Textron Greenlee Gator EK1230CL User manual

OPERATION MANUAL
GATOR®
EK1230L and EK1230CL
Battery-powered
Crimping Tools
52047657 REV 3 © 2011 Greenlee Textron Inc. 9/11
Read and understand all of the instructions and
safety information in this manual before operating
or servicing this tool.
Register this product at www.greenlee.com

EK1230L and EK1230CL Crimping Tools
Greenlee / A Textron Company 4455 Boeing Dr. • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 USA • 815-397-7070
2
KEEP THIS MANUAL
All specications are nominal and may change as design
improvements occur. Greenlee Textron Inc. shall not be liable for
damages resulting from misapplication or misuse of its products.
GATOR is a registered trademark of Greenlee Textron Inc.
Blackburn is a registered trademark of Thomas & Betts.
Table of Contents
Description .................................................................... 2
Safety ............................................................................ 2
Purpose of this Manual ................................................. 2
Important Safety Information .....................................3–4
Identication.................................................................. 5
Specications................................................................ 5
Operation....................................................................6–7
Die Selection ................................................................. 8
Connector Selection...................................................... 8
Maintenance.................................................................. 9
Troubleshooting........................................................... 10
Description
The EK1230L Crimping Tool is a hand-held,
self-contained, battery-powered tool intended to crimp
aluminum and copper connectors onto electrical cable.
The EK1230CL has a PVC-covered crimping head.
This tool has a retraction stop feature which allows the
operator to stop the retraction motion of the ram to
shorten cycle time.
This tool is protected by U.S. Patent No. 6,206,663,
6,276,186, 6,401,515, and 6,718,870.
Safety
Safety is essential in the use and maintenance of
Greenlee tools and equipment. This manual and any
markings on the tool provide information for avoiding
hazards and unsafe practices related to the use of this
tool. Observe all of the safety information provided.
Purpose of this Manual
This manual is intended to familiarize all personnel with
the safe operation and maintenance procedures for the
following Greenlee tool:
EK1230L Battery-powered Crimping Tool
EK1230CL Battery-powered Crimping Tool
with PVC-covered Head
Keep this manual available to all personnel.
Replacement manuals are available upon request at
no charge at www.greenlee.com.
Do not discard this product or throw away!
For recycling information, go to www.greenlee.com.

EK1230L and EK1230CL Crimping Tools
Greenlee / A Textron Company 4455 Boeing Dr. • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 USA • 815-397-7070
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
SAFETY
ALERT
SYMBOL
This symbol is used to call your attention to hazards
or unsafe practices which could result in an injury or
property damage. The signal word, dened below,
indicates the severity of the hazard. The message
after the signal word provides information for pre-
venting or avoiding the hazard.
Immediate hazards which, if not avoided, WILL result
in severe injury or death.
Hazards which, if not avoided, COULD result in
severe injury or death.
Hazards or unsafe practices which, if not avoided,
MAY result in injury or property damage.
Read and understand all of the
instructions and safety information
in this manual before operating or
servicing this tool.
Failure to observe this warning
could result in severe injury or death.
Electric shock hazard:
This tool is not insulated. When
using this unit on or near energized
electrical lines, use proper personal
protective equipment.
Failure to observe this warning
could result in severe injury or death.
Wear eye protection when operating
or servicing this tool.
Failure to wear eye protection could
result in serious eye injury from
ying debris or hydraulic oil.
Skin injection hazard:
Do not use hands to check for oil
leaks. Oil under pressure easily
punctures skin. If injured, seek
medical attention immediately to
remove oil.
Failure to observe this warning
could result in serious injury, gan-
grene, or death.
Do not use solvents or ammable
liquids to clean the tool body.
Solvents or ammable liquids could
ignite and cause serious injury or
property damage.
An incomplete crimp can cause a re.
• Use proper die, connector, and cable combina-
tions. Improper combinations can result in an
incomplete crimp.
• The relief valve sounds and the ram automatically
retracts to indicate a completed crimp. If you do
not hear the sound of the relieve valve or the ram
does not automatically retract, the crimp is not
complete.
Failure to observe these warnings could result in
severe injury or death.

