How to Replace the Paper Clamps on a DeWALT Sander

If it becomes difficult to secure the sand paper to your sheet sander, the paper clamps may need to be replaced. There are two paper clamps on your sander. The paper clamps are made of spring steel, which flexes to hold the sand paper securely in place. Over time, the clamps can weaken and the sand paper will begin to slip off the sanding pad. The metal clamps may also snap or break.

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REMOVING THE PAPER CLAMPS   1. Remove the sanding pad.

a. Unplug the tool.

b. Remove the (4) screws securing the sanding pad to platen.

c. Remove the sanding pad from the platen.

  2. Remove the platen assembly.

a. Pull the platen assembly away from the pad bearing.

  3. Remove the paper clamp(s).

a. Remove the paper clamps from the platen. (The clamps simply lift out of the plastic grooves on the platen assembly.)

INSTALLING THE NEW PAPER CLAMPS

  4. Install the paper clamp(s).

a. Place the new paper clamps in their approximate position on the platen assembly.

b. Use a screwdriver to seat the pivot arms (on the new clamps) into the grooves on the platen.

c. Secure the spring arms (on the new clamps) in the plastic locking tabs on the sides of the platen.

REASSEMBLING THE UNIT

  5. Reinstall the platen.

a. Align the mounting holes (corners) on the platen with the threaded holes on the bottom of the sander.

b. Install and press the platen assembly onto the pad bearing.

  6. Reinstall the sander pad.

a. Install the sanding pad onto the platen.

b. Secure the sanding pad with the four screws.