Victaulic Power Mule II Manual

OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
Power Mule II
WARNING
WARNING
Failure to follow instructions and warnings could result in death,
serious personal injury, property damage, and/or product damage.
• Before operating or servicing the power mule, read all
instructions in this manual and all warning labels on the tool.
• Wear safety glasses, hardhat, foot protection, and hearing
protection while working around this tool.
• Save this operating and maintenance manual in a place
accessible to all operators of the tool.
If you need additional copies of any literature, or if you have questions concerning the safe
and proper operation of this tool, contact Victaulic, P.O. Box 31, Easton, PA 18044-0031,
Phone: 1-800-PICK VIC, E-Mail: [e-mail].
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Hazard Identification ....................3
Operator Safety Instructions...............4
Pallet Contents.......................6
Returning the Tool ....................6
Power Requirements ..................7
Extension Cord Requirements ...........7
Tool Nomenclature......................8
Tool Dimensions and Specifications .........9
Tool Setup ...........................10
Tool Operation ........................12
Maintenance .........................14
Troubleshooting .......................15
HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Definitions for identifying the various hazard
levels are provided below.
This safety alert symbol indicates
important safety messages. When
you see this symbol, be alert to the
possibility of personal injury.
Carefully read and fully understand the message
that follows.
DANGER
• The use of the word “DANGER” identifies
an immediate hazard with a likelihood
of death or serious personal injury if
instructions, including recommended
precautions, are not followed.
WARNING
• The use of the word “WARNING”
identifies the presence of hazards
or unsafe practices that could result
in death or serious personal injury if
instructions, including recommended
precautions, are not followed.
CAUTION
• The use of the word “CAUTION”
identifies possible hazards or unsafe
practices that could result in personal
injury and product or property damage
if instructions, including recommended
precautions, are not followed.
NOTICE
• The use of the word “NOTICE” identifies
special instructions that are important
but not related to hazards.
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OPERATOR SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
The Victaulic Power Mule II is designed
to drive Victaulic Cut Grooving Tools. These
instructions shall be read and understood by
each operator PRIOR to working with the
Power Mule II. These instructions describe safe
operation of the tool, including set up and
maintenance. Each operator shall become
familiar with the tool’s operations, applications,
and limitations. Particular care shall be given
to reading and understanding the dangers,
warnings, and cautions described throughout
these operating instructions.
Use of this tool requires dexterity and
mechanical skills, as well as sound safety habits.
Although this tool is designed and manufactured
for safe, dependable operation, it is difficult to
anticipate all combinations of circumstances
that could result in an accident. The following
instructions are recommended for safe operation
of this tool. The operator is cautioned to always
practice “safety first” during each phase of
use, including set up and maintenance. It is the
responsibility of the lessee or user of this tool to
ensure that all operators read this manual and
fully understand the operation of this tool.
Store this manual in a clean, dry area where it is
always readily available. Additional copies
of this manual are available upon request
through Victaulic, or can be downloaded at
victaulic.com.
DANGER
1. Avoid using the tool in potentially
dangerous environments. Do not expose
the tool to rain, and do not use the tool in
damp or wet locations. Do not use the tool
on sloped or uneven surfaces. Keep the
work area well lit. Allow sufficient space to
operate the tool properly.
WARNING
1. Prevent back injury. Always use proper
lifting techniques when handling tool
components.
2. Wear proper apparel. Do not wear loose
clothing, jewelry, or anything that can
become entangled in moving parts.
3. Wear protective items when working with
tools. Always wear safety glasses, hardhat,
foot protection, and hearing protection.
4. Keep hands and tools away from power
drive during grooving operation. Rotation
of the power drive can pinch or entangle
fingers and hands.
5. Do not reach inside pipe ends during tool
operation. Pipe edges can be sharp and
can snag hands and shirt sleeves.
7. Do not over-reach. Maintain proper
balance at all times. Verify that all controls
are easily accessible to the operator.
8. Do not make any modifications to the
tool. Do not remove any safety guarding
or any components that would affect tool
performance.
