RIDGID hc-300, hc-450 User Manual
Hole Cutting Tools
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
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HC-450
HC-300
WARNING!
For your own safety, read this
Operator’s Manual carefully
before assembling or operating this unit.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
ii
Table of Contents
General Safety Information
Work Area Safety........................................................................................................................................................2
Electrical Safety..........................................................................................................................................................2
Personal Safety...........................................................................................................................................................2
Tool Use and Care......................................................................................................................................................3
Service........................................................................................................................................................................3
Specific Safety Information
Tool Safety..................................................................................................................................................................4
Model HC-450 Description, Specifications and Accessories
Description..................................................................................................................................................................4
Specifications..............................................................................................................................................................4
Standard Equipment...................................................................................................................................................4
Accessories.................................................................................................................................................................4
Inspect Hole Cutting Tool.............................................................................................................................................5
Setup Instructions
Model HC-450.............................................................................................................................................................5
Operating Instructions
Model HC-450.............................................................................................................................................................7
Locating Level Vial Instructions..................................................................................................................................8
Model HC-300 Description, Specifications and Accessories
Description..................................................................................................................................................................8
Specifications..............................................................................................................................................................9
Standard Equipment...................................................................................................................................................9
Accessories.................................................................................................................................................................9
Inspect Hole Cutting Tool.............................................................................................................................................9
Setup Instructions
Model HC-300.............................................................................................................................................................9
Operating Instructions
Model HC-300...........................................................................................................................................................12
Maintenance
Motor Brush Replacement........................................................................................................................................13
Service and Repair......................................................................................................................................................13
Lifetime Warranty .........................................................................................................................................Back Cover
Hole Cutting Tools
Record Serial Number below and retain product serial number which is located on nameplate.
Serial
No.
HC-450/HC-300
Hole Cutting Tools
Model HC-450
Model HC-300
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
5. When operating a power tool outside, use an
outdoor extension cord marked “W-A” or “W”.
These cords are rated for outdoor use and reduce
the risk of electrical shock.
6. Use only three-wire extension cords which
have three-prong grounding plugs and threepole receptacles which accept the machines
plug. Use of other extension cords will not ground
the tool and increase the risk of electrical shock.
7. Use proper extension cords. (See chart.) Insufficient conductor size will cause excessive voltage
drop, loss of power and overheating.
8. Before using, test the Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter (GFCI) provided with the power cord
to insure it is operating correctly. GFCI reduces
the risk of electrical shock.
9. Extension cords are not recommended unless
they are plugged into a Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter (GFCI) found in circuit boxes or outlet receptacles. The GFCI on the machine power
cord will not prevent electrical shock from the
extension cords.
10. Keep all electric connections dry and off the
ground. Do not touch plug with wet hands.
Reduces the risk of electric shock.
Personal Safety
1. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use
common sense when operating a power tool.
Do not use tool while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medications. A
moment of inattention while operating power tools
may result in serious personal injury.
2. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewelry. Contain long hair. Keep your hair,
clothing, and gloves away from moving parts.
Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be caught
in moving parts.
3. Avoid accidental starting. Be sure switch is
OFF before plugging in. Carrying tools with your
finger on the switch or plugging in tools that have
the switch ON invites accidents.
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
2
General Safety Information
WARNING! Read and understand all instructions.
Failure to follow all instructions listed
below may result in electric shock, fire,
and/or serious personal injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Work Area Safety
1. Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
benches and dark areas invite accidents.
2. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmos-
pheres, such as in the presence of flammable
liquids, gases, or dust. Power tools create sparks
which may ignite the dust or fumes.
3. Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away
while operating a power tool. Distractions can
cause you to lose control.
Electrical Safety
1. Grounded tools must be plugged into an outlet,
properly installed and grounded in accordance
with all codes and ordinances. Never remove
the grounding prong or modify the plug in any
way. Do not use any adapter plugs. Check with
a qualified electrician if you are in doubt as to
whether the outlet is properly grounded. If the
tools should electrically malfunction or break down,
grounding provides a low resistance path to carry
electricity away from the user.
2. Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces
such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electrical shock
if your body is grounded.
3. Don’t expose power tools to rain or wet condi-
tions. Water entering a power tool will increase the
risk of electrical shock.
4. Do not abuse cord. Never use the cord to carry
the tools or pull the plug from an outlet. Keep
cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving
parts. Replace damaged cords immediately.
Damaged cords increase the risk of electrical shock.
Minimum Wire Gauge for Cord Set
Nameplate
Amps
Total Length (in feet)
0 – 25 26 – 50 51 – 100
0 – 6 18 AWG 16 AWG 16 AWG
6 – 10 18 AWG 16 AWG 14 AWG
10 – 12 16 AWG 16 AWG 14 AWG
12 – 16 14 AWG 12 AWG
NOT RECOMMENDED
Grounding prong
Cover of
grounded
outlet box
Grounding prong
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
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4. Remove adjusting keys or switches before
turning the tool ON. A wrench or a key that is left
attached to a rotating part of the tool may result in
personal injury.
5. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times. Proper footing and balance
enables better control of the tool in unexpected
situations.
6. Use safety equipment. Always wear eye pro-
tection. Dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard
hat, or hearing protection must be used for appropriate conditions.
7. Wear hearing protectors, ear plugs or muffs
when using tool. Noise level may affect hearing
with prolonged use.
Tool Use and Care
1. Use clamp or other practical way to secure and
support the workpiece to a stable platform.
Holding the work by hand or against your body is
unstable and may lead to loss of control.
2. 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.
3. Do not use tool if switch does not turn it ON or
OFF. Any tool that cannot be controlled with the
switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
4. Disconnect the plug from the power source
before making any adjustments, changing
accessories, or storing the tool. Such preven-
tive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the
tool accidentally.
5. Store idle tools out of the reach of children and
other untrained persons. Tools are dangerous in
the hands of untrained users.
6. Maintain tools with care. Keep cutting tools
sharp and clean. Properly maintained tools with
sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are
easier to control.
7. 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 serviced before using. Many
accidents are caused by poorly maintained tools.
8. Use only accessories that are recommended by
the manufacturer for your model. Accessories
that may be suitable for one tool may become hazardous when used on another tool.
9. Keep handles dry and clean; free from oil and
grease. Allows for better control of the tool.
Service
1. Tool service must be performed only by qualified repair personnel. Service or maintenance
performed by unqualified repair personnel could
result in injury.
2. When servicing a tool, use only identical
replacement parts. Follow instructions in the
Maintenance Section of this manual. Use of
unauthorized parts or failure to follow maintenance instructions may create a risk of electrical
shock or injury.
Specific Safety Information
WARNING! Read and follow safety labels on the tool!
Know the location and function of all controls before using this hole cutting tool.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
▲ WARNING
Clothing/gloves can be caught in moving parts.
Fingers, hands, arms or other body parts can be
cut, crushed or broken.
• Keep fingers and hands away from cutter blade.
• Do not reach across cutter or pipe because clothing can be drawn into moving parts.
• Do not disconnect or block switch.
• Keep switch in working order.
• When cutting into existing system, pipe must be
drained and de-pressurized.
• Wear safety glasses and ear protection.
• Test Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to
insure proper operation.
READ ABOVE WARNING CAREFULLY!
Tool Safety
1. Hole Cutting Tools are made to cut holes in
pipe. Follow instructions in Operator’s Manual
on proper use. Other uses may increase the risk
of injury.
2. To prevent entanglement do not reach across
the hole saw or wear loose cloth gloves.
Because this tool has high torque, clothing can
entangle with enough force to crush or break bone.
3. Keep fingers and hands away from the hole
saw blade. Reduces the risk of being cut.
4. Secure the hole cutting tool properly to the pipe.
Carefully follow set-up instructions. Position the
electric cord clear of the base and hole saw.
