................................................................................................3
Power Tool Use and Care ..............................................................................................................................................................3
Service ............................................................................................................................................................................................3
Specific Safety Information
Drain Cleaner Safety Warnings ......................................................................................................................................................3
Description and Specifications
Description ......................................................................................................................................................................................4
Specifications ..................................................................................................................................................................................5
Switch Icons ....................................................................................................................................................................................5
Machine Assembly ............................................................................................................................................................................5
Configuring Guide ose/AUTOFEED Assembly ............................................................................................................................6
Pre-Operation Inspection ..................................................................................................................................................................6
Machine and Work Area Set-Up........................................................................................................................................................7
Operating Instructions ......................................................................................................................................................................9
Feeding the Cable into the Drain ....................................................................................................................................................9
Passing Through Traps or Other Transitions ................................................................................................................................10
Cleaning the Drain ........................................................................................................................................................................10
Working the Blockage ..................................................................................................................................................................10
andling a Stuck Tool ..................................................................................................................................................................11
Freeing a Stuck Tool ....................................................................................................................................................................11
Retrieving the Cable......................................................................................................................................................................11
Draining the Machine ....................................................................................................................................................................11
Preparing for Transport ................................................................................................................................................................11
Maintenance Instructions
Opening Drain Cleaner/Removing Drum ......................................................................................................................................12
Cleaning ........................................................................................................................................................................................12
Replacing the Cable......................................................................................................................................................................12
Optional Equipment ........................................................................................................................................................................13
Machine Storage ..............................................................................................................................................................................13
Service and Repair ..........................................................................................................................................................................13
Disposal ............................................................................................................................................................................................13
Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................................................................................14
EC Declaration of Conformity................................................................................................................................Inside Back Cover
ifetime Warranty ..............................................................................................................................................................Back Cover
*Original Instructions - English

PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
Record Serial Num er elow and retain product serial num er which is located on name plate.
Serial
No.
PowerClear™
Drain Cleaning Machine
Drain Cleaner
WARNING!
Read this Operator’s Man al
caref lly before sing this
tool. Fail re to nderstand
and follow the contents of
this man al may res lt in
electrical shock, re and/or
serio s personal inj ry.

This symbol indicates the risk of hands, fingers or other
body parts being caught, wrapped or crushed in the
drain cleaning cable.
2
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
General Power Tool Safety
Warnings*
WARNING
Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustra-
tions and specifications provided with this power
tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below
may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious
injury.
SA E ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!
The term "power tool" in the warnings refers to your
mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated
(cordless) power tool.
Work Area Safety
•Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark
areas invite accidents.
•Do not operate power tools in explosive atmo-
spheres, such as in the presence of flammable
liquids, gases, or dust. Power tools create sparks
which may ignite the dust or fumes.
•Keep children and by-standers away while operat-
ing a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose
control.
Electrical Safety
•Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never
mod ify the plug in any way. Do not use any
adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power
tools. Unmodi fied plugs and matching outlets will
reduce risk of electric shock.
•Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded sur-
faces such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrig-
erators. There is an increased risk of electrical shock
if your body is earthed or grounded.
•Do not expose power tools to rain or wet condi-
tions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk
of electrical shock.
•Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for
carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool.
Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or
moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase
the risk of electric shock.
•When operating a power tool outdoors, use an
extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a
cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of elec-
tric 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.
Safety Symbols
In this operator’s manual and on the product, safety symbols and signal words are used to communicate important safe-
ty information. This section is provided to improve understanding 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.
This symbol means read the operator’s manual careful-
ly before using the equipment. The operator’s manual
contains important information on the safe and proper
operation of the equipment.
This symbol means always wear safety glasses with
side shields or goggles when handling or using this
equipment to reduce the risk of eye injury.
NOTICE
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION
This symbol indicates the risk of electrical shock.
* The text used in the General Power Tool Safety Warnings section of this manual is verbatim, as required, from the applicable UL/CSA 62841 edition standard.
This section contains general safety practices for many different types of power tools. Not every precaution applies to every tool, and some do not apply to this
tool.

