Performax 240-8514 User manual

240-8514
75Amp Inverter Arc Welder
Owner’s Manual
SPECIFICATIONS
Electrical Input 120 V~ / 60 Hz / 20 A Power Cord: 12 Gauge With 3-Prong Plug
Thermal Overload Protection
Electrode Sizes 1/16” - 3/32” (1.6mm) - (2.5mm)
Duty Cycles 25%@75A 60%@50A 100%@40A
Electrode Cable 6 Gauge x 5’5” Long
Ground Clamp Cable 6 Gauge x 5’ Long
Overall Dimensions 9-1/2” x 5-5/8” x 3-3/4”
Additional Features Amber Temperature Warning Light
Welding Capacity 6 Gauge Steel
TM

2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SYMBOLS
Symbols
……………………………………………………………… Page 2
Rules for safe operation
…………..……………………………….......
Page 3
Grounding Instructions
…………..……………………………………
Page 5
Welding Operation
……………………………………….……………
Page 9
Parts list
…………..…………………………………………………
Page 12
V
Volts
A
Amperes
Hz
Hertz
Read all safety warnings
and instructions
Dire
Single Phase Static
Frequency Converter-
Transformer-Rectifier
Read instructions before
using the welder.
Constant current
Dangerous voltage
Line connection
Shielded Metal Arc
Welding (SMAW)
ct current
Revolutions or
reciprocations per
minute
WARNING: Some of the following symbols may appear on the machine. Study
these symbols and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will
allow for more efficient and safer operation of this tool.
Exploded view
…..…………………………………………….............
Page 13
Warranty
…………..…………………………………………………
Page 14
Double Insulated
Canadian Standards Association
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
V~ Volts Alternating Current
AAmperes
n0xxxx/min. No Load Revolutions per Minute
(RPM)
…………..………………………………………………
Page 9
Assembly
……………………………………
Page 11
Troubleshooting Guide
…………..………………………………………………
Page 8
Description
Inspection Maintenance and Cleaning
…………….……………
Page 10

3
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING! Read and understand all instructions. Failure to follow all
instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious
personal injury.
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION
THIS SYMBOL DESIGNATES THAT THIS TOOL IS LISTED BY
THE UNDERWRITER LABORATORIES INC. TO UNITED STATES
AND CANADIAN STANDARDS.
CONFORMS TO UL STD. 60974-1
CERTIFIED TO CSA STD. E60974-1-12
4010745
WORK AREA
Keep your work area clean and1. well lit.
Cluttered benches and dark areas invite accidents.
Do not operate power tools in2. explosive atmospheres, such as in
the presence of flammable liquids, or dust.
gases,
Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
Keep bystanders, children, and3. visitors away while operating a
power tool.
Distractions can cause
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR ARC WELDING
you to lose control. Protect others in the work area from
debris such as chips and sparks. Provide barriers or shields as needed.
ALWAYS ensure that there is full free air circulating around the outer casing
of the machine, and that the panels are unobstructed.
ALWAYS use a proper welding face shield or helmet, with suitable filter lenses.
Proper gloves and working clothes should be worn at all times.
ALWAYS remove all flammable materials from the welding area.
NEVER remove any of the panels unless the machine is disconnected from the
supply, AND never use the machine with any of the panels removed.
NEVER attempt any electrical or mechanical repair unless you are a qualified
technician.
NEVER use or store in a wet/damp environment.
DO NOT EXPOSE TO RAIN.
NEVER continue to weld if, at any time, you feel even the smallest electric
shock. Stop welding IMMEDIATELY.
DO NOT attempt to use the machine until the fault is diagnosed and corrected.
NEVER use the welder with input connections greater than 10M in length.
NEVER allow the cables to become wrapped around the operator or any person
in the vicinity.