9. Prevent accidental start-ups. Always
unplug the power head from the safety foot
switch. This power mule’s rotation control
switch DOES NOT feature a “neutral” or
“off” position. Depressing the safety foot
switch will energize the tool immediately
if it is not unplugged. ALWAYS USE THE
SAFETY FOOT SWITCH TO OPERATE
THE POWER MULE.
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CAUTION
1. The Power Mule II shall be used ONLY for
driving cut grooving tools, as listed in this
manual.
2. Inspect the equipment. Before using
the tool, check moveable parts for
obstructions. Ensure that tool components
are installed and adjusted in accordance
with setup instructions.
3. Stay alert. Do not operate the tool if you
are drowsy from medication or fatigue.
4. Keep visitors, trainees, and observers
away from the immediate work area. All
visitors shall be kept a safe distance from
the equipment at all times.
5. Keep work areas clean. Keep the
work area around the tool clear of any
obstructions that could limit movement of
the operator. Clean up any spills.
6. Secure the work, machine, and
accessories. Verify that the tool is stable.
Refer to the “Tool Setup” section.
7. Support the work. Support pipe lengths
with a pipe stand or vise.
8. Do not force the tool. Do not force the tool
or accessories to perform any functions
beyond the capabilities described in these
instructions. Do not overload the tool.
9. Maintain tool with care. Keep the
tool clean to ensure proper and safe
performance. Follow the instructions for
matching and lubricating tool components,
if applicable.
10. Use only Victaulic replacement parts
and accessories. Use of any other parts
may result in a voided warranty, improper
operation, and hazardous situations. Refer
to the “Parts Ordering Information” section.
11. Do not remove any labels from the tool.
Replace any damaged or worn labels.
12. OPERATE THE TOOL ON THE HANDLE
SIDE ONLY. The Power Mule II must be
operated with a safety foot switch that is
located for easy operator access. Never
reach across moving parts. If the power
mule does not contain a safety foot switch,
contact Victaulic.
13. Align the Power Mule II with the cut
groover’s square drive shaft. Always
position the power mule with 90° to the
cut groover’s square drive shaft. Verify that
there is no binding between the power
mule’s drive head and the cut groover’s
square drive shaft.
14. Do not abuse the safety foot switch cord.
Keep the cord away from heat, oil, and
sharp objects.
15. Always turn off the main power supply
to the tool before servicing the tool. Only
authorized personnel shall attempt to
perform maintenance on the tool. Always
unplug the power head from the safety foot
switch before servicing or adjusting the
tool.
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INTRODUCTION
NOTICE
• Drawings and/or pictures in this manual
may be exaggerated for clarity.
• The tool, along with this operating
and maintenance instructions manual,
contains trademarks, copyrights, and/or
patented features that are the exclusive
property of Victaulic.
The Power Mule II is a high-torque power drive
for driving the following Victaulic Cut Grooving
Tools:
• VG
• VG28GD
• VG28GD-ABR
• VG26GD
• VG26GD-COR
• VG824
• VG824-ABR
• VG824-COR
• VG824DG
• VG828
This heavy-duty, two-wheeled unit drives
Victaulic cut grooving tools at the speed and
power necessary for accurate grooving. It
has a rotating head for horizontal and vertical
applications. It is also equipped with a Forward-
Off-Reverse control and integral foot switch.
For detailed instructions, refer to the operating
and maintenance manual for the applicable tool.
The Power Mule II operates at 13 amps with a
no-load operating speed of 32 rpm. Under load,
the power mule runs at slower speeds. This is a
desirable feature, since heavier loads and slower
speeds reduce tool-bit chatter.
RECEIVING THE TOOL
Power mules are shipped on a pallet with the
power head removed from the frame. Upon
receipt of the power mule, remove any packing
materials, and ensure that all necessary parts
are included. If any parts are missing, contact
Victaulic.
PALLET CONTENTS
Qty. Description
1Power Mule II
1Safety Foot Switch/Power Cord/Plug Assembly
(Located in the Storage Bag)
1Square-Drive Adapter (installed in Power Head)
2Operating and Maintenance Instructions Manual
RETURNING THE TOOL
Prepare tool for shipment as received. Contact
Victaulic with questions.
