K-50
Drain Cleaner
Manual
K-50 Drain Cleaning
Machine
• Français – 15
• Castellano – pág. 31
K-50 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 ..........................................................................................................................................3
Drain Cleaner Safety ...................................................................................................................................................4
RIDGID®Contact Information........................................................................................................................................4
Description, Specifications and Standard Equipment...............................................................................................4
Description ..................................................................................................................................................................5
Specifications ..............................................................................................................................................................5
Standard Equipment....................................................................................................................................................5
Machine Inspection .......................................................................................................................................................5
Machine Set-Up..............................................................................................................................................................6
Set-Up For 5/8" Sectional Cable ...................................................................................................................................6
Set-Up For 5/16" or 3/8" Cable Adapters .........................................................................................................................7
Operating Instructions ..................................................................................................................................................8
Cleaning Drain Using 5/8ʺ Sectional Cable...................................................................................................................8
Cleaning Drain Using 5/16ʺ Or 3/8ʺ Cable Adapter .........................................................................................................9
Special Procedures .....................................................................................................................................................10
Reverse Operation ....................................................................................................................................................10
Brake Adjustment ......................................................................................................................................................10
Accessories .................................................................................................................................................................11
Cable Selection .........................................................................................................................................................11
Accessories ...............................................................................................................................................................11
Tools for C-4, C-6, C-7, C-8, and C-9 .......................................................................................................................11
Maintenance Instructions ...........................................................................................................................................11
Lubrication.................................................................................................................................................................11
Cables .......................................................................................................................................................................11
Clutch Jaw Assembly ................................................................................................................................................12
Cable Containers.......................................................................................................................................................12
Machine Storage ..........................................................................................................................................................12
Service and Repair ......................................................................................................................................................12
Wiring Diagrams ..........................................................................................................................................................13
EC Declaration of Conformity ..........................................................................................................Inside Back Cover
Lifetime Warranty..........................................................................................................................................Back Cover
*Original Instructions - English
278-104-431.10_REV. Cii
Drain Cleaner
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
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, re and/or
serious personal injury.
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
Record Serial Number below and retain product serial number which is located on nameplate.
Serial
No.
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
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 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
WARNING
CAUTION
NOTICE
NOTICE indicates information that relates to the protection of property.
This symbol means read the operator’s manual carefully
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.
This symbol indicates the risk of hands, fingers or other
body parts being caught, wrapped or crushed in the
drain cleaning cable.
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.
General Power Tool Safety
Warnings*
WARNING
Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided with this power
tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below
may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.
SAVE 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.
This symbol indicates the risk of electrical shock.
This symbol means always wear RIDGID drain cleaning
mitts while operating drain cleaner.
This symbol indicates the risk of entanglement in a belt
and pulley.
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 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 condi-
tions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk
of electrical shock.
• Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for car-
rying, 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 ex-
tension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a
cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
* The text used in the General Power Tool Safety Warnings section of this manual is verbatim, as required, from the applicable UL/CSA/EN 62841-1 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.
278-104-431.10_REV. C2
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
• 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 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 turning
the power tool ON. A wrench or a key left attached to
a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal
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 jew-
elry. 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 col-
lection 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 se-
vere 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 controlled
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 making
any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing
power tools. Such preventive safety measures re-
duce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
• 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 and accessories. 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
K-50 Drain Cleaner 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.
278-104-431.10_REV. C 3
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
Drain Cleaner Safety
• Before using the tool, test the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) provided with the power supply
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 switch.
If the cutter stops rotating, the operator must be able to
turn the tool OFF to prevent the cable from twisting, kinking and breaking.
• 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.
• Always use the rear guide hose while operating
the tool and ensure the cable does not extend beyond the rear guide hose. This prevents the cable
from whipping which may result in entanglement and
personal injury.
• Keep mitt-covered hand on the cable whenever
the machine is running. This provides better control of
the cable and helps prevent twisting, kinking and breaking of the cable and may result in serious personal injury.
