GuardAir AIR-SPADE 2000 Series User manual

A DI ISION OF
ERIE 2000
OPERATOR’S MAN AL
®

Table of Contents
2
Technical Specifications 3
General nformation 4-5
Safety nstructions 6-7
Assembly nstructions 8
Operating nstructions 9-11
Components & Accessories 12-14
Parts Disassembly and Reassembly 15-16
Products, Parts & Accessories List 17
Limited Warranty 18
A R-SPADE®is a registered trademark of Guardair Corporation.
Always wear eye and ear protection when
operating air tools and related equipment.

Technical Specifications
3
AIR-SPADE SERIES 2000
•Overall Length 60.5 inches (154 cm)
•Weight 7.1 pounds (3.2 kg)
•Nozzle Extra-hardened stainless steel
•Nozzle Flow Rates 25 scfm (0.7m3/min)
60 scfm (1.7m3/min)
105 scfm (3.0m3/min)
150 scfm (4.2m3/min)*
225 scfm (6.4m3/min)
•Operating Presure 90 psi (6.2 bar)
•Barrel nsulated fiberglass
•nlet 3/4” FNPT
•nlet Connector 3/4” Chicago style
*Standard Model
A R-SPADE is covered by U.S. Patents 5,782,414, D408,830, and D435,207.

GENERAL INFORMATION
GUARDA R CORPORAT ON’S A R-SPADE Series 2000 is a compressed air-powered tool
used for excavation of a wide variety of soils. A R-SPADE Series 2000 consists of an
ergonomic pistol grip style handle, an insulated fiberglass barrel, and a patented
supersonic nozzle. Typically powered by a portable tow-behind air compressor, the
A R-SPADE Series 2000 provides a safe, powerful and efficient method of uncovering
underground electric lines, pipes, and tree roots without harm. Capable of excavation
where a shovel or backhoe cannot be used, A R-SPADE can be equipped with multiple
nozzle sizes and a variety of extension lengths for optimum job performance.
The heart of the A R-SPADE is the patented supersonic nozzle which produces a focused
“laser-like” jet of air moving at approximately 1,200 mph (1,900 km/hr), or nearly twice
the speed of sound. This supersonic air-jet penetrates voids in the soil and expands
rapidly, therefore fracturing the soil. Unlike the hard cutting edges of shovels, picks,
blades, or buckets, the air-jet is harmless to non-porous items such as tree roots,
buried pipes, or cables. Excavating with A R-SPADE is much easier and many times
faster than hand excavation.
The A R-SPADE supersonic air-jet outperforms “homemade tools” featuring a pipe
nipple or a crimped orifice. Air flow from these tools expands to atmosphere in an
unfocused, complex manner while the supersonic air jet delivers significantly more
kinetic energy and more focused momentum. n practical terms the A R-SPADE does
more work by moving more material, and harder material, in a shorter period of time.
4
Arboriculture/Horticulture Utility/ Construction

GENERAL INFORMATION
(Fig.A)
FOCUSED A R FLOW FROM
A R-SPADE SUPERSON C NOZZLE
(Fig.B)
UNFOCUSED A R FLOW FROM
MPROPERLY DES GNED NOZZLE
A R-SPADE’s patented supersonic nozzle turns compressed air into a high speed,
laser-like jet moving at twice the speed of sound – 1,200 mph. All of the energy
and momentum of air moving at approximately Mach 2 is focused into the soil,
dislodging it in a fraction of a second. (Fig.A) The result is faster, safer, and more
efficient soil excavation.
Air exiting from an improperly designed nozzle diffuses outward 3 to 4 times wider
than the air-jet from the patented A R-SPADE supersonic nozzle. (Fig.B)
5
Trench Rescue Environmental Remediation
AIR-SPADE PATENTED S PERSONIC NOZZLE

