The Milwaukee 152MM (6") Leveling Tripod Chain Vice (Cat. No. MPS) is a robust and versatile pipe stand designed to provide a stable and secure platform for various pipe-working tasks. This operator's manual outlines its functional description, important technical specifications, usage features, and maintenance guidelines to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Function Description
The Milwaukee MPS is a leveling tripod chain vice that serves as a secondary support for pipes and other workpieces during cutting, threading, or other operations. Its primary function is to securely hold pipes, allowing the user to work with both hands and maintain control over the power tool and workpiece. The stand features a chain vice for tightening around the pipe, a workspace tabletop for tools and materials, and adjustable legs for leveling on uneven surfaces.
Key components of the stand include:
- Pipe secondary support (1): Provides additional stability for longer workpieces.
- Leg locking fold latch (2): Secures the legs in the deployed or collapsed position.
- Carry handle (3): Facilitates easy transport of the stand.
- Oil drain holes (4): Located on the workspace tabletop, these holes allow for the drainage of oil or other liquids, keeping the work area cleaner.
- Chain tightening handle (5): Used to tighten the chain around the pipe, securing it in the vice.
- Chain vice (6): The main clamping mechanism that holds the pipe.
- Workspace tabletop (7): A flat surface for placing tools, accessories, or small workpieces.
- Turnbuckle (8): A threaded device used to adjust the tension and lock the legs in place, contributing to the stand's stability.
- Rear handle (9): Provides a grip point for carrying and manipulating the stand.
- Level adjuster (10): Allows for fine-tuning the level of the tabletop to achieve the desired angle on uneven ground.
- T-bar foot (11): The base of one of the legs, designed for stability and often used as a pivot point during setup and collapse.
Important Technical Specifications
- Cat. No.: MPS
- Max pipe size: 152mm (6")
Usage Features
The Milwaukee MPS is designed for ease of use, portability, and stability.
Assembly and Setup:
- Proper Assembly: The manual emphasizes the importance of properly assembling the pipe stand before use to prevent collapse.
- Stable Placement: Always place the stand on a solid, flat, and level surface to ensure stability and safe control of the power tool and workpiece.
- Setting Up the Stand:
- Ensure the area is dry, stable, and level.
- Hold the stand with the tabletop chest-high, with the t-bar foot resting on the ground.
- Place one hand behind the chain vice and the other hand on the bottom of the tabletop under the leg locking fold latch.
- Place one foot on top of the t-bar foot.
- With the hand gripping under the latch, pull and hold the latch to release the legs.
- Push the chain vice down and away while lifting the back of the tabletop with the hand gripping the underside of the latch until the stand is fully deployed. The stand is designed to pivot around the t-bar foot for full deployment.
- Once deployed, guide the turnbuckle toward the leg to lock into place.
- Hand tighten the turnbuckle to lock and take up any slack. Do not use a wrench or pliers for this.
- Use the level adjuster as needed to achieve the desired table angle.
Collapsing the Stand:
- Preparation: Remove all tools and workpieces, including the lower shelf, from the tabletop.
- Release: Release the turnbuckle.
- Positioning: Place one foot on top of the t-bar foot. Place one hand behind the chain vice and the other hand on the rear handle.
- Collapse: Pull the chain vice up towards the body while pushing the other hand down and away until the legs lock into the latch.
- Securing: When collapsed, place the stand on its side or secure it before leaving unattended to prevent tipping.
Mounting to the Ground:
- For enhanced stability, the stand can be mounted to the ground.
- Ensure the stand is on a flat, smooth, level surface.
- Unscrew the bolts in the legs and remove the rubber caps on the bottom and the t-bar leg pads.
- Use M8 screws to mount the stand to the ground through the provided holes in the legs. Ensure screws are secure and periodically check their tightness.
Attaching Pipe to Stand:
- Loosen the chain and place it on the chain tightening handle side of the jaw.
- Place the pipe down on the jaw and secondary support (if the material is long enough).
- Move the chain over the pipe through the slot on the left side.
- Tighten the chain around the pipe with the tightening handle. Hand tighten only; do not over-tighten with a cheater bar, as this could damage the vice assembly.
Safety Features:
- Pinch Point Awareness: Warnings are provided regarding pinch points between the legs and the underside of the tabletop, and by the turnbuckle during collapsing. Users are instructed to keep fingers out of these areas.
- Eye Protection: Always wear proper eye protection marked to comply with AS/NZS 1337.1 to reduce the risk of injury.
- Overload Prevention: Do not overload the pipe stand or use it as a ladder or scaffolding, as this can make it "top-heavy" and prone to tipping.
- Dress Code: Avoid loose clothing, jewelry, and long hair, as they can get caught in moving parts.
- Footing and Balance: Maintain proper footing and balance at all times.
- Work Area: Keep the work area clean, well-lit, and free from bystanders.
Maintenance Features
Proper maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safe operation of the Milwaukee MPS.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the pipe stand and screws for cracks, wear, or damage. Replace damaged components immediately; do not attempt to fix or mend them.
- Cleanliness: Keep the pipe stand dry, clean, and free from oil and grease.
- Accessory Changes: Follow instructions for changing accessories.
- Label Maintenance: Ensure all labels are readable and present. If unreadable or missing, contact a MILWAUKEE® service facility for a replacement.
- Screw Tightness: If the stand is mounted to the ground, periodically check that the M8 screws are tight.
General Safety and Best Practices:
- Always read and understand the operator's manual and all safety warnings before use.
- Use only accessories specifically recommended for this tool.
- Avoid dangerous environments; use the stand only on flat, level, dry, and hard surfaces.
- Exercise common sense and caution when using tools. If you do not understand the operating instructions or feel the work is beyond your capability, contact MILWAUKEE® Tool or a trained professional.
The Milwaukee MPS is designed to be a reliable and essential tool for professionals working with pipes, offering stability, adjustability, and safety features to enhance productivity and reduce the risk of injury.