• Position machine cable outlet within 2' (0.6 m) of
the drain inlet or properly support exposed cable
when the distance exceeds 2' (0.6 m). Greater dis-
tances can cause control problems leading 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
clutch. Do not lock clutch handle during operation. If the cutter stops rotating, the operator must be
able to release the clutch to prevent twisting, kinking and
breaking of the cable and reduce the risk of injury.
• 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.
• 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.
• Do not engage drain cleaner clutch (rotate cable)
while any part of the cable is in the cable carrier.
This may cause striking or crushing injuries.
• Do not use if there is the risk of contact 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 instructions and the in-
structions and warnings for all equipment and materials being used before operating this tool to
reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
RIDGID Contact Information
If you have any question concerning this RIDGID®product:
– Contact your local RIDGID
– Visit RIDGID.com to find your local RIDGID contact
point.
– Contact Ridge Tool Technical Service Department at
rtctechservices@emerson.com, or in the U.S. and
Cana da call (800) 519-3456.
®
distributor.
278-104-431.10_REV. C4
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
Description, Specifications and
Standard Equipment
Description
The RIDGID K-50 is a portable Drain Cleaning Machine
designed to clean 11/4" to 4" drain "lines. Ap pli cations include sink, shower and floor drains. Capable of running
three different size cables: 5/16", 3/8" and 5/8".
The machine is driven by a 1/6 HP motor that has a
grounded electrical system. An integral Ground Fault In terrupter (GFCI) is built into the line cord. A toggle switch
provides FORWARD/OFF/REVERSE control of the motor.
5
The K-50 is designed to use
cable that has a quick change coupling system for disconnecting tools. The cable is manually fed in and out of
the drain and rotates at a speed of 400 RPM. The rotation
of the cable is controlled by a clutch handle. The cable
stops instantly when the clutch handle is released.
The K-50 is also designed to use with the A-17 Adapters.
Adapters will hold 5/16" or 3/8" continuous length cables.
Rotation of the adapters is controlled by the clutch handle.
The cable adapter is equipped with a quick-acting brake
which immediately stops rotation of the drum when the
clutch handle is pulled upward.
Specifications
Line Capacity ...............Depends on choice of cable.
Recommended Line Size and Reach
Cable Size Line Size Reach
5
/16" Cable
3
/8" Cable 11/4" - 2" 25' - 35'
5
/8" (C-8) 11/4" - 3" 100'
5
/8" (C-9) 2" - 4" 100'
Cable Sizes ..................5/16", 3/8" and 5/8"
Motor
Type ..............................115V/50-60 Hz, Reversible,
/8 diameter sectional-type
Refer to the following chart
for recommendations.
3
/4" - 1" 25' - 50'
230V Available Upon Request
Sound Pressure (LPA)* ......69.2 dB(A), K=3
Sound Power (LWA)*...........74.5 dB(A), K=3
* Sound measurements are measured in accordance with a standardized test per
Standard EN 62841-1.
- 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 levels should consider the time a tool is switched off and not in use. This may significantly reduce the exposure level over the total working period.
Standard Equipment
Catalog No. Model
115V 230V
58920 76455 K-50 Machine Only
58960 76475 K-50-4 Machine with:
58980 76485 K-50-6 Machine with:
59000 76495 K-50-8 Machine with:
52972 — K-50-9 Machine with:
Model
No. Cable Tools & Accessories
A-30 Six Sections: T-201 Straight Auger
A-40 Six Sections: T-206 Funnel Auger
Model
No. Description
A-17-A Adapter with 25' x
A-17-B Adapter with 35' x
No. Description
– A-30 Cable Kit
– A-17-A Adapter
– A-30 Cable Kit
– A-17-A Adapter
– A-18-B Adapter
– A-30 Cable Kit
– A-40 Cable Kit
5
/8" x 71/2' T-202 Bulb Auger
C-8,
(45', 13.7m) T-205 “C” Cutter
5
/8" x 10' T-215 4-Blade Cutter
C-9,
(60' , 18.3m) T-231 “C” Cutter
T-211 Spade Cutter
A-13 Coupling Pin Key
A-10 Cable Carrier
A-14-6 Rear Guide Hose
A-1 Left-Hand Mitt
A-13 Coupling Pin Key
A-10 Cable Carrier
A-14-610 Rear Guide Hose
A-1 Left-Hand Mitt
5
/16" Cable w/Bulb Auger
3
/8" Cable w/Bulb Auger
Machine Inspection
Rating ............................1/6HP
WARNING
Amps .............................4
Weight...........................37.5 lbs. (17 kgs.)