3
Personal Safety
•Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use com-
mon sense when operating a power tool. Do not
use a power tool while you are tired or under the
influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication. A mo -
ment of inattention while operating power tools may
result in serious personal injury.
•Use personal protective equipment. Always wear
eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust
mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing
protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce
personal injuries.
•Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch
is in the OFF position before connecting to power
source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying
the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the
switch or energizing power tools that have the switch
ON invites accidents.
•Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turn-
ing the power tool ON. A wrench or a key left attached
to a rotating part of the power tool may result in per-
sonal injury.
•Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and bal-
ance at all times. This enables better control of the
power tool in unexpected situations.
•Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewelry. Keep your hair, and clothing away from
moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair
can be caught in moving parts.
•If devices are provided for the connection of dust
extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are
connected and properly used. Use of dust collection
can reduce dust-related hazards.
•Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of
tools allow you to become complacent and ignore
tool safety principles. A careless action can cause
severe injury within a fraction of a second.
Power Tool Use and Care
•Do not force power tool. Use the correct power tool
for your application. The correct power tool will do the
job better and safer at the rate for which it is designed.
•Do not use power tool if the switch does not turn it
ON and OFF. Any power tool that cannot be con-
trolled with the switch is dangerous and must be
repaired.
•Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or
the battery pack from the power tool before mak-
ing any adjustments, changing accessories, or
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
storing power tools. Such preventive safety mea-
sures reduce the risk of starting the power tool acci-
dentally.
•Store idle power tools out of the reach of children
and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power
tool or these instructions to operate the tool. Power
tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
•Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or
binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any
other condition that may affect the power tool’s op -
er ation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired
before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly
maintained power tools.
•Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly main-
tained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less
likely to bind and are easier to control.
•Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in
accordance with these instructions, taking into
account the working conditions and the work to be
performed. The use of the power tool for operations dif-
ferent from those intended could result in a hazardous
situation.
•Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean
and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and
grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and
control of the tool in unexpected situations.
Service
•Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair
person using only identical replacement parts.
This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is
maintained.
Specific Safety Information
WARNING
This section contains important safety information
that is specific to this tool.
Read these precautions carefully before using the
PowerClear Drain Cleaning Machine to reduce the
risk of electrical shock or other serious injury.
SA E ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!
Keep this manual with machine for use by the operator.
Drain Cleaner Safety
•Before using the tool, test the ground fault circuit
interrupter (GFCI) provided with the power supply

•Do not operate the machine in REV (reverse) rota-
tion except as described in this manual. Operating
in reverse can result in cable damage and is used to
back the cable end out of blockages.
•Keep hands away from rotating drum and guide
tube. Do not reach into drum unless machine is
unplugged. and may be caught in the moving parts.
•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 operator or machine
is standing in water. Operating machine while in
water increases the risk of electrical shock.
Description and Specifications
Description
The RIDGID®PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning machine is
designed to clean 3/4" (20mm) to 11/2" (40mm) drain lines
in sinks, tubs and showers. It is equipped with a 30' (9m)
cable.
The PowerClear Drain Cleaner features a 2-way AUTO -
FEED®cable feed mechanism, which advances and re -
trieves the cable with a push of a lever at a rate of 18' per
minute. A configurable guide hose, in conjunction with
the AUTOFEED unit allows the cable to be directly fed into
the drain which minimizes mess and helps to protect fix-
tures.
A FOR/OFF/REV switch controls drum and cable rotation
and a pneumatic foot switch provides ON/OFF control of
the motor. An integral Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
(GFCI) is built into the line cord.
The drain cleaner has a clear front housing to allow moni-
toring of cable.
The PowerClear Drain Cleaner is not recommended for
use with toilets.
cord to insure it is operating correctly. A properly
operating GFCI reduces the risk of electrical shock.
•Only use extension cords that are protected by a
GFCI. The GFCI on the machine power cord will not
prevent electrical shock from extension cords.
•Only grasp the rotating cable with gloves recom-
mended by the manufacturer. Latex or loose fitting
gloves or rags can become wrapped around the cable
and may result in serious personal injury.
•Do not allow the cutter to stop turning while the
cable is turning. This can overstress the cable and
may cause twisting, kinking or breaking of the cable and
may result in serious personal injury.
•One person must control both the cable and the
switch. If the cable end stops rotating, the operator
must be able to turn the machine motor OFF to prevent
twisting, kinking and breaking of the cable.
•Use latex or rubber gloves inside the gloves rec-
ommended by the manufacturer, goggles, face
shields, protective clothing, and respirator when
chemicals, bacteria or other toxic or infectious
substances are suspected to be in a drain line.
Drains may contain chemicals, bacteria and other
substances that may cause burns, be toxic or infectious
or may result in other 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 drain cleaner 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 gloved hand on the guide hose/AUTOFEED®
unit whenever the machine is running. This pro-
vides better control of the cable and helps prevent
twisting, kinking and breaking of the cable and may
result in serious personal injury.
•Position machine so that the AUTOFEED unit is
within 6" (15 cm) of the drain inlet or properly
support exposed cable when the distance exceeds
6" (15 cm). Greater distances can cause control prob-
lems leading to twisting, kinking or breaking of the
cable. Twisting, kinking or breaking cable may cause
striking or crushing injuries.
4
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
99 Washington Street
Melrose, MA 02176
Phone [phone]
Toll Free 1-800-517-8431
Visit us at www.TestEquipmentDepot.com

