Central Pneumatic 96469 Installation manual

OILLESS AIR COMPRESSOR
155 PSI - 26 GALLON
Model 96496
SET UP AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Diagrams within this manual may not be drawn proportionally.
Due to continuing improvements, actual product may differ slightly from the product described herein.
Distributed exclusively by Harbor Freight Tools®.
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93011
Visit our website at: http://www.harborfreight.com
Read this material before using this product.
Failure to do so can result in serious injury.
SAVE THIS MANUAL.
Copyright©2007 by Harbor Freight Tools®. All rights reserved. No portion of this
manual or any artwork contained herein may be reproduced in any shape or form
without the express written consent of Harbor Freight Tools.
For technical questions or replacement parts, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Your Warranty is voided if:
You drop the Air Compressor.
Always transport theAir Compressor
using its Handle and Wheels.
CAUTION

Page 2SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
SAVE THIS MANUAL
Keep this manual for the safety warnings and precautions, assembly, operating,
inspection, maintenance and cleaning procedures. Write the product’s serial number in
the back of the manual near the assembly diagram (or month and year of purchase if
product has no number). Keep this manual and the receipt in a safe and dry place for
future reference.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
In this manual, on the labeling, and all other information
provided with this product:
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential
personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this
symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
CAUTION, used with the safety alert
symbol, indicates a hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in minor
or moderate injury.
NOTICE is used to address practices not
related to personal injury.
CAUTION, without the safety alert symbol,
is used to address practices not related to
personal injury.
DANGERDANGER
WARNINGWARNING
CAUTIONCAUTION
NOTICENOTICE
CAUTIONCAUTION

Page 3SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING! Read all instructions
Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock,
re, and/or serious injury. The term “power tool” in all of the warnings listed
below refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Work area safety
Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the

which may ignite the dust or fumes.
Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool.
Distractions can cause you to lose control.
Electrical safety
Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any
way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools.

Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes,
radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric
shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a
power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or
unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges
or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric
shock.
Personal safety
Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating
a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the

operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. 
such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection
used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
Avoid accidental starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before

power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
1.
a.
b.
c.
2.
a.
b.
c.
d.
3.
a.
b.
c.

Page 4SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A
wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in
personal injury.
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This
enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair,
clothing and gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long
hair can be caught in moving parts.
Power tool use and care
Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application.
The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it
was designed.
Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power
tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be
repaired.
Disconnect the plug from the power source before making any
adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such
preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool
accidentally.
Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow
people unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate
the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
Maintain power tools. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tools
operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many
accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
Use the power tool in accordance with these instructions and in the manner
intended for the particular type of power tool, taking into account the working
conditions and the work to be performed. Use of the power tool for operations
different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
Service

identical replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool
is maintained.
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
Maintain labels and nameplates on the Air Compressor. These carry important
safety information. If unreadable or missing, contact Harbor Freight Tools for a
replacement.
d.
e.
f.
4.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
5.
a.
1.

Page 5SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
CAUTION: Your Warranty is voided if you drop the Air Compressor. Always
transport the Air Compressor using its Handle and Wheels.
DANGER!
to supply breathing air. For any application of air for human consumption, you




CFR 1910. 134, and/or Canadian Standards Associations (CSA). In the event
the Air Compressor is used for the purpose of breathing air application and

warranties are void, and Harbor Freight Tools disclaims any liability whatsoever
for any loss, personal injury, or damage.
DANGER! Never attempt to repair or modify the Air Tank (29). Welding, drilling,

or explosion. Always replace worn, cracked, or damaged Tanks.
WARNING! Never use plastic (PVC) pipe for compressed air; serious injury or
death could result. Any tube, pipe, or hose used must have a pressure rating
higher than 155 PSI. Minimum recommended pipe size: Up to 50 feet long use

always better.
CAUTION: DO NOT use an extension cord with this product.


