How to oil pneumatic tools

Key Takeaways

• Put oil on your pneumatic tools before you use them. This helps them work well and last longer. - Pick the correct oil for your tools. Using the wrong oil can hurt your tools and cost a lot to fix. - Take care of your tools by cleaning and oiling them often. This stops them from breaking and keeps them ready to use.

Learning how to oil pneumatic tools can make your work easier and safer. You want your tools to last, so you need to lubricate them the right way. Let’s look at how to oil pneumatic tools for three common types: impact wrench, nail gun, and rivet gun.

Impact Wrench

You use an impact wrench to loosen or tighten bolts fast. To keep it working well, you need to lubricate it before each use. Here’s a simple way to do it:

1. Disconnect the tool from the air supply.

2. Find the air inlet. This is where you connect the hose.

3. Drop 4-5 drops of air tool oil into the air inlet.

4. Reconnect the air hose.

5. Run the tool for a few seconds. This spreads the oil inside.

If you see oil coming out of the air exhaust, you used too much. Wipe off any extra oil. You want to avoid over-oiling because it can make a mess and attract dust. You should lubricate the tool after cleaning and storing it, especially if you use it often.

Tip: Always remove build-up on components before you lubricate. This helps the oil reach all moving parts.

Some shops use inline lubricators. These devices add oil to the air automatically. If you use one, you don’t need to apply lubrication regularly by hand. Inline lubricators help you stretch out your maintenance schedule because they keep your tool lubricated while you work.

Nail Gun

Nail guns help you finish jobs quickly. You need to lubricate them to keep the trigger and firing mechanism working smoothly. Here’s how you do it:

1. Unplug the nail gun from the air hose.

2. Put 2-3 drops of air tool oil into the air fitting.

3. Reconnect the air hose.

4. Fire the nail gun a few times without nails. This spreads the oil inside.

Don’t use too much oil. If you see oil spraying from the exhaust, you need to use less next time. Lubricating air tools like nail guns helps prevent jams and keeps the tool safe. You should apply lubrication regularly, especially if you use the nail gun for long periods.

Note: Always check the feeding mechanism for dust or debris. Cleaning and storing your nail gun after each use helps keep it in good shape.

Inline lubricators work well with nail guns, too. They keep the tool oiled during use, so you don’t have to stop and lubricate as often.

Rivet Gun

Rivet guns are great for joining metal pieces. You need to lubricate them to keep the trigger and moving parts working. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Disconnect the rivet gun from the air supply.

2. Add 3-4 drops of air tool oil into the air inlet.

3. Reconnect the air hose.

4. Squeeze the trigger a few times to spread the oil.

Watch for oil leaking from the air exhaust. This means you used too much. Wipe off any extra oil. Lubricate the rivet gun before each use and after cleaning and storing it.

Tip: Always remove build-up on components before you lubricate. This helps the oil reach all the right places.

If you use an inline lubricator, you can go longer between manual oiling. Inline lubricators supply oil while you work, so you spend less time on maintenance.

Table: Quick Reference for Lubricating Common Pneumatic Tools

Lubricating air tools is easy when you follow these steps. The application of lubrication keeps your tools running smoothly and helps you avoid costly repairs. Remember to oil pneumatic tools before each use and check for signs of over-oiling. Inline lubricators can help you save time and reduce manual maintenance. Always clean your tools and remove build-up on components before you lubricate. This makes sure the oil does its job.

• You keep your pneumatic tools running strong when you oil them before each use.

• Make a quick checklist for oil type, drops, and cleaning steps.

• Regular care helps you avoid breakdowns and stay safe.

  Always check your tool’s manual for special instructions. That way, you protect your investment.

FAQ

How do you know if your pneumatic tool needs oil?

If your tool sounds louder than usual or feels sluggish, it probably needs oil. You might also see rust or sticky movement.

Tip: Check your tool before each use for best results.

Can you use WD-40 instead of air tool oil?

No, you shouldn’t use WD-40. It doesn’t lubricate well and can damage seals inside your pneumatic tool.

What happens if you over-oil your pneumatic tool?

Too much oil can leak out of the exhaust and make a mess. You might also notice sticky residue on your work area.