Figure 1 – PowerClear Drain Cleaning Machine
Figure 2 – PowerClear Drain Cleaning Machine
Specications
Line Capacity .............¾" – 1½" (20mm - 40mm)
Drum Capacity ...........30' (9.1m) of ¼" (6mm) Diameter
Cable
Cable..........................¼" × 30' (6mm × 9.1m)
MAXCORE™ 50 Cable
Motor Type ................Universal
Motor Ratings.............120V 230V
¼ P 120W
0.9 Amp, 60 z 0.5 Amp, 50 z
See Serial Plate for Machine Specification Information.
No Load Speed (no)...450 RPM
AUTOFEED
Unit Feed Rate...........18 feet/min (5.5 m/min)
Controls......................Forward/OFF/Momentary Re -
verse Rotation Direction Control
ON/OFF Pneumatic Foot Switch
Motor Control
Advance/Retrieve Cable
AUTO FEED Unit with
Configurable Guide ose
Operating
Temperature...............20° - 120°F (-7° - 49°C)
Weight ........................12 lbs (5,44 kg)
Dimension L×W× .....14" x 9" x 11.5"
(356 mm x 229 mm x 292 mm)
Sound Pressure (LPA)* ...70 dB(A), K=3
Sound Power (LWA)*.......79 dB(A), K=3
* Sound measurements are measured in accordance with a standardized test per
Standard EN 62481-1.
- Sound emissions may vary due to your location and specific use of these
tools.
- Daily exposure levels for sound need to be evaluated for each application and
appropriate safety measures taken when needed. Evaluation of exposure lev-
els should consider the time a tool is switched off and not in use. This may sig-
nificantly reduce the exposure level over the total working period.
Switch Icons
Figure 3 – Machine Serial Number
The machine serial number is located on the underside of
the housing. The last 4 digits indicate the month and
year of manufacture. (MM = month, YY = year).
This machine is made to clean drains. If prop-
erly used it will not damage a drain that is in good condi-
tion and properly designed, constructed and maintained.
If the drain is in poor condition, or has not been properly
designed, constructed and maintained, 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 inspection with a
camera. Improper use of this drain cleaner can damage
the drain cleaner and the drain. This machine may not
clear all blockages.
Machine Assembly
WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury during use, follow
these procedures for proper assembly. FOR/OFF/RE
switch should be OFF and machine unplugged before
assembly.
5
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
Cable
30" Guide Hose
Extension
Drain
Plug
Frame
Serial Number
Plate
(Underside)
Drum
Carry Handle
Warning
abel (120V)
NOTICE
AUTOFEED
Unit & 18"
Guide Hose
Clear Front
Housing
Foot
Switch
GFCI/Plug
Forward Rotation (FOR)
Power OFF
Reverse Rotation (REV)
Operation
Warning abel
FOR/OFF/REV
(I/0/II) Switch
Cord
Wrap
AUTOFEED
Hook

Configuring Guide Hose/AUTOFEED
Assembly
The AUTOFEED guide hose can be assembled either as
an 18" guide hose or as a 48" guide hose, depending on
how far the PowerClear will sit from the drain opening in
use. The 18" guide hose can work well when the machine
can sit directly next to a sink, such as a kitchen or bath-
room counter. The 48" guide hose may be appropriate
when the machine will sit on the floor outside of a bathtub.
Regardless of guide hose length used, the AUTOFEED
assembly must be within 6" (15 cm) of the drain inlet. Do
not extend the guide hose longer than 48".
1. If desired, connect the 18" and 30" guide hose sec-
tions. The connection is a friction fit - Insert the male
fitting into the female fitting and confirm secure.
2. Remove and discard cable end cap (New machine).
Pull enough cable from the drum to feed through the
guide hose and AUTOFEED unit.
3. Feed cable through the guide hose. Lift the AD -
VANCE and RETRIEVE levers to allow the bulb
head of the cable to feed through the AUTOFEED
unit. (Figure 5).
Figure 4 – Feeding Cable into Guide Hose
Figure 5 – Feeding Cable Through AUTOFEED®
Assembly
4. Release the ADVANCE and RETRIEVE levers.
5. Attach the guide hose to the machine by pushing
the hose over the nose of the front housing (Figure 4).
Reverse process to remove.
Pre-Operation Inspection
WARNING
Before each use, inspect your
drain cleaning machine and cor -
rect any problems to reduce the
risk of serious injury from elec-
tric shock, twisted or broken
cables, chemical burns, infections and other causes
and prevent drain cleaner damage.
Always wear safety glasses, leather work gloves,
and other appropriate protective equipment when
inspecting your drain cleaner.
1. Inspect the leather work gloves. Make sure they are in
good condition with no holes, tears or loose sections
that could be caught in the rotating cable. It is impor-
tant not to wear improper or damaged gloves. The
gloves protect your hands from the rotating cable
and drain contents. If the gloves are not leather work
gloves or are damaged or worn out, do not use ma -
chine until proper gloves are available.
2. Make sure that the drain cleaning machine is un -
plugged and inspect the power cord, Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) (if provided) and plug for
damage. If the plug has been modified, or if the cord is
damaged, to avoid electrical shock, do not use the
machine until the cord has been replaced by a quali-
fied repair person.
3. Clean the drain cleaner, including handles and con-
trols. This aids inspection and helps prevent the
machine or control from slipping from your grip. Clean
and maintain the machine per the maintenance
instructions.
4. Inspect the drain cleaning machine for the following
items:
• Proper assembly and completeness.
• Any broken, worn, missing, misaligned or binding
parts.
• Make sure the foot switch is attached to the drain
cleaning machine. Do not operate the machine
without the foot switch.
• Presence and readability of the warning label (See
Figure 1 and 2).
• Smooth and free movement of the AUTOFEED
unit levers (Figure 9).
• Any condition which may prevent safe and nor-
mal operation.
6
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
Friction Fit
Hose to Housing