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POWER REQUIREMENTS
For proper tool operation and production of
grooves that are within Victaulic specifications,
the following guidelines shall be followed:
DANGER
• To reduce the risk of electric
shock, check the electrical
source for proper grounding.
• Before performing any
maintenance on the power
mule, disconnect the power
cord from the electrical
source.
Failure to follow these instructions could
result in death or serious personal injury.
The Power Mule II is designed to operate on
a 115-volt, 20-Amp, 25 - 60 Hz, single-phase
power supply (220-volt is also available). Power
shall be supplied to the power head through
a safety foot switch to ensure safe operation.
Ensure the power head is properly grounded
in accordance with Article 250 of the National
Electrical Code.
If an extension cord is required, refer to the
“Extension Cord Requirements” section on this
page for cord sizes. In addition, refer to the
power head manufacturer’s instructions prior
to use.
EXTENSION CORD REQUIREMENTS
When pre-wired outlets are not available and
an extension cord shall be used, it is important
to use the proper cord size (i.e. Conductor Size
American Wire Gauge). Cord size selection is
based upon tool rating (amps) and cord length
(feet). Use of a cord size (gauge) thinner than
required will cause significant voltage drop
at the power head while the tool is operating.
Voltage drops may cause damage to the
power head and can result in improper tool
operation. NOTE: It is acceptable to use a cord
size (gauge) that is heavier than required. The
required cord sizes (gauges) for cord lengths up
to and including 100 feet/31 m are listed in the
table below. Use of extension cords longer than
100 feet/31 m shall be avoided.
Power Head Rating Cord Lengths
Volts Amps
25feet/
8m
50feet/
15 m
100 feet/
31 m
115 15 12 gauge 12 gauge 10 gauge
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TOOL NOMENCLATURE
NOTICE
• Drawings and/or pictures in this manual may be exaggerated for clarity.
• The tool, along with this operating and maintenance instructions manual, contains
trademarks, copyrights, and/or patented features that are the exclusive property of Victaulic.
Power Head
Rotation Control
Switch
Safety Foot
Switch
Square
Drive
Adapter
1
2
Storage
Bag
Handle
Detent
Pin
Frame
Wheels
Failure to follow instructions and warnings could result in
serious personal injury, property damage, and/or product
damage.
• Before operating or servicing any pipe preparation tools,
read all instructions in the Operating and Maintenance
Instructions Manual and all labels on the tool.
• Wear safety glasses, hardhat, foot protection, and hearing
protection when working around tools.
0567 Rev. D R031272LAB
If you need additional copies of any literature, or if you have questions concerning the safe and proper
operation of any pipe preparation tools, contact Victaulic, P.O. Box 31, Easton, PA 18044-0031, Phone
1-800-PICK VIC, E-Mail: [email protected].
FORWARD
REVERSE
R213700LBL
G
R
O
O
V
E
R
E
L
E
A
S
E
12
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TOOL DIMENSIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS
18.60 in/
472 mm
73.44 in/
1865 mm
27.83 in/
707 mm
Tool weight is 190 pounds/86.2 kilograms.
Tool sound pressure is 98.4 dB(A).
Tool sound power is 107 dB(A).
Sound measurements are taken with a RidgidTM Model 700 power drive.
NOTE: Noise measurements are dependent on the power drive, and will vary based on
configuration. Always check the power drive manufacturer’s documentation for details.
™Ridgid is a registered trademark of Ridgid Tool Company
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TOOL SETUP
WARNING
• DO NOT plug the power head into
the electrical source until instructed
otherwise.
Failure to follow this instruction could
result in serious personal injury.
1. Remove all components from the
packaging, and ensure all necessary items
are included. Refer to the “Receiving the
Tool” section on page 6.
