RUPES LHR21 Mark III BigFoot Random Orbital Polisher Instruction Manual

Introduction

This instruction manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your RUPES LHR21 Mark III BigFoot Random Orbital Polisher. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the tool and retain it for future reference.

The RUPES LHR21 Mark III is a high-performance random orbital polisher designed for automotive detailing and surface finishing. Its 21mm orbit and powerful motor are optimized for working on large surface areas, delivering efficient defect removal and a high-gloss finish.

Safety Information

Always observe basic safety precautions when using electrical tools to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury. Keep your work area clean and well-lit. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection, hearing protection, and gloves.

• Ensure the power switch is in the OFF position before connecting to a power source.
• Keep hands and loose clothing away from moving parts.
• Do not force the tool; let the tool do the work at the appropriate speed setting.
• Disconnect the polisher from the power supply before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the tool.
• Use only RUPES-approved accessories and backing plates.

Setup

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the polisher and all accessories from the packaging. Inspect for any damage that may have occurred during shipping.
2. Attaching the Backing Plate: The LHR21 Mark III typically comes with a 150mm (6-inch) backing plate (part number 981.321N). Align the backing plate with the spindle and thread it clockwise until it is securely fastened. Use the provided wrench (if applicable) to tighten it firmly.
3. Attaching the Polishing Pad: Select the appropriate RUPES BigFoot polishing pad for your application. Center the pad onto the hook-and-loop surface of the backing plate, ensuring it is firmly attached and centered.
4. Power Connection: Ensure the polisher's speed control dial is set to '0' and the progressive trigger is not engaged. Connect the power cord to a suitable 12-volt electrical outlet.

Figure 1: The RUPES LHR21 Mark III BigFoot Random Orbital Polisher with backing plate and pad attached.

Operating Instructions

1. Powering On: With the polisher connected to power, set the desired initial speed using the electronic speed control dial. The dial typically ranges from 1 to 6, with '1' being the lowest speed and '6' being the highest.
2. Progressive Trigger: The LHR21 Mark III features a progressive trigger. Squeeze the trigger gently to start the polisher at a low speed, and increase pressure to gradually increase the speed up to the level set by the speed control dial. This allows for precise control during startup and operation.
3. Applying Product: Apply a small amount of polishing compound or wax directly to the polishing pad or the surface to be treated.
4. Polishing Technique:
   • Place the pad flat on the surface before engaging the trigger.
   • Start the polisher at a low speed using the progressive trigger, then gradually increase to the desired operating speed.
   • Move the polisher in overlapping passes, maintaining even pressure across the pad. Avoid tilting the polisher, which can concentrate pressure and heat.
   • The random orbital motion, combined with the anti-spinning feature, helps prevent holograms and swirl marks, making it suitable for all paint types.
5. Powering Off: Release the progressive trigger to stop the polisher. For complete power disconnection, turn the speed control dial to '0' and unplug the tool from the power source.

Figure 2: Electronic speed control dial for adjusting RPM.

Figure 3: The progressive trigger allows for gradual speed increase.

Figure 4: Demonstrating proper handling and application on a vehicle surface.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: After each use, wipe down the polisher body with a clean, damp cloth to remove any compound residue or dust. Ensure ventilation grilles are clear of debris.
• Pad Care: Regularly clean or replace polishing pads as needed. Dirty or worn pads can reduce performance and potentially scratch surfaces.
• Cord Inspection: Periodically inspect the power cord for any signs of damage, cuts, or fraying. If damaged, have it replaced by a qualified technician.
• Storage: Store the polisher in a clean, dry place, out of reach of children and away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

• Polisher does not turn on:
  • Check if the power cord is securely plugged into a working outlet.
  • Ensure the speed control dial is set to a number greater than '0'.
  • Verify that the progressive trigger is fully engaged.
• Excessive vibration or noise:
  • Check if the backing plate is securely tightened.
  • Ensure the polishing pad is centered and not damaged or worn unevenly.
  • If the issue persists, discontinue use and contact RUPES customer support.
• Poor polishing results:
  • Ensure you are using the correct pad and compound combination for the task.
  • Verify that the pad is clean and not saturated with old product.
  • Adjust speed and pressure according to the product instructions and surface condition.

Specifications

Figure 5: Front and side views illustrating the polisher's design and components.

Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, product registration, and technical support, please visit the official RUPES website or contact RUPES customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.