7
Machine and Work Area Set-Up
WARNING
Set up the drain
clean ing machine
and work area ac -
cord ing to these pro-
cedures to reduce
the risk of injury from electric shock, fire, machine
tipping, twisted or broken cables, chemical burns,
infections and other causes, and prevent drain
cleaner damage.
Always wear safety glasses and other appropriate
protective equipment when setting up your drain
cleaner.
1. Check work area for:
• Adequate lighting.
• Flammable liquids, vapors or dust that may
ignite. If present, do not work in area until
sources have been identified and corrected. The
drain cleaner IS not explosion proof and can
cause sparks.
• Clear, level, stable, dry location for all
equipment and operator. Do not use machine
while standing in water. If needed, remove water
from the work area.
• Properly grounded electrical outlet of the
correct voltage. Check machine serial plate for
required voltage. A three-prong or GFCI outlet
may not be properly grounded. If in doubt, have
outlet inspect-ed by a licensed electrician.
• Clear path to electrical outlet that does not
contain any potential sources of damage for
the power cord.
2. Inspect the drain to be cleaned. If possible,
deter-mine the access point(s) to the drain, the
size(s) and length(s) of the drain, distance to tanks
or mainlines, the nature of the blockage, presence
of drain cleaning chemicals or other chemicals, etc.
If chemicals are pre-sent 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.
3. Determine the correct equipment for the
application. See Specifications.
The PowerClear Drain Cleaner is not
recommended for use with toilets.
Make sure all equipment has been properly
inspected.
4. If needed, place protective covers in the work
area. The drain cleaning process can be messy.
If any problems are found, do not use the drain clean-
er until the problems have been repaired.
5. Clean any debris from the cable. Inspect cable for
wear and damage. Inspect for:
• Obvious flats worn into the outside of the cable
(cable is made from round wire and the profile
should be round).
• Multiple or excessively large kinks (slight kinks up to
15 degrees can be straightened).
• Space between cable coils indicating that the cable
has been deformed by stretching, kinking, or run-
ning in reverse (REV).
• Excessive corrosion from storing wet or exposure to
drain chemicals.
All of these forms of wear and damage weaken the
cable and make cable twisting, kinking or breaking
more likely during use. Replace worn and damaged
cable before using drain cleaner.
Make sure the cable is fully retracted with no more
than 6" (150mm) of cable outside of the machine. This
will prevent whipping of the cable at start up.
6. Make sure that the FOR/OFF/REV (I/0/II) switch is set
to the OFF position.
7. With dry hands, plug cord into properly grounded
outlet. Test the GFCI (if provided) in the electrical
cord to insure that it is operating correctly. When the
test button is pushed in, the red button marked
“RESET” should pop up slightly and the machine
will not operate. Reactivate by pushing the red
RESET button in. If GFCI is not functioning properly,
unplug the cord and do not use the drain cleaning
machine until the GFCI has been repaired.
8. Move the FOR/OFF/REV switch into the FOR posi-
tion. Press the foot switch and note the direction of
rotation of the drum. If the foot switch does not control
the machine operation, do not use the machine until
the foot switch has been repaired. The drum should
rotate counter-clockwise when viewed from the front
of the drum, and will match the drum direction shown
on the front housing (Figure 10).
Release the foot switch and let the drum come to a
complete stop. old the FOR/OFF/REV switch in
the REV position, and repeat above testing to confirm
that the drain cleaner operates properly in reverse. If
the rotation is not correct, do not use the machine until
it has been repaired.
9. With the inspection complete, move the FOR/OFF/ -
REV switch into the OFF position and, with dry hands,
unplug the machine.
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine

8
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
6. If needed, take appropriate steps to access the drain
to be cleaned.
• For many drains, the cable can be threaded through
the cross hairs in the drain (Figure 6A).
• For a sink with a pop up drain plug: Remove lift rod
and drain plug. Be sure to place a container under
the clean out or trap to catch any water that may
come out. (Figure 6B).
• For other sinks a clean out plug or trap may need to
be removed. Be sure to place a container under the
clean out or trap to catch any water that may come
out. (Figure 6C).
• Bathtub overflow: For bathtubs, never try to go
through the drain, this will damage the cable.
Remove the overflow plate and any mechanism to
access the drain (Figure 6D).
Figure 6 – Drain Access
7. Position the drain cleaning machine so it sits square-
ly and firmly on the rubber feet. Do not place the
machine on carpet or other surfaces that could block
the air vents on the underside of the machine. The
end of the AUTOFEED unit must reach within 6"
(15cm) of the drain access. The guide hose should not
be pulled tight or kinked to reach this position. Greater
distances from the drain access increases the risk of
the cable twisting or kinking. If the machine cannot be
placed with the drum opening within 6" (15cm) of
the drain access, extend the drain access with similar
sized pipe and fittings (See Figure 7). Improper cable
support can allow the cable to kink and twist and
can damage the cable or injure the operator.
Figure 7 – Example of Extending Drain to within 6"
(15cm) of AUTOFEED Unit.
8. Evaluate the work area and determine if any barriers
are needed to keep bystanders away from the drain
cleaner and work area. The drain cleaning process
can be messy and bystanders can distract the oper-
ator.
9. Position the foot switch for easy accessibility. You
must be able to hold and control the guide hose and
AUTOFEED levers, control the foot switch, and reach
the FOR/OFF/REV switch.
10. Confirm that the FOR/OFF/REV switch is in the OFF
position.
11. Run the cord along the clear path. With dry hands,
plug the drain cleaner into a properly grounded outlet.
Keep all connections dry and off the ground. If the
power cord is not long enough, use an extension
cord that:
• Is in good condition.
• as a plug similar to that supplied on the drain
cleaner.
• Is rated for outdoor use and contains a W or W-A in
the cord designation (i.e. SOW), or complies with
05VV-F, 05RN-F types or IEC type design
(60227 IEC 53, 60245 IEC 57).
• as sufficient wire size. For extension cords up to
50' (15,2 m) long use 16 AWG (1,5mm2) or heavier.
For extension cords 50'-100' (15,2m – 30,5m) long
use 14 AWG (2,5mm2) or heavier
When using an extension cord, the GFCI on the
drain cleaner does not protect the extension cord. If
the outlet is not GFCI protected, it is advisable to
use a plug in type GFCI between the outlet and the
extension cord to reduce the risk of shock if there is a
fault in the extension cord.
Drain plug
Pivot Nut ift Rod
Set
Screw
Figure A
Figure C
Figure B
Cross
Hairs
Clean-out
Plug
Figure D
Drain Extension
6" Maximum
(15cm)

Operating Instructions
WARNING
Always wear eye pro-
tection to protect your
eyes against dirt and
other foreign objects.
Always wear leather
work gloves in good condition. Latex or loose fitting
gloves or rags can become wrapped around the
cable and may result in serious personal injury.
Only wear latex or rubber gloves under leather work
gloves. Do not use damaged drain cleaning gloves.
Always use appropriate personal protective equip-
ment while handling and using drain cleaning equip-
ment. Drains may contain chemicals, bacteria and
other substances that may be toxic, infectious,
cause burns or other issues. Appropriate personal
protective equipment always includes safety glass-
es and leather work gloves, and may include equip-
ment such as latex or rubber gloves, face shields,
goggles, protective clothing, respirators and steel-
toed footwear.
Do not allow the cable end to stop turning while the
machine is running. This can overstress the cable
and may cause twisting, kinking or breaking of the
cable. Twisting, kinking or breaking cable may
cause striking or crushing injuries.
Keep gloved hand on the guide hose/AUTOFEED
unit whenever the machine is running. This pro-
vides better control of the cable and helps prevent
twisting, kinking and breaking of the cable.
Twisting, kinking or breaking cable may cause
striking or crushing injuries.
Position the machine so the AUTOFEED unit is
within 6" (15cm) of the drain inlet or properly sup-
port exposed cable when the distance exceeds 6".
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 and the
foot switch. If the cable end stops rotating, the
oper ator must be able to turn the machine motor
OFF to prevent twisting, kinking and breaking of
the cable. Twisting, kinking or breaking cable may
cause striking or crushing injuries.
Follow operating instructions to reduce the risk of
injury from twisted or broken cables, 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 out of machine and feed into drain. At
least one foot (.3m) of cable must be in drain so
that the end of the cable will not come out of the drain
and whip around when the machine is started.
Directly route the cable from the outlet of the machine
to the drain opening, minimizing exposed cable and
changes in direction. Do not tightly bend the cable –
this can increase the risk of twisting or breaking.
3. Assume a proper operating position to help maintain
control of the cable and machine (see Figure 9):
• Be sure you can control the foot switch. Do not
press foot switch yet. In case of emergency, you
must be able to release the foot switch.
• Be sure that you have good balance, do not have to
overreach, and cannot fall on the foot switch, drain
cleaning machine, the drain or other hazards.
• You must be able to control and support the guide
hose and AUTOFEED unit levers as the cable
feeds into the drain and blockage.
• You must be able to reach the FOR/OFF/REV
switch.
Figure 8 – In Operating Position
4. Move the FOR/OFF/REV switch to the FOR posi-
tion. Do not depress the foot switch yet. Do not rotate
the cable in reverse except as specifically described in
these instructions. Running the drain cleaner in REV
can damage the cable.
Feeding the Cable into the Drain
Grasp the AUTOFEED unit with one hand and hold it
so that the end of the unit is within 6" (15cm) of the drain
9
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine

opening (See Figure 7). The guide hose helps to protect
the fixture from damage and contain the liquid thrown off
the cable as it is retrieved from the drain. If the AUTO -
FEED unit is not kept within 6" (15cm) of the drain open-
ing, the cable will not be properly supported and may allow
the cable to twist, kink or break.
Pay attention to how the guide hose feels in your hand.
Because the guide hose is over the cable, there is less
sensitivity to the loading of the cable, and it can be hard to
tell if the cable end is rotating or not. If the cable end is not
rotating, the drain is not being cleaned.
Figure 9 – Advance/Retrieve Feed ever
Confirm at least one foot of cable is in drain and end of
AUTOFEED unit is less than 6" (15cm) from drain open-
ing. Press on the foot switch to start the machine. To
advance the cable into the drain, depress the ADVANCE
feed lever (Figure 9). The rotating cable will work its way
into the drain.
Passing Through Traps or Other
Transitions
If it is hard to get the cable through a trap, the following
methods or combination of methods can be used.
• First, sharp downward thrusts on the cable/guide
hose, both with and without the cable rotating, can help
to get the cable through a trap.
• A second method is to run the drain cleaner in REV
(REVERSE) for several seconds while pushing down
on the cable/guide hose. Only do this long enough to
get the cable started through the trap. Running the
cable in reverse can damage the cable. With the
cable rotating in REV, the ADVANCE feed lever
retrieves the cable and the RETRIEVE feed lever
advances the cable.
If these options do not work, consider using a smaller
diameter or more flexible cable, or a different RIDGID
drain cleaner.
Cleaning the Drain
Always keep at least one hand on the guide hose/AUTO -
FEED unit. Pay attention how the guide hose feels in
your hand and watch the drum rotation.
As you feed the cable into the drain, you may feel and see
the cable/drum slow down and feel the guide hose start to
load or wind up (this will feel like the guide hose is starting
to twist or squirm). This may be a transition in the drain line
(trap, elbow, etc.) build up in the drain (grease, etc.), or the
actual blockage. Feed the cable slowly and carefully. Do
not let cable build up outside drain. This can cause the
cable to twist, kink or break. Keep end of AUTOFEED
unit within 6" (15cm) of drain opening.
Pay attention to the amount of cable that has been fed into
the drain. Feeding cable into a larger drain line or similar
transition may cause the cable to kink or knot and prevent
removal from the drain. Minimize the amount of cable fed
into the transition to prevent problems. The amount of
cable in the drum can be monitored through the clear
front housing (Figure 10).
Figure 10 – Monitoring Cable in Drum
Working the Blockage
If the end of the cable stops turning, it is no longer cleaning
the drain. If the cable end becomes lodged in the blockage
and power is maintained to the drain cleaner, the cable will
start to wind up (this may feel like the guide hose is start-
ing to twist or squirm) or buildup outside the drain. aving
a hand on the guide hose can allow you to feel this wind up
and control the cable. As you feel the cable wind up or if the
cable end stops turning, immediately release the AD -
VANCE feed and depress the RETRIEVE feed lever to free
the cable end from the blockage. Do not keep the cable
rotating if the cable end is stuck in a blockage. If the cable
end stops turning and the drum keeps rotating, the cable
can twist, kink or break.
Once the cable end is free of the blockage and the cable
end is turning again, you can slowly feed the rotating
cable end back into the blockage. Let the spinning cable
end “dwell” in the blockage to completely break it up. Do not
try to force the cable end through the blockage. Work the
cable end in this manner until it has moved completely past
the blockage (or blockages), and the drain is flowing.
10
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
Retrieve
Guide Hose
Advance
Retrieve
Advance
“FOR”
Drum
Rotation
Drum Full
Partially
Full Drum Empty

