The Hercules HC108B 20V Variable Speed Grease Gun is a cordless power tool designed for lubrication tasks, offering both portability and adjustable grease flow. This owner's manual provides essential safety information, technical specifications, and operating instructions to ensure safe and effective use.
Function Description:
The grease gun is primarily used for applying grease to various mechanical components, such as bearings, joints, and other moving parts, to reduce friction and wear. Its variable speed trigger allows for precise control over the grease flow, adapting to different lubrication needs. The tool is powered by a 20V Lithium-ion battery, providing cordless operation for enhanced mobility in various work environments. It features a pressure relief valve to prevent over-pressurization and a built-in LED light to illuminate the work area, improving visibility in dimly lit spaces. The gun can be loaded with grease using standard cartridges, or it can be bulk-loaded from a container or a filler pump, offering flexibility in grease supply.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Model: HC108B
- Battery Type: Hercules 20V Li-ion (56560, 57373)
- Charger Type: Hercules 20V Li-ion (56559) - sold separately
- Maximum Pressure: 10,000 PSI
- Grease Cartridge Capacity: 14.5 oz.
- Maximum Flow Rate: 5 oz/min.
- Hose Outlet Threads (Tool): 7/16 UNEF
- Hose Outlet Threads (Coupler side): 1/8" NPT
- Outlet Threads (Filler Port): 1/8" NPT
- Hose Length: 48"
- No Load Revolutions per Minute (RPM): Indicated by "no xxxx/min." symbol, specific value not provided in text but implies a rotational component.
Usage Features:
- Variable Speed Trigger: The tool's output volume of grease increases with more force applied to the trigger, allowing for precise control. A trigger lock mechanism prevents unintentional starting.
- LED Light: Activated by pulling the trigger, the LED light illuminates the work area and automatically shuts off after 20 seconds. It can also be manually turned off using the LED Power Button.
- Pressure Relief / Motor Overload: If the maximum PSI is exceeded, grease will exit through the Pressure Relief Valve, indicating a line blockage. Continuous operation while blocked can lead to motor overload and stalling. Instructions for clearing contaminants are provided.
- Loading Options:
- Grease Cartridge: Standard 14.5 oz. grease cartridges can be easily inserted after removing the cap and pull tab.
- Bulk Container: Grease can be loaded directly from a bulk container by inserting the open end of the grease tube into the lubricant and slowly pulling the follower rod back.
- Filler Pump: A bulk filler nipple (sold separately) can be attached to the bulk loading port for filling with a filler pump.
- Priming: The gun must be primed by simultaneously squeezing the trigger and opening the Air Bleed Valve to expel air pockets, ensuring proper grease flow.
- Coupler Attachment: The grease coupler attaches directly to zerk fittings. Users are warned to hold the end of the hose by the spring guard and keep hands away from the exposed rubber part of the hose to prevent injection injuries.
- Shoulder Strap: The tool includes a shoulder strap for easier carrying, connecting at a mounting hole near the Air Bleed Valve and a retractable hook at the back of the motor.
Maintenance Features:
- General Inspection: Before each use, the tool should be inspected for general condition, including the battery pack (leaking, swollen, cracked), loose hardware, misalignment, binding of moving parts, or cracked/broken components.
- Cleaning: After use, external surfaces of the tool should be wiped with a clean cloth. Excess grease should be cleaned from the exterior of the grease gun after loading or use.
- Clearing Contaminants: Instructions are provided for clearing blockages, either by removing the hose assembly and running the motor, or by inspecting and cleaning the check valve components (ball, spring, washer, bolt).
- Battery Care:
- Battery packs should be kept dry and stored away from metal objects.
- Charging should only be done with the specified Hercules 20V Lithium Battery Charger (sold separately) and according to its instructions.
- Damaged battery packs should not be used or charged.
- Li-ion batteries must be recycled or disposed of properly; they should not be shorted, incinerated, or opened.
- The charger and battery pack should be monitored frequently during charging and kept on a stable, nonflammable surface, at least 1 foot away from flammable objects.
- Storage: After use, the tool, battery pack, and charger should be stored in a dry, indoor area, out of reach of children and away from metal objects to prevent shorting.
- Service: Repairs and parts replacements should only be performed by certified and licensed technicians. Damaged battery packs should not be serviced by the user. The manufacturer provides a 90-day limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.