SAFETY INSTR CTIONS
… Wear appropriate protective work clothing and equipment. Cut and puncture
resistant gloves, approved safety glasses with side shields and/or face protec-
tion, and approved hearing protective earplugs or earmuffs should be worn
while operating the A R-SPADE. Eye protection should comply with
ANS Z87.1-1989. Ear protection should provide a NRR of at least 20 dB.
… Wear approved respiratory protection when working in extremely dusty
conditions.
… Wear approved, electrically insulated footwear and gloves if working near
underground electrical lines.
… Ensure that all personnel near the area being excavated are aware that
A R-SPADE is being used and that they wear appropriate personal protection
as indicated.
… Protect surfaces that could be chipped, or damaged by dislodged soil or rock
particles adjacent to the excavation work area by using suitable drop cloths,
screens, or other means.
… Check the A R-SPADE for loose or damaged parts prior to use.
Tighten, repair, and/or replace as necessary.
… Inspect hoses for leakage, kinking, abrasion, corrosion, or any other signs
of wear or damage. Worn or damaged hose assemblies should be replaced
immediately.
… Check that the air compressor is delivering the specified pressure to operate
the A R-SPADE.
… Anticipate that the A R-SPADE tool will push upwards when using the 45
degree adapter. Brace against the upwards force by holding the tool in
accordance with the operating instructions.
ALWAY
6

SAFETY INSTR CTIONS
… Operate the A R-SPADE until the operating and safety instructions
are read and fully understood.
… Make any modifications to the A R-SPADE.
… Tie, tape, or otherwise lock or fasten the trigger in the “ON” position.
… Point, or aim the A R-SPADE at any person during operation.
… Allow hands, feet, or any body parts near the A R-SPADE nozzle tip
during operation.
…Use the A R-SPADE as a pry bar.
DO NOT
7

WARNING
8
User assumes full responsibility to read and understand these
instructions prior to operation. Failure to adhere to these instruc-
tions can result in personal injury. User should also have operat-
ing knowledge of the air-compressor to which the tool is attached.
NOZZLEBARREL
BA
HANDLE
•Read and follow the directions below to properly assembly the A R-SPADE.
•Apply a small amount of commercial grade anti-seize compound on the barrel
threads (A & B) to prevent galling. Screw the nozzle into the barrel by turning
clockwise. Hand-tighten only.
•Screw the barrel into the handle by turning clockwise. Hand-tighten only.
ASSEMBLY INSTR CTIONS

OPERATING INSTR CTIONS
9
Maximum Recommended Air Supply
Hose Length (Feet)
Nozzle Flow 3/4” D 1” D 11/4” D
(scfm)
25
60
105
150
225
4,750
900
240
110
40
≤5,000
3,460
1,110
520
220
≤5,000
≤5,000
3,350
1,730
880
TARTING
•Start the air compressor according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
•The air compressor should build pressure until 100 – 120 psig is shown on the air
compressor pressure gauge.
•Make sure that A R-SPADE is turned off. Point the nozzle away from all personnel
or loose objects that could become airborne. Open the air supply valve on the
air compressor.
•Securely hold the A R-SPADE. Point the nozzle up and away from all personnel and
any loose objects, and depress the trigger. Read the air compressor pressure gauge
and the pressure gauge on the tool. During operation the air pressure gauge on the
tool should read between 80 and 100 psig (5.5 and 6.9 bar). f not, adjust the output
pressure of the air compressor.
•Match the air compressor size to the A R-SPADE nozzle on the tool. To properly size
the air compressor, make sure the air compressor flow rate is equal to, or greater
than, the nozzle flow rate.
•Check the air compressor for sufficient fuel and oil levels.
•Make sure the air compressor is secure from accidental motion.
•Close the air supply valve on the air compressor.
•Make sure all air supply hose
connections are securely
made and safety clips
are installed.
•Use air supply hose with a
pressure rating equal to, or
greater than, 150 psig.
•Use air supply hose of an
appropriate diameter and
length. (See Table)
BEFORE OPERATION