While working the blockage, the cable end may become
clogged with debris and cuttings from the blockage. This
can prevent further progress. The cable needs to be re -
trieved from the drain and the debris removed. See section
on “Retrieving the Cable”.
If the cable end continues to get hung up in the blockage,
a different RIDGID drain cleaner may need to be used.
Handling a Stuck Tool
If the cable end stops turning and the cable cannot be
pulled back from the blockage, release the foot switch,
maintain a firm grip on the AUTOFEED unit and guide
hose and release the feed lever. Do not remove your hand
from guide hose or the cable may kink, twist and break. The
motor will stop and the cable and drum will turn back-
wards until the energy stored in the cable is relieved. Do not
remove hand from the AUTOFEED unit and guide hose
until the tension is released. Place FOR/OFF/REV switch in
the OFF position.
Freeing a Stuck Tool
If the cable is stuck in the blockage, hold the FOR/OFF/ -
REV switch in the REV position. With both AUTOFEED
levers released press the foot switch for several seconds
until it is free of the blockage. Do not operate the machine
in the REV position any longer than required to free the
cable end from the blockage or cable damage can occur.
Place the FOR/OFF/REV switch in the FOR position and
continue cleaning the drain.
Figure 11 – Retrieving Cable
Retrieving the Cable
1. 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 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.
2. The FOR/OFF/REV switch should be in the FOR
position – do not retrieve the cable with the switch in
the REV position, this can damage the cable. As with
feeding the cable into the drain, cables can be caught
while being retrieved.
Depress the RETRIEVE feed lever to retrieve the
cable (Figure 11). Keep hands firmly on the AUTO -
FEED unit and guide hose for control. The cable end
can become caught while being retrieved. Continue
retrieving the cable until the tool is just inside the
drain opening. Release the feed lever.
3. Release the foot switch, allowing the drum to come to
a complete stop. Do not pull the end of the cable
from the drain while the cable is rotating. The tool can
whip around and could cause serious injury.
4. Place the FOR/OFF/REV in the OFF position and
with dry hands unplug the machine. Pull the remaining
cable from the drain by hand and feed into the drain
cleaner. If needed, continue cleaning following the
above process. Several passes through a line are
recommended for complete cleaning.
Draining the Machine
If the machine needs to be drained, turn machine OFF,
and with dry hands, unplug the machine. Remove the
drain plug (See Figure 1) and drain. The back end of
the machine can be elevated if necessary.
Preparing for Transport
Wrap cord and foot switch hose on cord wrap. Secure as
shown in Figure 12. Secure AUTOFEED on hook.
Figure 12 – Preparing For Transport
11
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine

Maintenance Instructions
WARNING
FOR/OFF/RE switch should be OFF and machine
unplugged before performing any maintenance.
Always wear safety glasses and other appropriate
protective equipment when performing any main-
tenance.
Opening Drain Cleaner/Removing Drum
To open the machine to clean or change cable:
1. If needed, drain the machine. Remove guide hose
(see Asse bly section).
2. Feed cable into drum.
3. Loosen (but don’t remove) the three (3) cover screws.
(see Figure 13).
4. Pull front housing straight off.
5. Remove drum by pulling straight forward.
6. Reverse the process to reassemble. Drum may need
to be rotated to seat onto the drive. Make sure drum
washer is properly placed on drum.
Figure 13 – Opening Drain Cleaner
Cleaning
After each use, clean the machine. Remove the guide
hose and drum/cable from the machine. A mild detergent
or antibacterial solution can be used if desired. Do not use
solvents, abrasives or other harsh cleaning agents.
Machine – use a damp, soft cloth to wipe off the machine
and wipe out the drum cavity. Do not submerge or flush
the machine with water. Do not allow water to enter
motor or other electrical components. Make sure unit is
completely dry before plugging in and using.
Front Housing – Remove from machine, flush with water
and wipe clean with a damp, soft cloth.
Drum and Cable – Flush drum and cable with water
after every use to prevent damaging effects of sediment
and drain cleaning compounds. Allow to dry before
installing drum to reduce cable corrosion.
AUTOFEED Unit – Flush AUTOFEED assembly with
water and lubricate with lightweight machine oil.
Guide Hose – Flush with water and drain.
Replacing the Cable
1. Remove the guide hose (see Asse bly section) and
the front housing/drum (Figure 13).
2. Pull the cable out of the front of the drum.
3. Remove five (5) screws holding back of the drum
(Figure 14).
4. Disconnect the cable end from the drum back (Figure
15). Completely remove cable from drum.
5. Feed the end of the new cable through the outlet of
the drum. Attach end to the drum back as shown in
Figure 15.
Figure 14 – Removing Drum Back
6. Place the drum on back and manually feed the new
cable into the drum.
12
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
Housing
Screw
Drum
Washer
Housing
Screw
Screws
Cable
End

