K-45 Sink Machine by RIDGID (Model 36018)

Description

The K-45 Sink Machine by RIDGID (Model 36018), sometimes searched simply as the K45, clears 1-1/4″ to 3″ lines: lavatories, sink lines, tubs, urinals, and shower drains. Two-way AUTOFEED control and a 0-600 RPM variable-speed motor give a technician one-hand cable control instead of feeding cable by hand. At 5/16″ x 25′ of inner core cable, it’s sized specifically for small-diameter fixture lines rather than the larger lateral runs a drum machine like the K-750 is built for.

Two-Way AUTOFEED Control

AUTOFEED advances and retrieves the cable automatically, so a technician isn’t handling wet, dirty cable by hand while also managing the drum. That keeps the work area cleaner on a service call inside an occupied bathroom or kitchen, where mess matters as much as speed. The one-hand operation also frees the other hand to steady the drum or manage the fixture, which matters in the tight quarters under a sink or behind a toilet where most K-45 jobs happen.

Variable Speed for Different Pipe Materials

The 0 to 600 RPM range lets a technician match rotation speed to the line. Slower speeds reduce risk on older or more delicate pipe material, while higher speeds cut through tougher clogs faster on standard PVC or cast iron. That range is what separates a sink machine built for daily commercial use from a fixed-speed consumer tool.

Twist-Lock Drum for Fast Cable Swaps

The two-piece twist-lock drum and interchangeable inner drum let a technician switch cable sizes in the field without tools. The sealed inner drum keeps cable contained during operation, cutting down on splash-back and cable flip-over. The corrosion-resistant housing holds up under the repeated wet-line use a sink machine sees on a daily route.

Keeping the K-45 Running

Rinse the cable and drum after jobs that involve grease or heavy debris, since buildup left to dry is harder to clean out later and can affect how smoothly the cable feeds. Check the inner drum seal periodically, a worn seal is usually the first sign a drum needs servicing before it starts leaking during a job rather than after.

K-45 vs. K-750: Which Machine for the Job

The K-45 is built for small-diameter lines, 1-1/4″ to 3″, the range typical of sinks, tubs, and urinals. For larger lateral lines and heavier clogs, the RIDGID K-750 Drum Machine steps up to 3/4″ and 5/8″ cable with higher torque. Many service trucks carry both, the K-45 for daily small-line calls and the K-750 for the larger jobs that come up less often but need more power when they do.

Specifications

Spec	Detail
Line capacity	1-1/4″ to 3″
Cable	5/16″ x 25′ inner core
Drum capacity	50′ of 5/16″ cable or 35′ of 3/8″ cable
Speed	0-600 RPM variable
Feed control	Two-way AUTOFEED
Warranty	RIDGID Full Lifetime Warranty

Where the K-45 Fits on a Service Route

• Sink and lavatory line clogs in residential and light commercial service calls
• Tub and shower drain lines, where the compact drum maneuvers in tight bathroom spaces
• Urinal and small-diameter commercial lines in restaurants, offices, and institutional buildings
• Routine service routes where a technician needs a lightweight machine that doesn’t require a second person to carry

Frequently Asked Questions

What drain sizes does the K-45 Sink Machine by RIDGID clean?

1-1/4″ to 3″ lines, including sinks, tubs, urinals, and shower drains.

Does the K-45 include AUTOFEED?

Yes. Two-way AUTOFEED advances and retrieves the cable automatically.

What cable sizes work with this machine?

Both 5/16″ and 3/8″ cable. The twist-lock drum switches between them without tools.

Is the K45 the same machine as the K-45 Sink Machine by RIDGID?

Yes. K45 and K-45 both refer to RIDGID Model 36018.

What’s the warranty on this machine?

RIDGID backs the K-45 with a Full Lifetime Warranty on workmanship and materials.

How does the K-45 compare to the K-750?

The K-45 handles small-diameter lines, 1-1/4″ to 3″, common in sinks and tubs. The K-750 is built for larger 3/4″ and 5/8″ cable on lateral lines. Most crews carry both rather than choosing one over the other.

Pair the K-45 with the RIDGID K-750 Drum Machine for larger lateral lines, or browse RIDGID Drain Cleaning Equipment for the full lineup. Download the K-45 Sink Machine Operator’s Manual for full setup and maintenance instructions. Order from J.M. McKinney Co. for genuine RIDGID equipment, in-stock availability, and fast shipping.