This document describes the Performance Tool Soldering Gun (Item Number W2012), an electrical tool designed for soldering applications.

Function Description:

The Soldering Gun is a handheld electrical tool used for joining metal parts by melting solder. It heats up quickly, allowing for efficient and precise soldering. The gun is equipped with a trigger for activation and a light for illuminating the work area. It is suitable for various soldering tasks, including welding, plasma cutting, and similar applications.

Important Technical Specifications:

Electrical Rating: 120V~ / 60Hz / 0.8A, 60 W
Maximum Temperature: 1135°F
Light Bulb: 6 volt, 3 watt
Power Cord: Standard electrical plug (polarized, one blade wider than the other).
Grounding: The tool is marked "Grounding Required" and features a three-wire cord with a three-prong grounding plug. It must be connected to a properly grounded outlet to reduce the risk of electric shock. The grounding prong is connected through a green wire inside the cord to the tool's grounding system.
Extension Cords: When using extension cords, it is crucial to select the correct wire gauge to prevent voltage drop, which can lead to power loss and tool damage. The manual provides a "Recommended Minimum Wire Gauge for Extension Cords" table based on amperage and cord length. For example, a 14-gauge cord can carry a higher current than a 16-gauge cord.

Usage Features:

Trigger Activation: The soldering gun is activated by pressing a trigger, which heats the soldering tip. Releasing the trigger turns off the heat.
Multiple Soldering Tips: The gun comes with three different soldering tips, allowing for versatility across various applications. Users can select and install the desired tip.
Rosin-Core Solder Application: Before initial use and after cleaning, a sufficient amount of rosin-core solder should be melted over the entire soldering tip. The tip should then be wiped clean and shiny with a rag.
Soldering Process:
1. Brush solder flux onto the workpiece if needed.
2. Place the soldering tip onto the joint, wiring splice, or metal to be soldered.
3. Apply solder to the wire splice or metal, not directly to the soldering tip.
4. Once the splice or metal is hot enough, the solder will melt and flow within the joint.
5. Remove the soldering tip and release the trigger once the solder has flowed over the entire surface.
Safety Precautions:
- Always wear eye protection and other personal protective equipment.
- Keep the work area clean and well lit.
- Dress properly, avoiding loose clothing, jewelry, hair, and gloves near hot parts.
- Do not overreach; maintain proper footing and balance.
- Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away.
- Stay alert and use common sense; do not operate while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication.
- Avoid explosive atmospheres.
- Do not point the soldering gun at yourself or others, as it reaches 1135°F.
- Never lay the hot soldering gun down where it can contact flammable materials or electrical wires.
- Always de-energize circuits or wires to be soldered before making connections.
- Be aware of soldering fumes, which can increase the risk of certain cancers (larynx, lung) and other diseases (Parkinson's, heart disease, ulcers, reproductive organ damage, inflammation of small intestine/stomach, kidney damage, respiratory diseases). Keep head out of fumes.
- This product produces chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects (or other reproductive harm) when used for welding, plasma cutting, soldering, or similar applications.
- Handling the cord exposes users to lead, a chemical also known to cause cancer and birth defects. Wash hands after handling.
- Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. If unavoidable in damp locations, use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected supply.
- Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces (pipes, radiators, ranges, refrigerators).
- Ensure the trigger is in the off position before connecting to power, picking up, or carrying the tool.
- Disconnect the plug from the power source before making adjustments, changing accessories, or storing.
- Do not force the power tool; use the correct tool for the application.
- Do not use the power tool if the trigger does not turn it on and off.
- Do not leave the tool unattended when plugged into an electrical outlet.
- Power tool plugs must match the outlet; never modify the plug. Do not use adapter plugs with grounded power tools.
- Do not abuse the cord; keep it away from heat, oil, sharp edges, or moving parts.

Maintenance Features:

Pre-Use Inspection: Before each use, inspect the tool for loose hardware, misalignment or binding of moving parts, damaged cord/electrical wiring, cracked or broken parts, or any other condition affecting safe operation.
Post-Use Cleaning: After use, heat the soldering tip again, apply a small amount of rosin-core solder, and wipe it off with a rag to keep it clean and ready for future use.
Soldering Tip Replacement: If the soldering tip cracks or erodes, it needs to be replaced.
1. Loosen the soldering tip nuts by turning counter-clockwise with a wrench.
2. Pull the old tip out of the transformer assembly mounting posts.
3. Slide the ends of the new tip into the mounting posts.
4. Carefully tighten the nuts clockwise, ensuring they fit squarely over the threads to prevent damage. Do not overtighten.
Light Bulb Replacement:
1. Remove the light bulb lens from the front of the soldering gun.
2. Pull out the burnt bulb and replace it with a new one of the same voltage and type (6 volt, 3 watt).
3. Replace the light bulb lens.
General Maintenance:
- Maintain labels and nameplates; contact Performance Tool for replacements if unreadable.
- Store idle power tools out of reach of children and prevent operation by unfamiliar persons.
- If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced only by a qualified service technician.
- Tool/equipment service must be performed only by qualified repair personnel. Do not attempt to open and repair the unit yourself.
- Do not use damaged equipment; if abnormal noise or vibration occurs, have it corrected before further use.

Warranty Information:

Performance Tool offers a 1-year warranty to original retail purchasers, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service.

Within 90 days of purchase: A defective product can be returned for a free replacement at the place of purchase.
After 90 days and up to 1 year: Performance Tool will replace defective parts at no charge. A sales receipt showing the purchase date is required for warranty claims.
Warranty Exclusions: Blades, bits, punches, dies, bulbs, fuses, hoses, and other consumables are excluded. The warranty does not cover products used for unintended purposes, repaired or altered in a way that affects performance, or subjected to misuse, neglect, accident, or normal wear and tear.
Limitations: Performance Tool makes no other express or implied warranties, specifically disclaiming implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, except for goods purchased for personal, family, or household use. The company is not liable for consequential, incidental, or special damages. The sole remedy for a defective product or part is repair or replacement. Warranty terms are governed by Washington state law, but other rights may vary by state.

PT W2012 - Page 2

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