Craftsman 125.17608 User manual

8 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum
Model No. 125.17608
Operator’s Manual
Safety
•
•
Assembly
•Operation
•Maintenance
•
•
Parts
CAUTION: Before using this
product, read this manual and
follow all its Safety Rules
and Operating Instructions.
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179 U.S.A.
www.craftsman.com
Español - página 16

CRAFTSMAN
ONE YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
Sears Brands Management Corporation, Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Warranty
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL
INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS
VACUUM
Read and understand this owner’s manual and
all labels on the Wet/Dry Vacuum cleaner before
operating. Safety is a combination of common
sense, staying alert and knowing how your
vacuum works. Use this Wet/Dry Vac only as
described in this manual. To reduce the risk of
personal injury or damage to your Wet/Dry Vac,
use only Craftsman recommended accessories.
For household use only
SAVE THIS MANUAL
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
When using an electrical appliance, basic
precautions should always be followed
including the following:
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE
RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK OR INJURY:
• Do not run vac unattended.
• Do not vacuum, or use this Wet/Dry Vac
near flammable liquids, gases, or
explosive vapors like gasoline or other
fuels, lighter fluids, cleaners, oil-based
paints, natural gas, hydrogen, or explosive
dusts like coal dust, magnesium dust,
grain dust, or gun power. Sparks inside
the motor can ignite flammable vapors or
dust.
• Do not vacuum anything that is burning or
smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or
hot ashes.
• Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
• Do not expose to rain. Store indoors.
• Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To
unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
• Do not use with damaged cord, plug or
other parts.
• If vac is not working as it should, has
been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or
dropped into water, take it to a service
dealer for inspection and repair before
using it again.
• Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as
handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord
around sharp edges or corners.
• Do not run Wet/Dry Vac over cord.
• Do not handle plug or the Wet/Dry Vac
with wet hands.
• To reduce the risk of health hazards from
vapors or dusts, do not vacuum toxic
materials.
• Do not store near hazardous materials.
• Do not use this Wet/Dry Vac with a torn
filter or without the filter installed except
when vacuuming liquids as described in
the operation section of this manual.
2
FOR ONE YEAR from the date of purchase, this product is warranted against any
defects in material or workmanship. With proof of purchase, a defective product
will be replaced free of charge.
For warranty coverage details to obtain free replacement, visit the web site:
www.craftsman.com
This warranty does not cover filters, hose or attachments, which are expendable
parts that can wear out from normal use within the warranty period.
This warranty is void if this product is ever used while providing commercial
services or if rented to another person.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which vary from state to state.

Extension Cords
• Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close
attention is necessary when used by or
near children.
• To reduce the risk of injury from
accidental starting, unplug power cord
before changing or cleaning filter.
• Do not leave Wet/Dry Vac unattended
when plugged in. Unplug from outlet
when not in use and before servicing.
• Turn off Wet/Dry Vac before unplugging.
• Do not put any object into ventilation
openings. Do not vacuum with any
ventilation openings blocked; keep free of
dust, lint, hair or anything that may reduce
air flow.
• Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all
parts of body away from openings and
moving parts.
• To reduce the risk of falls, use extra care
when cleaning on stairs.
When using as blower:
• Direct air discharge only at work area.
• Do not use Wet/Dry Vac as a sprayer.
• Do not direct air at bystanders.
• Keep children away when blowing.
• Wear safety goggles.
3
Length of Extension Cord
110V-120V 25 Feet
7.5 Meters
50 Feet
15.25 Meters
100 Feet
30.5 Meters
150 Feet
45.7 Meters
A.W.G Wire Size
Amps
0-6 18 16 16 14
7-10 18 16 14 12
11-12 16 16 14 12
13-16 14 12 Not recommended
Observe the following warnings that
appear on the motor housing of your Vac:
WARNING: To reduce the risk of
electric shock - do not expose to rain -
store indoors.
DOUBLE INSULATED
GROUNDING NOT REQUIRED.
WHEN SERVICING USE ONLY
IDENTICAL REPLACEMENT PARTS.
WARNING: When using blower:
Wear safety goggles labeled “ANSI
Z87.1” on the package. Turn unit off
before setting on ground or releasing
grasp of handle. Electric shock could
occur if used on wet surfaces. Direct
tool discharge only at work area.
Do not direct discharge at bystanders.
Keep children away.
!
!
!
•For your own safety, read and
understand owner's manual.
•Do not allow unit to be in operation if
unattended.
•Do not pick up hot ashes, coals,
toxic, flammable or other hazardous
materials.
•Do not use around explosive liquids
or vapors.
WARNING
When using an extension cord with your Wet/Dry Vac refer to the following table to
determine the required A.W.G. (American Wire Gauge) wire size. Before using Wet/Dry Vac,
make sure it is in good working condition, including power cord. Also, make sure extension
cord is in good working condition prior to use. Make repairs or replacements before using
the vacuum cleaner. Only use extension cords that are rated for outdoor use.

