Page 1
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
3 in. x 21 in. BELT SANDER
VARIABLE SPEED
DOUBLE INSULATED
R2720
Your belt sander has been engineered and manufactured to our high standard for dependability, ease of operation, and
operator safety. When properly cared for, it will give you years of rugged, trouble-free performance.
WARNING:
To reduce the risk of injury, the user must read and understand the operator’s manual before using this product.
Thank you for buying a RIDGID product.
SAVE THIS MANUAL FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
n Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................................... 2
�n General Safety Rules .................................................................................................................................................... 3-4
�n Specific Safety Rules....................................................................................................................................................... 4
�n Symbols........................................................................................................................................................................ 5-6
��n Electrical .......................................................................................................................................................................... 7
��n Features........................................................................................................................................................................8-9
��n Assembly ......................................................................................................................................................................... 9
�n Operation ..................................................................................................................................................................10-15
�n Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................................. 16-17
�n Warranty ........................................................................................................................................................................ 19
�n Parts Ordering / Service ................................................................................................................................................ 20
INTRODUCTION
This tool has many features for making its use more pleasant and enjoyable. Safety, performance, and dependability have
been given top priority in the design of this product making it easy to maintain and operate.
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING:
Read all instructions. Failure to follow all
instructions listed below, may result in electric
shock, fire and/or serious injury. The term “power
tool” in all of the warnings listed below refers
to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or
battery-operated (cordless) power tool.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WORK AREA SAFETY
n Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark
areas invite accidents.
n 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.
n Keep children and bystanders away while operating a
power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
n Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify
the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with
earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and
matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
n Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces
such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators.
There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body
is earthed or grounded.
n Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions.
Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
n Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carry-
ing, 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.
n When operating a power tool outdoors, use an exten-
sion cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suit-
able for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
n 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 moment
of inattention while operating power tools may result in
serious personal injury.
n Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection.
Safety equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety
shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
n Avoid accidental starting. Ensure the switch is in the
off-position before plugging in. Carrying power tools
with your finger on the switch or plugging in power tools
that have the switch on invites accidents.
n 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.
n Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times. This enables better control of the power tool
in unexpected situations.
n Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jew-
elry. Keep your hair, clothing, and gloves away from
moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can
be caught in moving parts.
n If devices are provided for the connection of dust
extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are
connected and properly used. Use of these devices can
reduce dust-related hazards.
n Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long
hair. Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be drawn
into air vents.
n Do not use on a ladder or unstable support. Stable
footing on a solid surface enables better control of the
tool in unexpected situations.
POWER TOOL USE AND CARE
n
Do not force the 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 was
designed.
n Do not use the 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.
n 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 reduce
the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
n 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 power tool. Power
tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
n Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or bind-
ing of moving parts, breakage of parts, and any other
condition that may affect the power tool’s operation.
If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use.
Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power
tools.
n 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.
n Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc., in
accordance with these instructions and in the manner
intended for the particular type of power tool, taking
into account the working conditions and the work to
be performed. Use of the power tool for operations dif-
ferent from those intended could result in a hazardous
situation.
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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
SERVICE
n 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.
n When servicing a power tool, use only identical replace-
ment parts. Follow instructions in the Maintenance section of this manual. Use of unauthorized parts or failure to
follow Maintenance instructions may create a risk of
shock or injury.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
n Hold power tool by insulated gripping surfaces when
performing an operation where the cutting tool may
contact hidden wiring or its own cord. Contact with a
“live” wire will make exposed metal parts of the cutting
tool “live” and shock the operator.
n Know your power tool. Read operator’s manual care-
fully. Learn its applications and limitations, as well as
the specific potential hazards related to this power
tool. Following this rule will reduce the risk of electric
shock, fire, or serious injury.
n Always wear safety glasses. Everyday eyeglasses
have only impact-resistant lenses; they are NOT
safety glasses. Following this rule will reduce the risk
of serious personal injury.
n Protect your lungs. Wear a face or dust mask if the
operation is dusty. Following this rule will reduce the
risk of serious personal injury.
n Protect your hearing. Wear hearing protection during
extended periods of operation. Following this rule will
reduce the risk of serious personal injury.
n Inspect power tool cords periodically and, if damaged,
have repaired at your nearest Authorized Service Center. Constantly stay aware of cord location. Following
this rule will reduce the risk of electric shock or fire.
