RIDGID 76188 FlexShaft K9-12 Drain Cleaning Machine User Manual

1. Important Safety Information

Read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before operating this drain cleaning machine. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.

General Safety

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
• Ensure the work area is well-lit and clear of obstructions.
• Keep children and bystanders away while operating the machine.
• Do not operate the machine in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust.

Electrical Safety

• This machine is powered by a standard cordless drill (not included). Ensure the drill is in good working condition and properly grounded if applicable.
• Do not expose the machine or drill to rain or wet conditions. Water entering the machine or drill will increase the risk of electric shock.

2. Product Overview

The RIDGID FlexShaft K9-12 is a compact drain cleaning machine designed for efficient cleaning of 1 1/4" to 2" (32 to 50 mm) drain lines up to 30 feet (9.1 meters) long. It utilizes a flexible cable with chain knockers to clear soft blockages.

Components

• FlexShaft K9-12 Drain Cleaning Machine
• Integrated FlexShaft Cable (30 ft / 9.1 m)
• Chain Knocker (pre-installed)
• Hex Key
• Manual Pack

Figure 2.1: Front view of the RIDGID FlexShaft K9-12 Drain Cleaning Machine, showing the red FlexShaft cable extended with a chain knocker attachment.

3. Setup

Proper setup ensures safe and effective operation of your FlexShaft K9-12 machine.

Preparation

1. Place the FlexShaft K9-12 machine on a stable, flat surface near the drain opening.
2. Ensure the drain opening is accessible and clear of any large debris that could obstruct the cable entry.
3. Wear appropriate PPE, including safety glasses and gloves.

Connecting to a Cordless Drill

1. Obtain a standard cordless drill with a recommended operating speed of 1800 - 2500 RPM. The drill is not included with the machine.
2. Locate the drive shaft on the side of the FlexShaft K9-12 machine.
3. Insert the drive shaft into the chuck of your cordless drill.
4. Tighten the drill chuck securely around the drive shaft to prevent slippage during operation.

Figure 3.1: A user connecting a cordless drill to the FlexShaft K9-12 machine, positioned next to a shower drain for cleaning.

4. Operating Instructions

Follow these steps for effective and safe drain cleaning with your FlexShaft K9-12 machine.

General Operation

1. Ensure the drill is set to a forward rotation (clockwise) and a speed between 1800 - 2500 RPM.
2. Slowly feed the FlexShaft cable into the drain opening.
3. Once the chain knocker is inside the pipe, begin operating the drill. The rotating cable will cause the chain knockers to expand and scrape the pipe walls.
4. Continue to feed the cable into the drain, maintaining constant rotation, until the blockage is reached.
5. Work the chain knocker through the blockage by moving the cable back and forth slightly.
6. Once the blockage is cleared, slowly retract the cable while maintaining rotation. This helps to clean the pipe walls on the way out.
7. Turn off the drill and disconnect it from the machine after use.

Clearing Blockages

The FlexShaft K9-12 is designed to clear soft blockages such as grease, hair, and other debris in pipes ranging from 1 1/4" to 2" (32 to 50 mm) in diameter.

• The chain knockers expand to reach wall-to-wall in the pipe, effectively scraping away buildup.
• For stubborn blockages, repeat the process of feeding, rotating, and retracting the cable.
• The enclosed cable design minimizes mess during operation and cleanup.

Figure 4.1: A user operating the FlexShaft K9-12 machine to clear a blockage in a kitchen sink drain.

Figure 4.2: A user operating the FlexShaft K9-12 machine to clear a blockage in a bathtub drain.

Figure 4.3: Diagram showing the chain knocker rotating inside a pipe, effectively cleaning the pipe walls and dislodging debris.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your FlexShaft K9-12 machine.

Cleaning the Machine

• After each use, wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
• Clean the FlexShaft cable and chain knocker thoroughly. Rinse with water and allow to dry completely before retracting the cable into the housing.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on the machine.

Cable Inspection and Storage

• Periodically inspect the FlexShaft cable for any signs of wear, kinks, or damage. Replace the cable if necessary.
• Check the chain knocker for wear or damage. Ensure all chain links are intact and free to move.
• Store the machine in a dry, secure location, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter during the operation of your FlexShaft K9-12 machine.

Cable Not Rotating

• Check Drill Connection: Ensure the drill chuck is securely tightened around the machine's drive shaft.
• Verify Drill Function: Confirm the cordless drill is charged and operating correctly.
• Overload Protection: The machine has an internal mechanical clutch to protect the cable. If the cable encounters excessive resistance, the clutch may slip. Reduce pressure and try again.

Blockage Not Clearing

• Increase RPM: Ensure your drill is operating within the recommended 1800 - 2500 RPM range for maximum cleaning power.
• Repeat Passes: Make several passes through the blockage, slowly feeding and retracting the cable.
• Check Pipe Size: Confirm the pipe diameter is within the 1 1/4" - 2" range. The machine is not designed for larger pipes.
• Type of Blockage: The K9-12 is for soft blockages. Harder obstructions may require different equipment.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

RIDGID products are known for their quality and durability. For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official RIDGID website.

Customer Support

If you have any questions, require technical assistance, or need to order replacement parts, please contact RIDGID customer support. You can find contact information and additional resources on the official RIDGID website.

For more information and support, you can also visit the product-specific page: ridgid.com/qr/k9-12