RIDGID R2501 Operator's Manual page 9

OPERATION
NOTE: If you forget to remove the sandpaper after a sanding
operation, sand for a few minutes to soften the adhesive
backing before attempting to remove sandpaper.
WARNING:
The sander should never be connected to a power
supply when you are assembling parts, making
adjustments, cleaning, performing maintenance, or
when the tool is not in use. Disconnecting the tool
will prevent accidental starting that could cause
serious injury.
REMOVING THE DUST BAG
See Figure 5, page 14.
The dust bag provides a dust collection system for the
sander. Sanding dust is drawn up through the holes of the
sandpaper and collected in the dust bag during sanding.
The dust bag can be removed for cleaning or to attach the
sander to a vacuum.
To remove the dust bag:
 Unplug the sander.
 Twist the dust bag counterclockwise until the arrow on
the sander aligns with the "Unlock" icon on the collar of
the dust bag. Remove the dust bag.
 To reattach the dust bag, push the collar onto the sander.
Rotate the bag clockwise to align the arrow with the
"Lock" icon to secure it onto the sander.
ATTACHING THE SANDER TO A VACUUM
See Figure 6, page 14.
You can easily attach the dust collection system of the sander
to a 1-1/4 in. or 2-1/4 in. diameter vacuum hose.
 Unplug the sander.
 Remove the dust bag from the sander.
 Attach vacuum hose to dust exhaust.
NOTE: Vacuum hose fits inside dust exhaust.
 Connect sander and vacuum to power supply.
WARNING:
When sander is not connected to vacuum, always
reinstall dust bag assembly back onto sander.
Failure to do so could cause sanding dust or
foreign objects to be thrown into your face or eyes
which could result in possible serious injury.
ORBITAL MOTION
See Figure 7, page 14.
Orbital motion is ideal for fast cutting action when removing
old finishes, smoothing rough wood, cutting stock down to
required dimensions, or for finishing surfaces to be painted.
The sandpaper moves in tiny circles at a very high speed,
allowing the sander to move easily.
TURNING THE SANDER ON/OFF
See Figure 8, page 14.
To turn the sander ON/OFF:
 Turn on the sander: Push the ON/OFF switch to the
left.
 Turn off the sander: Push the ON/OFF switch to the
right.
OPERATING THE SANDER
See Figure 9, page 14.
To operate the sander:
 Clamp or otherwise secure the workpiece to prevent it
from moving under the sander.
WARNING:
Unsecured workpieces could be thrown towards
the operator, causing injury.
WARNING:
Keep your head away from the sander and the
sanding area. Your hair could be drawn into the
sander, causing serious injury.
CAUTION:
Be careful not to let your hand cover the air
vents.
Hold the sander in front of and away from you, keeping it
clear of the workpiece. Start the sander by pressing the
switch button to "ON" position and letting the motor build
to its maximum speed. Gradually lower the sander onto the
work with a slight forward movement. Move it slowly using
forward and backward strokes.
DO NOT FORCE. The weight of the unit supplies adequate
pressure, so let the sandpaper and sander do the work.
Applying additional pressure only slows the motor, rapidly
wears sandpaper and greatly reduces sander speed.
Excessive pressure will overload the motor causing possible
damage from motor overheating and can result in inferior
work. Any finish or resin on wood may soften from the
frictional heat. Do not allow sanding on one spot too long
as the sander's rapid action may remove too much material,
making the surface uneven.
9 - English