Meyer VERSA-VAC Instruction Manual

291-M-003
Effective 9-1-2020
Meyer Portable Vacuums
OPERATION & MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
Read this manual carefully before operating or maintaining this equipment. Use vacuums for the intended
purpose/material only. Failure to do so could result in serious injury or death.
Save this manual
FOR MODELS:
VERSA-VAC™ (Insulation Removal)
VELOCI-VAC® (I nsulation Re mova l & Air Duct Cleaning)
PORTA-VAC ®(Air Duct Cle anin g)
Wm. W. Meyer & Sons, Inc.
1700 Franklin Blvd. • Libertyville, Illinois 60048-4407 • 800-963-4458 • 847-918-0111 • Fax: [phone]
[email protected] · meyercontractor.com or wmwmeyer.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety Precautions ...................................................................................... 2
Applications - Intended Use of Equipment................................................. 6
Receiving and Uncrating ............................................................................. 6
Start-Up & Operation.................................................................................. 7
Shut Down................................................................................................. 10
Maintenance ..............................................................................................10
SECTION I
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
TO THE OWNER, OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE PERSONNEL
The safety of the operator and those people that may come into contact with the equipment is of
great importance to Wm. W. Meyer & Sons, Inc. (“Meyer” “factory”). The decals, shields, guards, and
other protective features designed, furnished, or recommended for this machine are there for your
protection. BEFORE attempting to operate or perform maintenance on this equipment READ carefully
and UNDERSTAND all safety instructions contained in this set of Instructions. Failure to do so could
result in serious injury or death.
Equipment owner responsibilities
Equipment owners are responsible for understanding the contents of this document and compliance
with applicable government laws and regulations and appropriate industry standards including the
proper disposal of all collected material. The owner should also contact any associations affiliated
with their market for any training, certification, and/or proper procedures (suggested or required), for
their particular business. Appropriate safety and equipment training is the responsibility of the owner.
The owner/operator is responsible for any hazards related to the material that is being handled by the
vacuums and for ensuring that the users of the equipment have and use the proper Personnel
Protective Equipment (PPE). In addition, the owner must create a Lockout/ Tagout procedure for
personnel to follow before performing any maintenance on this equipment. This manual is intended
to assist the owner in the training process. The operation and maintenance of this equipment should
be restricted to those trained in its use and possess the expert knowledge toperform maintenance.
Operation and Maintenance personnel responsibilities
Personnel that are operating or maintaining this equipment must READ carefully and UNDERSTAND
the sections of this Instruction Manual relevant to the work they are performing. The various
precautions and recommendations detailed within this manual are not necessarily all-inclusive. These
instructions are intended to provide general safety and operational guidance relating to typical uses
with which Meyer is familiar. If you have any safety or operational questions pertaining to the design
or application of the equipment, we encourage you to contact Meyer at (800) 963-445

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SIGNAL WORD DEFINITIONS
Indicates the presence of a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, WILLresult
in death or serious injury.
Indicatesthe presence of ahazardous situation that, if not avoided, COULD result in
death or serious injury.
Indicates the presence of a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, COULD result in
minor or moderate injury.
Indicates information that is important, but is not related to a particular hazard.
Be qualified.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
To reduce the risk of serious injury or death:
•Operation of this equipment must be limited to those that are properly trained in its use.
•Servicing or maintaining thisequipment mustbe performedby trained maintenance
personnel only.
Read all safety information.
•Read and understand all the safety-related information contained in this manual and the Engine
manual prior to attempting to perform any work on thisequipment.
•Obey all the safety labels on the equipment. Do not remove any safety labels. If the equipment is
missing any labels (see “Safety Labeling” section); contact the factory immediately, before putting
the equipment into service.
Heavy – handle safely. The weight of this equipment and its component parts could cause serious
injury if dropped or mishandled during service or maintenance. Always use safe handling and rigging
methods.
Guard and avoid dangerous internal parts. The internals of this equipment contains a moving part
that will crush and cut any body part it contacts, resulting in serious injury or death.
•Inlet and outlet openings must always be properly guarded by being connected to some type of
ducting (hose) on the inlet and a collection device or ducting on the outlet. Do not operate with
the inlet or outlet exposed.
•Switches and Guardsmust be installed inthe proper location and be in working order
before operating equipment.
•Never reach inside the equipment for any reason while it is inoperation.
Do not disable any switches they are there for your protection.
Never leave the equipment unattended while it is running.
Keep clear. Always keep hands, feet, or other body parts, loose clothing, jewelry, away from the
inlet, outlet, and collection bag.
Lockout/Tagout engine before servicing or maintaining this equipment.
•Remove and maintain exclusive control of the engine ignition key.
•Before working on engine or equipment, disable engine as follows: Disconnect
spark plug lead(s). Disconnect negative (–) battery cable from battery.
•Engine and exhaust surfaces may be hot; allow them to cool before performing any work.
•Follow your employer’s Lockout/Tagout procedures.