WARNING!
To reduce risk of injury, user must read instruction
manual.
n Check damaged parts. Before further use of the power
tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should
be carefully checked to determine that it will operate
properly and perform its intended function. Check for
alignment of moving parts, binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts, mounting, and any other conditions
that may affect its operation. A guard or other part that
is damaged should be properly repaired or replaced
by an Authorized Service Center. Following this rule
will reduce the risk of shock, fire, or serious injury.
n Make sure your extension cord is in good condition.
When using an extension cord, be sure to use one
heavy enough to carry the current your product will
draw. A wire gauge size (A.W.G.) of at least 14 is
recommended for an extension cord 50 feet or less
in length. A cord exceeding 100 feet is not recommended. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The
smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting
in loss of power and overheating.
n Inspect for and remove all nails from lumber before
using this power tool. Following this rule will reduce the
risk of serious personal injury.
n Save these instructions. Refer to them frequently and
use them to instruct others who may use this power tool.
If you loan someone this power tool, loan them these
instructions also.
WARNING:
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals
known to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
• lead from lead-based paints,
• crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products, and
• arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure
to these chemicals: work in a well ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, such as those dust
masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.
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SYMBOLS
Some of the following symbols may be used on this tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and safer.
SYMBOL NAME DESIGNATION/EXPLANATION
V Volts
A Amperes
Hz Hertz
W Watt
min Minutes
Alternating Current
Direct Current
n
o
.../min
No Load Speed
Class II Construction
Per Minute
Wet Conditions Alert
Voltage
Current
Frequency (cycles per second)
Power
Time
Type of current
Type or a characteristic of current
Rotational speed, at no load
Double-insulated construction
Revolutions, strokes, surface speed, orbits etc., per minute
Do not expose to rain or use in damp locations.
Read The Operator’s Manual
Eye Protection
Safety Alert
No Hands Symbol
No Hands Symbol
No Hands Symbol
No Hands Symbol
Hot Surface
To reduce the risk of injury, user must read and understand
operator’s manual before using this product.
Always wear safety goggles, safety glasses with side shields, or
a full face shield when operating this product.
Precautions that involve your safety.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
Failure to keep your hands away from the blade will result in
serious personal injury.
To reduce the risk of injury or damage, avoid contact with any
hot surface.
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SYMBOLS
The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this product.
SYMBOL SIGNAL MEANING
DANGER:
WARNING:
CAUTION:
CAUTION:
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury.
(Without Safety Alert Symbol) Indicates a situation that may result in
property damage.
SERVICE
Servicing requires extreme care and knowledge and should
be performed only by a qualified service technician. For
service we suggest you return the product to your nearest
AUTHORIZED SERVICE CENTER for repair. When servicing, use only identical replacement parts.
WARNING:
WARNING:
To avoid serious personal injury, do not attempt
to use this product until you read thoroughly and
understand completely the operator’s manual.
Save this operator’s manual and review frequently
for continuing safe operation and instructing others
who may use this product.
The operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which can result
in severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation, always wear safety goggles, safety glasses
with side shields, or a full face shield when needed. We recommend Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over
eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side shields. Always use eye protection which is marked to
comply with ANSI Z87.1.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
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ELECTRICAL
DOUBLE INSULATION
Double insulation is a concept in safety in electric power
tools, which eliminates the need for the usual three-wire
grounded power cord. All exposed metal parts are isolated
from the internal metal motor components with protecting insulation. Double insulated tools do not need to be
grounded.
