Belt Sander - are the Carbon Brushes at fault?

[SproutsDad]

I have a belt sander Toledo TBS-800 Screwfix own -that has just started 'missing', a few blue sparks - sometimes starts, misses then splutters into life, then not at all.
It is a few years old and has been a very robust and good cheapo. Otherwise it is fine, I have loads of sanding belts so would like to keep it if ok..

Does it sound like carbon brush problems? I have located them and they don't appear particularly worn But what length should they be anyway?
This isn't the first time with similar symptoms. I had the router and bought new brushes, not cheap with postage - it made no difference !!

Now with the belt sander I want to understand if it could be the brushes or might it be a switch or other??

Your help would be much appreciated.Many thank

 

[joe-90]

It's usually the windings when it starts flashing. Sanders don't have a overly long life.

 

[Belle427]

if the commutator (the part the brush sits on) is dirty its possible they are not making contact properly.Try cleaning it with either some wire wool or fine emery cloth, power off of course!

 

[big-all]

i personally wouldn't go near the commutator with anything more abrasive than brasso or silver polish
and emery to the brushes to de-glaze them

but as said if its one dead section then its not the brushes

 

[Burnerman]

Just a thought but if the machine fails to start, keep it switched on and swivel the mains cable where it enters the machine.....occasionally the wire conductor severs inside the cable insulation.
John