How to Replace the Potentiometer on a DeWALT Polisher

The potentiometer works with the switch to vary your polisher's speed. It sets the polisher's maximum speed; the variable speed switch then adjusts the speed from zero to the speed set by the potentiometer. Over time, the potentiometer can fail. When this happens, it might become stuck on one speed, or the speeds might fluctuate across the range.

Let's get started.

REMOVING THE POTENTIOMETER   1. Remove the top half of the handle.

a. Remove the screws securing the top half of the handle to the lower half.

b. Lift the top half of the handle away from the lower half.

  2. Remove the potentiometer.

a. Remove the two screws securing the potentiometer to the lower handle.

b. Lift the potentiometer out of the lower handle.

c. Use long-nosed pliers to disconnect the wiring harness from the potentiometer.

INSTALLING THE NEW POTENTIOMETER

  3. Install the potentiometer.

a. Connect the wiring harness to the new potentiometer.

b. Install the potentiometer into the lower handle.

c. Secure the potentiometer with the two screws.

REASSEMBLING THE UNIT

  4. Reinstall the top of the handle.

a. Tuck any exposed wires into the lower handle.

b. Install the top half of the handle.

c. Secure the top half of the handle with the screws.