1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your STANLEY FATMAX FMEW204K-QS 1010W Belt Sander. Please read these instructions carefully before using the tool and keep them for future reference. The FMEW204K-QS is designed for sanding large wooden surfaces with its powerful 1010W motor and a belt speed of up to 390 meters per minute.
2. Safety Instructions
WARNING: Always follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and personal injury.
- Read All Instructions: Familiarize yourself with the tool's controls and proper usage.
- Wear Eye Protection: Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields.
- Wear Respiratory Protection: Use a dust mask, especially when sanding wood, to prevent inhalation of fine particles.
- Secure Workpiece: Always clamp or otherwise secure the workpiece to prevent movement during sanding.
- Maintain a Clean Work Area: Cluttered areas invite accidents.
- Avoid Dangerous Environments: Do not use power tools in damp or wet locations, or expose them to rain.
- Keep Children Away: All visitors should be kept at a safe distance from the work area.
- Dress Properly: Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long hair.
- Disconnect Power: Always disconnect the sander from the power source before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the tool.
- Use the Right Tool: Do not force a small tool or attachment to do the job of a heavy-duty tool.
- Check for Damaged Parts: Before further use of the tool, a guard or other part that is damaged should be carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function.
3. Package Contents
Upon unpacking, ensure all items listed below are present and undamaged. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact your retailer immediately.
- STANLEY FATMAX FMEW204K-QS Belt Sander
- 1 x Sanding Belt (533 x 76 mm)
- Dust Collection Bag
- Durable Storage Case

Image: The STANLEY FATMAX FMEW204K-QS Belt Sander, a sanding belt, and the dust collection bag neatly stored within its robust black carrying case.
4. Product Overview
The STANLEY FATMAX FMEW204K-QS Belt Sander features a robust design for intensive use, incorporating user comfort and efficient dust management.

Image: Top-down view of the STANLEY FATMAX FMEW204K-QS Belt Sander, highlighting its yellow and black design, ergonomic handles, and attached dust collection bag.

Image: Side view of the belt sander, illustrating the main handle with soft grip, the power cord connection, and the belt tracking adjustment knob.
Key Components:
- Main Handle: Ergonomically designed with soft grip for comfort and vibration absorption.
- Auxiliary Handle: Provides additional control and stability during operation.
- Power Switch: For turning the sander on and off.
- Variable Speed Control Dial: Allows adjustment of belt speed to suit different materials.
- Belt Release Lever: For quick and easy sanding belt changes.
- Belt Tracking Adjustment Knob: Ensures the sanding belt remains centered on the rollers.
- Dust Collection Port: Connects to the dust bag or an external vacuum system for efficient dust management.
- Sanding Belt: The abrasive surface for material removal.
5. Setup
5.1 Attaching the Sanding Belt
- Ensure the sander is unplugged from the power source.
- Locate the belt release lever, typically on the side of the sander.
- Push or pull the lever to release tension on the sanding belt rollers.
- Slide the new sanding belt onto the rollers, ensuring the arrow on the inside of the belt matches the direction of rotation arrow on the sander.
- Release the belt tension lever to secure the belt in place.
5.2 Adjusting Belt Tracking
After installing a new belt, it is crucial to adjust the belt tracking to prevent the belt from running off the rollers or rubbing against the sander housing.
- Plug in the sander.
- Hold the sander away from any workpiece and turn it on briefly.
- Observe the sanding belt. If it moves towards one side, turn the belt tracking adjustment knob (usually located at the front or side) slightly in the opposite direction.
- Repeat this process until the belt runs centrally on the rollers.
- Unplug the sander once tracking is correctly adjusted.
5.3 Connecting the Dust Bag
The dust collection bag helps maintain a clean work area and reduces airborne dust.
- Locate the dust collection port on the sander.
- Slide the dust bag onto the port, ensuring a snug fit.
- Empty the dust bag regularly for optimal dust collection efficiency. An external vacuum system can also be connected to the port for enhanced dust extraction.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Powering On/Off and Speed Control
- Ensure the sander is properly set up and the workpiece is secured.
- Plug the sander into a suitable power outlet.
- Adjust the variable speed control dial to the desired setting. Lower speeds are suitable for fine finishing or heat-sensitive materials, while higher speeds are for rapid material removal.
- To turn on, press the power switch. Some models may have a lock-on button for continuous operation.
- To turn off, release the power switch (or press the lock-on button again if engaged).
6.2 Sanding Techniques
Proper technique ensures efficient sanding and a smooth finish.
- Start with Coarse Grit: Begin with a coarser grit belt for heavy material removal and progress to finer grits for a smoother finish.
- Maintain Even Pressure: Apply light, even pressure across the sanding surface. Do not press down excessively, as this can overload the motor and damage the workpiece or belt.
- Move with the Grain: Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to prevent scratches and achieve a professional finish.
- Overlap Passes: Make overlapping passes to ensure uniform sanding across the entire surface.
- Avoid Dwelling: Do not allow the sander to remain stationary on the workpiece while running, as this can create depressions or burn marks.

