switch failure

[Jbridge337]

Hi, the switch on my BT3100-1 quit on me the other day. It would not turn off the saw. Fortunately I was aware of the potential problem so it didn't come as much of a surprise as it could of had I not read about it here.

The question I had is regarding repairs etc. I placed a call to Mr. Hill (waiting for voice mail to be returned) who was listed by name in these forums as being helpful in having a replacement switch sent. I also filled out the form online with the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Has anyone dealt with this issue recently that might be able to shed some light on the best way to remedy the situation?

Thanks in advance.

Jim Bridgeman

[LCHIEN]

from a technical point of view, if the same swicth design is to be used, one of the things that could help somewhat is paralleling the unused second pole in the swith with the used pole, that would distribute the current over two sets of contacts instead of one.

OTOH, if the contacts did not close exactly simultaneously, one would still get pitted... So there's a chance that it might not help at all.

Does that help any?

[Jbridge337]

Thanks for the reply. I have seen mention of the rewiring the Ryobi switch that you mentioned, so if and when I get a replacement from Ryobi I will investigate that option further.

As a follow up question, if my intentions are to keep the saw (occasionally used) what would the ideal relatively low cost (still safe) repair be? I have done some very minor electrical work (adding fixture in unfinished basement, replacing wall outlet). I would assume the lowest cost option, short of getting a replacement from Ryobi, would be to buy a switch box, switch, etc. from the BORG add a new switch.

I recall seeing some mention of someone who rewired a switch and located it to the left side, but I don't remember seeing any specifics on how that was accomplished.

Thanks in advance.

Jim

[pelligrini]

Grainger is a pretty good source for switches.

[Jbridge337]

update info on switch failure

I just received a call from Wayne Hill of Techtronics who called as a result of the information I submitted to the CPSC. He told me that the problem with the switch was apparently addressed and fixed sometime in 2005. My saw is a BT3100-1 that was purchased in 2004.

Anyway, he is sending out a replacement switch for me today. He asked me to compare the two so he can make sure the switch that failed is one that they are already aware of having a problem.

The number he gave me which he said he would be happy for me to share with others is 1-800-944-9577.

I hope this information might be useful to anyone else who may encounter the same problem.

Jim

[shortygeo]

switch failure

My switch failed last week, but I was unaware of a problem - kind of scaring when the saw won't turn off till the plug is pulled.

I purchased my saw in April of '06 Was the problem really fixed in '05?

I have a call in to Mr. Hill to find out. Where did you get the form for the CPSC?

I ordered a new switch through the Ryobi site ( Gardner). How can I tell if the new switch is the upgraded one?

Thanks for the info you put on this thread.

George

[Jbridge337]

here is the link for the cpsc form

https://www.cpsc.gov/cgibin/incident.aspx

The '05 date is based on information Mr. Hill relayed to me. That is based on date of manufacture. It is possible that although your purchase was made in '06, the saw was manufactured in '05.

You may want to cancel your order if it is not too late. Mr. Hill didn't hesitate to send a replacement switch that is supposed to be free from problems at no cost.

Good luck.

Jim

My switch failed last week, but I was unaware of a problem - kind of scaring when the saw won't turn off till the plug is pulled.

I purchased my saw in April of '06 Was the problem really fixed in '05?

I have a call in to Mr. Hill to find out. Where did you get the form for the CPSC?

I ordered a new switch through the Ryobi site ( Gardner). How can I tell if the new switch is the upgraded one?

Thanks for the info you put on this thread.

George

[Westex93]

Thanks for the info and the phone number! I wasn't aware this was a recurring issue, mine went out some time back. So is there really any benefit to filling out the cpsc form?

[LCHIEN]

Thanks for the info and the phone number! I wasn't aware this was a recurring issue, mine went out some time back. So is there really any benefit to filling out the cpsc form?

There's a design defect hazard if its a common problem that leaves the saw running and unable to shut off.
For you there's no advantage to filing the CPSC form but for others who may not know, a large number of recurring complaints will cause the CPSC to request Ryobi to make a recall, publicize the problem and get new switches out to many more people, possibly saving some one a dangerous situation. So do it to protect someone else - you did not know because Ryobi has not yet been forced to make a recall. Don't let it be a surprise to others.

[Westex93]

Thanks, Loring. Will do!

[COTCJIM]

Thanks for the info. My switch failed a month or so ago and I was just about to order a new one. But after reading your post, I filled out the CPSC form and will call the number you gave if I don't hear from them first.

[Wayne Hill]

Hi George,
This is Wayne Hill. I suggest you cancel the switch you have ordered from Gardner. I haven't received you voice mail yet but I will be happy to send you a replacement switch if you will provide your address with phone number. The switch will be shipped FedEx and they require the phone number. Your vintage switch had two major problems; insufficient spring pressure on the release and insufficient plating on the switch contacts. These issues were corrected with dates codes in mid 2005. We reported this problem to the CPSC earlier this year and we are continuing to monitor under their review. This forum has been the best way to get the word out - Wayne Hill

[Wayne Hill]

Hi COTCJIM,
Just call me and leave your number on my service and I will send you a new switch - no charge. I will need phone number for Fed Ex shipment. The switch was corrected in mid 2005, I would appreciate knowing your serial number.
Wayne Hill
800.944.9577

[Wayne Hill]

Hi Jim,
I trust your new switch has arrived and all is well. Your new switch has improved spring pressure on the releasae and improved plating on the contacts. Please let me know if you experience further switch problems.
Wayne Hill

[billwmeyer]

Mr Hill,
Welcome to the forum! I am impressed with your service. I have a BT3000 and have had absolutely no problems with it whatsoever.
Bill