WARNING:
The double insulated system is intended to protect
the user from shock resulting from a break in the
tool’s internal wiring. Observe all normal safety
precautions to avoid electrical shock.
NOTE: Servicing of a tool with double insulation requires
extreme care and knowledge of the system and should be
performed only by a qualified service technician. For service,
we suggest you return the tool to your nearest authorized
service center for repair. Always use original factory replacement parts when servicing.
ELECTRICAL CONNECTION
This tool has a precision-built electric motor. It should be
connected to a power supply that is 120 volts, 60 Hz, AC
only (normal household current). Do not operate this tool
on direct current (DC). A substantial voltage drop will cause
a loss of power and the motor will overheat. If your tool does
not operate when plugged into an outlet, double-check the
power supply.
EXTENSION CORDS
When using a power tool at a considerable distance from
a power source, be sure to use an extension cord that has
the capacity to handle the current the tool will draw. An
undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting in
overheating and loss of power. Use the chart to determine
the minimum wire size required in an extension cord. Only
round jacketed cords listed by Underwriter’s Laboratories
(UL) should be used.
When working outdoors with a tool, use an extension
cord that is designed for outside use. This type of cord is
designated with “WA” on the cord’s jacket.
Before using any extension cord, inspect it for loose or
exposed wires and cut or worn insulation.
**Ampere rating (on tool data plate)
0-2.0 2.1-3.4 3.5-5.0 5.1-7.0 7.1-12.0 12.1-16.0
Cord Length Wire Size (A.W.G.)
25' 16 16 16 16 14 14
50' 16 16 16 14 14 12
100' 16 16 14 12 10 —
**Used on 12 gauge - 20 amp circuit.
NOTE: AWG = American Wire Gauge
WARNING:
Keep the extension cord clear of the working area.
Position the cord so that it will not get caught on
lumber, tools or other obstructions while you are
working with a power tool. Failure to do so can
result in serious personal injury.
WARNING:
Check extension cords before each use. If
damaged replace immediately. Never use tool with
a damaged cord since touching the damaged area
could cause electrical shock resulting in serious
injury.
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FEATURES
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Belt Size ..........................................................3 in. x 21 in.
Sanding Surface............................................... 17.5 sq. in.
No Load Speed ........................................800 - 1,500/min.
HEX KEY
STORAGE
Input .............................120 V, 60 Hz, AC only, 10.0 Amps
Net Weight............................................................ 10.5 lbs.
VARIABLE SPEED
CONTROL DIAL
LOCK-ON
BUTTON
SWITCH
TRIGGER
HEX KEY
TRACKING
KNOB
REAR
HANDLE
DUST
COLLECTION BAG
HEX KEY
STORAGE
LIGHTED PLUG
ADJUSTABLE
FRONT HANDLE
DRIVE
ROLLER
BELT TENSION
RELEASE LEVER
FRONT
ROLLER
8
SANDING
BELT
Fig. 1
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FEATURES
KNOW YOUR BELT SANDER
See Figure 1.
Before attempting to use this product, familiarize yourself
with all operating features and safety rules.
SWITCH TRIGGER
To turn the sander ON, depress the switch trigger. Release
switch trigger to turn your sander OFF.
LOCK-ON BUTTON
The lock-on feature allows you to lock the switch trigger in
the ON position. Locking the switch trigger on allows you to
operate the sander for extended periods of time.
TRACKING KNOB
The tracking knob allows you to easily adjust the belt tracking.
VARIABLE SPEED CONTROL DIAL
The variable speed control feature allows the sander to
develop a no load speed that can be adjusted from 800 to
1,500 feet/min. by rotating the dial from A (slowest) to F
(fastest).
ASSEMBLY
DUST COLLECTION BAG
The dust collection bag attaches to the sander and keeps
dust to a minimum.
BELT TENSION RELEASE LEVER
The tension release lever aids in quick and easy belt changes.
ADJUSTABLE FRONT HANDLE
This feature allows user to adjust the front handle using a supplied hex key for ease of operation.