Dimensions
Length ...........................12" (305mm)
Height ............................17.5" (445mm)
Width .............................13" (330mm)
To prevent serious injury, inspect your Drain
Cleaning Machine. The following inspection procedures should be performed before each use.
278-104-431.10_REV. C 5
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
1. Make sure the Drain Cleaning Machine is unplugged
and the directional switch is set to the OFF position.(Figure 1).
2. Inspect the power cord, Ground Fault Circuit Inte r rupter (GFCI) and plug for damage. If the plug has
been modified, is missing the grounding prong or if the
cord is damaged, do not use the Drain Cleaning
Machine until the cord has been replaced.
3. Inspect the Drain Cleaning Machine for any broken,
missing, misaligned or binding parts as well as any
other conditions which may affect the safe and normal
operation of the machine. If any of these conditions
are present, do not use the Drain Cleaning Machine
until any problem has been repaired.
Clutch Handle
FOR/OFF/REV
Switch
WARNING
Worn or damaged cables can break caus-
ing serious injury.
Machine Set-Up
WARNING
Do not not place machine in water. Water entering
the motor can result in electrical shock.
To prevent serious injury, proper set-up of the
machine and work area is required. The following
procedures should be followed to set-up the machine:
Set-Up For 5/8" Sectional Cable
1. Check work area for:
• Adequate lighting
• Grounded electrical outlet
• Clear path to the electrical outlet that does not
contain any sources of heat or oil, sharp edges or
moving parts that may damage electrical cord.
• Dry place for machine and operator. Do not use the
machine while standing in water.
• Flammable liquids, vapors or dust that may ignite.
Figure 1 – K-50 Drain Cleaner
4. Lubricate the Drain Cleaning Machine, if necessary,
according to the Maintenance Instructions.
5. Use tools and accessories that are designed for your
drain cleaner and meet the needs of your application.
The correct tools and accessories allow you to do the
job successfully and safely. Accessories suitable for
use with other equipment may be hazardous when
used with this drain cleaner.
6. Clean any oil, grease or dirt from all equipment handles and controls. This reduces the risk of injury due
to a tool or control slipping from your grip.
7. Inspect the cutting edges of your tools. If necessary,
have them sharpened or replaced prior to using the
Drain Cleaning Machine. Dull or damaged cutting
tools can lead to binding and cable breakage.
8. Inspect cables and couplings for wear and damage.
Cables should be replaced when they become
severely worn or corroded. A worn cable can be identified when the outside coils become flat.
2. Position the Drain Cleaning Machine within 2' of
drain inlet. Greater distance can result in cable twisting or kinking.
3. Make sure FOR/OFF/REV switch is in the OFF position.
Figure 2 – Rear Guide Hose Attachment
278-104-431.10_REV. C6
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
4. Attach the rear guide hose by lifting up the lock pin
and sliding guide hose adapter onto the housing until
it locks into place (Figure 2).
WARNING
Do not use machine without rear guide
hose attached. Prevents cable whipping and possible entanglement.
5. Insert first cable into front of machine (female end first)
and push through guide hose until approximately one
foot remains out the front of the machine (Figure 3).
Figure 3 – Inserting Cable Into Front Of Machine
WARNING
To avoid electric shock and electrical
fires, never use an extension cord that is damaged or
does not meet the following requirements:
• The cord has a three-prong plug similar to shown in
Electrical Safety section.
