Question
Why tool has recently suffered water damage. What should I do?
Answer
If your electric power tools have been submerged in water for an extended period of time, it is very important that you properly clean, dry, and safety test them before attempting to put them to use. Water is an extremely effective conductor of electricity and failure to properly inspect and test your electric tool could result in an unsafe and dangerous situation. Water contamination can have a detrimental effect on both the electrical and mechanical portions of the tool; therefore a complete examination is required prior to using your tool. We strongly encourage this evaluation and testing be performed by a Bosch Factory or Authorized Service Center or qualified electric motor repair facility.
Electrical:
The motor, including the armature, field, brushes, and springs should be completely disassembled and blown off with clean, dry compressed air. Armatures and fields should be safety tested using a high voltage test according to manufacturer’s and UL specifications Brush springs or holders that appear rusted should be replaced All wiring connections, including field and switch leads, must be clean and dry Make sure to blow out all cavities in the motor housing where moisture can be trapped Clean, dry, and repack bearings. Sealed bearings that run rough should be replaced Inspect the power cord for any sign of water contamination such as swelling or discoloration and replace if necessary. The complete tool must be safety tested before use with a high voltage test according to manufacturer’s and UL specifications
Mechanical
Clean and re-lubricate the gear box according to manufacturers specifications Clean, dry, and repack bearings. Sealed bearings that run rough should be replaced Chucks, bit, and blade holders can be sprayed with a WD-40 type lubricant and then blown off with clean dry compressed air. Check circular saw lower guards, these should move freely and close quickly. If not working properly replace lower guard and bearing plate – do not lubricate or apply oil.
Batteries and Chargers, Cordless Tools
Battery packs have internal cells and connections that can become corroded and/or rust when water enters the case through a vent hole. Such batteries will exhibit lower power and have reduced capacity to be charged. The vent holes may also become clogged and non-functional. Batteries have no serviceable internal components and must therefore be replaced under such conditions. Chargers: Blow off exposed terminals with clean, dry compressed air and allow to sit for 48 hours, longer if possible, to allow for evaporation.
Bosch Factory Service Centers in Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, Houston and Walnut Ridge AR are fully staffed and ready to assist with rebuilding efforts in the flood-affected areas. From now until October 28, 2005, we will provide your Bosch, Skil or RotoZip® tool with the inspection and testing services explained above at no charge to you, plus pay any return freight (If parts are needed, they will be quoted prior to proceeding). Contact your local Bosch Factory Service Center for full details or call RotoZip by Bosch Customer Relations at 1-877-ROTOZIP (1-877-768-6947).