EK1230L and EK1230CL Crimping Tools
Greenlee / A Textron Company 4455 Boeing Dr. • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 USA • 815-397-7070
4
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Pinch points:
• Remove battery before changing
dies, adapters, or jaws.
• Keep hands away from the crimp-
ing tool head when crimping.
Failure to observe these warnings
could result in severe injury or death.
Do not dispose of batteries in a re. They will vent
fumes and may explode.
Failure to observe this warning could result in severe
injury from harmful fumes or burns from ying
debris.
Inspect tool and dies before use. Replace any
worn or damaged parts. A damaged or improp-
erly assembled tool can break and strike nearby
personnel.
Failure to observe this warning could result in severe
injury or death.
• Do not use this tool for continuous use. After 30 to
40 cycles, allow the tool to cool for 15 minutes.
• Do not secure this tool in a vise. This tool is
designed for hand-held operation.
• This tool may be used in damp or wet environ-
ments; however, air-drying is recommended before
use if the tool becomes soaked. Damage may
result when the tool is operated prior to thorough
drying when electrical components are soaked.
• Use this tool for the manufacturer’s intended
purpose only.
Failure to observe these precautions may result in
injury or property damage.
Do not allow anything to contact the battery
terminals.
• Do not immerse the batteries in liquid. Liquid may
create a short circuit and damage the battery.
If batteries are immersed, contact your service
center for proper handling.
• Do not place the battery into a pocket, tool pouch,
or tool box with conductive objects. Conductive
objects may create a short circuit and damage the
battery.
• Do not place a battery on moist ground or grass.
Moisture may create a short circuit and damage
the battery.
Failure to observe these precautions may result in
injury or property damage.
• Do not store the battery at more than 122 °F
(50°C) or less than –4 °F (–20 °C). Damage to the
battery can result.
• Do not use another manufacturer’s charger. Other
manufacturers’ chargers may overcharge and
damage the battery.
• Do not attempt to open the battery. It contains no
user-serviceable parts.
Failure to observe these precautions may result in
injury or property damage.
Do not perform any service or maintenance other
than as described in this manual. Injury or damage
to the tool may result.
Failure to observe this precaution may result in injury
and property damage.
Note: Keep all decals clean and legible, and replace
when necessary.

EK1230L and EK1230CL Crimping Tools
Greenlee / A Textron Company 4455 Boeing Dr. • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 USA • 815-397-7070
5
Identification
Specifications
Crimping Tool
Length ...............................................................................................14.5" (371 mm)
Width................................................................................................2.87" (72.9 mm)
Height (with battery) ........................................................................12.03" (306 mm)
Weight ................................................................................................15.5 lb (7.0 kg)
Crimping Force................................................................................ 12 tons (106 kN)
Hydraulic Oil...............................................52057878 biodegradable hydraulic uid
Recommended Operating Temperature Range............. 5 °F to 122 °F (–15 °C to 50 °C)
Crimping Capacities
Crimping Range ........................................................................ 8 AWG to 750 kcmil
Battery Charger .............................................................Read the instructions supplied
with the battery charger
EK1230L and EK1230CL
1. LED Work Light (white)
2. Crimping Head
3. Die Release Buttons
4. Lanyard Ring
5. Housing
6. Retract Button
7. LED Indictor (red)
8. Battery
9. Trigger
98
2
3
4
76
5
1
52047087 120 VAC corded adapter
52047088 230 VAC corded adapter
52049189 18 V, 3 Ah lithium-ion battery
52049201 120 VAC, 18 V charger
52049202 230 VAC, 18 V charger
52049204 12 VDC, 18 V charger
52054992 Li (18 V) to NiCd, NiMH (12 V) charger adapter
50122746 Carrying strap