Introduction
This Wet/Dry Vac is intended for house-
hold use. It may be used for vacuuming of
wet or dry media and may be used as a
blower.
Read this operator's manual to familiarize
yourself with the product features and to
understand the specific usage of your new
Wet/Dry Vac.
Table of Contents
egaPnoitceS
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4
Warranty .............................................
Important Safety Instructions ..........
Extension cords ..............................
Introduction .....................................
Table of Contents ...........................
Assembly .............................................
Carton Contents List ......................
Unpacking Your Wet/dry
Vacuum & General Assembly .........
Polarized Plug ................................
Operation ............................................
Vacuuming Dry Materials ................
Vacuuming Liquids ..........................
Blowing Feature ..............................
10
10
10
11
12
12
12
13
14
2
2
3
4
4
5
5
6
6
7
7
8
9
Maintenance ........................................
Emptying the Tank ...........................
Installing & Cleaning Cartridge
Filter ..................................................
Installing A Replacement Cartridge
Filter ..................................................
Installing & Cleaning Foam Sleeve
Filter ..................................................
Cleaning And Disinfecting the
Wet/Dry Vac ......................................
Storage .............................................
Troubleshooting ...................................
Repair Parts .........................................

Assembly
Remove entire contents of carton. Check
each item against the carton contents list.
If any parts are missing or damaged,
return the unit to the retailer of purchase,
or call 1-800-469-4663 for part replacement.
5
1
1
2
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
4
1
2
1
2
1
Blower Port
Handle
Collection Tank
Wheel
Latch
Power Head
On/Off Switch
Hose Storage Rack
Vacuum Port
Caster
Drain
Base
AB
C
D
E F G H
I
QP R
M
N
L
O
J
K

Assembly (continued)
UNPACKING YOUR WET/DRY
VACUUM & GENERAL ASSEMBLY
1. Verify that the power cord is
disconnected from the outlet. (Fig. 1)
2. Undo the latches. (Fig. 2)
3. Lift the power head off the collection
tank. (Fig. 3)
4. Remove the contents from inside the
collection tank; make sure you have all
contents as listed on page 5. (Fig. 4)
5. With the power head removed, turn the
collection tank upside down. Insert the
two casters into each socket. Apply
pressure until casters snap into place.
(Fig. 5)
6. Insert the rear wheel shaft (N) into the
rear support block. Insert washer (M)
on the shaft, then insert rear wheel (K)
and insert washer again. Insert the
cotter pin (L) into the hole on the end of
the shaft and bend the ends up with the
pliers to lock the wheel. Snap the hub
cap (O) on to the wheel. Repeat the
same steps at the other end of the
shaft. (Fig. 6)
7. Insert the handle into the slots located
on top of the power head. Secure it
6
WARNING: Do not plug in power
cord to power outlet, make sure plug
is disconnected before assembling
the Wet/Dry Vac.
!
A Philips head screw driver and pliers are required.
with the screws provided. Do not over
tighten the screws. (Fig. 7)
8. For your conveniance the hose storage
rack comes pre-installed. If not installed,
position the hose storage rack as
illustrated. Insert one side of the rack into
the channel making sure it is secured in
place. Squeeze in the other end and
insert it into the corresponding channel
making sure it is secured. (Fig. 8a & Fig
8b) (If the storage rack has already
assemblied on the head skip this step.)
9. Place the power head back on the
collection tank, and secure into place
using the 2 side latches. (Fig. 9 & Fig.10)
10. Insert the locking end of the hose into
the port on the collection tank and turn
to lock in to place. (Fig. 11)
11. Choose the desired accessory and
insert onto the end of the hose. (Fig.12)
Polarized Plug
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this
appliance has a polarized plug (one with
the blade wider than the other). This plug
will fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If
the plug does not fit fully in the outlet,
reverse the plug. If it still does not fit,
contact a qualified electrician to install the
proper outlet. Do not change the plug in
any way. Double insulation eliminates
the need for the three wire grounded power
cord and grounded power supply system.
4
10 12
5
11
2 3
7
1
9
6
N
MM
M
M
K
K
O
O
8b
8a

