Hercules HE0511 - User Manual

Questions and Answers

J
John AriasAug 4, 2025
Why doesn't my Hercules Grinder grind effectively?
- K
  kimberly65Aug 4, 2025
  If your Hercules Grinder does not grind, sand, or brush effectively, consider the following: 1. The disc accessory may be loose on the spindle. Ensure the disc accessory is the correct dimension and the flange arbor nut is tight. 2. The disc accessory may be damaged, worn, or the wrong type for the material. Check the condition and type of disc accessory and use only the proper type in good condition.
K
Kenneth HallAug 8, 2025
How to fix a Hercules HE0511 Grinder that won't start?
- H
  Herbert HillAug 9, 2025
  If your Hercules Grinder won't start, there are several potential causes: 1. The cord may not be properly connected. Ensure it's securely plugged in. 2. There might be no power at the outlet. Check the outlet and, if it's unpowered, check the circuit breaker. If the breaker is tripped, ensure the circuit has the correct capacity for the tool and isn't overloaded. 3. The tool's thermal reset breaker might have tripped. Turn off the tool, let it cool down, and then press the reset button on the tool. 4. There could be internal damage or wear. In this case, have a qualified technician service the Hercules Grinder.
N
natalie81Aug 13, 2025
Why is my Hercules Grinder overheating?
- W
  Wayne PriceAug 13, 2025
  If your Hercules Grinder is overheating, consider the following: 1. You might be forcing the tool to work too fast. Allow the tool to work at its own pace. 2. The motor housing vents could be blocked. Wear ANSI-approved safety goggles and a NIOSH-approved dust mask/respirator while using compressed air to blow dust out of the motor. 3. The motor might be strained by a long or small diameter extension cord. Try eliminating the extension cord. If you need one, use the correct diameter for its length and load.
D
Doris BradleyAug 19, 2025
What to do if my Hercules HE0511 Grinder operates slowly?
- R
  rhonda30Aug 19, 2025
  If your Hercules Grinder operates slowly, it might be due to: 1. Excessive pressure being applied to the workpiece. Decrease the pressure and allow the tool to do the work. 2. Power reduction caused by a long or small diameter extension cord. Eliminate the use of an extension cord, or use one with the proper diameter for its length and load.
D
Danielle ChandlerAug 25, 2025
Why does the performance of my Hercules Grinder decrease over time?
- L
  Lee BeltranAug 25, 2025
  If the performance of your Hercules Grinder decreases over time, the carbon brushes may be worn or damaged. In this case, have a qualified technician replace them.
K
Karen PerryAug 29, 2025
What causes excessive noise in a Hercules HE0511?
- A
  Alexis MendozaAug 29, 2025
  If your Hercules Grinder is making excessive noise or rattling sounds, it could be due to internal damage or wear, such as with the carbon brushes or bearings. Have a technician service the tool.

Summary

Safety Information

General Power Tool Safety

Covers essential safety practices for operating corded power tools, emphasizing user protection and accident prevention.

Electrical Grounding

Grounded Tool Connections

Details requirements for grounding tools with three-prong plugs for electrical safety and shock prevention.

Setup and Preparation

Assembly and Mounting

Instructions for securing the grinder to a workbench using mounting holes and hardware.

Operating the Grinder

Tool Setup Procedures

Steps for preparing the tool for operation, including safety checks and initial setup procedures.

Grinding Wheel Replacement

Detailed guide on how to safely remove and install grinding wheels, including specifications.

Work Area and Workpiece Setup

General Operating Instructions

Instructions on how to operate the bench grinder, including speed control and workpiece application.

Maintenance and Servicing

Cleaning, Maintenance, and Lubrication

Procedures for keeping the tool in good working order through regular cleaning and lubrication.

This document is an Owner's Manual & Safety Instructions guide for the HERCULES Model HE0511, an 8" 5 Amp Variable Speed Bench Grinder with Worklight.

Function Description:

The HERCULES Model HE0511 is a bench grinder designed for various grinding tasks. It features a variable speed motor and an integrated worklight to illuminate the workpiece. The grinder is equipped with two grinding wheels, work rests, and eye shields for user safety. It is intended for edge grinding, not surface grinding. The tool is designed to be mounted to a stable workbench for secure operation.

