Harbor Freight Tools 38898 Air Compressor User Manual


 
Page 6 SKU # 38898
OPERATION
1. Before each use, perform the following checks:
Check to be sure the drain valve at the bottom of
the tank is closed. Check to be sure the oil level
is between the marks on the dip stick. Be sure
the safety pressure release valve has not been
damaged, and is functional.
2. Turn the Air Flow Valve to the OFF position. In
the OFF position, the red handle is across (per-
pendicular to) the line of the air hose fitting.
In the ON position, the red handle is parallel with
the line of the air hose fitting.
3. Turn ON the compressor, by pulling the Red ON/
OFF Switch up. Turn OFF the compressor by
pushing the ON /OFF switch down.
4. Allow the compressor to build up at least 80 PSI
as indicated on the pressure gauge.
5. While the compressor is building up pressure,
attach the hoses, fittings, and air tools you will use.
6. When the pressure has reached 80 PSI; open the air flow valve to allow the hoses and tools to
become pressurized. Check for any significant air leaks, and check the operation of your tool.
7. As long as the power switch is pulled ON, the operation of the compressor is automatic, con-
trolled by an internal pressure switch. The compressor will turn on automatically when the
pressure drops to 80 PSI, and will turn off when the pressure reaches 115 PSI. Warning: This
pressure switch is adjustable but changes to the pressure levels are not recommended;
any change to the automatic ON/OFF pressure levels will cause additional stress on the
motor which may result in shortened motor life.
NOTE: If it is necessary to quickly depressurize the air compressor,
First: Turn it off by pushing the ON / OFF switch down.
Then: Pull out on the ring on the pressure release valve to quickly release stored pressure.
WARNING
1. To reduce the risk of fire or explosion, never spray flammable liquids in a confined area. Al-
ways operate the compressor in a well ventilated area. Do not smoke while spraying. Do not
spray where sparks or flame are present. Keep the compressor as far away from the spray area
as possible.
2. Never directly inhale the compressed air produced by the compressor. It is not suitable for
breathing purposes.
3. Never weld on the tank of this compressor. Welding of the tank could affect tank strength and
result in an extremely hazardous condition.
4. To avoid the potential for electric shock, never use this compressor outdoors when it is raining,
and never use the compressor on a wet surface.
5. Never point any nozzle or sprayer towards a person or animal.
6. Never work on or make adjustments to the tank when the tank is under pressure.
7. Never service or make adjustments to this product without first unplugging the electrical cord.
8. Never place flammable objects near the compressor. Never spray water or flammable liquids
toward or near the compressor.
9. Always push the ON/OFF switch down into the OFF position when the unit is not in use.
10. Do not transport the pancake compressor when the tank is under pressure.
11. Only operate in a well-ventilated area which has proper air circulation.
Rev 03/00, REV 10/01, REV 11/04
Note: Always use a 120V electrical source
(±10% maximum variation).
Fig. 3. Controls
Pressure Gauge
ON / OFF Switch
Pressure Release Valve
Air Flow Valve
Note: Compressor has a Thermal Overload Switch (#41). If Compressor shuts down from over-
heating or related problems, turn Compressor OFF and allow it to cool down for 10 minutes. Once
cooled, push in Thermal Overload Switch and restart Compressor.