Improper set-up increases the risk of injury.
5. Do not use dull, bent, or damaged hole saws or
arbors. Less likely to bind and lose control.
6. When cutting into an existing system, the pipe
must be drained and de-pressurized. Reduces
the risk of electrical shock.
Model HC-450 Description,
Specifications and Accessories
Description
The RIDGID Model HC-450 Hole Cutting Tool is
designed to cut holes up to 43/4″ into steel pipe. The
multiple hole sizes allow the use of Mechanical T’s®,
Hookers®, Vic-O-Lets™, and other fittings for branching unpressurized pipe lines.
The HC-450 has a 5/8″ capacity drill chuck to accommodate all sizes of hole saws and hole saw arbors.
An integral motor and gear reduction optimizes performance of large diameter hole saws. A unique twofeed handle and switch actuation allows the operator
to use the Hole Cutting Tool from either the left or
right side. A rotating leveling vial in the base allows
repeated holes to line up. Only 12″ high, the compact
design, allows the HC-450 to be used in tight quarters
or above installed pipe close to ceilings.
NOTE! Mechanical T’s, Hookers, and Vic-O-Lets are reg-
istered trademarks of Victaulic Tool Company
WARNING
The HC-450 is not a Hot Tapping Tool. Care must
be taken to ensure the system is drained and depressurized to prevent serious injury and/or property damage!
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
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Specifications
Cutting Capacity............Up to 43/4″ (120mm)
Pipe Mounting
Capacity ........................11/4″ - 8″ (30mm-200mm)
Drill Chuck Capacity......1/16″ - 5/8″ (2mm-16mm)
Drill Chuck Speed..........110 RPM
Motor Horsepower.........1.2 HP
Current Draw Rating......12 Amps @ 115V
Dimensions
Height - “A”....................11.5″ (29cm)
Length - “B” ...................17″ (43cm)
Width - “C”.....................17″ (43cm)
Weight............................42 lbs. (19Kg)
Standard Equipment
• Hole Cutting Tool
• Chuck Key
•5/8″ Hole Saw Arbor w/Backing Plate and 1/4″ Pilot
Drill
Accessories
• Hole saws and arbors
• Integral hole saws w/arbors
• Carrying Case
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 1 – Dimension A & C
C
A
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
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Inspect Hole Cutting Tool
WARNING
To prevent serious injury, inspect your Hole
Cutting Tool on a regular basis. The following
inspection procedures should be performed
before each use of the tool:
1. Inspect the power cord and plug for damage. If the
grounding prong is missing or the cord or GFCI is
damaged, do not use the tool until the cord has
been replaced.
2. Make sure the switches turn the tool ON and OFF.
If broken, do not use until they are replaced.
3. Inspect the power drive for any broken, missing,
misaligned, or binding parts as well as any conditions, which may affect the safe and normal operation of the tool. If any of these conditions are
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 2 – Dimension B
Figure 3 – HC-450 with Standard Equipment
B
present, do not use the tool until the problem has
been repaired. Do not use dull, bent, or damaged
hole saws or arbors.
4. Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to
insure it is operating correctly. When test button is
pushed in, the indicator light should go OFF.
Reactivate by pushing the reset button in. If the indicator light goes ON, the tool is ready to use. If broken, do not use the tool until it is replaced.
5. Clean any oil, grease, or dirt from the handles.
This reduces the risk of injury due to the tool slipping from your grip.
6. Use only accessories recommended for your tool.
Accessories used for other tools may be hazardous when used on a hole saw and lead to serious injury.
7. Inspect the cutting edges of your hole saws. If necessary, replace prior to using in your hole-cutting
tool. Dull or damaged cutting edges can lead to
injury, tool breakage, or excessive heat buildup in
the workpiece and the tool.
Set-Up Instructions
Model HC-450
WARNING
When setting up the hole saw, it should be
unplugged and the switch should be in the OFF
position. To prevent serious injury the tool must
be properly set up.