• The cord is rated as “W” or “W-A” if being used out-
doors.
• The cord has sufficient wire thickness (16 AWG - 100').
If the wire thickness is too small, the cord may overheat,
melting the cord’s insulation or causing nearby objects
to ignite.
WARNING
To reduce risk of electrical shock, keep all
electrical connections dry and off the ground. Do not
touch plug with wet hands. Test the Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter (GFCI) provided with the electric cord 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 indicator light goes on, the machine is
ready to use. If the GFCI does not function correctly, do
not use the machine.
Set-Up For 5/16" or 3/8" Cable Adapters
1. Make sure FOR/OFF/REV switch is in the OFF position.
WARNING
Never couple more than one cable at a
time. Cable will extend behind rear guide tube.
6. Select and install the proper tool to the end of the
cable. The T-Slot Coupler allows the tool to be snap ped into the cable coupler (Figure 4). To remove tool,
use the pin key to depress the plunger and slide the
coupling apart.
To Couple Cable
and Tools
Snap Together Insert Pin
Figure 4 – Coupling and Uncoupling Tools
NOTE! Proper Tool Selection
To Uncouple Cable and Tools
Slide Apart
A good rule of thumb is to use a tool at least 1"
smaller than the line to be cleaned. The style of the
tool is determined by the nature of the job and is left
up to the operator.
7. Plug the Drain Cleaning Machine into the electrical
outlet, making sure to position the power cord along
the clear path selected earlier. If the power cord does
not reach the outlet, use an extension cord in good
condition.
2. Pull ten inches of cable from cable adapter and slide
into back of K-50.
3. Lift plunger pin on cable adapter and depress clutch
handle on machine to allow cable adapter to slip into
drilled hole (Figure 5). Be sure plunger has locked into
machine.
NOTE! By pulling down hard on clutch handle, the adap -
ter will spin. With an upward snap of clutch handle, the adapter will stop instantly, preventing
overrun or kinking. The built-in brake increases
life of cable.
Figure 5 – Cable Adapter Attachment
278-104-431.10_REV. C 7
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
4. Position machine as close to line opening as possible
and follow same set-up procedure as described for
use with 5/8" sectional cable.
5. Check that the adapter stops instantly when clutch
handle is pulled upward. If adapter coasts, see Special
Procedures section to adjust brake.
Clutch
Handle
Operating Instructions
WARNING
Wear mitts with rivets provided with machine.
Never grasp a rotating cable with a rag, loose fitting cloth or leather glove that may become
wrapped around the cable causing serious injury.
Always wear eye protection to protect your eyes
against dirt and other foreign objects. Wear rubber
soled, non-slip shoes.
Be very careful when cleaning drains where cleaning compounds have been used. Wear gloves when
handling cable and avoid direct contact to the
skin and especially the eyes and facial area as serious burns can result.
Do not operate if clutch handle is damaged or
does not function properly. Clutch is a safety feature designed to stop rotation of cable or adapters
when released.
CAUTION
tance from inlet to main sewer or septic tank. Over-run ning
cable too far into main sewer or septic tank can cause cables to knot up and prevent their return through small line.
Cleaning Drain using 5/8" Sectional Cable
1. Assume the correct operating posture in order to
maintain proper balance (Figure 6).
WARNING
this posture provides you with the opportunity to safely
keep control of the machine and cable.
• Be sure you can quickly release the clutch handle.
• Hand must be on the cable to control its twisting
action when it hits an obstruction.
• Must have access to FOR/OFF/REVERSE switch.
It is important to know approximate dis-
Should an unexpected situation arise,
Mitten
Cable
FOR/OFF/REV Switch
Figure 6 – Proper Operating Position
2. Without turning the machine on, pull sufficient cable
out of the machine to start tool and cable into the drain
inlet. Push cable into inlet as far as it will go.
3. Pull enough extra cable through machine to form almost a half circle between machine and line opening.
4. Hold cable loosely in mitted hand. Put FOR/OFF/REVERSE switch in FOR (forward) position.
NOTE! The motor will start but cable will not rotate.