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If a malfunction should occur, turn the machine off immediately and correct the problem, before
restarting the machine. If there are any questions as to the safe operation of this equipment, please
do not hesitate to contact us at 1-800-963-4458.
HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Principle of operation
The portable vacuums that Meyer & Sons manufactures are based on a centrifugal fan design that
utilizes a high-speed material handling style wheel enclosed in a scroll-shaped housing. The air is drawn
in towards the center of the wheel and thrown outward as the wheel rotates. The shape of the housing
directs the air out perpendicular to the inlet. Because of the design, the wheel is accessible via either
the inlet or outlet. The Versa-Vac™ and Veloci-Vac® have interlock switches, consisting of an inlet
switch and an outlet switch that are electrically connected to the engine. These switches must be
depressed in order for the engine to start and continue running. The Porta-Vac® design incorporates
permanent inlet and outlet grates.
Amputation hazard
The centrifugal fan wheel of the vacuum is driven by an engine at a relatively high rpm. If either the inlet
or outlet openings are left unguarded, the fan wheel presents a serious personal injury hazard, including
but not limited to amputation. Any part of the human body in the way of the fan wheel will be cut off.
Guarding inlet
In order for the vacuum to function, the inlet must be connected to a hose or other ducting through
which the vacuum (negative pressure airflow) is drawn. The inlet is guarded by virtue of being
connected to ducting of sufficient length to not allow a body part to come in contact with the fan wheel.
There is an inlet switch (models Versa-Vac™ & Veloci-Vac®) that is electrically connected to the vacuum
engine that must be engaged in order for the engine to start and continue to run. The switch is engaged
by placing ducting over the switch lever and inlet opening prior to start up. Disengaging the switch does
not immediately stop the fan wheel rotation; it will take a few seconds before it comes to a complete
stop. DO NOT defeat this switch. Circumventing this switch will render the vacuum unsafe to use. It is
the responsibility of the equipment owner/operator to ensure that the inlet is not exposed and that the
inlet switch is in good working order and the vacuum is safe to operate.
Guarding outlet
The outlet of vacuum is, by design, open and can expose a person to the interior of the vacuum and thus
the fan wheel. This opening, like the inlet, (model Versa-Vac™) has a switch that must be engaged in
order for the vacuum engine to start and continue to run. A hose or collection device/debris guard must
be attached to the outlet so that no one can access the interior of the vacuum. DO NOT defeat the
outlet switch or circumvent its utility in any way. Doing so will render the vacuum unsafe to use. The
Veloci-Vac® has a self-closing grate the must be lifted up to access the outlet. It is the responsibility of
the equipment owner/operator to ensure that the outlet is not exposed and that the outlet switch is in
good working order and the vacuum is safe to operate.
Training
The owner also bears the responsibility to ensure that personnel who may be working around or operating
the vacuum are properly trained. Personnel must be aware that: (1) anything coming into contact with the
moving fan wheel will be cut off/amputated; (2) before working on, cleaning, repairing or maintaining a
vacuum, Lockout/Tagout procedures must be strictly followed; and (3) the vacuum must not be operated
without guarding in place. Before working around a vacuum, personnel must read the Operator’s Manual.

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SAFETY LABELING
The following safety labels shown are affixed on the equipment. (NOTE: Labels 420Z-263 and
420Z-265 are ONLY affixed on the Versa-Vac™ units.) A Safety Supplement Datasheet has been
packed with your equipment at the time of shipment. Do Not use the machine if any labels are
missing, damaged, or have fallen off.

