I recently picked up a used jigsaw from Facebook Marketplace, and I'm excited to put it to use! It's a Bosch PST 700 E, and it seems to be in great shape, but I noticed when I turn it on, it gives off a rubbery smell. Should I be concerned about this, or is it a normal thing for a new tool?
3 Answers
Hey! It sounds like you might be dealing with a little bit of burning rubber, which could be a sign of several things. First, check the power compatibility—are you using the right voltage? It’s important because if it’s mismatched, it could cause issues. Also, if the motor is overheating, that could release a smell too. If it’s a new jigsaw that's barely used, though, it could just be some residue burning off from manufacturing. Either way, it’s worth keeping an eye on it!
I’d be cautious about that smell! It might indicate a problem with the motor, especially if it’s strong. I had a drill that made a similar smell before the motor went bad. Just to be safe, maybe avoid using it for heavy tasks until you figure it out. Better safe than sorry!
Thanks for the input! I’m definitely going to keep an eye on it and maybe let it run for a while. I hope it’s just a normal thing.

Yeah, I'm in the UK too, and I have the same voltage. I had a similar issue when I got a used tool, but it cleared up after a bit of use. Just let it run a little while and see if the smell goes away!