1. Determine the size and location of hole to be cut.
Follow coupling manufacturer’s recommendations
for hole size to coupling size.
2. Select hole saw and arbor to correct hole size.
Integral arbor hole saws are recommended to
reduce chatter. See Table 1 for ordering information.
Hole Saw Ordering Information – Table #1
Hole Diameter
Hole Arbor Integral
Saw Cat. Saw
Inches mm Cat. No. No. w/Arbor
2 51 52865 53080 56902
21/
2
64 52895 53080 56907
23/
4
70 52910 53080 56912
31/
2
89 52940 59502 56917
41/
2
114 52980 59502 56922
NOTE! 53080 Arbor is 5/8″ Hex; requires 5/8″ Chuck.
59502 Arbor and backing plate is for hole saws
larger than 3″.
3. Place HC-450 on a bench or ground to install hole
saw and arbor into drill chuck.
4. The 1/4″ pilot drill is recommended for pipe that is
installed. If pilot is used make sure it is tight in
arbor and exposed no more than 3/8″.
NOTE! Pilot drills are recommended when cutting holes
in installed systems.
5. Ensure chain assembly and swivel handle are in
working order and free to move.
6. Make sure there is adequate clearance to mount
and position the HC-450.
WARNING
When cutting into an existing system, the pipe
must be drained and depressurized. Do not use in
the presence of flammable liquids, vapors or dust.
7. Lift HC-450 using front and rear carrying handles.
Rear handle can be used for a rope and pulley system when working on existing overhead pipe. (See
Figure 4.) Do not lift HC-450 above your shoulder.
(Figure 5)
8. Mount unit in the proximity to hole location.
NOTE! If hole location is on the bottom or sides of pipe,
place unit on top of pipe. Put chain around pipe
and place chain pins into base latch. (See Figure 6.)
WARNING
To prevent cord damage and electrical shock
position electrical cord away from the base of the
tool.
9. Fully tighten chain when pilot drill or saw is over the
hole location. To move unit, loosen chain swivel
handle half a rotation and slide or rotate unit.
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
6
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 4 – Carrying the HC-450
Figure 6 – HC-450 Base Latch
Figure 5 – DO NOT lift HC-450 above your shoulders.
May result in loss of balance.
Base Chain
Latch
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
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WARNING
Unit stability must be maintained using either
front or rear carrying handles.
10. Secure the unit in the final location. The HC-450
will operate at all angles relative to the vertical or
horizontal pipe. (See Figure 7.)
11. By using either feed handle, raise the hole saw to
the pipe.
12. Plug the hole-cutting tool into the electrical outlet,
making sure to position the power cord along the
clear path. If the power cord does not reach the
outlet, use an extension cord in good condition.
WARNING
To avoid electric shock and electrical fires,
never use and extension cord that is damaged or
does not meet the following requirements:
• The cord has a three-prong plug similar to
shown in Electrical Safety.
• The cord is rated as “W” or “W-A” if being used
outdoor.
• The cord has a wire thickness gauge that does
not exceed 14 AWG if shorter than 30 feet or 12
AWG if 30 feet or longer. If the cord is too long
or if the wire thickness is too small, the cord
may overheat, melting the cord’s insulation or
causing nearby objects to ignite.
Operating Instructions
Model HC-450
WARNING
Do not use a hole-cutting tool without proper
eye protection.
1. The HC-450 is actuated by depressing one of the
lock out switches located in the front carrying
handle. (See Figure 8.)
2. With one hand on a feed handle and the other
hand on a switch, feed the hole saw into the pipe.
WARNING
Keep fingers and hands away from the saw
blade. Do not reach across the hole saw or wear
loose gloves that may become entangled and
cause serious injury.
3. Rotate the feed handle to apply downward pressure on the hole saw.
WARNING
Do not overfeed saw while cutting. Doing so will
result in premature saw failure and possible
serious injury.