OPERATING INSTR CTIONS
10
EXCAVATION PROCEDURE
•For most excavations the best performance is achieved by holding the A R-SPADE
nozzle at approximately a 45 degree angle from horizontal and about 1 inch away
from the surface to be excavated.
•Depending on the soil type, the A R-SPADE should be directed above the surface
to be excavated at a rate of approximately 1 to 2 feet per second
(0.3 to 0.6 meters per second).
•Except in very hard and compacted clays, dwelling on the same spot tends to reduce
the rate at which material is excavated and can increase the amount of material
blown away from the excavation site.
•Watering the work area ahead of time can often be helpful. Watering reduces
airborne dust if the soil is extremely dry. t also reduces the soil strength making
digging easier.
•For small diameter holes, position the A R-SPADE barrel perpendicular to the ground
with the nozzle close to the surface. Depress the trigger, and slowly thrust the tool into
the soil. When resistance is met, slowly withdraw the A R-SPADE and then reinsert.
This procedure allows loose soil at the bottom of the hole to exit upwards. Reinsert
the nozzle and repeat the above procedure until the desired depth of hole is reached.
•When boring a small diameter hole, or when plunging the A R-SPADE into loose soil,
the tendency to expose the operator to blown back material is increased. The ad-
justable dirt shield should be positioned close to the ground to deflect airborne
material away from the operator.
•For large diameter holes, position the A R-SPADE at an angle between 30° and 45°
from the horizontal. Depress the trigger and move the A R-SPADE back and forth
across the footprint of the excavation to loosen the soil to a depth of several inches.
Each layer of loose soil should then be removed with a shovel, backhoe, or vacuum.
Repeat the procedure until the desired depth is reached.
•For shallow, wide excavations, position the A R-SPADE at an angle between 30° and
45° from the horizontal. Depress the trigger, move the nozzle from side to side the
desired width, and blow the loosened soil ahead of the nozzle. Continue until the
excavation is completed to the required length.

11
•For deeper excavations or trenches loosen the soil in layers of several inches.
Remove the soil with a shovel, backhoe, or vacuum. Repeat the procedure until the
desired depth is reached.
•Excavation rates will vary depending
upon soil composition, soil compaction,
and the air delivered from the
A R-SPADE nozzle. (See Table)
•Use a portable (collapsible) barrier or
fence constructed from plywood, or
canvas cloth, to keep dislodged soil
confined to the working area.
HUT DOWN
•Turn off the air compressor air supply valve.
•Shut down the air compressor.
•Securely hold the A R-SPADE. Point the nozzle up and away from all personnel and
any loose objects, and depress the trigger. Continue to depress the trigger until all
compressed air from the tool and hose is fully expelled and the air pressure gauge
on the A R-SPADE reads “0”.
•t is now safe to disconnect the air supply hose. Store the A R-SPADE as desired.
MAINTENANCE
•As with any professional grade tool, the A R-SPADE requires regular care to ensure
proper operation. Prior to each use, inspect the tool for any loose or visibly damaged
parts. Tighten or replace worn parts as required. Brush off dirt or other foreign
material from around the trigger and valve stem areas. Periodically apply light oil or
lubricant (e.g. WD40) to the exposed valve stem to ensure smooth operation.
OPERATING INSTR CTIONS
Nozzle Flow Soil Excavation Rate
(scfm) (cubic ft / min)
25 0.4 to 0.9
60 0.7 to 1.1
105 0.9 to 1.5
150 1.2 to 1.8
225 1.7 to 2.3
Soil Excavation Rates

COMPONENTS & ACCESSORIES
12
NOZZLE
BARREL
•The A R-SPADE nozzle can be unscrewed from the barrel by turning counter-clockwise.
n the event of a tighter than normal connection, flats are provided on the nozzle for
wrench application. Before re-installing the nozzle, remove any dirt or foreign material
from the threads and o-ring, and apply a small amount of commercial grade anti-seize
compound on the threads to prevent galling. Screw the nozzle into the barrel by
turning clockwise. Hand-tighten only.
•The fiberglass barrel can be unscrewed from the handle by turning counter-clockwise.
n the event of a tighter than normal connection, a spanner wrench may used on the
barrel if necessary. Before re-installing the barrel into the handle, remove any dirt or
foreign material from the threads and o-ring, and apply a small amount of anti-seize
compound on the threads to prevent galling. Screw the barrel into the handle by turning
clockwise. Hand-tighten only.
•Extensions provide the ability to extend the reach of the A R-SPADE into deeper holes
or trenches. To install an extension, first remove the nozzle. Apply a small amount of
anti-seize compound on the threads of the barrel, then attach the extension to the
barrel by screwing it into the barrel. Turn clockwise and hand-tighten only. Apply a
small amount of anti-seize compound on the threads of the extension, then screw on
the nozzle. Hand-tighten only.
EXTEN ION