4
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Grounded tools must be plugged1. into an outlet properly installed and grounded
in accordance with all codes and ordinances. Never remove the grounding prong
or modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs. Check with a qu-
alified electrician if you are in doubt as to whether the outlet is properly grounded.
If the tools should electrically malfunction or break down, grounding provides a
low resistance path to carry electricity away from the user.
Double insulated tools are
2.
equipped with a polarized
plug (one blade is 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 a polarized 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.
Avoid body contact with grounded3. surfaces such as
pipes, radiators, ranges, and
refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body
Do not expose power tools to rain
4.
or wet conditions.
Water entering a power tool
will increase the risk of electric shock.
Do not abuse the power cord.5.
Never use the power cord to carry the tools or pull
the plug from an outlet. Keep the power cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges,
or moving parts. Replace damaged power cords immediately. Damaged power
cords increase the risk of electric shock.
When operating a power tool out6.
side, use an outdoor extension cord marked
“W-A” or “W”. These extension cords are rated for outdoor use, and reduce the
risk of electric shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
Stay alert. Watch what you are do
1.
ing, and use common sense when operating a
power tool. Do not use a power tool while tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may
result in serious personal injury.
Dress properly.
2. Contain long hair. Keep your hair, clothing, and gloves away from
moving parts.Loose clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be caught in
Avoid accidental starting.3. Be sure the power switch is off before plugging in.
Carrying power tools with your finger on the power switch, or plugging in power
tools with the power switch on,
is grounded.
moving parts.
invites accidents.

5
WARNING: Keep the extension cord clear of the working area. Position
the cord so that it will not get caught on lumber, tools or other obstructions
while you are working with a power tool. Failure to do so can result in seri-
ous personal injury.
WARNING: Check extension cords before each use. If damaged,replace
immediately. Never use tool with a damaged cord since touching the dam-
aged area could cause electrical shock resulting in serious injury.
WARNING:
Remove adjusting keys or wrench
4.
es before turning the power tool on. A wrench
or a key that is left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in
Do not overreach. Keep proper
5. footing and balance
and balance enables
at all times. Proper footing
better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
Use safety equipment. Always 6.
wear eye protection. Always wear ANSI-approved
safety glasses under a properly shaded welding helmet.
Respirator, leather work
shoes with rubber soles, hard hat or hearing protection
must be used for appro-
priate conditions.
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK AND DEATH
FROM INCORRECT
GROUNDING WIRE CONNECTION :
Check with a qualified 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. Do not 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 fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Tools marked with “Grounding
Required” have a three wire
cord and three prong grounding
plug. The plug must be con-
nected to a properly grounded
outlet. If the tool should elec-
trically malfunction or break
down, grounding provides a low resistance path to carry electricity
GROUNDED TOOLS: TOOLS WITH THREE PRONG PLUGS
personal injury.
away from the user, reducing the risk of electric shock. (See 3-Prong Plug and
Outlet.)

6
The grounding prong in the plug is2. 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
3. appropriate outlet, properly installed and gro-
unded in accordance with all codes and ordinances. The plug and outlet should
look like those in the preceding illustration. (See 3-Prong Plug and
Outlet.)
DOUBLE INSULATED TOOLS: TOOLS
WITH TWO PRONG PLUGS
1. Tools marked “Double
Insulated” do not req-
uire grounding. They
have a special double
insulation system which
satisfies OSHA requir-
ements and complies
with the applicable standards of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., the Canadian
Standard Association, and the NationalElectrical Code. (See Outlets for 2-Prong
Plug.)
Double insulated tools may be used
2.
in either of the 120 volt outlets shown in the
preceding illustration.
(See Outlets for 2-Prong Plug.)
EXTENSION CORDS
Grounded
1. tools require a three wire extension cord. Double Insulated tools can
use either a two or three wire
As the distance from the supply outlet2.
increases, you must use a heavier gauge
extension cord. Using extension cords with inadequately sized wire causes a
extension cord.

