Newish (Jan 2025) Kapex KS120 REB brushes sparking

[samsmith93]

I recently purchased second hand a KS120. There is significant sparking on the motor. No smoking or smelling, a bit rough on startup like some of their tools are, but runs ok once up to speed, just sparks a lot.

It's my first Kapex, I dont know if this is normal or not. I know that the older ones had issues with armatures etc, but as I understand the new ones don't have the same issues.

Grateful for any advice

 

[onocoffee]

I'm inclined to think that it's normal (my TS55 is also a brushed motor and it growls like and Angry German to my ears), but if you record a short video of what you're hearing, the others with a KS120 can offer better guidance.

 

[samsmith93]

Thankyou, yes my TS55 growls, but it doesn't spark, whereas this thing literally sparks!

I will upload a video later this week when I am home to see what people think.

 

[Nisbeth]

My Dewalt tablesaw did the same (to a point where I considered sending it back). I can't remember the reason I found, but suffice to say it should disappear once the brushes wear a little.

Edit: Sorry, misread the "second hand"-part. If the brushes aren't new it's not likely to be the same issue

 

[Michael Kellough]

It’s hard to tell, brand new brushes spark more than those that have worn in to match the commutator.

 

[luvmytoolz]

Can you see any wear on the armature where the brushes make contact?

And do the brushes look good on the ends?

It's quite likely to be normal, my OF1400 threw heaps of sparks when I first got it, and still does to a degree. My KS120 also still does a bit after 15 years.