Okay so, like
I'm scared of my nailer. It seems like such a simple tool but, I don't understand how the compressor works and I need some input from people who've used nailers (and yes, I have read the manual--it's just not very clear to me). My questions are:
1. Once I've charged the compressor to the right amount of poundage for the air, and I want to start driving nails, do I leave the compressor running or turn it off? The manual doesn't address this. It would make sense to turn it off because, leaving it running would increase the psi which I'm not sure if I want this. Is this right?
2. Do I need to discharge the air after I'm done for the day or can I leave it?
3. Also, am I suppose to adjust the output gauge?
4. Do you wear steel toed boats to use the nailer, just in case the thing goes off accidently? (....hmmm would chain mail gloves be a good idea....just kidding). What other kind of safety gear do I need, besides goggles?
Thanks for your replies!
Pam
mamma_joy
Sun, 12/05/2010 - 18:36
I don't know the answers to your questions, but suddenly I'm having the same questions about my nailer--and I haven't even picked it up from the store! Looking forward to the insight of the other builders here!
lauralehman
Mon, 12/06/2010 - 04:20
Nailers can be scary but awesome when when used correctly. Your compressor regulates itself. Meaning it will keep its air to the setting of your choice to run the gun ( mine nailer rquires 80-120 lbs of pressure) so it'll turn itself on and off internally to stay at that pressure. When you're leaving your shop you turn it off. some people leave there switch on....but my power is sketchy and my hose leaks a bit so I turn mine external power switch off. In regards to your second question you don't need to release the air. (3) As I mentioned before you adjust the gauge ( & watch the pressure arrow) to meet your equipment's need...make sense? Look in the booklet and there's a chart to find the needed pressure. There's probably also a adjustment on your gun for nail depth. So if your nails aren't going in all the way check that too.... I experienced this as I just got a refurbished set of 3 Bostich nailers and a air compressor ( great deal on Amazon for @199) anyway and the nails we sticking out a bit....never dealt with that before....thought I didn't have enough pressure but my hubby reminded me about the adjustment on the gun. whew. Now about safety. I think of the gun the same way I do the paper cutter or an exacto knife....everytime I get ready to nail I think to myself....okay where is this pointing? Am I angled correctly? If it was to "go through" what would be in it's way?... like the knife or cutter you just handle it with respect, check before you shoot and you'll get used to it. Your wrists will love you! Hope that helps :) Have fun!
pcakes
Tue, 12/07/2010 - 02:39
Thanks for the tips Laura. I will look for the gauges. I didn't realize I would need to adjust the nail depth too. Good to know.