POWER CORD
The 12-foot cord has a built-in cord wrap.
LIGHTED PLUG
The lighted plug helps to easily identify live tools.
ERGONOMIC DESIGN
The design provides for easy handling. It is designed for
comfort and ease of operation in different positions and at
different angles.
UNPACKING
This product requires assembly.
n Carefully remove the tool and any accessories from the
box. Make sure that all items listed in the packing list are
included.
n Inspect the tool carefully to make sure no breakage or
damage occurred during shipping.
n Do not discard the packing material until you have care-
fully inspected and satisfactorily operated the tool.
n If any parts are damaged or missing, please call
1-866-539-1710 for assistance.
PACKING LIST
Variable Speed Belt Sander
Handle Assembly (Screw, Hex Wrench, Handle)
Dust Collection Bag
Sanding Belt
Operator’s Manual
WARNING:
If any parts are missing do not operate this tool
until the missing parts are replaced. Failure to
do so could result in possible serious personal
injury.
WARNING:
Do not attempt to modify this tool or create
accessories not recommended for use with this
tool. Any such alteration or modification is misuse
and could result in a hazardous condition leading
to possible serious personal injury.
WARNING:
Do not connect to power supply until assembly
is complete. Failure to comply could result in
accidental starting and possible serious personal
injury.
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OPERATION
WARNING:
Do not allow familiarity with tools to make you
careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a
second is sufficient to inflict serious injury.
APPLICATIONS
You may use this tool for the purposes listed below:
n Sanding wood, metals, plastics, and other materials
n Smoothing rough boards, chamfering, rounding edges
n Removing rust, paint, varnishes, and stains
WARNING:
Always wear sa fety go ggles or sa fety
glasses with side shields when operating
power tools. Failure to do so could result
in objects being thrown into you r e ye s
resulting in possible serious injury.
WARNING:
Do not use any attachments or accessories
not recommended by the manufacturer of this
tool. The use of attachments or accessories not
recommended can result in serious personal
injury.
WARNING:
Before connecting the sander to a power supply,
make sure it is not in the locked-on position. Failure
to do so could result in accidental starting of the
tool resulting in serious injury.
WARNING:
If your sanding job becomes particularly dusty or if
you have a breathing condition, wear a dust mask
or respirator to prevent damage to your health.
SELECTING SANDING BELTS
Selecting the correct size and type of sanding belt is an
important step in achieving a high quality sanded finish. Aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, and other synthetic abrasives
are best for power sanding.
In general, when sanding, coarse grit removes the most material and fine grit produces the best finish. The condition of
the surface to be sanded determines which grit will do the
best job. If the surface is rough, start with a coarse grit and
sand until the surface is uniform. Then use medium grit to
remove scratches left by the coarser grit. Finally, use finer
grit for finishing the surface. Always continue sanding with
each grit until the surface is uniform.
SETTING THE BELT SANDER SPEED
Refer to the chart below for belt sander speed selections.
MATERIAL
UNDRESSED LUMBER
SOFTWOOD
CHIPBOARD
LUMBER
RUST REMOVAL
PAINTED SURFACE
NON FERROUS METAL
B D E F 40 60 80 100 150 240
«
« «
SPEED
CA
« «
« «
«
«
«
« «
BELT GRIT
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OPERATION
VARIABLE SPEED
See Figure 2.
The sander has a variable speed control dial, A (slowest)
to F (fastest), designed to allow operator control of belt
speed. To increase belt speed, turn the variable speed control
dial to a higher setting. Turn to a lower setting to decrease
belt speed. Refer to the chart on page 10 for proper speed
selections.
PROPER HAND PLACEMENT
See Figure 3.
For ease of operation the sander has an adjustable front
handle and a stationary rear handle. These handles allow
two-handed operation which aids in maintaining control,
keeping sander level with workpiece, and keeping hands
clear of sanding belt. When operating the sander always
hold the front handle with the left hand and the rear handle
with the right hand as shown.
