Welcome to the ultimate guide on keeping your VACPAD System (Woodshop and Jobsite System) in tip-top shape! Think of this blog as your product’s “manual” — but way less boring and definitely more helpful.

For peak performance and zero headaches, we strongly recommend reading this before using the system. It’s like a warm-up before the big game — but for your tools. Stay informed, and your VACPAD will thank you with flawless performance (or at least, less awkward squeaking).

1. VACPAD Setup & connections

Layout with single VACPAD connection. A basic setup consists of a vacuum pump, a foot release pedal, and a VACPAD.

A diagram showing a single VACPAD setup, including a vacuum pump, foot release pedal, and VACPAD connection.

2. Multiple VACPAD connections

A typical setup consists of a VACPUMP or Vacuum pump (preferably the 110v Vacuum pump Found Here), a foot release pedal, and multiple VACPADs linked together in series.

Ensure all hoses are capped off and all leads are connected snug with no cracks or leaks in the hoses.

Any leads that aren’t connected to a VACPAD must be capped (End Caps and VACPAD fittings can be Found Here)

3. Foot pedal diagram and installation

The standard Foot Pedal Connection layout consists of 2 hose connections.

The hose connection coming from the VACPUMP / Vacuum pump will go into the fitting on the pedal marked A.
The hose connection coming from the VACPAD will go into the fitting on the pedal marked P.
The fitting on the pedal marked B is plugged and should remain sealed at all times.

The Standard Foot Pedal is typically sold with our Woodshop system

The standard Foot Pedal Connection layout:

Small Foot pedal layout consists of a single connection using a Y or T Fitting found in our VACPAD Fittings

The hose connection from the pedal to the Y or T Fitting will go into the fitting marked B in the figure above.
The fitting on the pedal marked A is plugged and should remained sealed at all times.

The Small Foot Pedal is typically sold with our Jobsite VACPAD System

Small Pedal Connection Layout:

4. Rotating and swivel mount Setup

The rotating mount is a simple addon to the woodshop and job site system that allows for articulation of the VACPAD in order to work on material at difficult angles.

Simply fix a VACPAD to the rotating mount with the 1/4-20 machine screws in the kit. Make sure these screws are fixed firmly so as to create a seal for optimal suction pressure.

The knobs on either side of the rotating mount should be loosened in order to rotate the mount and tightened when the mount is in the desired orientation.

5. installing the Swivel mount

The rotating mount can be upgraded with a swivel mount that allows for 360° spinning articulation. The Kit requires the VACPAD to be removed from the rotating mount in order to slot in the swivel mount.

The swivel mount is then mounted with the spacing collar and large tightening nut slotted in on the underside.

The VACPAD attaches to the swivel mount using the same mounting hardware as the rotating mount—because who doesn’t love reusing things? Just loosen the big hand nut, spin the pad around like it’s a dance partner, and when it’s in the perfect spot, tighten the big hand nut to lock it in place. Voilà! Your pad is now fixed and fabulous.

6. Gasket Maintenance

Note:

The VACPAD 2.0 Design doesn’t need a cover plate, and maintenance can be done by inspecting the gasket rope for any signs of wear and tear. All VACPAD products that have a gasket rope component can be installed using the method in this guide.

When installing the rope gasket please follow the outline labeled below.

Press into the existing gasket channel on the underside of the VACPAD or Portable VACPAD. Make sure to press along the beginning to the end ensuring the gasket is firmly seated in a clockwise motion with no gaps.

Where the rope has overlapped itself is where to make your cut, Make sure it is a clean square cut.

The cut doesn't have to be exact, the gasket can stretch and shrink as you move it together to close the gap in the seam.

The seam where the gasket is cut is where the seal can be stretched to create a closed seamless seal.
When installing the Rope Gasket to the VACPAD 2.0, massage the gaskets into each other to ensure a tight fit.

Always check the condition and wear on the gaskets before use. Especially after long periods of storage. Examine the gasket for any excessive depressions or tears. Check to make sure the gasket rebounds from depressions. The gasket should bounce back and be very flexible, if not, a replacement is needed.

7. Securing Fix Mounted Vacpads to Work Surfaces

For all fixed-mounted VACPADS, it is recommended to use a 1/4 - 20 threaded insert embedded in the mounting surface for optimal strength. pre-drill a 5/16th hole, and add a chamfer to allow the insert to thread flush to the surface. then use a 6mm hex key to screw in the insert to the surface.