When you press the switch, there's a whine and the blades don't move. If you keep flicking the switch on and off, it does eventually make them move and they work properly for a few seconds and then it whines again.

Rod Boyers, June 2008

I'm about to replace the blade and gear assembly for the third time on mine! Try tool shop direct for spare parts - you'll probably need the whole assembly, about £30 or so - so decide if its worth it or if you buy new. I've found that the gears get stripped every three years or so even if I'm careful ... as soon as the blades have jammed a few times the gears wear down. From what I remember last time it's relatively easy to take apart and remove and replace the assembly.

Derek Blackwell, June 2008