VARIABLE SPEED
CONTROL DIAL
(A TO F)
WARNING:
Keep hands and fingers clear of moving sanding
belt, front pulley, and drive roller assembly. Failure
to do so will result in the sanding of the hands or
fingers possibly causing serious injury.
WARNING:
Do not let your fingers rest over the front or right
edge of the sander. If the sanding belt were to run
off, or if it were not properly adjusted, your fingers
could come in contact with the moving sanding
belt resulting in possible serious injury.
TURNING ON/OFF THE SANDER
See Figure 4.
n To turn on the sander: Depress the switch trigger.
n To turn off the sander: Release the switch trigger.
SOFT START FEATURE
Soft start is a feature whereby the motor gradually ramps
up to the selected top speed. For example, when a speed
is selected with the speed limiting dial and the sander is
stopped and then activated again, the sander will gradually
ramp up to the previous speed setting once the switch trigger is pressed again.
REAR
HANDLE
KEEP HANDS AND FINGERS AWAY
FROM THESE AREAS AT ALL TIMES
Fig. 2
ADJUSTABLE
FRONT
HANDLE
Fig. 3
11
SWITCH
TRIGGER
Fig. 4
Page 12
OPERATION
TO INSTALL/CHANGE SANDING BELT
See Figures 5 - 6.
n Unplug the sander.
n Position sander as shown.
WARNING:
Keep hands and fingers clear of front roller and
spring mechanism at all times. Failure to do so
could result in fingers getting pinched, causing
possible serious injury.
Belt tension must be released in order to install and remove
sanding belt:
n Release belt tension by lifting tension release lever.
n Install sanding belt; make sure arrow inside of belt is
pointing in the direction of rotation, which is clockwise
when looking into open side of sander.
NOTE: Match the arrow on the sanding belt to that of the
housing.
CAUTION:
If the sanding belt is not a bidirectional belt,
ensure that the arrow inside the belt is pointing
in the direction of the rotation (clockwise when
looking into the open side of the sander). Installing
unidirectional sanding belts backwards can create
a hazardous condition.
SANDING
BELT
LIFT BELT TENSION RELEASE LEVER
TO REMOVE SANDING BELT
BELT TENSION
RELEASE
LEVER
LOWER BELT TENSION RELEASE
LEVER TO SECURE SANDING BELT
SANDING BELTS WITH DIRECTION OF ROTATION
ARROWS MUST BE INSTALLED CORRECTLY
Fig. 5
n Align the sanding belt to its correct position.
n Lower tension release lever to secure the sanding belt.
TO ADJUST FRONT HANDLE
See Figure 7.
n Unplug the belt sander.
n Remove the supplied hex key from hex key storage.
n Using hex key, remove hex bolt located on front han-
dle.
n Move front handle to desired position aligning notch in
handle mount on tool with hex bolt hole in handle, insert
hex bolt and retighten front handle using hex key.
n Return hex key to hex key storage area located on the
rear handle bridge.
SANDING BELTS WITHOUT DIRECTION OF ROTATION
ARROWS CAN BE USED IN EITHER DIRECTION
Fig. 6
FRONT
HANDLE
HEX BOLT
12
Fig. 7
Page 13
OPERATION
LOCKING ON THE SANDER
See Figure 8.
The lock-on feature allows you to lock the switch trigger in
the ON position. Locking the switch trigger on allows you to
operate the sander for extended periods of time.
If you have the lock-on feature engaged during use and the
sander is accidentally disconnected from the power supply, disengage the lock-on feature immediately. Also, do
not lock the switch trigger if you might need to suddenly
stop the sander.
To lock-on the sander:
n Depress the switch trigger.
n Push in the lock-on button.
n Release the switch trigger.
n Release the lock-on button.
NOTE: To release the lock, depress and release the switch
trigger.
OPERATING THE SANDER
See Figure 9.
Clamp or otherwise secure the work to prevent it from moving under the sander.