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Replacement label kits are available at no charge from Wm. W. Meyer & Sons, Inc. 1-800-963-4458.
Keep this supplement with the machine for quick reference.
INFORMATION FOR SAFETY AND SERVICE
A record of every Meyer Portable Vacuum is kept on file at the factory for a substantial period of time. If
you have any safety or equipment related questions, we encourage you to contact the Meyer factory
based on the cover contact information.
The serial number is located on a metal identification label permanently affixed to every vacuum before
it leaves the factory. To aid us in providing you with service, application assistance, and help with spare
parts requirements, please record the following:
Model
Serial Number
SECTION II
APPLICATION – INTENDED USE OF EQUIPMENT
The Meyer line of vacuums is designed to safely and easily remove only the intended
materials.
This equipment must be used only for the purpose for which it was intended.
Any other use could result in serious injury, costly damage to the equipment and
void the warranty.
SECTION III
RECEIVING AND UNCRATING
A. RECEIVING AND INSPECTION
Upon receipt of equipment and material from Meyer, the following basic steps should be taken. The
equipment is heavy and proper handling procedures should be used (See the “Heavy - handle safely”
information in the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION” section).
1. Use the packing list to determine that all the items shipped have been received. Your equipment
was carefully crated for safe shipment when given to the carrier. If items are missing, contact
Meyer, per the contact information at the end of this section.
2. Check for damage. Damage in transit is the responsibility of the carrier. Title to your equipment
and all other items in the shipment were transferred to you as soon as the shipment left our
dock, thus it is your responsibility to handle any claim. In the event damagehas occurred:
a. Be sure to have the driver sign a copy of the freight bill with a notation about any damage and
contact their office before the driver leaves your premises.
Vacuum Model
Insulation Removal
Air Duct Cleaning
Versa-Vac™
X
Veloci-Vac®
X
X
Porta-Vac ®
X

b. Contact the carrier to arrange for an independent inspector to come out to inspect the
damage and to prepare the inspection report. It is imperative that this inspection is done
before you start to unpack or use any of the equipment.
c. If there are any visible problems with your unit or any other items in the shipment, you or
the driver must note in detail the damage on all copies of the freight bill before signing for
the shipment. Then immediately call Meyer.
d. Photographic records of the damage are helpful to communicate theextent and type
of damage as well as to provide a clear record.
e. In addition to inspecting damaged equipment, you should also check the condition
of the safety labels to ensure they have not been damaged or come off. If they have,
contact the factory for replacements prior to installation.
f. Concealed Damage: If equipment or goods are discovered to be damaged in shipment at a
later date, contact the carrier and Meyer immediately.
g. In all cases of damage in transit, contact Meyer for assistance in determining whether or not
this damage may, in any way, affect safety or proper operation. Please contact us so that we
can assist you with replacement parts or with any questions about the claim process using
the following contact information.
Wm. W. Meyer &Sons, Inc. 800-963-4458 or 847-918-0111
1700 Franklin Blvd. [e-mail]
Libertyville, IL60048
Uncrate and carefully remove all of the packing materials and check the parts against the Packing
List. Your vacuum was test-run and shipped with all the fluids at the proper levels. Check them now
and top off as necessary.
SECTION IV
START-UP & OPERATION
Read and understand the information in the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION” section before
operating the equipment. In addition, familiarize yourself with the following statements.
Failure to follow these precautions will lead to serious injury or death.
Carbon monoxide
•The exhaust from the vacuum engine contains carbon monoxide, a deadly, odorless poison.
•The vacuums should never be used inside buildings or garages, even if doors and
windows are open.
•They should be used outdoors only, far from windows, doors,and vents.
Verify inlet and outlet are guarded and stay clear
There must be a hose connected to the inlet and either a hose or discharge bag connected to the
outlet. Do not stand near the inlet, inlet hose, outlet, discharge hose, or discharge collection bag
while the unit is starting, running or shutting down.
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•The rotating fan blades will crush or cut if they come in contact with any body parts.
Follow Lockout/Tagout procedures before attempting to access the inside of the
vacuum.
•Stay clear of the inlet of the vacuum. A strong suction is present at the inlet and can pull in
clothing, hair, body parts, and other objects. Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry when
operating.
•Never reach inside the vacuum inlet or outlet while the unit is running.
•Stay clear of the outlet of the vacuum to avoid being struck by fast-moving material
discharging from the vacuum.
Failure to follow these precautions can lead to serious injury or death.
Fuel safety
To reduce the risk of fire:
•To prevent static electrical discharge igniting fuel vapors, the fuel tank must be in contact with the
ground before and during filling.
•Do not overfill the fuel tank. Leave room for the expansion of the fuel.
•Fill the tank away from the engine and avoid spills.
•If the fuel tank is attached to the engine, allow the engine to cool before filling.
Hot surfaces
To reduce the risk of fire or being burned, follow these instructions:
•Do not touch hot engine or exhaust surfaces. Allow them to cool.
•Do not allow anything to come in contact withhot engine or exhaust surfaces such as bags or hoses.
Do not vacuum up or operate near the following:
•Hazardous or toxic material
•Flammable materials, materials that are self-heating or can burn
•Hot, burning or smoldering material
Determine what will be removed
Vacuumed materials may get into the air or be contacted once collected.
•Inspect the material which will be removed.
oEnsure that it is material that is compatible with the vacuum being used.
oRemove any objects that could damage the vacuum or injure someone when the
material is discharged.
•Take appropriate precautions for the potential health hazards of the material to be removed.
oPotential health hazards could include but are not limited to: Skin irritation, eye irritation,
and respiratory ailments.
oUse the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as long sleeve shirt and pants,
safety glasses or goggles, appropriate respirators, and hearing protection.
It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure that only the intended materials: fiberglass, cellulose
(properly treated with fire retardant), and rock wool insulation are collected in the removal process.
In the case of air duct cleaning, only common household dust shall be removed.
Equipment Set-Up
1. Place your equipment on a level surface and out of the wind, if possible. If your model comes
with a wheel locking device, engage it.
2. Attach debris guard, discharge “Y”, or hose to the outlet.