5. With mitted hand on cable, push down on clutch handle with opposite hand to engage cable. Push down
on top of the cable loop with a definite snap to advance the cable.
NOTE! A slow or gradual engaging of the clutch handle
causes excessive wear of the jaw set. The clutch
is instant-acting and returning clutch handle to its
original position frees cable instantly.
6. As soon as excess cable has gone into line, release
clutch handle and pull six to ten inches of cable out of
machine with mitted hand.
7. Continue to feed the cable into the line until resistance
or obstruction is encountered. This will become apparent to operator as it will be difficult to feed additional
cable into line and/or the cable will have a tendency to
twist sideways in operator’s hands.
8. If cable loads down in the obstruction, relieve load by
pulling back on cable with short, quick jerks to free
cutter. Slowly advance cable back into the obstruction. Repeat this process until the obstruction is
clear. Remember, make sure the cutter is rotating at
278-104-431.10_REV. C8
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
all times and never force the cable. At this point,
pro gress depends upon the sharpness of the tool
and nature of the obstruction.
WARNING
Do not allow tension to build up in the cable. This will
happen if the cutting tool hits a snag and stops turning, but the motor and cable continue to rotate.
Torque builds until the cable suddenly twists, potentially wrapping around your hand or arm. This
can happen quickly and without warning, so proceed slowly and carefully as you feed the cable into
the drain. Releasing clutch handle will stop the
cable rotating and releases the torque. If tool gets
hung up in an obstruction, refer to Reverse Operating
Instructions in the “Special Procedures” section.
9. Once obstruction is cleared, it is recommended that
operator flush debris from line with running water.
Repeat Step 8 several times if necessary for thorough
cleaning job and then work cable through additional
stoppages as required.
10. To add cable, the following procedure should be followed:
• After reaching the end of each cable section, turn
the machine OFF.
• Secure the cable by looping it in the line (Figure 7).
This procedure is especially useful when cleaning a
line that has rapid fall, such as working from a
stack line.
NOTE! By holding the cable against the edge of the
inlet, in the FOR (FORWARD) position, the rotation will rapidly “thread” the cable out of the
line.
• When loop forms, release clutch handle and push
excess cable back through machine. Disconnect
one section at a time.
WARNING
When disconnecting sections, remem-
ber to turn unit off and secure cable in line.
• Once section of cable is removed, insert the secured cable in through the front of the machine
and continue removing sections until tool on last
section of cable is just inside sewer inlet.
WARNING
Never retract tool from sewer inlet while
cable is rotating. Tool can whip causing serious injury.
12. Turn FOR/OFF/REV Switch to OFF position.
13. Pull remaining cable and tool from sewer.
WARNING
After using, thoroughly flush and drain
cables, couplings and tools with water due to damaging
effects of some drain cleaning compounds.
Cleaning Drain Using 5/16" or 3/8" Cable
Adapter
1. Assume the correct operating posture in order to
maintain proper balance (Figure 6).
WARNING
this posture provides you with the opportunity to safely
keep control of the machine and cable.
• Be sure you can quickly release the clutch handle.
Should an unexpected situation arise,
• Hand must be on the cable to control its twisting
action when it hits an obstruction.
• Must have access to FOR/OFF/REVERSE switch.
2. Pull out enough cable by hand to insert into the drain
Figure 7 – Looping Cable In Line
• With line secured, insert another section of cable in
through the front of the machine (female end first)
until approximately one foot remains out the front
of the machine.
• Attach cable to cable in line and resume operation.
11. To retrieve cable from drain line, the following proce-
opening and hand-feed the cable into drain until it
stops feeding easily. Push cable down drain line
keeping your control hand close to the drain opening.
3. Hold cable loosely in mittened hand, put FOR/OFF/
REV SWITCH in FOR (forward) position.
NOTE! The motor will start but cable will not rotate.