PSI.
Drain the Air Compressor every day. Do not allow excessive moisture to build up
inside the Air Compressor’s Tank. Do not open the Drain Valve (33) with more
than 10 PSI of air pressure in the Tank. Do not unscrew the Drain Valve so that
more than four turns are showing.
Avoid injury. Never direct the Air Outlet Valve (26) at people or animals.
Do not alter or remove the Safety Release Valve (20).

of supporting the weight of the Compressor, operator(s), and any additional tools

Do not move or transport the Compressor if the Air Tank (29) is under pressure.
Industrial applications must follow OSHA guidelines.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.

Page 6SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Never stand on the Air Compressor. Serious injury could result if the Compressor
is tipped.
Never leave the Air Compressor unattended when it is plugged in and running.
Turn off the Compressor, and unplug the unit before leaving.
Do not allow children and other unauthorized people to handle or play with the Air
Compressor.
Do not modify the factory set pressure shutoff or startup switches. This tool will
do the work better and safer at the speed and capacity for which it was designed.
Avoid body contact with oils and lubricants used in the Compressor. If
swallowed, seek medical treatment immediately. For skin contact, immediately

water.
WARNING: The brass components of this product contain lead, a chemical
known to the State of California to cause birth defects (or other reproductive
harm). (California Health & Safety code § 25249.5, et seq.)
WARNING: The warnings and precautions discussed in this manual cannot
cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur. It must be
understood by the operator that common sense and caution are factors which
cannot be built into this product, but must be supplied by the operator.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
GROUNDING
Improperly connecting the grounding wire can result in
electric shock.
Check with a qualied electrician if you are in doubt as to
whether the outlet is properly grounded. Do not modify the
power cord plug provided with the tool. Never remove the
grounding prong from the plug. Do not use the tool if the
power cord or plug is damaged. If damaged, have it repaired
by a service facility before use. If the plug will not t the out-
let, have a proper outlet installed by a qualied electrician.
Grounded Tools: Tools with Three Prong Plugs

grounding plug. The plug must be connected to a properly grounded outlet. If
the tool should electrically malfunction or break down, grounding provides a low
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
1.
WARNING

Page 7SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
resistance path to carry electricity away from the user, reducing the risk of electric
shock. (See 3-Prong Plug and Outlet, next page)
The grounding prong in the plug is connected through the green wire inside the
cord to the grounding system in the tool. The green wire in the cord must be the
only wire connected to the tool’s grounding system and must never be attached
to an electrically “live” terminal. (See 3-Prong Plug and Outlet.)
The tool must be plugged into an appropriate outlet, properly installed and
grounded in accordance with all codes and ordinances. The plug and outlet
should look like those in the following illustration.
(See 3-Prong Plug and Outlet.)
Double Insulated Tools: Tools with Two Prong Plugs


with the applicable standards of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., the Canadian
Standard Association, and the National Electrical Code.
(See Outlets for 2-Prong Plug)
Double insulated tools may be used in either of the 120 volt outlets shown in the
preceding illustration. (See Outlets for 2-Prong Plug)
SYMBOLOGY
Double Insulated V~ Volts Alternating Current
Canadian Standards Association AAmperes
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. n0xxxx/min. No Load Revolutions per Minute
(RPM)
2.
3.
1.
2.

Page 8SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
SPECIFICATIONS

120 V~ / 60 Hz / 13 Amps (Running)
4 HP Motor (Peak) / 1500 Watts (Running) / 13000 Motor RPM
Motor Thermal Protection Shut-Off: 266 Degrees Fahrenheit
Thermal Protection Reset: Present (18 Amp Circuit Breaker Used)


