Remove stubborn pad from RAS 115?

[squall_line]

My RAS 115 has melted hooks all around the perimeter of the pad.  I would like to take it off to replace it, but also so that I can make sure that I'm familiar with taking it apart.

Problem is, I can't get the pad to loosen.

I know the pads on the Rotex sanders can be a bit finicky the first time they're removed, but I figured that was a plastic issue more than just a newness issue.  I can lock the pad and try to turn it on the RAS, but to no avail.  I slapped a P40 Rubin disc on to help my hand gain purchase on the surface of the pad, but still no luck loosening it.

I can't get to the arbor with the spanner because the dust shield blocks everything, which also makes me wonder how this got wrenched on so tightly.

Any thoughts or assistance?  Maybe find a sturdy rubber mat to jam it down on and twist?

And yes, I'm going lefty-loosey, or anti-clockwise for our friends across the pond.

Thanks!

 

[TinyShop]

There's a thin orifice in the dust shield designed to allow the thin wrench to slide in and access the flats on the pad. Just pull the brush out to reveal it.

 

[squall_line]

There's a thin orifice in the dust shield designed to allow the thin wrench to slide in and access the flats on the pad. Just pull the brush out to reveal it.

Worked a treat, thank you!

(In my defense, Paul Marcel's video review shows him removing it with just his hand... And then I checked the manual and saw that it's listed right in there...  [doh])