4. With mitted hand on cable, push down on clutch
handle with opposite hand to engage adapter.
dure should be followed:
5. Continue hand-feeding the cable slowly until the drain
• Leave FOR/OFF/REV switch in FOR (forward) position.
• Push down on clutch handle to engage cable.
With mitted hand pull cable out of line (if possible)
or hold cable against edge of inlet to thread the
cable out until loop forms in front of the machine.
is opened or blockage is encountered.
WARNING
Keep your cable hand close to the drain
opening to keep control of the cable and help prevent
cable flip-over.
6. When you reach the blockage, work the cable back
278-104-431.10_REV. C 9
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
and forth to clear the obstruction. At this point,
progress depends on the type of tool being used
and nature of the blockage. Advance cable slowly.
7. If cable gets hung up in the obstruction, release the
clutch handle to stop the rotation of the cable. Refer
to “Reverse Operation” in the “Special Procedures”
section.
8. Once obstruction is cleared, it is recommended that
operator flush debris from line with running water.
Repeat Step 6 several times if necessary for thorough
cleaning job and then work cable through additional
stoppages as required.
WARNING
Cable is not attached inside drum. When
approaching end of cable, keep hand securely on cable
to avoid losing it down the drain.
9. To withdraw cable from line with machine running,
leave FOR/OFF/REV lever in FORWARD position
and slowly pull cable from drain.
10. As excess cable is retrieved from line, hand-feed
cable back into K-50.
11. Release clutch handle just prior to cable or tool
emerging from drain opening. Cable or tool may contain debris and splash work area.
WARNING
Never retract tool from sewer inlet while
cable is rotating. Tool can whip causing serious injury.
12. Turn FOR/OFF/REV Switch to OFF position.
13. Pull remaining cable and tool from sewer.
After attaching cable adapter to your K-50 Machine, test
for proper braking action as follows:
1. Put switch in FORWARD position to start motor.
2. Push clutch handle forward to engage clutch driver
jaws. Drum will rotate.
3. Pull up on clutch handle to release jaws and activate
brake. Drum should stop turning immediately.
If drum does not stop immediately, readjust brake mechanism as follows:
WARNING
Make sure machine is unplugged from power source
before making any adjustment.
4. Slightly loosen two set screws “A” using a 5/
32
" hex
wrench (Figure 9).
5. Turn set screw “B” clockwise 1/4turn (Figure 9).
6. Operate machine to check for proper braking action.
7. If drum does not stop immediately, repeat Steps 2
and 3 until brake functions properly.
8. Tighten set screws “A” and recheck tension on set
screw “B”.
Due to normal wear, future adjustment will become necessary for effective braking.
Plunger Pin
Brake Drum
“B” Set Screw
Special Procedures
Reverse Operation
Running machine in reverse will cause premature failure
of cable. Use reverse only to free a tool or cable caught in
an obstruction. If this should occur, immediately release
clutch handle and place FOR/OFF/REV switch to OFF position. After motor comes to a complete stop, place
FOR/OFF/REV switch in the REV (reverse) direction.
Engage clutch handle only until cable or tool is free of obstruction. Once it is free, release clutch handle immediately. Turn unit OFF. Run unit in FOR (forward) direction
and follow normal operating procedure.
WARNING
verse) for any other purpose. Operating in reverse can
damage a cable and cause serious injury.
Brake Adjustment
The cable adapter is equipped with a quick-acting brake
which will immediately stop rotation of the drum when the
clutch handle is pulled upwards.
Never operate this machine in REV (re-
“A” Set Screw (2)
Cable Container
Figure 9 – Cable Adapter
278-104-431.10_REV. C10
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
Accessories
WARNING
been designed to function with the K-50 Drain Cleaning
Machine. Other accessories suitable for use with other
tools may become hazardous when used on the K-50. To
prevent serious injury, use only the recommended accessories.