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Debris guard, discharge “Y”, or hose must be attached to the outlet
before operatingthe vacuum to reduce the risk of serious injury or death from flying
objects leaving the discharge.
Note: The Versa-Vac™ requires that either a hose or the debris guard is attached to the outlet
(refer to figure A). The vacuum will not start or continue to run without a hose or the debris guard
attached.
The Veloci-Vac® has a discharge “Y” (refer to figure B) that must be mounted before any attachment.
The “Y” locks into place with a clockwise twist.
Figure A Figure B
3. Attach a collection bag over the debris guard or “Y”.
Fire hazard – Position the collection bag so that it will not be blown by the
wind and come in contact with the engine exhaust system. If necessary, weight it down until
enough material has been collected to make the bag heavier and stay in place.
4. Attach the hose to the inlet of the vacuum using the clamp provided. Additional hose lengths
may be added to the inlet hose using hose connectors and clamps. The vacuum will function
better with less hose.
5. Connect the fuel tank to the engine using the quick connect coupling and open the vent on the
tank. The vacuum is now ready to be operated.
Equipment starting
1. Before starting the engine, refer to the engine manual for the correct start-up and
shutdown procedures. Never run the vacuum engine faster than factory settings.
2. Start the engine and let it warm up before vacuuming.
3. Always have at least one operator at the vacuum at all times. Do Not leave the vacuum
unattended while running.
If noise or vibration is coming from the fan, stop the vacuum immediately! This
indicates that the fan wheel has gone out of balance and may explode. Failure
to shut down the vacuum immediately could result in serious injury or death or costly damage to
the equipment. Do not operate until it has been thoroughly checked by the factory or factory
authorized representative.

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SECTION V
SHUT DOWN
Rotating fan wheel inside can crush and cut. Do not remove any inlet or discharge
attachment until the vacuum has come to a complete stop. Do not stand near the
inlet, inlet hose, discharge hose, or discharge collection bag while the unit is shutting down. Failure to
do so will expose the operator to a moving fan wheel which if contacted, will lead to serious injury or
death.
1. Move the throttle to the slow position. Allow the engine to return to idle before shutting off.
2. Turn the engine off and remove the key.
3. Remove the collection bag, if used, and follow employer’s procedures for the safe handling
and disposal of the collected material.
4. Disconnect the hose.
SECTION VI
MAINTENANCE
The internals of this equipment has parts that can crush and cut. Follow Lockout/
Tagout information in the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION” section before
service or maintenance. Failure to do so will lead to serious injury or death if a body part contacts a
moving internal part. In addition, the equipment and the parts are heavy, see the “Heavy – handle
safely” information in the “IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION” section.
ENGINE: The cooling fan screen should be cleared of dust and debris after every use. Refer to the
engine manual provided for additional service and maintenance information.
BATTERY: The battery provided with your equipment is of the lead-acid type. The battery cables
should be checked daily for corrosion and tightness. Clean and tighten as necessary.
FAN HOUSING AND WHEEL MAINTENANCE: No maintenance is required on the fan wheel or
housing. If issues are suspected, contact the factory. Do not attempt to fix or repair any issues.
The fan wheels are designed and manufactured specifically for these vacuums. Replacement fan
wheels are only available from Meyer. Do not attempt to substitute. Doing so
may lead to a catastrophic failure of the vacuum and serious injury or death. Contact Meyer at
1-800-963- 4458 for replacement parts and if you have any questions or concerns.