Dodgy tools from Argos

[a]

Bought a drill (no problems with this) from Argos last week, and also managed to get a set of 4 'Challenge' (IIRC?) tools - cordless drill/cordless screwdriver/sander/jigsaw thrown in for free (I didnt order them, just got automatically added to the order). Now I dont know if this challenge set was just being given away to get rid of stock, but turned out quite handy as I needed a jigsaw to cut up an old kitchen worktop. However, when I came to use the jigsaw it spits tons of sparks out the vents as the motor spins! Doesnt look at all safe to me so I unplugged it quick. Anyone ever seent his happen on a 'new' jigsaw before? I guess it is broken motor brushes or something? Can I be arsed taking it back considering I didnt pay for it in the first place???

[IMM]

I see Challenge are doing a battery SDS drill for around £65.

[John]

Only you can answer this one!

John

[Ian Stirling]

It may get better as you use it. Sparks are not inherently unsafe. I'd tape the handle down, and run it for 10 mins unloaded to see if it stopped doing it.

[a]

I have seen blue sparks on motors before, but never had bright orange sparks streaming out the casing!

[Dave Plowman (News)]

That suggests some foreign matter burning. If it's bits of the motor, it won't for long.

[Ian Stirling]

Hmm, that's impressive. If it was me, I'd take it out into the garden, turn it on, and see if it does burst into flames.

[:::Jerry::::]

Better still, give it to 'IMM'.....

[N. Thornton]

probably a faulty commutator. If it is, it wont last long.

[G&M]

And this differs from the standard Argos tool in what way ? :-)

[hudsterou]

That's a bit harsh! Argos do sell some good stuff too!

[G&M]

Power tools ?

[IMM]

Yep.