This document is the owner's manual for Tempest VentMaster® Fire Rescue Saws, specifically the HD Series Chainsaws. It provides comprehensive information for safe and proper operation, maintenance, and general understanding of the equipment.
Function Description
The Tempest VentMaster® Fire Rescue Saws are specialized chainsaws designed for environmental management in firefighting and industrial applications. They are primarily used for "Positive Pressure Ventilation / Attack" (PPV/PPA) to remove heat, gases, and smoke from burning structures, significantly improving safety in confined spaces. In industrial settings, these saws control dust, fumes, and unhealthy gases like carbon monoxide. The saws are equipped with Raptor Carbide Chains, making them suitable for cutting various materials.
Important Technical Specifications
The manual lists several models of VentMaster® Fire Rescue Chainsaws with varying specifications:
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572HD-20-DG.404:
- Part No.: TV400-080
- Bar Length: 20"
- Engine: 5.8 HP, 70.6cc
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 37.00" x 12.50" x 12.50"
- Weight: 24 lbs.
- Depth Gauge: Included
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576HD-20.404:
- Part No.: TV400-083
- Bar Length: 20"
- Engine: 5.8 HP, 70.6cc
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 37.00" x 12.50" x 12.50"
- Weight: 21.3 lbs.
- Depth Gauge: Not included
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576HD-16-DG.404:
- Part No.: TV400-081
- Bar Length: 16"
- Engine: 5.8 HP, 70.6cc
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 33.00" x 12.50" x 12.50"
- Weight: 23 lbs.
- Depth Gauge: Included
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576HD-16.404:
- Part No.: TV400-084
- Bar Length: 16"
- Engine: 5.8 HP, 70.6cc
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 33.00" x 12.50" x 12.50"
- Weight: 20.3 lbs.
- Depth Gauge: Not included
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365HD-20-DG.404:
- Part No.: TV400-044
- Bar Length: 20"
- Engine: 4.9 HP, 71cc
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 37.00" x 12.50" x 12.75"
- Weight: 23 lbs.
- Depth Gauge: Included
-
365HD-20.404:
- Part No.: TV400-052
- Bar Length: 20"
- Engine: 4.9 HP, 71cc
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 37.00" x 12.50" x 12.75"
- Weight: 22 lbs.
- Depth Gauge: Not included
-
365HD-16-DG.404:
- Part No.: TV400-043
- Bar Length: 16"
- Engine: 4.9 HP, 71cc
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 33.00" x 12.50" x 12.75"
- Weight: 22 lbs.
- Depth Gauge: Included
-
365HD-16.404:
- Part No.: TV400-053
- Bar Length: 16"
- Engine: 4.9 HP, 71cc
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 33.00" x 12.50" x 12.75"
- Weight: 21 lbs.
- Depth Gauge: Not included
All models are equipped with the Raptor Carbide Chain (0.404 Pitch, 0.063 Gauge). Each saw has a unique part number and serial number for identification and tracking.
Usage Features
- Safety First: The manual emphasizes reading both the owner's manual and the power head manufacturer's manual before operation. Operators must not be fatigued or impaired, keep hands and feet away from rotating parts, wear appropriate personal protective equipment (eye and hearing protection), and ensure all guards are in place.
- Fuel Handling: Gasoline is highly flammable. Operators must avoid overfilling the fuel tank, ensure the cap is secured, and clean up any spills before starting. Operation in enclosed or confined areas for prolonged periods is warned against due to poisonous carbon monoxide gas.
- Chain Tensioning: Proper chain tension is crucial for extending chain life and enhancing cutting performance. The process involves loosening stud nuts, adjusting the tension screw while holding the bar tip up (ensuring the cold chain does not hang more than 1/8" below the guidebar), and then tightening the nuts. This check should be performed before each use.
- Lubrication: Adequate bar and chain lubrication is essential during operation. Users must ensure the correct amount and type of oil are used, referring to the engine manufacturer's manual for specific details.
- Optimal Cutting Technique: The saw should be run at FULL THROTTLE when entering, during, and exiting a cut. The chain should be allowed to do the work without excessive pressure, as forcing the cut can lead to carbide tip failure and heat damage to the bar. Slow cutting may indicate the need for chain sharpening.
- Cutting Thin Materials: For materials like sheet metal, aluminum siding, or fiberglass, the KIS-40 depth gauge should be used. It can be set to expose 1/4" to 1/2" of the bar and chain tip to prevent shaking, vibration, and carbide tip failure.
- New Chain Break-In: A new chain requires a break-in period of two minutes at low speed with adequate oil lubrication. After this, the chain tension should be checked and readjusted if necessary. The drive sprocket should be changed every time a new chain is installed.
Maintenance Features
- Engine Maintenance: The engine should be kept clean and tuned according to the manufacturer's specifications to maintain maximum speed and performance. A dirty air filter, for example, can cause gradual power loss and lead to carbide chain tip failure.
- Raptor Carbide Chain Care: While durable, improper use and poor maintenance can damage the carbide chain.
- Chain Tension: Regular checking and adjustment of chain tension are vital, as the chain will heat up and loosen during operation and return to its original size upon cooling.
- Sharpening: The Raptor carbide chain is ground at a 29-degree angle with 15 degrees on the vertical. Depth gauge settings should be between 25 to 30 thousandths of an inch; exceeding 30 thousandths increases the risk of carbide tip breakage. Depth gauges should be filed with each sharpening using a flat file and depth gauge tool. Specialized diamond-abrasive tools (1FF1 style diamond wheel for "flat facing" and EZE-Lap or contoured diamond wheel for "round facing") are required for sharpening.
- Chain Repair: Chains should be inspected after each use. If more than five cutters are missing or heavily damaged, or if two or more cutters in succession are damaged, the chain should be taken out of service for repair or replacement. Replacing the chain is often more cost-effective if five or more cutters are missing or damaged.
- Drive Sprocket Replacement: The drive sprocket should be replaced every time a new chain is installed. A worn sprocket can cause a loose fit, leading to premature wear on the new chain and product failure.
- Complimentary Services: Tempest offers complimentary chain evaluation and optional chain repair/sharpening services.
- Warranty: Tempest warrants VentMaster® Fire/Rescue Saws and Cutoff Saws (excluding the chain, guide bar, and cutoff blade) against original defects in workmanship and material under normal-use conditions for one year from the date of shipment. The warranty does not cover Raptor Carbide Chain and Multi-Cut Cutoff Blades. Unauthorized repair or modification voids the warranty. Claims must be submitted within five business days of discovery or 30 calendar days of shipment, whichever is earlier, and any cause of action must be brought within one year of discovery.
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