Cables
Catalog Model
No. No. Description
62225 C-1 25' (7.6m) w/Bulb Auger
56782 C-1IC
89400 C-21 50' (15.2m) w/Bulb Auger
62235 C-2 25' (7.6m) w/Drop Head Auger
56787 C-2IC
89405 C-22 50' (15.2m) w/Drop Head Auger
62245 C-4 25' (7.6m) w/Male Coupling
62250 C-5 35' (10.7m) w/Bulb Auger
62260 C-6 35' (10.7m) w/Male Coupling
96037 C-6IC 35' (10.7m) w/Male Coupling
62265 C-7 7
62270 C-8 7
51317 C-9 10' (3.0m) Heavy-Duty Wind
Accessories
Catalog Model
No. No. Description
59235 A-14-6 6' Rear Guide Hose
84325 A-14-10 10' Rear Guide Hose
59270 A-18 Front Guide Hose Assembly
59210 A-10 Cable Carrier (Holds 90' C-8, C-9)
59205 A-1 Left-Hand Mitt
59295 A-2 Right-Hand Mitt
59230 A-13 Pin Key,
Adapters with Cable
Catalog Model
No. No. Description
59250 A-17-A Adapter with 25
59255 A-17-B Adapter with 35
59265 A-17-C Adapter with 35
92095 A-17-D Adapter with 250
92100 A-17-E Adapter with 250
Only the following RIDGID products have
5
/16" x 25' (7.6m) Inner Core
w/Bulb Auger
5
/16" x 25' (7.6m) Inner Core
w/Drop Head Auger
1
/2' (2.3m) Tight-Wind
1
/2' (2.3m) All-Purpose Wind
5
/8 Cable
5
' x
w/Bulb Auger
w/Bulb Auger
w/Male Coupling
w/Bulb Auger
w/Drop Head
/16" Cable
3
' x
/8" Cable
3
' x
/8" Cable
' x
' x
5
/16" Cable
5
/16" Cable
Tools for C-4, C-6, C-7, C-8, and C-9
Catalog Model
No. No. Description
62990 T-201 Straight Auger, 5" Long
62995 T-202 Bulb Auger, 1
63000 T-203 Bulb Auger,
1
/8" O.D.
7
/8", O.D.
55457 T-225 Retrieving Auger
62067 T-201A Straight Flex Auger
63065 T-217 Drop Head, 4" Long
54837 T-204 “C” Cutter, 1"
63005 T-205 “C” Cutter, 1
3
/8"
63010 T-206 Funnel Auger, 3" Long
1
63015 T-207 Spiral Cutter, 1
63020 T-208 Spiral Cutter, 1
/4"
1
/2"
63025 T-209 Spiral Cutter, 2"
63030 T-210 Grease Cutter, 1"
63035 T-211 Grease Cutter, 1
63040 T-212 Grease Cutter, 1
63045 T-213 4-Blade Cutter, 1"
63050 T-214 4-Blade Cutter, 1
63055 T-215 4-Blade Cutter, 1
3
/8"
3
/4"
3
/8"
3
/4"
63060 T-216 Chain Knocker, 2"
63280 T-218 Flue Brush, 3"
63070 T-219 Flue Brush, 2
63080 T-220 Flue Brush, 2"
63220 T-221 Flue Brush, 1
52812 T-230 H-D “C” Cutter, 2"
52817 T-231 H-D “C” Cutter, 2
1
/2"
1
/2"
1
/2"
52822 T-232 H-D “C” Cutter, 3"
48482 T-250 Tool Set includes:
– T-203 – T-217
– T-205 – A-13
– T-210
NOTE! See Ridge Tool Catalog for complete list of tools
and accessories.
Maintenance Instructions
WARNING
Make sure machine is unplugged from power
source before performing maintenance or making any adjustment.
Lubrication
Lubricate machine with grease at grease fitting (located on
jaw housing) once a week if used every day; once a
month if used less. Place a drop of oil on each of the bearing points, thrust bearing, clutch jaws, etc., at least once
a year.
Cables
Cables should be thoroughly flushed with water to prevent
damaging effects of sediment and drain cleaning compounds. Periodically lubricate cables and couplings with
RIDGID Cable Rust Inhibitor.