NOTE: If the sanding belt moves while sanding, you may
be applying too much pressure. When this occurs, remove
sander from workpiece. If belt tracking is properly adjusted,
sanding belt will return to its normal and correct position on
the drive roller and front roller.
Use a coarser belt when heavy sanding is desired, not heavy
pressure. The importance of this cannot be over-emphasized.
Weight has been built into the tool to give the most efficient
pressure at the proper location.
NOTE: The front roller of the sander was not designed for
contour sanding. Sanding on the front roller could cause
irregularity in sanding belt tracking and will damage the
front roller.
LOCK-ON
BUTTON
WARNING:
Unsecured work could be thrown back toward
operator causing injury.
Before placing sander on work surface, squeeze the switch
trigger and let the motor reach its maximum speed, then
lower the sander to the work surface with a slight forward
motion. Using the rear handle to control the sander and the
front handle only to guide it, move it slowly over the work.
Allowing the sander to remain in one place will result in an
uneven surface.
WARNING:
Keep a firm grip on sander with both hands at all
times. Failure to do so could result in loss of control
leading to possible serious injury.
The sander was designed to provide the proper weight on
the sanding belt.
Excessive pressure will result in the following:
n Uneven work.
n Clogged sanding belts.
n Premature sanding belt wear. Removal rate will not in-
crease.
n Motor damage.
n Irregular sanding belt tracking.
SWITCH
TRIGGER
Fig. 8
Fig. 9
13
Page 14
OPERATION
TO ADJUST SANDING BELT TRACKING
See Figure 10.
n Connect the sander to power supply.
n With sander positioned as shown below, pull switch trig-
ger and release immediately.
NOTE: This position is for adjustments only. Sanding belt
should not be in contact with workpiece or any foreign objects when making belt tracking adjustments.
n Observe tracking of sanding belt. If the sanding belt runs
inward, slowly turn the tracking knob clockwise. If the
sanding belt runs outward, slowly turn the tracking knob
counterclockwise. This should be done until you are sure
belt will not run off sander, or come in contact with internal
parts.
NOTE: After installing a new sanding belt, it may become
necessary to change the adjustment several times until the
belt becomes conditioned.
CAUTION:
If the sanding belt wears excessively on the inner
edge it is probably adjusted too far inward and is
rubbing against internal parts. If this is the case,
readjust the tracking knob.
n When you are sure the belt will not rub against internal
parts, start the sander and fine adjust the tracking knob
until the belt stabilizes.
When correctly adjusted, the outer edge of the belt will
be even with the outer edge of the sander. Belt life will be
greatly increased if a few seconds are spent adjusting the
belt tracking.
NOTE: Replace a torn sanding belt immediately.
WARNING:
Keep hands and fingers away from moving
sanding belt. Any part of body coming in contact
with moving sanding belt could result in serious
injury. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry when
operating sander. They could get caught in moving
parts and foreign objects could get thrown from
sander causing injury.
TRACKING
KNOB
SANDING
BELT
TURN CLOCKWISE IF
BELT RUNS OUTWARD
TURN COUNTER-
CLOCKWISE IF BELT
RUNS INWARD
TURN TRACKING KNOB TO ADJUST SANDING BELT
Fig. 10
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Page 15
OPERATION
WARNING:
To prevent the possibility of sawdust or foreign
objects being thrown into your face and eyes,
never attempt to use the sander without dust bag
properly installed. Sawdust or foreign objects
being thrown into your face and eyes could result
in possible serious injury.
DUST BAG
See Figure 11.
The dust bag provides a dust collection system for the sander.
It should be installed over the exhaust hole located on the
side of the sander. For more efficient operation, empty dust
bag when half full.
Do not connect sander to power supply before installing
dust bag.
TURN TO SECURE
DUST BAG
To install/remove dust bag:
n Unplug the sander.
n Place the opening of dust bag over exhaust hole of the
sander, aligning the notch inside opening of dust bag with
groove on exhaust hole. The bag should be installed with
the zipper down when sander is in upright position.
n Turn the dust bag counterclockwise to secure in place.
n To remove the dust bag, turn clockwise and pull off.