7
serious drop in voltage, resulting in loss of power and possible tool damage.
The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity of the cord.
For example, a 14 gauge cord can carry a higher current than a 16 gauge cord.
When using more than one exten
3.
sion cord to make up the total length, make
sure each cord contains at least
the minimum wire size required.
If you are using one extension cord4. for more than one tool, add the nameplate
amperes and use the sum to determine the required minimumcord size.
If you are using an extension cord
5.
outdoors, make sure it is marked with the
suffix “W-A” (“W” in Canada) to indicate it is acceptable for outdoor use.
Make sure the extension cord is properly wired and in6. good electrical condition.
Always replace a damaged extension cord or have it repaired by a qualified
electrician before using it.
Protect the extension cords from
7.
sharp objects, excessive heat, and damp or
RECOMMENDED MINIMUM WIRE GAUGE FOR
EXTENSION CORDS* (120/240 VOLT)
NAMEPLATE AMPERES
(at full load)
EXTENSION CORD LENGTH
25’ 50’ 75’ 100’ 150’
0 – 2.0 18 18 18 18 16
2.1 – 3.4 18 18 18 16 14
3.5 – 5.0 18 18 16 14 12
5.1 – 7.0 18 16 14 12 12
7.1 – 12.0 18 14 12 10 -
12.1 – 16.0 14 12 10 -
-
-
16.1 – 20.0 12 10 --
TABLE A * Based on limiting the line voltage drop to five volts at
150% of the rated amperes.
wet areas.

8
KNOW THE INVERTER ARC WELDER (Fig. 1)
DESCRIPTION
2
1
3
5
4
6
7
8
9
1. Welding currrent setting knob
Fig.1
2. Power light(Green)
3. Thermal overload indicator light(Yellow)
4. Positive(+) quick connector
5. Negative(-) quick connector
6. Power cord
7. Welding cable with electrode holder
8. Ground cable
9. Carrying belt
11
10
10. Positive(+) quick plug
11. Negative(-) quick plug

9
WELDING OPERATION
ASSEMBLY
WARNING: Remove the welder from the carton and
examine it carefully. Do not dispose of carton or any
packaging material until all parts are examined.
WARNING: To avoid injury, always turn the tool off
and disconnect the welder from the power outlet
before installing.
WARNING: Wear ANSI approved safety glasses under
a properly shaded welding helmet.
2.Plug the power cord into the nearest 120 volt, grounded, electrical outlet. The green
light will be on when you connect the power (Fig. 4).
3.Connect the ground clamp to the work piece or to a metal welding table where the
work piece will be placed.
4.Hold the electrode holder away from all objects. Then, position the welding current
setting knob to about mid-range to start.
5.To begin welding, position the electrode at about a 60 degree angle and touch the tip of
it to the work piece. Once the arc is stable, move the electrode along the work piece
and down as the welding process consumes the electrode. Replace the electrode as
needed to complete the job.
6.If necessary, adjust the welding current setting knob to increase or decrease the
electrical current output to achieve the desired performance and weld results.
Fig.2
Fig.3
Fig.4
1.Install an electrode (not included) into the electrode
holder by squeezing the holder while positioning the
electrode at the desired angle. The chart below shows
the welding materials and type of electrodes
recommended for this Inverter Arc Welder.
Welding material Av ailable elect rodes t y pe
Stainless steel E308-15 E308-16
Mild steel Basic electrodes: E5015E6011
Acid electrodes: E4303 E6013 E7014 E7018
Cast iron Z208 Z238
Connect the positive(+) quick plug of the electrode
holder cable to the positive (+) quick connector on the
front of the Inverter Arc Welder. Rotate the plug to the
right until it is locked. Make sure the plug is tightly
connected before turning on the power (Fig. 2).
Connect the negative(-) quick plug of the ground cable to
the negative (-) quick connector on the front of the
Inverter Arc Welder. Rotate the plug to the right until it is
locked. Make sure the plug is tightly connected before
turning on the power (Fig. 3) .

