How to Troubleshoot a 352 Porter Cable Belt Sander

Disconnect the electrical cord from its electrical outlet. Plug a known working appliance into the outlet and test it. If the known working appliance does not work, inspect the breaker for that outlet. If the appliance does work, move onto the next step.

Unplug the extension cord attached to the appliance if you, in fact, have one attached. Replace the extension cord then plug the sander into a known working outlet. If this rectifies the situation, the extension cord is faulty. If not, move onto the next step.

Pull the trigger on the sander and listen to the motor. Do not place your head close to the sandpaper just in case the sander does suddenly turn on. If the motor makes absolutely no noise when plugged into a known working outlet, consult a Porter Cable retailer for repairs. It is likely the motor has frozen up. If you hear any noise, such as static or humming, proceed onto the next step.

Take your unit to an authorized Porter Cable service center to have the carbon brushes replaced. These parts cannot be replaced by the user. When the carbon on the brushes disintegrates, it will cause the motor to lose power and stop working. This, in turn, causes a humming or buzzing sound. If replacing the brushes does not work, the authorized repair center will have to look further into the motor.