4. After completing the hole cut, retract the saw from
the pipe by turning feed wheel clockwise.
NOTE! When b ranching off an existing system, use a
hole saw with the 1/4″ pilot drill. The pilot drill
helps retain the pipe slug in the hole saw.
5. Turn unit OFF by releasing the actuator switch and
let hole saw come to a complete stop.
6. Remove unit by unclamping chain and using both
front and rear carrying handles.
7. Brush away all metal chips created by the hole saw
from the area around the hole.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 7 – HC-450 on a Horizontal Cut
Figure 8 – Model HC-450 Lock Out Switches
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
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Locating Level Vial
Instructions
The rear base of the HC-450 Hole Cutting Tool houses a level vial. This vial is used to ensure that series
of holes align. (See Figure 9.)
In the event that the hole location is angled by a certain amount, the vial can be rotated within the base to
reflect the deviated angle.
In new pipe installation, the vial can be pre-set and
used to repeat hole orientation. As long as the vial is
showing level, the hole angles will align.
Model HC-300 Description,
Specifications and Accessories
Description
The RIDGID Model HC-300 Hole Cutting Tool is
designed to cut holes up to 3″ diameter into steel pipe.
The multiple hole size allows the use of Mechanical
T’s®, Hookers®, Vic-O-Lets™, Weld-O-Let™ and other
fittings for branching unpressurized pipelines.
The HC-300 features a 1/2″ capacity chuck to accommodate all size of holes up to 3″ diameter and standard hole saw arbors up to 7/16″ Hex (1/2″ chuck size).
An integral motor and gear reduction optimizes the
performance and saw life in the capacity range. A single feed handle and ON/OFF switch allows for easy
operation. The compact two-piece design allows the
HC-300 to be used in tight quarters and difficult-toreach locations.
NOTE! Mechanical T’s, Hookers, and Vic-O-Lets are reg-
istered trademarks of Victaulic Tool Company.
WARNING
The HC-300 is not a hot tapping tool. Care must
be taken to ensure the system is drained and
de-pressurized to prevent serious injury and/or
property damage.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 9 – Model HC-450 Level Vial
Figure 11 – Model HC-300 Front View
Figure 10 – Model HC-300 Rear View
Figure 12 – Model HC-300 Isometric
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
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Specifications
Cutting Capacity............Up to 3″ (76mm)
Pipe Mounting
Capacity ........................11/4″ - 8″ (30mm-200mm)
Drill Chuck Capacity......1/16″ - 1/2″ (2mm-13mm)
Drill Chuck Speed..........360 RPM
Motor Horsepower.........1.2 HP
Current Draw Rating......11 Amps @ 115V
Dimensions
Height............................12.8″ (32.5 cm)
Length ...........................11.9″ (30.2 cm)
Width.............................13.2″ (33.4 cm)
Total Weight..................31 lbs. (14 kg)
Base ...........................10 lbs. (4.5 kg)
Motor Assy. ................21 lbs. (9.5 kg)
Standard Equipment
• Hole Cutting Tool (Base and Motor Assembly)
• Chuck Key
Accessories
• Hole Saws Arbors
• Hole Saws
• Carrying Case
Inspect Hole Cutting Tool
WARNING
To prevent serious injury, inspect your Hole
Cutting Tool on a regular basis. The following
inspection procedures should be performed
before each use of the tool:
1. Inspect the power cord and plug for damage. If the
grounding prong is missing or the cord or GFCI is
damaged, do not use the tool until the cord has
been replaced.
2. Make sure the switches turn the tool ON and OFF.
If broken, do not use until they are replaced.
3. Inspect the hole cutting tool for any broken, missing, misaligned, or binding parts as well as any
conditions, which may affect the safe and normal
operation of the tool. If any of these conditions are
present, do not use the tool until the problem has
been repaired. Do not use dull, bent, or damaged
hole saws or arbors.
4. Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) to
insure it is operating correctly. When test button is
pushed in, the indicator light should go OFF.
Reactivate by pushing the reset button in. If the
indicator light goes ON, the tool is ready to use. If
broken, do not use the tool until it is replaced.
5. Clean any oil, grease, or dirt from the handles.
This reduces the risk of injury due to the tool slipping from your grip.
6. Use only accessories recommended for your tool.
Accessories used for other tools may be hazardous
when used on a hole saw and lead to serious
injury.
7. Inspect the cutting edges of your hole saws. If necessary, replace prior to using in your hole-cutting
tool. Dull or damaged cutting edges can lead to
injury, tool breakage, or excessive heat buildup in
the workpiece and the tool.
Set-Up Instructions
Model HC-300
WARNING
When setting up the hole saw, it should be
unplugged and the switch should be in the OFF
position. To prevent serious injury, the tool must
be properly set up.
1. Determine the size and location of the hole to be
cut. Follow coupling manufacturer’s recommendations for hole size to coupling size.
2. Select hole saw and arbor to the hole size required.
See section 5 of the RIDGID catalog for saw order-
ing information.
3. Place the HC-300 on a clean bench or ground to
install hole saw and arbor into drill chuck.
NOTE! The 1/4″ pilot drill is recommended for pipe that is
installed for it prevents the pipe slug from falling
into the system. If pilot is used, make sure it is
tight in arbor and exposed no more than
3
/8″.
4. Ensure the chain assembly and sliding bar handle
is in working order and free to move.
NOTE! It is possible to attach the HC-300 to the pipe as a
complete assembly or in two pieces.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
10
5. For two-piece mounting, separate the base from
the motor assembly by lifting the motor while
pulling the plunger (Figure 13) located in rear of the
left post (front view). When lifting the motor assembly, use the handle.
6. Make sure there is adequate clearance to mount
and position the HC-300.
WARNING
When cutting into an existing system, the pipe
must be drained and depressurized. Do not use
in the presence of flammable gas, vapor or dust.
7. Mount the base in the proximity of the place to be
cut. To do so, place the base on top of the workpiece. The front edge of the base is 19/16″ inches
from the chuck centerline. (Figure 14)
8. Turn crank handle fully counterclockwise to make
sure the hook is completely lowered and aligned
with the mark in casting.
9. Hook the chain into the base latch.To do so, pull
the chain slightly to compress the spring mechanism. Once the chain is latched into hook, the
spring tension keeps the chain engaged. Use the
screw mechanism to fully tighten the chain.
(Figures 15 & 16)
NOTE! Completely lower hook until it reaches the cast-
ing marks. Failure to do so will result in inadequate travel to properly tension the chain.
NOTE! If the hole location is on the bottom or side of
the pipe, rotate the HC-300 to the desired location before tightening the swivel handle.The unit
is designed to drill in any position.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 13 – Model HC-300 Plunger
Figure 14 – HC-300 Chuck Centerline
Figure 15 – Hooking the Chain
19/16″
40mm
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
11
NOTE! The HC-300 features a spring loaded hooking
mechanism that allows for easier tool pre-setting.
Always tighten the chain using the swivel handle
when the exact location of the cut is determined.
10. Machined flats are provided on the tool’s base and
posts to assist leveling by using a torpedo level.
(Figures 17 & 18) Once the tool is properly positioned, tighten crank handle securely.
NOTE! The flat area with the RIDGID lettering in the
back of the base and the machined areas on the
side of the posts are designed for level mounting. They are useful when series of holes need
to be aligned.
WARNING
Never let go of the tool until the chain is fully
tightened. Doing so may result in the tool becoming loose and falling, resulting in serious injury.
11. Lift the HC-300 motor assembly and mount on the
two posts by pushing firmly against the post
springs until you hear a click sound, indicating that
the plunger latch mechanism is properly engaged.
