EC150/5 Knuckle Scuffer

[ritmatt]

After reading tons of reviews and watching a bunch of YouTube videos about Festool sanders, I recently took the plunge on an EC150/5. It's an awesome sander and I'm very happy with it, except ONE THING that's driving me crazy. I haven't seen anyone complain about it, so I must be doing something wrong. My knuckles get scraped on the dust host connector just about every time I twist the power cord on, inflicting pain and occasionally an involuntary colorful exclamation. Am I the only one experiencing this? Do I need to tie a string on my finger to remember to be super careful connecting the power cord, or is there a better way to attach it?
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[jeffinsgf]

Simple-minded answer from a simple mind...

Connect the power cord first, then the hose???

 

[ritmatt]

That's the order I've been doing things in. EDIT: Photo added to original post for clarity.

 

[tsmi243]

Nope, not just you.  Happens to me on a few of em, where the plug and port are too close together. 

You'll remember eventually  [big grin]

 

[jeffinsgf]

That's the order I've been doing things in. EDIT: Photo added to original post for clarity.

Aha! Thanks for the pic. Another reason I'm happy with the cheaper (taller) model.  [cool]

That is pretty tight in there.

 

[Chainring]

I found that one early on and, like Jeff wrote, do the cord first. A modification to that is, I use more of my finger tips rather than getting a full grip around the plug. One hand on the front of the sander. Other hand on the cord, just the finger tips like a claw. Push then twist.

 

[woodferret]

That and it's only a 1/4 turn.  So flip the sander over more on its back and start there.

 

[onocoffee]

Yes, it is a bit too close.

 

[MMCO]

I also find the location for plugging in tools knuckle scrapers. I cannot connect my plug it to my track saws easily since I cannot fit my fingers while turning. I know I am not the only one and curious if others have figured out a better way to get the plug it to twist and engage more easily.

 

[hdv]

Do it with the sander turned 180° (i.e. with the air hose connector closer to your thumb than to your fingers). That way your hand won't come close to the connector for the hose. Also, why use your whole hand? Two fingers should be enough?