EK1230L and EK1230CL Crimping Tools
Greenlee / A Textron Company 4455 Boeing Dr. • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 USA • 815-397-7070
6
Operation
Inspect tool and dies before use. Replace any
worn or damaged parts. A damaged or improp-
erly assembled tool can break and strike nearby
personnel.
Failure to observe this warning could result in severe
injury or death.
Electric shock hazard:
This tool is not insulated. When
using this unit on or near energized
electrical lines, use proper personal
protective equipment.
Failure to observe this warning
could result in severe injury or death.
Wear eye protection when operating
or servicing this tool.
Failure to wear eye protection could
result in serious eye injury from
ying debris or hydraulic oil.
Pinch points:
• Remove battery before changing
dies, adapters, or jaws.
• Keep hands away from the crimp-
ing tool head when crimping.
Failure to observe these warnings
could result in severe injury or death.
• Do not use this tool for continuous use. After 30 to
40 cycles, allow the tool to cool for 15 minutes.
• Do not secure this tool in a vise. This tool is
designed for hand-held operation.
• This tool may be used in damp or wet environ-
ments; however, air-drying is recommended before
use if the tool becomes soaked. Damage may
result when the tool is operated prior to thorough
drying when electrical components are soaked.
• Use this tool for the manufacturer’s intended
purpose only.
Failure to observe these precautions may result in
injury or property damage.
Charging the Battery
Read the instructions supplied with the battery charger.
LED Work Light (white)
This LED automatically turns on when the trigger is
pulled. It remains on for 10 seconds after the trigger is
released.
LED Indicator (red)
This tool is equipped with a special circuit board incor-
porating several important features to inform the user
about the current status of the unit. The LED signals in
the following cases:
What happens Signal What it means
Flashing light for 2seconds Battery is inserted in tool
Constant light for 20seconds
at end of cycle
Battery charge is below
17V at beginning of cycle
Tool will not start, and
constant light for 20seconds
when trigger is released
Battery charge is below
16V at beginning of cycle
Tool will stop, and constant
light for 20seconds after
trigger is released
Battery voltage drops
below 13V during cycle
Tool will stop, and flashing
light for 20seconds when
trigger is released
Motor current exceeds
20A during cycle
Circuit has become too hot
Pressure Sensor
This tool is equipped with a pressure sensor that alerts
the user of an incomplete crimp.
• If the tool is manually retracted before completion of a
crimp, the red LED and an audible beep will be active
for 2 seconds.
• If the tool is unable to reach the required crimp force,
the red LED, work light, and an audible beep will pulse
until after the trigger is released.

EK1230L and EK1230CL Crimping Tools
Greenlee / A Textron Company 4455 Boeing Dr. • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 USA • 815-397-7070
7
Operation (cont’d)
Procedure
1. Clean the die seat area.
2. Install the proper size and type of crimping dies.
3. Press the release button on the C-head and slide
one of the die halves into the jaw. Release the
button and slide the die half until the retainer snaps
and locks the die into place.
4. Press the release button on the ram body (located
in the cutout) and slide the other die half in. Release
the button and slide the die half until the retainer
snaps and locks the die into place.
5. Follow the connector manufacturer’s instructions for
appropriate cable strip length and surface preparation.
6. Insert cable fully into connector and center the con-
nector between the dies.
CRIMPING DIRECTION
1ST COMPRESSION
CRIMPING DIRECTION
SIDE A
CRIMPING DIRECTION
SIDE B
1ST COMPRESSION
SIDE A
1ST COMPRESSION
SIDE B
7. Using the sequence illustrated here, press the
trigger to advance the dies. Continue to crimp until
the pressure relief valve activates.
Note: Pressure relief occurs at approximately
106 kN (12 tons) and is indicated by an audible “pop.”
8. After achieving pressure relief, the ram automatically
returns to the start position and the dies retract.
9. To stop the ram from returning fully, activate the
trigger for a brief moment. This activation will close
the retraction valve and stop the retraction motion.
10. When using KC12-type dies, complete the number
of crimps listed on the “Connector Selection” chart
in this manual. For other dies, complete the number
of crimps specied by the manufacturer.
11. Remove the connector from the crimping tool.
Note: After completing the last crimp on an aluminum
connector, wipe off the excess oxide inhibitor.
An incomplete crimp can cause a re.
• Use proper die, connector, and cable combina-
tions. Improper combinations can result in an
incomplete crimp.
• The relief valve sounds and the ram automatically
retracts to indicate a completed crimp. If you do
not hear the sound of the relieve valve or the ram
does not automatically retract, the crimp is not
complete.
Failure to observe these warnings could result in
severe injury or death.