(Figure 19)
NOTE! The click sound indicates that the plunger has
captured the base and the motor assembly.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 16 – Tightening Chain
Figure 17 – Model HC-300 Level Mounting Area
Figure 18 – Model HC-300 Level Mounting Area
Figure 19 – Model HC-300 Putting the Motor and Base
Assembly Together
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
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WARNING
Do not attempt to start, detach or carry the tool
without the plunger engaged. The motor assembly and the base could separate resulting in serious injury.
WARNING
Position electrical cord clear of the base of hole
saw to prevent cord damage and electrical shock.
12. Plug the hole cutting tool into the electrical outlet,
making sure to position the power cord along the
clear path. If the power cord does not reach the
outlet, use an extension cord in good condition.
(See page 2.)
WARNING
To avoid electric shock and electrical fires,
never use and extension cord that is damaged
or does not meet the following requirements:
• The cord has a three-prong plug similar to
shown in Electrical Safety.
• The cord is rated as “W” or “W-A” if being used
outdoor.
• The cord has a wire thickness gauge that does
not exceed 14 AWG if shorter than 30 feet or
12 AWG if 30 feet or longer. If the cord is too
long or if the wire thickness is too small, the
cord may overheat, melting the cord’s insulation or causing nearby objects to ignite.
Operating Instructions
Model HC-300
WARNING
Do not use a hole cutting tool without proper
eye protection.
1. The Model HC-300 is turned on by depressing an
ON/OFF switch located on the side of the unit
behind the feed wheel. (Figure 20)
2. Feed the hole saw into the pipe by turning feed
wheel handle counterclockwise using moderate
force so as to not overload the motor.
WARNING
Keep fingers and hands away from the saw
blade. Do not reach across the hole saw or wear
loose gloves or clothing that may become entangled and cause serious injury.
3. Rotate feed handle counter-clockwise to apply
downward pressure on the hole saw.
WARNING
Forcing hole saw into pipe will not reduce cutting time. Therefore, do not overfeed saw while
cutting. Doing so will result in premature saw
failure or possible serious injury.
4. After completing the hole cut, retract the saw from
the pipe by turning the feed wheel clockwise.
NOTE! When branching off an existing pipe system, use
a hole saw with the
1
/4″ pilot drill. The pilot drill
helps retain the pipe slug in the hole saw.
5. Turn unit OFF by depressing ON/OFF switch to the
OFF position.
6. Remove unit by:
A. Unclamping entire assembly or
B. Retrieving motor assembly by pulling plunger
and then unclamping the base.
7. Brush away all metal chips created by the hole saw
from the area around the hole.
NOTE! The flat area with the RIDGID lettering in the
back of the base and the machined areas on the
side of the posts are designed for level mounting. They are useful when series of holes need to
be aligned.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
Figure 20 – Model HC-300 ON/OFF Switch
Ridge Tool Company • Elyria, Ohio • U.S.A.
13
Maintenance
WARNING
Always unplug power cord before servicing the
hole saw.
Motor Brush Replacement
Check motor brushes every 6 months and replace when
worn to less than 1/2″. If commutator is worn, the outer
dimension of the commutator should be turned and the
mica should be undercut before replacing the brushes.
This should only be done by qualified personnel.
Service and Repair
Service and repair work on this Hole Cutting Tool must
be performed only by qualified repair personnel. Hole
Cutting Tools should be taken to a RIDGID Authorized
Service Center or returned to the factory. When servicing this tool, only identical replacement parts should be
used. Failure to follow these steps may create a risk of
electrical shock or other serious injury.
Contact the Ridge Tool Company at (800) 519-3456
or www.ridgid.com for the nearest Authorized Service
Center.
If you have any questions regarding the operation or
function of this tool, call or write to:
Ridge Tool Company
Technical Service Department
400 Clark Street
Elyria, Ohio 44036-2023
Telephone: 800-519-3456
When corresponding please give all information
shown on the nameplate of your tool including model
number, voltage and serial number.
HC-450/HC-300 Hole Cutting Tools
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