Compressor Type Oilless for Maintenance Free Operation
Maximum Air Pressure 155 PSI
Air Delivery 4.0 SCFM @ 90 PSI / 6.0 SCFM @ 40 PSI
Air Tank Capacity 
Female Air Outlet Size 1/4”-18 NPT
Automatic
Turn-On/Shut-Off
Pressure
125 PSI Automatic Turn-On
155 PSI Automatic Shut-Off (+ or - 5 PSI)
Additional Features Two 7-3/4” Diameter x 1-3/4” Tires
Built-In Tool Storage Compartment
Overall Dimensions 43-7/8” H x 17-3/4” W x 21-1/4” L (Up to Handle)
Net Weight 86 Pounds
UNPACKING
When unpacking, check to make sure that the item is intact and undamaged. If
any parts are missing or broken, please call Harbor Freight Tools at the number shown
on the cover of this manual as soon as possible.
SET UP INSTRUCTIONS
Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION section at the
beginning of this manual including all text under subheadings therein
before set up or use of this product.
Risk of accidental starting; resulting in serious personal
injury. Turn the Power Switch of the tool to its “OFF”
position and unplug the tool from its electrical outlet before
assembling or making any adjustments to the tool.
Note: For additional information regarding the parts listed in the following pages, refer
to the Assembly Diagram near the end of this manual.
Assembly
CAUTION! Always make sure the Air Compressor’s Power Switch (2) is in its
“OFF” position prior to performing any service, maintenance, or cleaning of the
Compressor.
1.
WARNINGWARNING

Page 9SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.


Compressor. (See Figure A)
FIGURE A
PRODUCT FEATURES
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION section at the
beginning of this manual including all text under subheadings therein
before set up or use of this product.
2.
Air Outlet Valve
(10)
Safety Valve (34)
Tank

(35)
Power Switch (4)
Pressure Controller (12)

(33)

Page 10SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
General Operating Instructions
Pull on the Safety Valve (34) to make sure it moves freely.
(See Figure B, previous page)
Check to make sure the Air Tank’s Drain Valve (31), located at the bottom of the
Air Tank (29), is fully closed. (See Figure C)
1.
2.
(Figure A)
Connect the air hose (not included) to the oiler outlet. Then connect the other
end of the air hose to the pneumatic tool (not included) being used.
(See Figure B)
Plug the Power Cord (21) into the nearest 120 volt, grounded, electrical outlet.
Turn the Power Switch (4) to its “ON” position to start the unit. (See Figure B)
125 PSI, turn the
air Pressure Controller (12) clockwise or counterclockwise to allow the proper
(See Figure B)
NOTE: The Regulator adjusts as follows:
Clockwise to increase tool air pressure.
Counterclockwise to decrease tool air pressure.
IMPORTANT: When the maximum air pressure, 155 PSI, is reached as

Compressor will automatically restart when the air pressure drops below 125
PSI.
IMPORTANT: The internal overload protection mechanism will automatically
shut off the Motor if the Motor becomes too hot. In this case, turn the Power
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
•
•
8.
9.
Air Tank (26)
Drain Valve (31)

Page 11SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Switch to its “OFF” position. Wait until the Motor cools. Press the Overload
Protector (3) button. Then restart the Air Compressor.
To stop the Air Compressor, turn the Power Switch (2) to its “OFF” position.
Then unplug the Compressor from its electrical outlet. (See Figure B)
Pull the Safety Valve (20) to release any remaining air pressure from the Air Tank

air pressure from the tool. Then, disconnect the air hose from the Air Outlet
Valve (26). (See Figure B)
Remove any moisture from the Air Tank (29) by opening the Drain Valve (33).
Then, retighten the Drain Valve. (See Figure B)
Allow the Air Compressor to completely cool. Then store the Compressor in a
clean, dry, safe location out of reach of children and other unauthorized people.
10.
11.
12.
13.
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING
Risk of serious personal injury from accidental starting
or electric shock. Turn the Power Switch of the tool to its
“OFF” position and unplug the tool from its electrical outlet
before performing any inspection, maintenance, or cleaning
procedures.
Damaged equipment can fail, causing serious personal
injury. Do not use damaged equipment. If abnormal noise or
vibration occurs, have the problem corrected before further
use.
Inspection, Maintenance, And Cleaning
BEFORE EACH USE, inspect the general condition of the Air Compressor.
Check for loose screws, misalignment or binding of moving parts, cracked or
broken parts, damaged electrical wiring, and any other condition that may affect
its safe operation.
AFTER EACH USE, remove any moisture from the Air Tank (29) by opening the
Drain Valve (33). Then, retighten the Drain Valve. (See Figure B)
AFTER EACH USE, clean the external surfaces of the Air Compressor with a
clean, moist cloth. Then dry. Do not use solvents. Do not introduce water into
the electrical components of the Air Compressor.
WARNING! If the supply cord of this power tool is damaged, it must be replaced