Important Technical Specifications:

Electrical Rating: 120 VAC / 60 Hz / 5 A
No Load Speed: 2,000 - 3,400 RPM (Variable Speed)
Max. Accessory Diameter: 8"
Arbor Size: 5/8"
Grinding Wheel Requirements:
- Rated to at least 2,000 - 3,400 RPM
- No larger than 8" (203.2 mm) in diameter
- Fitted with a 5/8" round arbor hole
- 1" thick
- Suitable for edge grinding, not surface grinding
- Dry and clean
- Proven undamaged by inspection and by the ring-test

Usage Features:

Variable Speed Control: The grinder features a variable speed knob, allowing the user to adjust the tool's speed for different applications.
Worklight: An integrated LED light illuminates the work area, improving visibility during operation.
Adjustable Work Rests: The work rests (64, 69) can be adjusted to maintain a 0.125 inch or less separation from the grinding wheel (32, 35) as its diameter decreases with use.
Spark Guards: Adjustable spark guards (60, 67) are provided to protect the user from sparks and debris, and should be set within 1/16" (0.0625") of the grinding wheel.
Eye Shields: Two eye shields (55) are attached to the spark guards, offering additional eye protection. These should always be used.
Mounting: The grinder has two mounting holes in its base (10) for attachment to a stable workbench, ensuring stability and safety during use.
Safety Key: The power switch (4) requires a safety key for operation, helping to prevent unintentional starting.
Grounding: The tool is equipped with a 3-prong grounding plug (14) and requires a matching, properly installed and grounded outlet (125 VAC 3-Prong Plug and Outlet, for up to 125 VAC and up to 15 A) to prevent electric shock.
Extension Cords: If an extension cord is necessary, it must be a 3-wire cord with a 3-prong grounding plug and 3-pole receptacle, and of an appropriate gauge (refer to Table A in the manual) to prevent power loss and overheating.
Workpiece Application: Workpieces should be applied to the wheel against the direction of rotation of the blade or cutter only, allowing the tool to operate at full speed. Lighter pressure should be used if the tool bogs down. Moving the workpiece over the wheel helps create a smoother surface.

Maintenance Features:

General Inspection (Before Each Use): Users should inspect the tool for loose hardware, misalignment or binding of moving parts, damaged cord/electrical wiring, cracked or broken parts, and any other condition that may affect safe operation.
Cleaning (After Use): External surfaces of the tool should be wiped with a clean cloth. Periodically, dust and grit should be blown out of the motor vents using dry compressed air, while wearing ANSI-approved safety goggles and NIOSH-approved breathing protection.
Grinding Wheel Replacement: The manual provides detailed instructions for replacing grinding wheels, including a "ring-test" procedure to check for undamaged wheels before mounting. Gaskets (blotters) or metal gaskets must be used with grinding wheels to prevent damage and slippage. The flange nut (33, 20) should be tightened only enough to securely hold the wheel, avoiding overtightening which can cause damage and failure.
Work Rest Adjustment: Work rests (64, 69) must be adjusted to maintain a 1/16" (0.0625") gap from the grinding wheel as it wears down.
Spark Guard Adjustment: Spark guards (60, 67) must also be adjusted to maintain a 1/16" (0.0625") gap from the grinding wheel.
Damaged Parts: Any damaged guard or part must be carefully checked and properly repaired or replaced before further use of the tool.
Professional Servicing: Procedures not specifically explained in the manual, such as replacing carbon brushes or addressing internal damage, must be performed only by a qualified technician. If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by a qualified service technician.
Labels and Nameplates: Maintain labels and nameplates on the tool; contact Harbor Freight Tools for replacements if unreadable or missing.

Safety Information Highlights:

The manual emphasizes numerous general power tool safety warnings, including:

Keeping guards in place and in working order.
Removing adjusting keys and wrenches before turning on the tool.
Maintaining a clean and well-lit work area.
Avoiding dangerous environments (damp, wet, or rainy locations).
Keeping children and visitors a safe distance from the work area.
Making the workshop kid-proof.
Not forcing the tool and using the right tool for the job.
Using proper extension cords of adequate gauge.
Wearing proper apparel (no loose clothing, jewelry) and protective hair covering.
Always using safety glasses (ANSI-approved) and a face/dust mask if dusty.
Securing work with clamps or a vise.
Maintaining proper footing and balance.
Maintaining tools with care.
Disconnecting tools before servicing or changing accessories.
Ensuring the switch is in the off position before plugging in.
Using only recommended accessories.
Never standing on the tool.
Checking damaged parts before use.
Feeding work against the direction of rotation.
Never leaving the tool running unattended.
Vibration safety precautions, including medical check-ups for regular users, avoiding use by pregnant women or individuals with circulatory/nervous system disorders, wearing suitable gloves, and maintaining the tool to reduce vibration.
People with pacemakers should consult their physician before use due to electromagnetic fields.
The importance of common sense and caution as factors that cannot be built into the product but must be supplied by the operator.