Image: A user operating the STANLEY FATMAX belt sander on a wooden door, demonstrating typical outdoor sanding application.

Image: An individual using the STANLEY FATMAX belt sander to smooth a wooden floor indoors, showcasing its versatility for various surfaces.

Image: A person sanding a white-painted table with the STANLEY FATMAX belt sander, illustrating its use for furniture refinishing.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your belt sander.
7.1 Cleaning
- Always unplug the tool before cleaning.
- Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean dust and debris from the ventilation openings and around the sanding belt area.
- Wipe the exterior of the tool with a damp cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents.
- Empty the dust bag after each use or when it is approximately two-thirds full.
7.2 Belt Replacement
Replace sanding belts when they become worn, torn, or no longer effectively remove material. Refer to Section 5.1 for detailed instructions on attaching a new belt.
7.3 Storage
- Store the sander in its original case in a dry, secure location, out of reach of children.
- Ensure the power cord is neatly coiled and not kinked.
8. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your belt sander.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Sander does not start | No power supply; Faulty power cord/plug; Faulty switch | Check power outlet; Inspect cord/plug for damage; Contact service center |
| Sanding belt runs off center | Incorrect belt tracking adjustment | Adjust belt tracking knob (refer to Section 5.2) |
| Poor material removal | Worn sanding belt; Incorrect grit for material; Insufficient pressure | Replace sanding belt; Use appropriate grit; Apply light, even pressure |
| Excessive dust | Dust bag full or improperly attached; Clogged dust port | Empty/re-attach dust bag; Clear dust port |
| Sander overheats | Blocked ventilation slots; Overloading the tool | Clean ventilation slots; Reduce pressure and allow tool to cool |
If you encounter problems not listed here or if solutions do not resolve the issue, please contact STANLEY FATMAX customer support or an authorized service center.
9. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the STANLEY FATMAX FMEW204K-QS Belt Sander:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | FMEW204K-QS |
| Manufacturer | StanleyBlack&Decker |
| Power | 1010 Watts |
| Voltage | 230 Volts |
| Power Source | AC Current |
| Belt Speed (Max) | 390 m/min |
| Sanding Belt Size | 533 x 76 mm |
| Grit (Included) | 36 (Extra Coarse) |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 40 x 23 x 33.5 cm |
| Item Weight | 5 Kilograms |
| Color | Black / Yellow |
| Included Components | Sander, 1 sanding belt, case |
| International Article Code | 05035048705780 |
10. Warranty and Support
STANLEY FATMAX products are designed for durability and performance. This product comes with a standard warranty. An extended 3-year warranty is available upon registration on the manufacturer's official website.
For warranty claims, technical support, or to find an authorized service center, please visit the official STANLEY FATMAX website or contact their customer service department.
Official Website: www.stanleytools.com
Note: Availability of spare parts information is currently unavailable.