EK1230L and EK1230CL Crimping Tools
Greenlee / A Textron Company 4455 Boeing Dr. • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 USA • 815-397-7070
8
Die Selection
Refer to “Connector Selection” for brand names and model numbers of appropriate lugs as well as crimping instructions.
Crimps made with this tool and KC12-type or KA12-type dies are cUL and UL classied when used with the appropriate conductor
and connectors listed below.
Connector Selection (NOT for use with flex, navy or welding wire)
Tool Range: 8 AWG to 750 kcmil
When used with KC12-type dies, this tool is cUL and UL classied for use with the following connector brands:
When used with KA12-type dies, this tool is cUL and UL classied for use with the following connector brands:
* Use the number of
crimps listed in this
column instead of the
number provided with
the connector.
Short
Long
Short
Long
BARREL
TYPE
8 AWG to
250 kcmil:
1 crimp
300 to
750 kcmil:
2 crimps
NUMBER
OF CRIMPS*
VHSS
VHS
VHCS
VHCL
ANDERSON
CSP
CU
CTL-2/CTL
CTL-L/LCN
BLACKBURN®
YS-L
YS
YA-2LN/
YA-L/YA-2L;
YA/YA-L-TC/
YA-L-2TC
YA/YAZ
YA-2N/YA-2TC
YAZ-2N/YAZ-2TC
BURNDY
CT
CTL
CSW
CRA/CRB
CRC
CLN, CLW
CRA-L/CRB-L
CRA-2/CRB-2L
CRC-2L
ILSCO
SCSS
SCS
SCL
SCH
LCAS
LCA
LCD
LCAN
LCB
LCC
PANDUIT
54504 to
54523-TB
54804 to
54823
54104 to
54123-TB;
54204 to
54223
54930BE to
54923BE;
54850BE to
54880BE
T&B
BCU
BBCU
BLU
BBLU
PENN-
UNION
CONNECTOR
TYPE
Copper
Splices
Copper
Lugs
8 to
1/0 AWG:
1 crimp
2/0 AWG to
350 kcmil:
2 crimps
400 to
750 kcmil:
3 crimps
NUMBER
OF CRIMPS*
ANDERSON
VACS
VACL
BLACKBURN®
ASP
ATL
BURNDY
YS-A
YA-A
YA-ATN
ILSCO
AS
ACL/ACN
2ACL/2ACN
PANDUIT
SA
LAA
LAB
T&B
60501 to
60578
60101 to
60176;
60230 to
60278
PENN-
UNION
PIK
BLUA
CONNECTOR
TYPE
Dual-rated
Aluminum
Splices
Dual-rated
Aluminum
Lugs
Dies for Copper Connectors
Catalog
No.
UPC
No.
Cable
Size
Color
Code
No. of
Crimps
KC12-8 10996 8 AWG Red 1
KC12-6 10997 6 AWG Blue 1
KC12-4 10998 4 AWG Gray 1
KC12-2 10999 2 AWG Brown 1
KC12-1 11003 1 AWG Green 1
KC12-1/0 11004 1/0 AWG Pink 1
KC12-2/0 11007 2/0 AWG Black 1
KC12-3/0 11010 3/0 AWG Orange 1
KC12-4/0 11011 4/0 AWG Purple 1
KC12-250 11012 250 kcmil Yellow 1
KC12-300 11013 300 kcmil White 2
KC12-350 11014 350 kcmil Red 2
KC12-400 11015 400 kcmil Blue 2
KC12-500 11016 500 kcmil Brown 2
KC12-600 11018 600 kcmil Green 2
KC12-750 11020 750 kcmil Black 2
Dies for Aluminum Connectors
Catalog
No.
UPC
No.
Cable
Size
Color
Code
No. of
Crimps
KA12-8 22084 8 AWG Blue 1
KA12-6 22085 6 AWG Gray 1
KA12-4 22086 4 AWG Green 1
KA12-2 22087 2 AWG Pink 1
KA12-1 22088 1 AWG Gold 1
KA12-1/0 22089 1/0 AWG Tan 1
KA12-2/0 22090 2/0 AWG Olive 2
KA12-3/0 22121 3/0 AWG Ruby 2
KA12-4/0 22122 4/0 AWG White 2
KA12-250 22123 250 kcmil Red 2
KA12-300 22124 300 kcmil Blue 2
KA12-350 22125 350 kcmil Brown 2
KA12-400 22126 400 kcmil Green 3
KA12-500 22127 500 kcmil Pink 3
KA12-600 22128 600 kcmil Black 3
KA12-750 22129 750 kcmil Yellow 3