To empty dust bag:
Remove dust bag from sander, open zipper, and shake out
dust.
DUST
EXHAUST
GROOVE
WARNING:
Do not use the dust collection bag when sanding
metal. Using the dust collection bag when sanding
metal creates a fire hazard, which could damage
the tool and lead to serious personal injury.
DUST BAG
OPENING
DUST BAG
Fig. 11
WARNING:
Collected sanding dust from sanding surface
coatings such as polyurethanes, linseed oil, etc.,
can self-ignite in the sander dust collection bag
or elsewhere and cause fire. To reduce the risk
of fire, always empty the dust bag frequently
while sanding and never store or leave a sander
without totally emptying its dust bag. Also
follow the recommendations of the coatings
manufacturers.
15
Page 16
MAINTENANCE
WARNING:
When servicing use only identical R IDGID
replacement parts. Use of any other parts may
create a hazard or cause product damage.
BRUSH REPLACEMENT
See Figure 12.
NOTE: This belt sander is equipped with externally accessible brushes.
n Unplug the sander.
WARNING:
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with
side shields during power tool operation or when
blowing dust. If operation is dusty, also wear a
dust mask.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Avoid using solvents when cleaning plastic parts. Most
plastics are susceptible to damage from various types of
commercial solvents and may be damaged by their use. Use
clean cloths to remove dirt, dust, oil, grease, etc.
WARNING:
Do not at any time let brake fluids, gasoline,
petroleum-based products, penetrating oils, etc.,
come in contact with plastic parts. Chemicals can
damage, weaken or destroy plastic which may
result in serious personal injury.
Electric tools used on fiberglass material, wallboard, spackling compounds, or plaster are subject to accelerated wear
and possible premature failure because the fiberglass chips
and grindings are highly abrasive to bearings, brushes, commutators, etc. Consequently, we do not recommended using
this tool for extended work on these types of materials. However, if you do work with any of these materials, it is extremely
important to clean the tool using compressed air.
WARNING:
Failure to unplug the tool could result in accidental
starting causing possible serious injury.
NOTE: There are 2 brush caps located on either side of
front housing below the front handle.
n Remove brush caps (2) using a screwdriver.
n Remove brush assemblies (2).
n Check for wear. Replace both brush assemblies when
either has less than 1/4 in. length of carbon remaining.
NOTE: Do not replace one side without replacing the
other.
n Reassemble using new brush assemblies. Make sure
curvature of brush matches curvature of motor and that
brush moves freely in brush tube.
n Reassemble by reversing the steps listed above.
n Tighten all brush caps securely. Do not over tighten.
LUBRICATION
All of the bearings in this tool are lubricated with a sufficient
amount of high grade lubricant for the life of the unit under
normal operating conditions. Therefore, no further lubrication
is required.
BRUSH
ASSEMBLY
BRUSH CAP
Fig. 12
16
Page 17
MAINTENANCE
TIMING BELT REPLACEMENT
See Figures 13 - 14.
n Unplug the sander.
n Remove dust bag.
n Lay belt sander on side as shown.
n Remove sanding belt from sander. Follow instructions on
page 12 to remove sanding belt.
NOTE: Removing sanding belt will simplify the process
of installing a new timing belt.
n
Remove belt cover screw and belt cover.
n Force old timing belt from large pulley with a screwdriver
and remove it from small pulley. If it is worn out, simply
cut the old timing belt and remove.
n Install new timing belt over small pulley first.
n Holding the timing belt as shown in Figure 14, press belt
onto the large pulley turning it as you press the belt on.
n Reassemble belt cover and screw.
n Tighten screw securely.
n Install the sanding belt.
WARNING:
Never attempt to operate the belt sander without
belt cover in place.