COMPONENTS & ACCESSORIES
13
•The 45º adapter enables the A R-SPADE to operate in
tight locations where obstructions do not allow the use
of a straight barrel. t can be installed by hand with no tools required.
Remove the existing nozzle from the barrel. Ensure the 45º adapter locking
ring is shouldered against the 45º adapter body and the 45º adapter coupler is
snug against the o-ring. Clean the threads and the o-rings on the barrel and on the
45º adapter assembly and apply anti-seize compound to the threads of both. Screw
the 45º adapter assembly onto the barrel via the coupler. Hand-tighten only. Screw
the nozzle onto the other end of the 45º adapter. Hand-tighten only. To lock the
adapter into position, shoulder the locking ring against the coupler.
CA TION: When using the 45º
adapter, compressed air exiting
the nozzle will force the tip of the
tool away from the direction the
nozzle is aimed. To prevent this
from occurring, the operator
should place the free hand at
least midway down the barrel.
Grip the barrel tightly to brace
the tool against the force
produced by the exiting
compressed air.
45º ADAPTER
Barrel Connector
Barrel
Barrel Sleeve
O-Ring (Not Shown) Nozzle
45º Adapter Body
45º Adapter Coupler
45º Adapter Locking Ring

COMPONENTS & ACCESSORIES
14
LIDING DIRT HIELD
•The sliding dirt shield is made up of two components: the locking sleeve (A) and
rubber deflector (B). One end of the locking sleeve has 4 slots; the other end is solid.
•To install, slide the rubber deflector over the
nozzle and coupling into position (C) on the
barrel. Separate the locking sleeve and clamp
over the barrel in position (D). Make sure the
slots are closest to the nozzle. (Fig.1)
•Slide the rubber deflector so that it is positioned
over the solid end of the locking sleeve. The
locking sleeve and rubber deflector assembly
can now slide freely up and down the barrel
shaft. (Fig.2)
•To lock the sliding dirt shield in position, slide
the assembly to the desired position on the
barrel. Then firmly push the rubber deflector
over the slotted end of the locking sleeve.
(Fig.3)
Fig. 1
D
AB
C
E
Fig. 2.
Fig. 3.
Locking leeve
Rubber Deflector
NOZZLE
NOZZLE
COUPLING
COUPLING

PARTS, DISASSEMBLY AND RE-ASSEMBLY
15
HANDLE PARE PART KIT
•A R-SPADE Series 2000 Handle Spare Parts Kit includes:
Trigger Sleeve
Trigger Guard
2 Botton Screws
Handle
Handle Extension
Handle
Cover
alve Cap
alve Seal
alve Stem
Pressure Gauge
Lanyard
Safety Clip
Grip
Inlet Connector
Trigger
alve Spring
●Valve Spring
●Valve Seal
●Valve Stem
●Pressure Gauge
●Lanyard
●Safety Clip
●Grip
●Trigger Sleeve
●2 Button Screws
●Lubricant