Figure 15 – Attaching Cable To Inner Drum
7. Place the drum into the machine (Figure 16). Rotate
the drum until it seats into place.
Figure 16 – Inserting Drum Into Machine
8. Install the front housing and guide hose.
Optional Equipment
WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury, only use acces-
sories specifically designed and recommended for
use with the RIDGID PowerClear Drain Cleaning
Machine, such as those listed below.
Further information on equipment available for
PowerClear Drain Cleaning Machine can be found in
the RIDGID Catalog and online at RIDGID.com.
Disposal
Parts of the PowerClear Drain Cleaning Machine contain
valuable materials and can be recycled. There are com-
panies that specialize in recycling that may be found
locally. Dispose of the components in compliance with all
applicable regulations. Contact your local waste man-
agement authority for more information.
For EC Countries: Do not dispose of electri-
cal equipment with household waste!
According to the European Guideline 2012/ -
19/EU for Waste Electrical and Electronic
Equipment and its implementation into nation-
al legislation, electrical equipment that is no
longer usable must be collected separately and disposed
of in an environmentally correct manner.
13
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
Machine Storage
WARNING The drain cleaner must be kept dry and
indoors or well covered if kept outdoors. Store the machine
in a locked area that is out of reach of children and people
unfamiliar with drain cleaners. This machine can cause seri-
ous injury in the hands of untrained users.
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 machine. Any problems not ad -
dressed by this section should only be handled by an
authorized RIDGID service technician.
Tool should be taken to a RIDGID Independent Service
Center or returned to the factory. Use only RIDGID service
parts.
For information on your nearest RIDGID Independent
Service Center or any service or repair questions.
Catalog Model
No. No. Description
41937 — RIDGID Drain Cleaning Gloves, Leather
55983 — 1/4" x 30' (6mm x 9.1m) MAXCORE™ 50
Ca le
Drum
Washer
1
2
3

14
PowerClear™ Drain Cleaning Machine
PROBLEM POSSIBLE REASONS SOLUTION
Cable kinking or break-
ing.
Cable stops rotating while
foot switch is depressed.
Restarts when foot switch
is re-depressed.
Cable turns in one
direction but not the
other.
Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter trips when
machine is plugged in or
when foot pedal is
depressed.
AUTOFEED unit doesn’t
work.
Machine wobbles or
moves while cleaning
drain.
Troubleshooting
Cable is being forced.
Cable used in incorrect pipe diameter.
Motor switched to reverse.
Cable exposed to acid.
Cable worn out.
Cable not properly supported.
ole in foot switch or hose.
ole in diaphragm switch.
Faulty FOR/OFF/REV switch.
Damaged power cord.
Short circuit in motor.
Faulty Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter.
Moisture in motor, switch box or on plug.
AUTOFEED unit full of debris.
AUTOFEED unit needs lubrication.
Cable not evenly distributed.
Bumpers are not on ground.
Ground not level.
Do Not Force Cable! Let the auger do the work.
Use correct cable for pipe.
Use reverse only if cable gets caught in blockage.
Clean cables routinely.
If cable is worn, replace it.
Support cable properly, see instructions.
Replace damaged component.
If no problem found with pedal or hose, replace
diaphragm switch.
Replace switch.
Replace cord set.
Take motor to your nearest RIDGID Independent
Service Center.
Replace cord set.
Take drain cleaner to your nearest RIDGID
Independent Service Center.
Clean the AUTOFEED unit.
Lubricate the AUTOFEED unit with lightweight
machine oil.
Pull all cable out and feed again, evenly distribute.
Place on level stable surface.
Place on level stable surface.

What is covered
RIDGID®tools are warrante to be free of efects in workmanship an material.
Ho long coverage lasts
This warranty lasts for the lifetime of the RIDGID®tool. Warranty coverage en s when the pro uct
becomes unusable for reasons other than efects in workmanship or material.
Ho you can get service
To obtain the benefit of this warranty, eliver via prepai transportation the complete pro uct to
RIDGE TOOL COMPANY, Elyria, Ohio, or any authorize RIDGID®INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTER.
Pipe wrenches an other han tools shoul be returne to the place of purchase.
What e ill do to correct problems
Warrante pro ucts will be repaire or replace , at RIDGE TOOL’S option, an returne at no charge;
or, if after three attempts to repair or replace uring the warranty perio the pro uct is still
efective, you can elect to receive a full refun of your purchase price.
What is not covered
Failures ue to misuse, abuse or normal wear an tear are not covere by this warranty. RIDGE
TOOL shall not be responsible for any inci ental or consequential amages.
Ho local la relates to the arranty
Some states o not allow the exclusion or limitation of inci ental or consequential amages, so the
above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific rights, an you
may also have other rights, which vary, from state to state, province to province, or country to coun-
try.
No other express arranty applies
This FULL LIFETIME WARRANTY is the sole an exclusive warranty for RIDGID®pro ucts. No
employee, agent, ealer, or other person is authorize to alter this warranty or make any other war-
ranty on behalf of the RIDGE TOOL COMPANY.
Printed 3/18 999-995-082.10
EC43372 REV. C
©2016, 2018 RIDGID, Inc.
The Emerson logo and RIDGID logo are registered trademarks o Emerson Electric Co. or RIDGID, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries.
All other trademarks belong to their respective holders.
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