2. Select a location for the grooving operation
by taking into consideration the following
factors:
2a. The required power supply (Refer to the
“Power Requirements” section on page
7 and the power drive manufacturer’s
instructions)
2b. Adequate space to handle pipe lengths
2c. A firm and level surface for the power mule
3. Remove the pallet tie-downs before
attempting to set up and operate the power
mule.
WARNING
• Never attempt to operate a power mule
if it is bolted to a pallet or the floor.
• Failure to follow this instruction could
result in serious personal injury and
damage to the power mule, cut grooving
tool, or pipe.
4. Insert the power head assembly into the
frame. Align the holes in the power head
assembly with the holes in the frame, as
shown above.
WARNING
• NEVER attempt to operate the power
mule without having the detent pin
installed in the power head assembly/
frame.
• NEVER operate the power head as a
hand-held tool.
Failure to follow these instructions could
result in serious personal injury.
5. Insert the detent pin into the holes in
the power head assembly/frame. THIS
DETENT PIN SHALL ALWAYS BE
INSTALLED BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO
OPERATE THE POWER MULE.
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6. Verify that the two set screws, located at
the square-drive adapter, are tightened.
NOTICE
• This power mule’s rotation control switch
DOES NOT feature a “neutral” or “off”
position. Depressing the safety foot
switch will energize the tool immediately.
ALWAYS USE THE SAFETY FOOT
SWITCH TO OPERATE THE POWER
MULE.
7. Remove the safety foot switch/power cord
from the storage box.
7a. Plug the power head’s line cord into the
safety foot switch/power cord assembly.
7b. Place the safety foot switch in a position
that is easily accessible for the operator.
7c. Plug the safety foot switch cord into an
internally grounded electrical outlet.
The outlet shall meet the requirements
for the power head (refer to the “Power
Requirements” section on page 7 and the
power head manufacturer’s instructions).
If an extension cord is used, refer to the
“Extension Cord Requirements” section on
page 7 for requirements.
WARNING
• The power mule shall always be
operated with a safety foot switch. If the
power mule does not contain a safety
foot switch, contact Victaulic.
Operating the power mule without a safety
foot switch may result in serious personal
injury.
ADDITIONAL TOOL SETUP INFORMATION
NOTE: Depending on jobsite requirements, the
power head can be rotated 90° to facilitate the
grooving operation.
WARNING
• NEVER attempt to operate the power
mule without having the detent pin
installed in the power head assembly/
frame.
• NEVER operate the power head as a
hand-held tool.
Failure to follow these instructions could
result in serious personal injury.
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The square-drive adapter has been factory
modified and installed for operation of the power
mule on the handle side. If the square-drive
adapter is ever removed, it shall be re-installed,
as shown above.
TOOL OPERATION
1. Secure the pipe in a pipe vise that is
mounted to a workbench or a stand. The
workbench or stand shall be fastened
securely to the floor. Pipe shall be
positioned and secured in a vise to permit
unobstructed tool rotation.
Pipe Centerline
Stand or Bench secured to the oor
PipeVise secured to the stand or bench
Cut GroovingTool
90°
Power Mule
Centerline
Safety Foot
Switch
Power Mule
IMPORTANT
Power Mule must be
perpendicular to pipe and cut
grooving tool’s square drive shaft
FIGURE 1 – TOP VIEW OF POWER MULE POSITIONING
2. Position the power mule to be 90° to the
cut grooving tool’s square drive. Refer
to Figure 1 above. The power mule can
be rolled around on its two wheels and
steered by use of the handle located on
the power head.
3. Rotate the square-drive adapter to align the
square hole with the square drive shaft of
the cut grooving tool.
3a. Slide the power head onto the square drive
shaft of the cut grooving tool.
3b. Tighten the two set screws on the square-
drive adapter.
4. Check the floor around the power mule’s
wheels to ensure that the area is clear
of any cords or other objects that may
interfere with the wheels.
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5. Set the rotation control switch to the
FORWARD position. Victaulic cut grooving
tools are designed to operate in a
CLOCKWISE direction when viewed from
the square drive shaft side of the tool.
WARNING
• Always maintain a light grasp on the
handle of the power head during tool
operation.