When not in use, store cables indoors to prevent deterioration by the elements.
278-104-431.10_REV. C 11
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
Cables should be replaced when they become severely
corroded or worn. A worn cable can be identified when
outside of coils become flat.
Clutch Jaw Assembly (Jaw Set)
The clutch jaw assembly should be periodically cleaned.
1. Place machine on its nose end. Remove the two (2)
socket head cap screws from the rack and pinion
housing with a 1/4" hex key (Figure 10).
hold detergents that contain ammonia. Avoiding use
of these and other types of cleaning agents minimizes the probability of damage.
4. Reinstall the flange assembly to the drum and replace
cable.
Machine Storage
WARNING
doors or well covered in rainy weather. Store the machine in a locked area that is out of reach of children and
people unfamiliar with drain cleaners. This machine can
cause serious injury in the hands of untrained users.
If machine has been exposed to freezing weather, unit
must be run for ten (10) to twenty (20) minutes without
load to warm up. Failing to do this will result in frozen
bearings. If machine is exposed to weather for a period
of time, moisture will form across motor windings causing motor to burn out.
Motor-driven equipment must be kept in-
Service and Repair
WARNING
Figure 10 – Remove Socket Head Cap Screws
2. Remove the rack and pinion housing. The clutch jaw
assembly is contained in the K-50 housing.
3. Clean and lubricate clutch jaw assembly with oil.
4. If worn, replace the clutch jaw assembly.
5. Reinstall the jaws into the housing and replace the
rack and pinion assembly.
6. Attach rack and pinion housing to machine with
socket head cap screws.
Cable Containers
Cable container on 5/16" and 3/8" cable adapter should be
periodically cleaned.
1. Remove cable from the cable adapter. Cable is not attached to inside of drum.
2. Remove three 1/4" screws holding tube and flange to
the drum.
3. Clean inside of drum and flange assembly. Certain
cleaning agents and solvents damage plastic parts.
Some of these are: gasoline, carbon tetrachloride,
chlorinated cleaning solvents, ammonia and house-
The “Maintenance Instructions” will take care of most of
the service needs of this machine. Any problems not addressed by this section should only be handled by a
RIDGID Independent Service Center.
Tool should be taken to a RIDGID Independent Service
Center or returned to the factory. All repairs made by
Ridge service facilities are warranted against defects in
material and workmanship.
WARNING
tical replacement parts should be used. Failure to follow
these instructions may create a risk of electrical shock or
other serious injury.
If you have any questions regarding the service or repair
of this machine, call or write to:
For name and address of your nearest Independent
Authorized Service Center, contact the Ridge Tool Com pany at (800) 519-3456 or RIDGID.com
When servicing this machine, only iden-
Ridge Tool Company
Technical Service Department
400 Clark Street
Elyria, Ohio 44035-6001
Tel: (800) 519-3456
E-mail: rtctechservices@emerson.com
278-104-431.10_REV. C12
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
AUX.
1/2 MAIN
WHT
4
5
K-50 Emerson Motor Wiring 120V 50/60Hz, 230V 50/60Hz
1/2 MAIN
BLK
WHT
YEL
RED
BRN
BRN
JUMPER
BLU
JUMPER
BLU
BLU
WHITE (BLUE)
BLACK (BROWN)
KEYWAY IN
STEM OF
TOGGLE
REAR VIEW
SWITCH
K-50 Allwin Motor Wiring 120V 60Hz, 230V 50Hz
AUX.
MAIN
BLU
T4
BRN
WHITE
BLACK FROM
POWERCORD
YEL
JUMPER
YEL
PINK
JUMPER
RED
JUMPER
BRN
JUMPER
GREEN/YEL
TO MOTOR
GROUND
RED
T5
WHITE FROM
POWERCORD
KEYWAY IN STEM
278-104-431.10_REV. C 13
K-50 Drain Cleaning Machine
278-104-431.10_REV. C14
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