EK1230L and EK1230CL Crimping Tools
Greenlee / A Textron Company 4455 Boeing Dr. • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 USA • 815-397-7070
9
Maintenance
Wear eye protection when operating
or servicing this tool.
Failure to wear eye protection could
result in serious eye injury from
ying debris or hydraulic oil.
Skin injection hazard:
Do not use hands to check for oil
leaks. Oil under pressure easily
punctures skin. If injured, seek
medical attention immediately to
remove oil.
Failure to observe this warning
could result in serious injury, gan-
grene, or death.
Do not use solvents or ammable
liquids to clean the tool body.
Solvents or ammable liquids could
ignite and cause serious injury or
property damage.
Pinch points:
• Remove battery before changing
dies, adapters, or jaws.
• Keep hands away from the crimp-
ing tool head when crimping.
Failure to observe these warnings
could result in severe injury or death.
Relief valve adjustments must be done by an
authorized service center.
Daily
Before use:
1. Inspect the tool for wear or damage, such as cracks,
gouges, or chips.
2. Inspect the tool for damage or leaks.
3. Inspect the rotation of the head assembly. Fully
retract the ram. The head should rotate no more
than 360°. If damage is detected, send the tool to a
Greenlee Authorized Service Center for inspection.
After use:
1. Use a damp cloth and mild detergent to clean the
housing. Allow the housing to dry.
2. Fully retract the ram. Place the tool in the carrying
case and store in a cool, dry place.
3. If necessary, recharge the batteries. Refer to the
instructions supplied with the battery charger.
Monthly
1. Thoroughly clean all surfaces.
2. Check the oil level.
Annually or After 10,000 Crimps
1. Replace the hydraulic oil.
2. Send the tool to a Greenlee Authorized Service
Center for inspection.
Checking the Oil Level
1. Remove the screws holding the housing cover
together.
2. Point the crimping head downward and remove the
oil reservoir plug. Fill reservoir if necessary.
3. Replace the oil plug and housing cover.

EK1230L and EK1230CL Crimping Tools
Problem Possible Cause Probable Remedy
Tool is inoperative. Dirt, contaminants, etc., in ram area
oftool.
Clean tool.
Tool battery contacts damaged. Reform contacts.
Tool components worn or damaged. Return tool to a Greenlee Authorized
Service Center.
Motor is inoperative. Low or uncharged battery. Try known charged battery. Inoperative
battery may be discharged or may have
reached life expectancy.
Broken switch components. Return tool to a Greenlee Authorized
Service Center.
Motor runs but tool will not
complete a cycle.
Oil level low. Return tool to a Greenlee Authorized
Service Center.
Air in hydraulic system. Pull trigger and hold retract button
simultaneously. Run for approximately
10 seconds, and then attempt to
crimp. If unsuccessful, return tool to a
Greenlee Authorized Service Center.
Cold oil. Pull trigger and hold retract button
simultaneously to warm oil. Store tool
in warm area.
Dies stop during operation. Oil level low. Return tool to a Greenlee Authorized
Service Center.
Air in hydraulic system. Pull trigger and hold retract button
simultaneously. Hold for approximately
10 seconds.
LED glows for 20 seconds. Battery charge low. Charge or replace battery.
Tool loses oil. Damaged internal seal. Return tool to a Greenlee Authorized
Service Center.
Troubleshooting
Before You Begin
1. Make sure that the battery is charged. Recheck
the battery after several minutes to make sure the
battery is holding its charge.
2. Use a nonflammable contact cleaner or pencil
eraser to clean the electrical contacts on the battery
and tool.
3. Reinstall the battery and check the tool again.
4455 Boeing Drive • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 • USA • 815-397-7070
An ISO 9001 Company • Greenlee Textron Inc. is a subsidiary of Textron Inc.
USA Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
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