Failure to follow this instruction could
cause the power mule to walk away from
the tool, causing serious personal injury
and/or product damage.
6. Grasp the handle of the power head.
Momentarily depress the safety foot switch,
and check the rotation of the power head.
Rotation shall be CLOCKWISE. If the
rotation is counterclockwise, place the
rotation control switch to the REVERSE
position.
7. Groove the pipe by following the operating
instructions for the applicable cut grooving
tool. NOTE: Always maintain a light grasp
on the handle of the power head during
tool operation.
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8. When the grooving operation is complete:
8a. Loosen the two set screws that are located
at the square-drive adapter.
8b. Flip the rotation control switch to the
opposite position.
8c. Momentarily engage the safety foot switch.
8d. Gently pull on the handle of the power
head.
8e. Disengage the power mule from the cut
groover.
8f. Roll the power mule to the RIGHT and out
of the way.
MAINTENANCE
DANGER
• Before performing any
maintenance on the
power mule, disconnect
the power cord from the
electrical source.
Failure to follow these
instructions could result in
death or serious personal
injury.
Check the tire pressure on a daily basis. Verify
that each tire is inflated to 30-psi/207-kPa
maximum.
Refer to the power head manufacturer’s
operating manual for additional maintenance
requirements.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
Power head will not operate. The power head is not plugged into the safety
foot switch.
Plug the power head into the safety foot
switch. Refer to the“Power Requirements”
section on page 7.
The rotation control switch is not set in
position.
Flip the rotation control switch to the desired
direction. Refer to the“Tool Operation”section,
starting on page 12
The circuit breaker has tripped or a fuse has
blown out in the electrical circuit that supplies
the power head.
Reset the breaker, or replace the fuse.
Power head turns the cut grooving tool
counterclockwise.
The rotation control switch is set to the wrong
position.
Flip the rotation control switch to the opposite
direction. Refer to the“Tool Operation”section,
starting on page 12.
Cut grooving tool does not make full contact
with the pipe end, or the cut grooving tool
“walks”o the pipe.
The cut grooving tool is being driven
counterclockwise.
Flip the rotation control switch to the
opposite direction to drive the cut grooving
tool CLOCKWISE. Refer to the“Tool Operation”
section, starting on page 12
The power mule is not positioned 90° to
the pipe.
Re-position the power mule to be 90° to the
pipe. Refer to Figure 1 on page 12 of the“Tool
Operation”section.
The pipe is not cut square. Cut the pipe end squarely.
Cut grooving tool hits power mule as it rotates. The power mule is not positioned 90° to
the pipe.
Re-position the power mule to be 90° to the
pipe. Refer to Figure 1 on page 12 of the“Tool
Operation”section.
Circuit breaker continuously trips or a fuse
repeatedly blows out in the electrical circuit
that supplies the power head.
The power mule is plugged into an undersized
circuit.
The power head shall be connected to a 20-
amp circuit by itself, or all other equipment on
the circuit shall be turned o while the power
mule is in use.
An extension cord that is too thin or tool long
is being used.
Replace the extension cord with the correct
thickness (gauge) and length. Refer to the
“Extension Cord Requirements”section on
page 7.
The power mule is not on its own dedicated
circuit.
The power head shall be connected to a 20-
amp circuit by itself, or all other equipment on
the circuit shall be turned o while the power
mule is in use.
The power head runs, but it does not drive the
cut grooving tool.
There is a mechanical problem with the
square-drive adapter.
Inspect the square-drive adapter for wear or a
broken lug. Replace the square-drive adapter,
if necessary.
Remove the square-drive adapter, and inspect
the power head drive pins for damage. Replace
the power head drive pins, if necessary.
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UPDATED 08/2020
TM-PMII 4250 REV C RM00PM2000
VICTAULIC IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF VICTAULIC COMPANY AND/OR ITS AFFILIATED
ENTITIES IN THE UNITED STATES AND/OR OTHER COUNTRIES.
©2020 VICTAULIC COMPANY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL
Power Mule II
TM-PMII