Operation
Vacuuming Dry Materials
1. Verify that the power cord is
disconnected from the outlet. (Fig. 1)
2. For dry vacuuming, the cartridge filter
must be installed correctly. To verify,
please refer to Installing Cartridge Filter
on page 10.
3. Place the power head back on the
collectin tank, and secure it in place
using the latches. (Fig. 2)
4. Insert the locking end of the hose into
the vacuum port and lock in place.
Choose the desired accessory and
insert onto the end of the hose. (Fig. 3)
5. Plug the power cord into the outlet.
(Fig. 4)
6. Turn the motor on by pressing the
power switch to the ‘I’ (ON) position
and begin vacuuming. (Fig. 5)
7. Once you have completed vacuuming,
press the power switch to the ‘O’ (OFF)
position and unplug the power cord
from the outlet.
O = OFF I = ON
DO NOT USE THE CARTRIDGE FILTER
FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.
7
CAUTION: Do not vacuum drywall dust,
fireplace soot or ash with standard Wet/Dry
filter. This is very fine dust which will not
be captured by the filter and may cause
damage to motor. When vacuuming fine
dust use a fine dust filter (sold separately).
WARNING: Be sure to read, understand and apply all the information in the
Important Safety Instructions section at the beginning of this operator's
manual. Do not vacuum in areas with flammable gases, vapors, or explosive
dusts in the air. Flammable gases or vapors include but are not limited to;
lighter fluid, solvent type cleaners, oil-base paints, gasoline, alcohol or
aerosol sprays. Explosive dusts include but are not limited to; coal,
magnesium, grain or gun powder. To reduce the risk of health hazards from
vapors or dust, do not vacuum toxic materials.
!
4
35
14
2

Operation (continued)
Vacuuming Liquids
1. Verify that the power cord is
disconnected from the outlet. (Fig. 1)
2. Remove cartridge filter as shown in
Removing and Cleaning Cartridge Filter
on page 10. Then install the foam
sleeve filter as shown in Installing Foam
Sleeve Filter on page 12 and secure
power head back on the collection tank.
DO NOT USE THE CARTRIDGE FILTER
FILTER FOR LIQUID VACUUMING.
3. Fit the desired nozzle to the vacuum
hose. (Fig. 2)
4. Verify that the power switch is in the ‘O’
OFF position before plugging the power
cord into the outlet. (Fig. 3)
5. Turn the motor on by pressing the
switch to the ‘I’ ON position. (Fig. 4)
6. Once you have completed vacuuming,
press the power switch to the 'O' (OFF)
position and unplug the power cord
from the outlet.
7. After use, empty the collection tank by
unscrewing the drain cap and drain
liquids into suitable receptacle or drain.
(Fig. 5) Remember to refit the drain
cap to the tank after draining.
IMPORTANT! When vacuuming large
quantities of liquids, do not immerse the
nozzle completely in the liquid; leave a
gap at the tip of the nozzle opening to
allow air inflow. The machine is fitted with
a float valve that stops the suction action
when the collection tank reaches its
maximum capacity. You will notice an
increase in motor speed. When this
happens, turn off the machine, disconnect
from power supply, and drain the liquid into
a suitable receptacle or drain. To continue
vacuuming, refit the collection tank with the
drain cap. After wet vacuuming, turn the
machine off and remove plug from power
supply. Empty the collection tank, clean
and dry the inside and outside before
storage.
REMEMBER! The foam filter must be
removed after wet vacuuming, and a
cartridge filter must be installed before
dry vacuuming again.
8
WARNING: Be sure to read, understand and apply all the information in the
Important Safety Instructions section at the beginning of this operator's manual.
Do not vacuum in areas with flammable gases, vapors, or explosive dusts in the
air. Flammable gases or vapors include but are not limited to; lighter fluid,
solvent type cleaners, oil-base paints, gasoline, alcohol or aerosol sprays.
Explosive dusts include but are not limited to; Coal, magnesium, grain or gun
powder. To reduce the risk of health hazards from vapors or dust, do not
vacuum toxic materials.
WARNING: Do not plug in power cord to power outlet, make sure plug is
disconnected before assembling the Wet/Dry Vac.
!
!
24
135