10
WARNING:
INSPECTION , MAINTENANCE AND CLEANING
ELECTRODE SIZE AND AMP CHART
ELECTRODE DIAMETER
(THICKNESS) AMP RANGE PLATE
1/16" 20 - 40 up to 3/16"
3/32" 40 - 125 up to 1/4"
1/8 75 - 185 over 1/8"
5/32" 105 - 250 over 1/4"
3/16" 140 - 305 over 3/8"
1/4" 210 - 430 over 3/8"
5/16" 275 - 450 over 1/2"
Make sure the potentiometer knob is in its “OFF” position . Unplug
the power cord from its electrical outlet, and allow the Inverter Arc Welder and
discharge electrode to completely cool before performing any inspection, main-
tenance, or cleaning procedures.
Thermal Overload Protection
Normally, when welding for 5 or 6 minutes, the welder
will indicate thermal overload protection and the yellow
light will be on. Please stop welding until the yellow light
shuts off (Fig. 5).
Please wait until the welder cools down. It will restart
automatically once the yellow light is off, and you may
continue your welding work.
NOTE: The Inverter Arc Welder is equipped with an automatic “Hot Start”.
This feature momentarily surges the current output, which makes starting
the electrode easier. Should the electrode stick to the work piece, usually a
quick twist of the electrode holder will break the electrode free. If the
electrode is not broken loose, shut down the Inverter Arc Welder and
physically remove the electrode from the electrode holder and work piece.
CAUTION! The electrode and metal are hot.
7.When the job is completed, turn the welding current setting knob (1) to “0”position, and
unplug the power cord from its electrical outlet. Then, remove the ground clamp from
the work piece or metal table.
NOTE: Ratings listed above are estimates and will vary depending on
electrode coating and electrode manufacturer. When possible, use the
recommended amperage setting instead.
Fig.5

11
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
1.
2.
3.
4.
Before each use , inspect the general condition of the Inverter Arc Welder. Check
for damaged electrical wiring, loose connections, cracked, burnt, or broken parts,
and any other condition that may affect its safe operation. If abnormal noise or
vibration occurs, have the problem corrected before further use.
Do not use damaged equipment.
Before each use,
clean or, if necessary, replace the electrode.
To clean,
use a shop vacuum cleaner, or use compressed air.
When storing, make sure to store the Inverter Arc Welder in a safe, clean, and
dry location.
The Inverter Arc Welder will not1. turn on.
Make sure the power cord is
a.
plugged in.
Make sure the quick plugs areb. properly plugged into the quick connectors.
The Inverter Arc Welder is turned2. on, but will not strike an arc.
Make sure the electrode is securely
a. attached to the electrode holder.
Make sure the quick plugs areb. properly plugged into the quick connectors.
Make sure the ground clamp isc. securely attached to the work piece or metal
table on which the work piece is placed, and that the point of attachment is
clean from rust, paint, or any other material that would insulate the connection.
The Inverter Arc Welder is not3. working, and the overload protection light is on.
When the Inverter Arc Welder overa. heats it will automatically shut down
temporarily. When this happens
it cools down. As soon as the overload protection light goes off you may
continue welding.
If the welder does not cool downb. as described above, check to see if the
fan is operating. If the fan is operating, check the side panel vents to see if
anything is obstructing airflow from the fan. If obstructions exist, remove
them and wait for the welder to cool while observing the overload protection
The current output is unstable and4. unable to produce a smooth welding bead.
Make sure the power cord isa.
light.
properly connected to its electrical outlet.
Make sure the quick plugs areb. securely connected to the quick connectors.
Make sure the ground clamp isc. securely attached to the work piece or metal
table on which the work piece is placed, and that the point of attachment is
clean from rust, paint, or any other material that would insulate the connection.
stop welding, but leave the welder on until

12
PARTS LIST
When servicing, use only original equipment replacement parts. The use of any other parts
may create a safety hazard or cause damage to the Inverter Arc Welder.
Any attempt to repair or replace electrical parts on this Inverter Arc Welder may create a safety hazard unless repairs
are performed by a qualified technician. For more information, call the toll-free helpline, at 1-866-915-8626.
WARNING:
Make sure the electrode is in good
d. condition, and that the welding current
output is properly adjusted. ( Increasing the current output usually improves
this situation.)

