Dewalt DWE4151 Questions

Phil W.4y

why dose the speed regulator get hot when only plugged in and not in use, and isn't this dangers ??!!

harmo 4y

Hi Phil, I have the DWE4151-XE (I presume that's the same model). Mine does not have a speed control, merely an sliding on/off switch. Are you sure that you have a 4151? After a quick search, I've found no record of one with a speed control.

Assuming your speed dial/wheel/selector switch is getting hot BEFORE you run the grinder (just passively power it without turning the motor on) then I have a couple of ideas:

It seems unlikely that ANYTHING should be getting hot before spinning up the motor. It's possible that some metal debris has gotten into the grinder through the air vents and is causing trouble.

In no particular order of complexity or recommended practices:

1. Try blasting the air vents with a compressor, or even running a shop vac on it to see if you can clean it out a little.

2. If it's out of warranty, and you're "electrically savvy, and capable of dismantling and reassembling tools, (or know someone who is) it might be worth taking it apart, cleaning it out thoroughly, lubricating, and reassembling.

3. If you have access to a "electrical test and tag" machine (either through work or a contractor), it might be worth checking it with that. A lot of these tools can get shorts through debris, broken parts due to vibration/sudden shocks... and there's always loose connections, and manufacturing defects.

4. Of course, you can get it checked out at the nearest service centre. If it's out of warranty, then they'll charge you, and if it is within the warranty period... there's the risk that whatever fault may be blamed on you... even if you didn't do anything wrong... depends on the technician. DeWalt has a somewhat checkered reputation on this front. I've never claimed on warranty as all my DeWalt gear has outlasted that period for years... but I know people who have complained extensively... and emphatically.

5. If you have access to an infra-red thermal camera (or know someone who does) get some shots of it, and contact your nearest repair centre. It'll at least prove there's a thermal difference, and may help to resolve the issue.

I hope this helps! Harmo.