Operation (continued)
Blowing Feature
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles complying with ANSI Z87.1 (or in
Canada, CSAZ94.3) before using blower.
WARNING: Keep bystanders clear from blowing debris.
!
!
WARNING: Wear a dust mask if blowing creates dust that might be inhaled.
!
This Wet/Dry Vac has blowing capabilities.
To use the blower feature follow the
instructions listed.
1. Verify that the power cord is
disconnected from the outlet. (Fig.1)
2. Make sure the collection tank is empty
before using as a blower.
3. Remove hose from the vacuum port.
4. Insert the larger end of the hose into the
blowing port on the back side of the
power head. (Fig. 2)
5. Fit the desired attachment to the hose.
(Fig. 3)
6. Verify that the power switch is in the ‘O’
OFF position before plugging the power
cord into the outlet. (Fig. 4, Fig. 5)
7. Before turning ON the vac, firmly hold
the loose end of the hose. Turn the
motor on by pressing the switch to the ‘I’
ON position. (Fig. 6)
8. Once you have completed vacuuming,
press the power switch to the 'O' (OFF)
position and unplug the power cord
from the outlet. (Fig. 7)
9
6
2
4
35
1
7

Maintenance
Emptying the Collection Tank
1. Verify that the power cord is
disconnected from the outlet. (Fig. 1)
2. Disconnect the hose from the vacuum.
(Fig. 2)
3. Undo the latches and remove the power
head from the collection tank. (Fig. 3)
4. Clear all dirt or debris from the
collection tank and hose. (Fig. 4)
5. Clean or replace the filters. (Fig. 5)
6. Check the hose, attachments, and
power cord to verify that they have not
been damaged.
NOTICE! The filter included is made of
high quality material designed to stop small
dust particles. The filter should be used for
dry pick-up only. A dry filter is necessary
to pick up dust. If the dust filter is wet, it
will clog quickly and be very difficult to
clean. Handle the filter carefully when
removing it for cleaning and replacing it.
Check the filters for tears or small holes, a
small hole can let dust pass through and
out of the cleaner. Do not use a filter with
holes or tears, replace it immediately.
10
Installing & Cleaning Cartridge Filter
24
3
1
12 3 4 5
Installing Cartridge Filter
1. Verify that the power cord is
disconnected from the outlet. (Fig. 1)
2. Undo the latches and remove the
power head from the collection tank.
3. Place power head on a clean surface in
upside down position.
4. Slide the cartridge filter over the filter
cage with the flat end of the filter
towards the power head. (Fig. 2)
Carefully push filter down until it is fully
seated on the power head. (Fig. 3)
5. To secure filter; put on retainer nut and
turn clockwise to tighten until snug.
(Fig. 4) Or press down firmly on top of
filter around retainer bolt to allow filter
to snap in place.
Removing and Cleaning Cartridge Filter
1. Position power head in the upside down
position. If the retainer nut was used to
secure the filter, remove retainer nut by
turning counter clockwise.
2. Carefully lift filter up from filter cage.
(Fig. 5)
NOTE: For best cartridge filter cleaning
results, cleaning should be conducted
outdoors and not indoors.
3. To clean a dry cartridge filter after it has
been removed, gently tap it against the
inside wall of the container or brush the
dirt off. Debris will begin to break up,
loosen and fall.
5

WARNING: Always disconnect
the plug from the power outlet
before removing the power head
from the collection tank.
!
Maintenance (continued)
Installing a Replacement Cartridge Filter
This vacuum cleaner is designed to use
Craftsman cartridge filters.
1. Carefully slide the Craftsman cartridge
filter over the filter cage and press
down on the outside edge of the filter
until the rubber gasket on the bottom of
the filter fits securely around the base
of the filter cage and against the lid.
(Fig. 1)
2. Align the small center hole in the top of
the filter over the post on the filter cage.
Press firmly on top of the filter near the
post to allow the filter to seat over the
post. (Fig. 2)
3. To secure filter, put on retainer nut and
turn clockwise to tighten until snug.
(Fig. 3)
11
1 2 3
IMPORTANT! Clean or change the
cartridge filter regularly for best
performance.
ALWAYS USE CARTRIDGE FILTER FOR
DRY VACUUMING. If the machine is
used without the dust filter, the motor will
burn out and the warranty will be voided.
Always keep spare filters on-hand.

