I am happy to say after the initial rejection by Festool for a request to replace the hose garage I replied to their denial noting that it was a known defect. They wrote back to me and are sending me a replacement at no charge. It was a huge area of concern to me that they would initially deny the claim since the product was made of a defective material. Thanks Festool for providing the replacement. It made me seriously consider not purcahsing any more of their tools.
The following was found when I did a Google search on the issue. LOL Festool owners group.
"The hose carrier on some Festool models is known to be made from brittle plastic, which can break easily (you can due it with your pinky) over time, especially if exposed to certain conditions. Many users have reported similar issues, indicating it may be a common defect.
festoolownersgroup.com
Issues with Festool Hose Carriers
Common Problems
Many users have reported that the hose carriers on Festool products, particularly the midi vac models, are made from brittle plastic. This material tends to break down over time, especially if the carrier is stored in environments like garages where temperature fluctuations can occur.
User Experiences
- Durability Concerns: Users have noted that the plastic becomes super brittle, leading to cracks and complete breakage.
- Replacement Options: When users contact Festool regarding these issues, they are often directed to purchase a new hose carrier, as there are no widely available aftermarket replacements.
Recommendations
If you are experiencing issues with a brittle hose carrier, consider the following:
- Contact Festool: Reach out to their customer service for potential solutions or warranty options.
- DIY Repairs: Some users have attempted to repair the broken parts using epoxy or other materials, though this may only be a temporary fix.
Conclusion
The brittleness of the plastic used in Festool hose carriers is a common complaint. If you encounter this issue, contacting Festool for a replacement or exploring DIY repair options may be necessary."
festoolownersgroup.com