13
EXPLODED VIEW
26 2224
20
131210
21
5
3
2
251
4
6
11 15
14
16 18
17
19
7
23
8

14
30-DAY
30-DAY
30-DAY
30-DAY MONEY
MONEY
MONEY
MONEY BACK
BACK
BACK
BACK GUARANTEE:
GUARANTEE:
GUARANTEE:
GUARANTEE:
This PERFORMAX brand welding tool carries our 30-Day Money Back
Guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with your PERFORMAX brand
welding tool
tool breaks
for any reason within thirty (30) days from the date of purchase,
return the tool with your original receipt to any MENARDS®retail store, and we
will provide you a refund – no questions asked.
2-YEAR
2-YEAR
2-YEAR
2-YEAR LIMITED
LIMITED
LIMITED
LIMITED WARRANTY:
WARRANTY:
WARRANTY:
WARRANTY:
This PERFORMAX brand welding tool carries a 2-Year Limited Warranty to the
original purchaser. If, during normal use, this PERFORMAX welding
or fails due to a defect in material or workmanship within two (2) years from the
date of original purchase, simply bring this tool with the original sales receipt
back to your nearest MENARDS ®retail store. At its discretion, PERFORMAX
agrees to have the tool or any defective part(s) repaired or replaced with the
same or similar PERFORMAX product or part free of charge, within the stated
warranty period, when returned by the original purchaser with original sales
receipt. Not withstanding the foregoing, this limited warranty does not cover any
damage that has resulted from abuse or misuse of the Merchandise. This
warranty: (1) excludes expendable parts including but not limited to blades,
brushes, belts, bits, light bulbs, and/or batteries; (2) shall be void if this tool is
used for commercial and/or rental purposes; and (3) does not cover any losses,
injuries to persons/property or costs. This warranty does give you specific legal
rights and you may have other rights, which vary from state to state. Be careful,
tools are dangerous if improperly used or maintained. Seller’s employees are
not qualified to advise you on the use of this Merchandise. Any oral
representation(s) made will not be binding on seller or its employees. The rights
under this limited warranty are to the original purchaser of the Merchandise and
may not be transferred to any subsequent owner. This limited warranty is in lieu
of all warranties, expressed or implied including warranties or merchantability
and fitness for a particular purpose. Seller shall not be liable for any special,
incidental, or consequential damages. The sole exclusive remedy against the
seller will be for the replacement of any defects as provided herein, as long as
the seller is willing or able to replace this product or is willing to refund the
purchase price as provided above. For insurance purposes, seller is not allowed
to demonstrate any of these power tools for you.
For questions / comments, technical assistance or repair parts –
Please Call Toll Free at: 1-866-915-8626 (M-F 9am – 5pm EST)
SAVE
SAVE
SAVE
SAVE YOUR
YOUR
YOUR
YOUR RECEIPTS.
RECEIPTS.
RECEIPTS.
RECEIPTS. THIS
THIS
THIS
THIS WARRANTY
WARRANTY
WARRANTY
WARRANTY IS
IS
IS
IS VOID
VOID
VOID
VOID WITHOUT
WITHOUT
WITHOUT
WITHOUT THEM.
THEM.
THEM.
THEM.
09/10/2014
Distributed by: Menard, Inc., Eau Claire, WI 54703
PERFORMAX 75Amp Inverter Arc Welder
TM
TM
TM
TM
TM
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