Craftsman 18 Ga Brad Nailer Manual

The Craftsman 18 Ga Brad Nailer is a pneumatic finishing tool designed for precision trim work, crown molding, baseboards, and other detailed carpentry projects. It fires 18-gauge brad nails from 5/8" to 2" in length, features a depth adjustment wheel, quick-release nose, tool-free jam clearing, and an ergonomic grip. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Ergonomic handle, Depth adjustment wheel, Quick-release nose, Magazine release lever, Air inlet, Exhaust deflector, Safety tip.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear safety glasses and hearing protection.

1. Always disconnect air supply before loading, clearing jams, or performing maintenance.
2. Keep hands and body away from the firing area. Never point the tool at yourself or others.
3. Use only 18-gauge brad nails specified for this tool. Do not modify or use damaged nails.
4. Ensure workpiece is free of obstructions like nails, screws, or wiring before nailing.
5. Do not use in wet or explosive atmospheres. Keep work area clean and well-lit.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or tool damage.

Setup & Installation

Prepare the nailer for first use by connecting to an air compressor.

1. Check air compressor: Ensure it provides 70-120 PSI and has adequate CFM rating.
2. Attach air hose: Use a 1/4" NPT fitting. Apply a drop of pneumatic tool oil to the air inlet if recommended.
3. Adjust pressure: Set compressor regulator to desired PSI (start at 90 PSI for testing).
4. Load brad nails: Disconnect air supply, then follow loading instructions in Section 7.
5. Test fire: Reconnect air, point tool at a safe scrap workpiece, and test fire to ensure proper operation.

CAUTION! Always wear eye protection. Never test fire the tool without a workpiece.

Specifications

• Nail Gauge: 18-gauge.
• Nail Length Range: 5/8" to 2".
• Magazine Capacity: 100 nails.
• Operating Pressure: 70-120 PSI.
• Air Inlet: 1/4" NPT.
• Tool Weight: Approximately 2.5 lbs.
• Dimensions: 10" L x 8" H x 2.5" W.
• Sound Level: < 90 dB(A).
• Vibration: Low vibration design.
• Warranty: Limited 1-year warranty.

Controls and Adjustments

Main controls located on the body of the nailer.

Depth Adjustment Wheel: Rotate to control how deep the nail is driven. Turn clockwise to drive nails deeper (countersink), counterclockwise for shallower depth.

Quick-Release Nose: Slide lever to open nose for clearing jams.

Magazine Release Lever: Press to open magazine for loading nails.

Safety Tip: Must be depressed against workpiece for tool to fire.

Exhaust Deflector: Can be rotated to direct exhaust air in a safe direction.

Operating Instructions

Proper technique ensures safe and effective nailing.

1. Connect to air supply set within 70-120 PSI range.
2. Load nails into magazine (see Section 8).
3. Place safety tip firmly against the workpiece.
4. Apply steady pressure and pull the trigger to fire a nail.
5. For sequential firing, release the trigger and safety tip between nails.
6. Adjust depth as needed using the depth wheel for optimal finish.
7. When finished, disconnect air supply and clear any remaining nails from magazine.

Tip: Practice on scrap material to get a feel for depth and firing pressure.

Loading Brad Nails

Use only straight, undamaged 18-gauge brad nails.

1. DISCONNECT THE AIR HOSE from the tool.
2. Press the magazine release lever and open the magazine.
3. Insert a strip of nails (head first, points down) into the magazine channel.
4. Push the strip fully into the magazine until it clicks into place.
5. Close the magazine firmly until it latches.
6. Reconnect the air hose. The tool is now ready to use.

WARNING! Never attempt to load nails while the tool is connected to air. Fingers must be kept clear of the firing mechanism.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures long tool life and reliable performance.

1. Daily: Add a few drops of pneumatic tool oil into the air inlet before connecting the hose.
2. Weekly: Wipe exterior with a clean, dry cloth. Inspect the safety tip and O-rings for wear.
3. Monthly: Clean the magazine and driver blade area with compressed air. Lubricate moving parts per manual.
4. As Needed: Clear jams immediately using the quick-release nose feature (air supply disconnected).

CAUTION! Use only recommended lubricants. Do not use solvents or excessive oil.

Storage Guidelines

Store properly to prevent damage and corrosion.

• Disconnect from air supply.
• Clear all nails from the magazine.
• Add a few drops of oil to the air inlet and fire the tool once (into a safe block) to coat internal parts.
• Store in a clean, dry place, preferably in the original case.
• Keep away from extreme temperatures and humidity.

Warranty Information

Craftsman 18 Ga Brad Nailer is covered by a limited 1-year warranty from date of purchase against defects in material or workmanship. This warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, abuse, or use of non-genuine parts. Proof of purchase is required. For warranty service, contact Craftsman Customer Service at 1-888-331-4569 or visit www.craftsman.com.

Troubleshooting

Service: For persistent issues, contact Craftsman Customer Service: 1-888-331-4569.