SMALL
PULLEY
SCREW
BELT
COVER
TIMING
SANDER SHOWN WITH DUST BAG AND
SANDING BELT REMOVED
LARGE
PULLEY
BELT
Fig. 13
APPLY PRESSURE HERE AND
TURN LARGE PULLEY
Fig. 14
17
Page 18
NOTES
18
Page 19
WARRANTY
RIDGID® HAND HELD AND STATIONARY POWER TOOL
3 YEAR LIMITED SERVICE WARRANTY
Proof of purchase must be presented when requesting warranty service.
Limited to RIDGID® hand held and stationary power tools
purchased 2/1/04 and after. This product is manufactured
by One World Technologies, Inc. The trademark is licensed
from RIDGID, Inc. All warranty communications should be
directed to One World Technologies, Inc., attn: RIDGID Hand
Held and Stationary Power Tool Technical Service at (toll
free) 1-866-539-1710.
90-DAY SATISFACTION GUARANTEE POLICY
During the first 90 days after the date of purchase, if you are
dissatisfied with the performance of this RIDGID® Hand Held
and Stationary Power Tool for any reason you may return
the tool to the dealer from which it was purchased for a full
refund or exchange. To receive a replacement tool you must
present proof of purchase and return all original equipment
packaged with the original product. The replacement tool
will be covered by the limited warranty for the balance of
the 3 YEAR service warranty period.
WHAT IS COVERED UNDER THE 3 YEAR
LIMITED SERVICE WARRANTY
This warranty on RIDGID® Hand Held and Stationary Power
Tools covers all defects in workmanship or materials and normal wear items such as brushes, chucks, motors, switches,
cords, gears and even cordless batteries in this RIDGID
tool for three years following the purchase date of the tool.
Warranties for other RIDGID® products may vary.
®
HOW TO OBTAIN SERVICE
To obtain service for this RIDGID® tool you must return it;
freight prepaid, or take it in to an authorized service center
for RIDGID® branded hand held and stationary power tools.
You may obtain the location of the authorized service center
nearest you by calling (toll free) 1-866-539-1710 or by logging on to the RIDGID® website at www.ridgid.com. When
requesting warranty service, you must present the original
dated sales receipt. The authorized service center will repair any faulty workmanship, and either repair or replace
any part covered under the warranty, at our option, at no
charge to you.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED
This warranty applies only to the original purchaser at retail
and may not be transferred. This warranty only covers defects arising under normal usage and does not cover any
malfunction, failure or defect resulting from misuse, abuse,
neglect, alteration, modification or repair by other than an
authorized service center for RIDGID® branded hand held
and stationary power tools. Consumable accessories provided with the tool such as, but not limited to, blades, bits
and sand paper are not covered.
RIDGID, INC. AND ONE WORLD TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
MAKE NO WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS OR
PROMISES AS TO THE QUALITY OR PERFORMANCE
OF ITS POWER TOOLS OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFICALLY STATED IN THIS WARRANTY.
ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS
To the extent permitted by applicable law, all implied warranties, including warranties of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, are disclaimed. Any
implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability
or fitness for a particular purpose, that cannot be disclaimed
under state law are limited to three years from the date of
purchase. One World Technologies, Inc. and RIDGID, Inc.
are not responsible for direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages. Some states do not allow limitations on
how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you. This
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also
have other rights which vary from state to state.
One World Technologies, Inc.
P.O. Box 35, Hwy. 8
Pickens, SC 29671
19
Page 20
OPERATOR’S MANUAL
3 in. x 21 in. BELT SANDER
VARIABLE SPEED
DOUBLE INSULATED
R2720
983000-639
3-24-06 (REV:01)
Customer Service Information:
For parts or service, contact your nearest RIDGID authorized service center. Be
sure to provide all relevant information when you call or visit. For the location of
the authorized service center nearest you, please call 1-866-539-1710 or visit us
online at www.ridgid.com.
The model number of this tool is found on a plate attached to the motor housing.
Please record the serial number in the space provided below. When ordering repair
parts, always give the following information:
Model No.
Serial No.
R2720
20
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