Installing & Cleaning Foam Sleeve Filter
12345
Installing Foam Sleeve Filter
1. Verify that the power cord is
disconnected from the outlet. (Fig. 1)
2. Remove power head from collection
tank. If cartridge filter is installed,
remove as shown on page 10 "Removing
and Cleaning Cartridge Filter".
3. Carefully slide foam sleeve filter
down over the filter cage making sure
the whole cage is covered. (Fig. 2 & 3)
4. Replace the power head onto the
collection tank and secure in place.
Cleaning Foam Sleeve Filter
1. With the removed power head in the
upside down position, carefully
remove foam sleeve filter. (Fig. 4)
2. Use a mild soap and water solution to
wash foam sleeve filter and rinse with
clean water. (Fig. 5)
3. Allow filter to air dry before installing and
using again.
12
Cleaning and Disinfecting the
Wet/Dry Vac
To keep your Wet/Dry Vac looking its best,
clean the outside with a dampened cloth,
then dry with a clean towel.
To clean the inside of the collection tank:
1. Dump debris out.
2. Wash collection tank thoroughly with
warm water and mild soap.
3. Wipe out with dry cloth.
Before prolonged storage or as needed
(i.e., waste water pick up) the collection
tank should be disinfected.
To disinfect the collection tank:
1. Pour 1 gallon of water and 1 teaspoon
chlorine bleach into the collection tank.
2. Let solution stand for 20 minutes,
carefully swishing every few minutes,
making sure to wet all inside surfaces
of the collection tank.
3. Empty drum after 20 minutes. Rinse
with water until bleach smell is gone.
Allow drum to dry completely before
sealing the motor on the collection tank.
Maintenance (continued)
Storage
Before storing your Vac, the collection tank
should be emptied and cleaned. The cord
should be wrapped around the unit and the
hose should be stored as described in this
manual. Accessories should be kept in the
same area as the Vac so they can be
readily available. The Vac should be stored
indoors.

13
Troubleshooting
Problem Possible Causes Corrective Action
Vacuum will not operate
Dust comes out from motor cover.
Reduced efficiency and
motor/speed vibration.
1) No power supply.
2) Faulty power cord.
3) Collection tank is full.
4) Switch in the wrong position
1) The cartridge filter is
missing or damaged.
1) There is a blockage in the
nozzle, hose, or the tank
inlet. The dust filter is
clogged by fine dust.
1) Check power supply – cord,
breakers, fuses.
2) Unplug and check the power
cord. If damaged, have it
repaired by a professional.
3) Empty collection tank.
4) Press the ON ‘I’ button on
the power head.
1) Attach or replace the
cartridge filter.
1) Check nozzle, hose and
tank inlets for blockage.
Take off the filter and clean it.
Or install new cartridge filter.
WARNING: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK-UNPLUG
BEFORE TROUBLESHOOTING.

14
!
Repair Parts
125.17608 8 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac
WARNING: Servicing of double-insulated wet/dry vacuumm with
double-insulated wet/dry vacuum, two systems of insulation are provided instead
of grounding. No grounding means is provided on a double-insulated appliance,
nor should a means for grounding be added. Servicing a double insulated
wet/dry vacuum requires extreme care and knowledge of the system, and should
be done only by qualified service personnel. Replacement parts for a
double-insulated wet/dry vacuum must be identical to the parts they replace.
Your double-insulated wet/dry vac is marked with the words ‘double insulated’ and
the symbol (square within a square) may also be marked on the appliance.
Always order by part number, not by key number. Always mention the model number when ordering parts.
The model number is found on the serial plate located on the vacuum. To order parts, call 1-800-469-4663.
Handle
Hose Storage Rack
Power Head Assembly
Float
Filter Cage
Retainer Nut
Latch Assembly
Vacuum Port Assembly
Drain Outlet Assembly
Base
Big Wheel Assembly
Casters
Extention Wands
Crevice Tool
Nozzle
Hose
Foam Filter
Cartridge Filter
Floor / Squeegee Nozzle
11
22
31
1
4
1
2
5
TVQTDK.02.00
6
1
7
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
2
2
8
9
10
11
12
TVQTXK.A0.08
FV9543.11.01
VD30SR.00.01
VQ81SR.10.00
TVQTZS.03.YZ
VQ51SR.10.04
VF01SR.A0.01
FV5901.01.01
VB07SR.20.02
VB07SR.A0.02
TVQTJL.18.00
FV5771.01.02
FV5772.01.01
FV5708.00.00
FV5843.01.00
FV9502.04.00
FV9543.11.00
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
VJ51PF.A0.01 1
Part Number Description Quantity
Key Number

15
Repair Parts (continued)
8 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac