Rotex randomly turning off

[nvalinski]

I have a 9 year old Rotex that has definitely seen some use over the years (bought it used off of a stonework shop). Mid flooring project, I am having issues where it doesn't have as much power as it used to and will randomly shut off. Letting it sit and cool down only allows it to run a little longer. Replacing the brushes made no difference. Is this something that I'll likely need to send in for service, or is there another component someone can recommend that might solve the issue?

 

[Cheese]

Concrete/stone guys are notoriously tough on their equipment and the dust generated certainly doesn’t help.

There are probably some bearing issues and I’d just pack it up and ask for a Festool overhaul.

You could try just blowing it out with compressed air...but at this time I think you’re only trying to cheat the devil.  [smile]

 

[nvalinski]

[member=44099]Cheese[/member] definitely agree with that last statement. Think it's worth the price of an overhaul over a new unit? Not sure how much that'd run me.

 

[scbucc]

Take a look at the connection of the plug it cord.  if the contact points are black or darkening it could be residue compromising the power supply.  Try using another plug it cord if you have one.

 

[RKA]

Agree on checking the plug it cord.  But if you see discolored pins, toss the cord and replace to connector on the tool as well.  Once the contacts are compromised, they need to be replaced, both male and female. 

 

[AlexThePalex]

Indeed, the first thing I would check now, to be sure, is the Plug-It cord. It doesn't have to be the cause of what you describe, but it could, and if it is, it is the cheapest way to solve your issue.

Open up the tool from the back (I believe just 2 screws), and see where the wires of the plug it connector go, unscrew them, and connect another, standard mains cord to those two terminals. Place the plastic shell back, and see if the Rotex works as it should or if it still has issues. At least now you've eliminated the Plug-It cord as a cause.

But if that's not it, you probably have some serious wear and tear, and this needs some Festool TLC.

 

[Cheese]

[member=44099]Cheese[/member] definitely agree with that last statement. Think it's worth the price of an overhaul over a new unit? Not sure how much that'd run me.

I pulled up a RO 150 on EKAT to look at parts & prices.

If it is the power socket housing for the Plug-It cord, item 5, that's only $5.56.

Main on/off switch, item 3 is $19.48

The electronics package, item 48 is $44.72

If you send it into Festool I assume they will replace all of the bearings as that's just a good practice, there are 3 bearings which are easily replaced which comes to $47.

However, if all 5 of the bearings are bad/replaced there are an additional pair of bearings, not available separately, that are part of the armature assembly which is $116.27.

So the cheapest out is $5.56 plus labor.

However if all 5 bearings are replaced it starts at $163 plus labor plus any electronic parts if needed.

Like others have said, check the Plug-it connector and the cord you use with the RO for burn marks on the contacts. You may get lucky.