CAUTION! All maintenance, service, and repairs not mentioned in this manual

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
WARNINGWARNING

Page 12SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem Possible Causes Probable Solutions
Air Compressor will
not start.
No power at outlet.
Cord not connected.
Air Tank maximum air pressure
of 155 PSI has been reached.
Compressor Motor will
automatically shut-off.
1.
2.
3.
Check power at outlet.
Check that cord is plugged in.
Wait until Air Tank air pressure falls
to 125 PSI. Compressor Motor will
then automatically turn on.
1.
2.
3.
Low air pressure to
pneumatic tool.
Compressor Regulator not properly
adjusted.
1. Turn Regulator clockwise to

1.
Air pressure too high
to pneumatic tool.
Compressor Regulator not properly
adjusted.
1. Turn Regulator counterclockwise to

1.
Power Switch not
operating properly.
Damaged Power Switch.1. Immediately disconnect Power
Cord from its electrical outlet.
Do not use Compressor until a

Power Switch.
1.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY
THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR HAS PROVIDED THE PARTS LIST AND ASSEMBLY
   
DISTRIBUTOR MAKES ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND TO THE BUYER THAT
HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO MAKE ANY REPAIRS TO THE PRODUCT, OR THAT HE OR SHE IS
QUALIFIED TO REPLACE ANY PARTS OF THE PRODUCT. IN FACT, THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR
DISTRIBUTOR EXPRESSLY STATES THAT ALL REPAIRS AND PARTS REPLACEMENTS SHOULD BE
UNDERTAKEN BY CERTIFIED AND LICENSED TECHNICIANS, AND NOT BY THE BUYER. THE BUYER
           

OF REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO.

Page 13SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Part Description Q’ty
1 Screw 1
2 Tool Box Cover 1
3 Overload Protector 1
4 Power Switch 1
5 Upper Cover 4
6 Screw 1
7 Cord Holder 1
8 Motor Assy. 1
9 Tube 1
10 Air Outlet Valve 2
11 Copper Tube 1
12 Pressure Controller 1
13 Screw 1
14 Washer 1
15 Bracket Support 3
16 Screw 3
17 Pressure Regulator Valve 3
18 Cover (Bottom) 1
19 Screw 1
Part Description Q’ty
20 Wire Clip 1
21 Power Cord 1
22 Rubber Tube 1
23 Clip 4
24 Handle 1
25 Screw 1
26 Air Tank 1
27 Wheel 4
28 Washer 1
29 Split Pin 1
30 Rubber Foot 2
31 Drain Valve 4
32 Screw 2
33  1
34 Safety Valve 2
35  1
36 Copper Connector 2
37 Quick Connector 2
PARTS LIST

Page 14SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
ASSEMBLY DIAGRAM

Page 15SKU 96496 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
Record Product’s Serial Number Here:
Note: If product has no serial number, record month and year of purchase instead.
Note: Some parts are listed and shown for illustration purposes only, and are not
available individually as replacement parts.
LIMITED 1 YEAR / 90 DAY WARRANTY
Harbor Freight Tools Co. makes every effort to assure that its products meet
     
period of one year from date of purchase that the tank is free of defects in materials and

Harbor Freight Tools also warrants to the original purchaser, for a period of ninety days
from date of purchase, that all other parts and components of the product are free from
defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty does not apply to damage due
directly or indirectly to misuse, abuse, negligence or accidents, repairs or alterations
outside our facilities, normal wear and tear, or to lack of maintenance. We shall in no event
be liable for death, injuries to persons or property, or for incidental, contingent, special


of exclusion may not apply to you. THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ALL

MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS.
To take advantage of this warranty, the product or part must be returned to us with
transportation charges prepaid. Proof of purchase date and an explanation of the complaint
            
repair or replace the product at our election or we may elect to refund the purchase price

products at our expense, but if we determine there is no defect, or that the defect resulted
from causes not within the scope of our warranty, then you must bear the cost of returning
the product.

which vary from state to state.
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd. • PO Box 6009 • Camarillo, CA 93011 • [phone]