16
PARTS, DISASSEMBLY AND RE-ASSEMBLY
TRIGGER LEEVE AND COMFORT GRIP
INLET CONNECTOR
PRE URE GAUGE
VALVE TEM
•The pressure gauge may be removed with a valve removal tool by turning counter
clockwise. Valve removal tools are commonly available at any auto parts store.
Before re-installing, apply a small amount of thread locker on the gauge stems
threads. nsert the gauge into the handle cavity, turning clockwise by hand as far
as possible. Tighten using the suction cup tool.
•Remove the plastic, snap-on handle cover by drawing the cover towards the rear of
the tool. Unthread the valve cap (1/2” square drive required) and set aside. Remove
and discard the valve spring, valve seal, and valve stem. Apply lubrication to the
new valve stem and insert into the handle. nsert a new valve seal with the black
seal face facing downwards. nsert a new valve spring. Apply Teflon tape to the
threads of the existing valve cap and thread into the handle until flush. Slide the
existing handle cover back in place.
•Remove the plastic, snap-on handle cover. Carefully snug the A R-SPADE handle
casting in a vise. Unscrew the inlet connector by turning it counter-clockwise. Exercise
caution not to unscrew the handle extension from the handle casting. Before re-
installing the connector, wrap the treads of the handle extension with Teflon tape to
prevent galling the threads and to insure an air-tight connection. Tighten by wrench.
•Unthread the inlet connector per the previous instructions. Remove the two button
screws holding the trigger guard. Slide the trigger guard off the handle and save.
Remove grip and discard. Slide on the new grip, and trigger sleeve. Applying talc
or evaporating solvent to the inside will ease installation. Position the trigger guard
on the handle. Thread the two new screws into the handle. Apply threaded locker to
the two new button screws and thread into the handle. Before reinstalling the inlet
connector, wrap the treads with Teflon tape to prevent galling the threads and to
insure an air-tight connection. Tighten by wrench.

17
PROD CTS, PARTS & ACCESSORIES LIST
Part # Description
HT57 1" D x 10 FT L GHTWE GHT A R SUPPLY HOSE
HT101 A R-SPADE 2000 UT L TY/CONSTRUCT ON K T W TH 60 SCFM NOZZLE
HT102 A R-SPADE 2000 UT L TY/CONSTRUCT ON K T W TH 225 SCFM NOZZLE
HT106 A R-SPADE 2000 UT L TY/CONSTRUCT ON K T W TH 150 SCFM NOZZLE
HT107 A R-SPADE 2000 ARBOR/LANDSCAPE K T W TH 150 SCFM NOZZLE
HT108 A R-SPADE 2000 TRENCH RESCUE K T W TH 60 SCFM AND 150 SCFM NOZZLES
HT109 A R-SPADE 2000 ARBOR/LANDSCAPE K T W TH 225 SCFM NOZZLE
HT111 1" D x 25 FT L GHTWE GHT A R SUPPLY HOSE
HT112 1" D x 50 FT L GHTWE GHT A R SUPPLY HOSE
HT113 1" D x 50 FT A R SUPPLY HOSE
HT114 A R-SPADE 2000 UT L TY/CONSTRUCT ON K T W TH 105 SCFM NOZZLE
HT116 A R-SPADE 2000 150 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 3 FT BARREL
HT117 A R-SPADE 2000 HANDLE ASSEMBLY
HT118 A R-SPADE 2000 4 FT BARREL W TH D RT SH ELD
HT119 A R-SPADE 2000 45 DEGREE ANGLED ADAPTER
HT120 A R-SPADE 2000 5 FT EXTENS ON W TH COUPLER
HT121 A R-SPADE 2000 3 FT EXTENS ON W TH COUPLER
HT122 A R-SPADE 2000 2 FT EXTENS ON W TH COUPLER
HT123 A R-SPADE 2000 150 SCFM NOZZLE
HT125 A R-SPADE 2000 60 SCFM NOZZLE
HT126 A R-SPADE 2000 25 SCFM NOZZLE
HT127 A R-SPADE 2000 225 SCFM NOZZLE
HT129 A R-SPADE 2000 150 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 40" BARREL
HT130 A R-SPADE 2000 150 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 4 FT BARREL
HT131 A R-SPADE 2000 150 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 3 FT BARREL
HT132 A R-SPACE 2000 STORAGE CASE W TH LOCK
HT133 A R-SPADE 2000 SL D NG D RT SH ELD ASSEMBLY
HT134 A R-SPADE 2000 60 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 4 FT BARREL
HT135 A R-SPADE 2000 PRESSURE GAUGE
HT136 FACE SH ELD & HEADGEAR
HT138 A R-SPADE 2000 225 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 4 FT BARREL
HT139 A R-SPADE 2000 105 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 4 FT BARREL
HT140 A R-SPADE 2000 25 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 4 FT BARREL
HT150 A R-SPADE 2000 HANDLE SPARE PARTS K T
HT154 A R-SPADE 2000 4 FT EXTENS ON W TH COUPLER
HT156 A R-SPADE 2000 105 SCFM NOZZLE
HT165 A R-SPADE 2000 3/4" FNPT NOZZLE ADAPTER
HT171 STORAGE BAG, CANVAS
HT180 A R-SPADE 2000 AUX L ARY HANDLE ASSEMBLY
LT24 A R-SPADE 3000 330 SCFM NOZZLE
LT3000 A R-SPADE 3000 330 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 55" BARREL, 4-PRONG CONNECTOR
LT3000J01 A R-SPADE 3000 330 SCFM NOZZLE W TH 55" BARREL, 2-PRONG CONNECTOR

