California Air Tools 15020C User manual

ULTRA QUIET & OIL FREE
AIR COMPRESSOR
OWNER'S MANUAL
CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS
15020C
2.0 HP
6.40 CFM @ 40 PSI
5.30 CFM @ 90 PSI
15.0 GALLON STEEL TANK
WWW.CALIFORNIAAIRTOOLS.COM Customer Support 1-866-409-4581

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AIR COMPRESSOR
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION __________________________________2
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS _______________3
LOCATIONS OF IMPORTANT LABELS _______________6
AIR COMPRESSOR COMPONENTS__________________7
PRE-OPERATION CHECKLIST ______________________8
Package Contents & Assembly____________________8
Inspect for Damage _____________________________9
Save Packaging ________________________________9
Compressor Location ___________________________9
Electrical Power _______________________________10
OPERATING THE AIR COMPRESSOR _______________10
Introduction __________________________________10
Assembly ____________________________________10
Test Run _____________________________________11
Daily Operation ________________________________11
MAINTENANCE _________________________________12
Draining the Air Tank ___________________________12
Changing the Air Filter__________________________12
Testing for Leaks ______________________________12
Pressure Switch _______________________________12
Cleaning _____________________________________12
STORAGE ______________________________________12
TROUBLESHOOTING ____________________________13
SPECIFICATIONS________________________________14
Electrical Circuit _______________________________14
Air Passage Drawing ___________________________14
WARRANTY ____________________________________15
PRODUCT REGISTRATION________________________17
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a California Air Tools, Inc.
Air Compressor.
Please contact us if you have any questions.
Record the model and serial numbers indicated on your
air compressor’s nameplate:
Model No. ________________________________________
Serial No. ________________________________________
Date of Purchase: _________________________________
Store/Dealer: _____________________________________

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AIR COMPRESSOR
How to find a local service center:
Even quality built equipment might need service or repair parts.
Contact the California Air Tools Customer Service Department:
Phone: [phone]
Online: WWW.CALIFORNIAAIRTOOLS.COM
Please provide the information below:
Model number and Serial number and specifications shown on the
Model number/Serial number plate.
Part number or numbers shown in the parts list section of the
owner’s manual for your air compressor model.
A brief description of the trouble with the air compressor.
Do not return your air compressor for service or parts to the
store/dealer where purchased.
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
Safety Messages & Signal Words:

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AIR COMPRESSOR
Dust or dust-like particulates caused by
power-sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling or any
other construction-like activities can contain
contaminants that are harmful to breathe.
Always use your air compressor in a well-ventilated
and clean area.
Never breathe the air that comes directly out of the
air compressor or air hose. This air is not suitable for
breathing.
Always wear approved safety equipment. When
performing dust-creating activities, securely wear
properly-fit face masks or respirators.
If you feel ill from breathing while operating your air
compressor, stop and seek medical attention
immediately.
WARNING
RISK TO BREATHING
Air compressor surfaces become hot during
operation.
DO NOT touch hot surfaces, because they can cause
severe burns.
Do not touch the air compressor’s cylinder head.
During operation, the cooling fins of the cylinder
head and delivery pipe become hot.
Allow the air compressor to cool before touching it.
DO NOT place a storage cover on the unit during
operation. Only place a cover on the air compressor
after it has thoroughly cooled down.
FIRE
HOT SURFACE
WARNING
Flying objects can cause injury to the eyes, head and
other parts of the body.
Air-powered equipment and power tools are capable
of propelling items (metal chips, fasteners and
particulates) at high speed into the air and could
result in injury.
Always wear approved head and eye protection.
Never point the air stream at any part of your body,
or at another person or animal.
When operating the air compressor, make sure all
other people and animals maintain a safe distance.
Do not move the air compressor when the air tank is
under pressure.
Never use the air hoses to pull or move the air
compressor.
Keep the air compressor on a flat surface.
WARNING
FLYING OBJECTS
Exercise caution when using pressurized air.
To prevent injury and for your general safety, only
use high-pressure hoses, fittings and couplings
designed for use with air compressors.
Inspect all hoses, fittings and couplings for leaks
and wear. When leaks and wear are detected, stop
use and replace those items immediately. Do not
repair.
Never leave pressurized air in the air tank when
performing maintenance.
Never leave the air compressor unattended with the
power supply in use and the air hose connected.
WARNING
EXPLOSION

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Improper care could lead to the air tank bursting or
exploding.
Drain air tank daily or after each use to prevent
moisture buildup in the air tank.
Rust can weaken the air tank and cause leaks or
bursting. If rust is detected, replace tank
immediately. Do not try to repair the air tank by
welding, drilling or modifying it in any other way.
These modifications can weaken the air tank and
cause a hazardous condition.
If air tank develops a leak, replace the air tank
immediately. Never repair, weld or make
modifications to the air tank or its attachments.
Never make adjustments to the factory-set
pressures.
Never exceed manufacturer's maximum-allowable
pressure rating attachments.
Because of extreme heat, do not use plastic pipe or
lead tin solder joints for a discharge line.
WARNING
EXPLOSION
Use caution to minimize risk of fire or explosion.
It is normal for the air compressor motor and
pressure switch to produce sparks while operating. If
sparks come in contact with vapors from gasoline or
solvents, they may ignite and cause a fire or
explosion.
Abrasive tools such as grinders, drills and other
tools are capable of making sparks that can ignite
flammable materials.
Always operate the air compressor a safe distance
away from flammable items. Use in well-ventilated
areas.
Never exceed the maximum rated pressure.
FIRE
WARNING
EXPLOSION
Check with a quaiified electrician or serviceman when the
grounding instructions are not completely understood, or
when in doubt as to whether the product is properly
grounded.
Do not modify the plug provided. If it does not fit the outlet,
have the proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.

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AIR COMPRESSOR
LOCATIONS OF
IMPORTANT LABELS
Read these important labels before operating.
These labels provide important safety and maintenance
information. These labels should be considered as permanent
parts of the air compressor. Should any of these labels become
illegible, damaged or removed, please contact California Air Tools
Customer Service department at 1-866-409-4581 for
replacements.
PRODUCT LABEL
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H

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AIR COMPRESSOR
PRE-OPERATION CHECKLIST
Package Contents & Assembly
Model: 15020C
Package contents:
Air Compressor
Owner's Manual
(2) Air Filters
Wheel Assembly Kit
2 - #56 Wheel Bolt
2 - #68 Washer
2 - #57 Wheel
2 - #68 Washer
2 - #70 Nut
2 - #69 Bolt
2 - #68 Washer
2 - #67 Cushion Foot
2 - #68 Washer
2 - #70 Nut
Assembly:
Install the Air Filter
1. Attach the air filters to the top right side of motor head.
(looking from the front to the back of the air compressor )
Screw the air filter into the motor head port
Install the Wheel Kit
1. Slide Bolt #56 through Wheel #57..
2. Slide the washer #68 onto Bolt #56.
3. Slide the bolt #56 through the wheel support hole
located on the back bottom of the air compressor tank.
4. Attached the Washer #68 and Nut #70 to the Bolt #56 and
tighten firmly.
5. Repeat steps 1-3 to assemble the other wheel.
6. Slide Bolt #69 through Washer #68 and Cushion Foot #67.
7. Slide Bolt #69 through cushion foot support hole located on
the front bottom of the air compressor..
Attach Washer #69 and Nut #70 to Bolt # 69 firmly tighten.

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Inspect for Damage
Before using the air compressor, make sure the air tank is not
damaged, inspect all parts for damage, and check that all pipes
are firmly connected.
Do not use the air compressor if any damage is found. If
damaged, have an authorized service center inspect and test the
air compressor to ensure that is working properly.
Save Packaging
IMPORTANT: Save all outside packaging in case you ever need
to return the product for service or repair.
Compressor Location
Use on Flat Surface
For proper operation, the air compressor must be placed on a flat
surface with an incline no greater than 15 degrees.
Maintain a Clear Area
It is very important that the air compressor is positioned so that
there is adequate airflow around the machine. There must be at
least 2 feet of obstacle-free space surrounding and above the air
compressor.
Use in Areas with Clean Air
For proper operation and to maximize the longevity of the air
compressor, it is very important that the air drawn into the air
compressor is clean. The air compressor should not be used in
areas where dust or particulates are in the air. This will damage
the motor and impair proper operation.
IMPORTANT: Always use the air filter, properly installed.
Use caution to minimize risk of fire or explosion.
It is normal for the air compressor motor and
pressure switch to produce sparks while operating. If
sparks come in contact with vapors from gasoline or
solvents, they may ignite and cause a fire or
explosion.
Abrasive tools such as grinders, drills and other
tools are capable of making sparks that can ignite
flammable materials.
Always operate the air compressor a safe distance
away from flammable items. Use in well-ventilated
areas.
Never exceed the maximum rated pressure.
FIRE
WARNING
EXPLOSION
Dust or dust-like particulates caused by
power-sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling or any
other construction-like activities can contain
contaminants that are harmful to breathe.
Always use your air compressor in a well-ventilated
and clean area.
Never breathe the air that comes directly out of the
air compressor or air hose. This air is not suitable for
breathing.
Always wear approved safety equipment. When
performing dust-creating activities, securely wear
properly-fit face masks or respirators.
If you feel ill from breathing while operating your air
compressor, stop and seek medical attention
immediately.
WARNING
RISK TO BREATHING

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AIR COMPRESSOR
Electrical Power
Electrical Power Requirements
Before using the air compressor, refer to the serial label for voltage
and amperage requirements. Make sure you have a sufficient
electrical supply for supporting the motor's requirements.
Use a dedicated 15 Amp circuit for the best results.
For remote usage a 5500 Watt Running Generator is required
Low voltage and/or an overload circuit can cause the motor's
overload protection system circuit breaker to trip.
Electrical Extension Cords
Inspect all electrical extension cords to ensure that they are free of
damage.
When using an extension cord, use a heavy-duty cord that is no
more than 25 feet long and at least 14 gauge.Use only a 3-wire
extension cord that has a 3-blade grounding plug.
OPERATING THE AIR
COMPRESSOR
Save this manual for future reference.
Introduction
This air compressor features a compact structure, stable
performance, a high airflow rate, easy operation and maintenance.
Because the air compressor produces no oil in the airflow, it can be
used as an independent air supply machine for situations in which
oil in the airflow is an issue. The motor directly drives the pistons
and is able to function without lubrication for a long period of time.
Assembly
.1. Connect your air supply hose to a 1/4” male industrial quick
connect coupler. Connect the male quick connect coupler to the
female quick connect coupler located on the air compressor
2. Make sure the drainage valve is off and that the pressure switch
is in the OFF position.
3. Ensure that the power supply you are going to use is operating
normally.
4. Insert the power supply cord into the power supply socket.

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AIR COMPRESSOR
Test Run
Before using the air compressor for the first time, complete a test
run as follows:
1. Turn the power switch to the OFF position. Plug the power
supply cord into a power supply socket. Start the air
compressor by turning the power switch to the ON position.
The pressure gauge reading will slowly rise as pressure
increases inside the air tank. When the gauge reading reaches
130 PSI (plus or minus 5 PSI) the pressure switch will
automatically turn the power off. This indicates the compressor
is working normally.
Daily Operation
Starting the compressor:
1. Turn the power switch to the OFF position.
2. Attach a 1/4” Industrial Male quick coupler to your air hose.
Attach the air hose to the quick coupler on the air compressor.
3. Close the drain valve.
4. Have the (2) air filters attached
5. Plug the power supply cord into a power supply socket.
6. Turn the power switch to the ON position.
7. Let the motor run and tank fill until motor turns off.
8. To regulate the air flow.
While the air compressor is running, turn “On” your tool and
turn the regulator knob to the right increasing the pressure.
Turn the pressure up until the desired pressure is reached.
9. Operate air tool normally.
Do Not Run Non-Stop (continuously) for more than 1 hour.
Shutting down the compressor:
1. Turn the power switch to the OFF position.
2. Unplug the power supply cord.
3. Reduce the pressure in the air tank through the air hose.
Air compressor surfaces become hot during
operation.
DO NOT touch hot surfaces, because they can cause
severe burns.
Do not touch the air compressor’s cylinder head.
During operation, the cooling fins of the cylinder
head and delivery pipe become hot.
Allow the air compressor to cool before touching it.
DO NOT place a storage cover on the unit during
operation. Only place a cover on the air compressor
after it has thoroughly cooled down.
FIRE
HOT SURFACE
WARNING
Flying objects can cause injury to the eyes, head and
other parts of the body.
Air-powered equipment and power tools are capable
of propelling items (metal chips, fasteners and
particulates) at high speed into the air and could
result in injury.
Always wear approved head and eye protection.
Never point the air stream at any part of your body,
or at another person or animal.
When operating the air compressor, make sure all
other people and animals maintain a safe distance.
Do not move the air compressor when the air tank is
under pressure.
Never use the air hoses to pull or move the air
compressor.
Keep the air compressor on a flat surface.
WARNING
FLYING OBJECTS
Note: If the Air Compressor is not working properly, the
pressure gauge will indicate that there is a decrease in
pressure in the air tank. If there is an air leak from the
compressor the pressure in the air tank decreases, the
pressure switch resets and the motor automatically turns
back on.
If you detect an air leakage, turn the power switch to the
Off position, release the air from the tank by pulling on
the safety valve. Unplug the power supply cord and contact
Customer Support for Assistance.
Turn the power switch to the Off position, unplug the power
supply cord and release the air from the air tank drain valve.
At this point proceed to the next step (daily operations).

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AIR COMPRESSOR
MAINTENANCE
Draining the Air Tank
The frequency at which you should drain the air tank depends on
the environmental conditions and the amount of operating time
logged. The average draining frequency is every 1 to 2 days.
1. Place the air compressor above a container capable of holding
water.
2. With compressed air in the air tank, slowly turn the drain valve
knob to the forward (open) or straight position.
The water in the air tank will drain out.
3. After all of the accumulated water has drained out, turn the
drain valve knob to the closed or left position in order to avoid
leakage.
4. Draining the air tank protects parts from rust and corrosion.
Cleaning or Changing the Air Filter
The air filter is designed to reduce noise and help prevent
particulates in the air from entering and damaging the air
compressor.
After being used for a period of time, the air filter will become
clogged. This will reduce the air intake capabilities of the air
compressor, reducing performance. Therefore, the air filter must
be cleaned or replaced regularly.
1. Open the lid on the air filter, then remove the air filter element.
2. To clean the element blow off or brush off the dirt and dust.
3. If clogged, replace with a new air filter.
Testing for Leaks
Make sure all connections are tight. Do not overtighten.
A small leak in any hose or pipe connection will reduce the air
compressor's performance.
To test for small leaks, spray a small amount of soapy water on
the area suspected of leaking. If the soap bubbles, replace the
broken part.
Cleaning
Clean items with a soft brush, or wipe with a moistened cloth
using a biodegradable solvent.
Do not use flammable liquids such as gasoline or alcohol. Always
keep parts clean from dirt and dust for better performance.
Pressure Switch
The pressure switch is factory pre-set to shut off at 130 PSI
(plus or minus 5 PSI) and to re-start at 100 PSI (plus or minus 5
PSI)
STORAGE
Before storing for a prolonged period of time:
1. Turn off the power supply.
2. Disconnect the power cord from the power supply and wrap
the power cord around the air compressor handle to reduce
the risk of damage.
3. Pull the relief valve and release all the pressure from the air
tank.
4. Clean the air compressor to remove all dirt and dust.
5. Cover the air compressor with a cover to protect the unit from
dust and moisture.
6. Do not stack or store any items on top of or around the air
compressor. Damage could occur.

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TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS
Pressure drop in the tank. Air leaks at connections.
Let the compressor build pressure in the tank, to
the maximum pressure. Brush soapy water on air
connections and look carefully for air bubbles.
Tighten leaky connections.
Pressure drop in the tank Check Valve Spring Compressed
Release the air in the air tank until all of the
pressure is released. Then remove the check valve
cap and spring. Clean and elongate (stretch) the
check valve spring. Reinstall the parts.
The compressor stopped and
does not start.
The thermal protector turned on because
the motor is overheating.
Check that the main voltage corresponds to the air
compressor specifications. An extension cord that
is too thin or too long can cause a voltage drop and
cause the motor to overheat.
Excessive use (over 1 hour continuous use) can
cause the motor to overheat
Allow the motor to cool down.
Motor windings are burned out. Contact Customer Support.
The motor does not start and
makes a humming noise. Low voltage supply to the motor See below
The motor does not start or starts
slowly. Low voltage supply to the motor.
Check that the main voltage corresponds to the air
compressor specifications.
An extension cord that is too thin or too long can
cause a voltage drop.. Use heavy duty extension
cords.
Ensure that the air compressor is plugged into a
fully functional power outlet
The compressor is noisy with
metallic clangs.
Compressor head gasket or reed valve is
damaged Stop the compressor and contact the parts dealer.
The compressor does not reach
the maximum pressure.
Compressor head gasket or reed valve is
faulty. Stop the compressor and contact the parts dealer.
The compressor doesn't seem to
provide as much air as it did
when new and/or the compressor
cuts off within a much shorter
time period.
The pressure switch needs adjusting. Contact Customer Support
The tank is full of water due to
condensation.
Open the drain valve and release the water from
the tank.
The motor pump unit does not
stop when the tank pressure
reaches its maximum working
pressure (130 PSI).
Pressure switch defective or needs
adjusting.
Stop the compressor immediately and contact
Customer Support.

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SPECIFICATIONS
Electrical Circuit
Air Passage Drawing
AIR COMPRESSOR
Motor
Earth wire
(Green)
Red cords for
Capacitor
Electric cord
for motor
Solenoid
valve
Electric cord
for motor
Pressure
switch
Overload protector
(MAX temperature 135°C)
Pressure switch Safety valve
Pressure gauge
Regulator Pressure gauge
Ball valve
Filter
Drain valve
Air intake
Check valve
Solenoid
valve
Compressor Tank

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CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS INC. LIMITED WARRANTY
This warranty is limited to Air Compressors distributed by:
California Air Tools, Inc.
8560 Siempre Viva Road
San Diego, CA 92154
Limited Warranty
California Air Tools Inc. will repair or replace, free of charge, to the original retail customer who purchased a California Air Tools, Inc.
Air Compressor from an authorized dealer, distributor or distributor’s dealer in North America.
This warranty does not transfer to subsequent owners.
California Air Tools Inc. will repair or replace, at its option, any parts of the portable air compressor that are proven by an authorized
service center to be defective in material or workmanship under normal use during the applicable warranty time period as stated below.
This limited warranty covers the cost of the replacement parts and labor for all defects when installed by an authorized service center.
Transportation charges are the responsibility of the customer. Any part replaced under warranty becomes the property of California Air
Tools Inc.
All parts replaced under warranty will be considered as part of original product, and any warranty on those parts will expire coincident with
the original product warranty.
Limited Warranty Periods
Non-commercial / Non-rental (personal use by a retail customer): 1 year parts and labor
Commercial / Rental (usage for income, business use): 1 year parts and labor
The limited warranty period begins on the date of retail purchase by the original purchaser.
Disclaimers, Limitations of Remedies & Exclusions
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.
Disclaimer of Other Warranties
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, this limited warranty is exclusive and expressly in lieu of any and all other warranties,
including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose or any other implied warranties
that may arise from the course of dealing or usage of the trade. California Air Tools Inc. hereby declaims and excludes all other
warranties. To the extent that California Air Tools Inc. products are consumer products under applicable federal and state law with respect
to any customer, the duration of any implied warranties (including but not limited to implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a
particular purpose) are limited to the shortest duration permitted by applicable law or the Limited Warranty period provided herein,
whichever is longer.
Limitations of Remedies
California Air Tools Inc. shall not be liable to customer, or anyone claiming under customer, for any other obligations or liabilities, including
but not limited to, obligations or liabilities airing out of breach of contract or warranty, negligence or other tort or any theory of strict liability,
with respect to the air compressor or California Air Tools Inc. acts or omissions or otherwise. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable
law, California Air Tools Inc. shall not in any event be liable for incidental, compensatory, punitive, consequential, indirect, special or other
damages, including but not limited to loss of use, loss of income, loss of time, loss of sales, injury to personal property, or liability
customer incurs with respect to any other person, or any other type or form of consequential damage or economic loss.

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Exclusions
In addition to the foregoing disclaimers, limitations and terms, this limited warranty shall not apply to and does not cover accessories, nor
does it cover products that are in any way subject to any of the following:
1. Improper setup, installation or storage.
2. Lack of proper maintenance and service.
3. Accident, damage, abuse or misuse.
4. Abnormal operating conditions or applications.
5. Repair or modification by customer or any third party without written consent of California Air Tools Inc.
6. Use under operating conditions or in applications not recommended by California Air Tools Inc.
7. Normal wear.
8. The use of accessories or attachments not recommended by California Air Tools Inc.
9. Acts of God.
The application of these exclusions will be determined at the sole discretion of California Air Tools Inc.
Registration
Warranty registration with California Air Tools Inc. is required on all products.
You can mail the enclosed registration form or register on-line.
Maintenance and Trouble Shooting Guide
California Air Tools provides “Maintenance and Trouble Shooting Guide’ on our website WWW.CALIFORNIAAIRTOOLS.COM.
This provides valuable information regarding set-up, operation and maintenance.
Please visit our website and view these videos for beneficial information.
Service or Parts
Warranty is also available by keeping and showing your original receipt from the date of purchase to an
Authorized California Air Tools Service Center.
For all customer service inquiries call 1-866-409-4581 or visit
WWW.CALIFORNIAAIRTOOLS.COM
Go to the “Contact Us” Tab
Click on “Service & Parts” Button for the Fastest Service.

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PRODUCT REGISTRATION
To register your product, please complete the information below and mail to the mailing address at the end of this page.
1. Personal Information:
Full Name (Include Middle Initial): _______________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: _____________________________________________________________________________
City:___________________________________ State:_______________ Zip Code: _______________________
Phone Number: _____________________________________________________________________________
E-mail Address: _____________________________________________________________________________
(Check here to receive product information and offers via e-mail)
(Check here to receive product information from other companies via e-mail)
2. Product Information:
Date of Purchase: _____________________________________________________________(MM / DD / YYYY)
Model Number: ______________________________________________________________________________
Serial Number: ___________________________________________________________ (Found on name plate)
Purchased Location:__________________________________________________________________________
Purchase Price: _____________________________________________________________________________
Type of Primary Use for this Product: Home Recreation Emergency Rental Commercial
Other______________________________________________________________________________________
Features Influencing Product Purchase: Brand Portability Power Rating Price Warranty
Other Features (describe) _____________________________________________________________________
What other Power Equipment are you interested in purchasing in the future? _____________________________
Thank you for registering your product.
Mail to:
California Air Tools
8560 Siempre Viva Road
San Diego, CA 92154