Limited Warranty
18
IN NO E ENT SHALL GUARDAIR CORPORATION BE LIABLE TO THE PURCHASER
OR ANY USER OF THE AIR-SPADE, OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY, FOR
INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES INCLUDING THE COST OF
PRO IDING SUBSTITUTE EQUIPMENT DURING PERIODS OF MALFUNCTION OR
NONUSE AND DAMAGES FOR DELAY. THE WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES SET FORTH
ABO E ARE THE SOLE AND EXCLUSI E WARRANTIES AND REMEDIES A AILABLE.
GUARDAIR CORPORATION SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES
OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY.
A R-SPADE Series 2000 is warranted by GUARDA R CORPORAT ON
(GUARDA R) against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year.
Defective units will be replaced or repaired at the option of GUARDA R. The
warranty period begins at the date of shipment of the tool from GUARDA R or from
GUARDA R’S authorized distributor.
This warranty shall not be in effect if the tool is subject to misuse, negligence,
or accident, or if it is configured, or used in any manner inconsistent with the
directions set forth in this operator’s manual. Wear and tear from normal use is
not covered under this warranty.
Any and all claims for warranty consideration must be coordinated through
GUARDA R. Do not return the unit or parts without prior authorization. Upon obtaining
authorization, returned units or parts must be postage prepaid.
The purchaser’s recovery for damages resulting from any and all causes whatso-
ever, including, but not limited to, breach of contract, breach of warranty, negligence or
strict product liability will be limited to the replacement of the components of the
tool with respect to which losses or damages are claimed, provided that GUARDA R
has been notified of any alleged defect within the warranty period.
LIMITED WARRANTY
®

3000
The Most Powerful,
Compressed
Air-Powered,
Excavation Tool
Available On the
Market Today.
CHECK IT O T AT:
www.air-spade.com
Featuring
the Patented
AIR-SPADE
Supersonic
Nozzle
For the
biggest,
toughest
excavation
jobs...
19

A R-VAC is a powerful, portable, compressed air-powered vacuum unit
capable of vacuuming loose soil from holes, trenches, or
excavation sites. Used in conjunction with A R-SPADE,
the patented A R-VAC is ideal for uncovering underground
pipes, cables, and tree roots in a non-destructive manner.
AIR-VAC®
The Perfect Companion
for AIR-SPADE
®
A DI ISION OF
54 Second Ave. Chicopee MA 01020
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
For more information visit us at:
www.air-spade.com
●Vacuums 1 to 2 cubic feet per minute of materials such as
dirt, sand, gravel, rocks, or water.
●Durable 100 gallon steel tank.
●Large dump door allows ease of emptying.
●Washable polyester filter insures dust-free operation.
Filters 99.5% of particulate at 0.2 to 2 microns.
●Exhaust silencer for quiet operation.
●Removable injector stack for easy transportation
and storage.
●Designed for operation with a standard
185 scfm tow-behind compresor.
(Larger scfm units also available)
®