Fortress Air Compressor User Manual
Fortress Air Compressor User Manual
Fortress Air Compressor User Manual
Save This Manual Keep this manual for the safety warnings and precautions, assembly,
operating, inspection, maintenance and cleaning procedures. Write the product’s serial number in the
back of the manual near the assembly diagram (or month and year of purchase if product has no number).
Keep this manual and the receipt in a safe and dry place for future reference. 18g
Page 2 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Item 64592 64596
iMpOrtant SaFEty inFOrMatiOn
General Safety Warnings
WarninG read all safety warnings and instructions.
SaFEty
Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.
The warnings, precautions, and instructions discussed in this instruction manual cannot cover all possible
conditions and situations that may occur. It must be understood by the operator that common sense
and caution are factors which cannot be built into this product, but must be supplied by the operator.
inStallatiOn
of flammable liquids, gases or dust. b. Disconnect the plug from the power source
Compressor motors produce sparks before making any adjustments, changing
which may ignite the dust or fumes. accessories, or storing the compressor.
c. Keep children and bystanders away Such preventive safety measures reduce the
from an operating compressor. risk of starting the compressor accidentally.
c. Store an idle compressor out of the reach
2. Electrical safety of children and do not allow persons
a. compressor plugs must match the outlet. unfamiliar with the compressor or these
never modify the plug in any way. instructions to operate it. A compressor is
Do not use any adapter plugs with grounded dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
compressors. Standard plugs and matching d. Maintain the compressor. Keep the
outlets will reduce risk of electric shock. compressor clean for better and safer
b. Do not expose compressor to rain or wet performance. Follow instructions for
conditions. Water entering a compressor lubricating and changing accessories.
will increase the risk of electric shock. Keep dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
check for misalignment or binding of moving
OpEratiOn
c. Do not abuse the cord. never use the
parts, breakage of parts and any other
cord for unplugging the compressor.
condition that may affect the compressor’s
Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges
operation. if damaged, have the compressor
or moving parts. Damaged or entangled
repaired before use. Many accidents are
cords increase the risk of electric shock.
caused by a poorly maintained compressor.
3. personal safety e. Use the compressor in accordance with
a. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and these instructions, taking into account
use common sense when operating this the working conditions and the work to
compressor. Do not use this compressor be performed. Use of the compressor for
while you are tired or under the influence operations different from those intended
of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment could result in a hazardous situation.
of inattention while operating a compressor
5. Service
may result in serious personal injury.
a. Have your compressor serviced by a
b. Use personal protective equipment.
qualified repair person using only identical
MaintEnancE
Item 64592 64596 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Page 3
air compressor Safety Warnings
1. risk of fire or explosion - do not spray 14. USE OF AN EXTENSION CORD IS NOT
flammable liquid in a confined area or towards a RECOMMENDED. If you choose to use an
hot surface. Spray area must be well-ventilated. extension cord, use the following guidelines:
Do not smoke while spraying or spray where
taBlE a: rEcOMMEnDED MiniMUM WirE
SaFEty
10. Do not use the air hose to move the compressor. 16. Maintain labels and nameplates on the
compressor. These carry important safety
11. Release the pressure in the information. If unreadable or missing, contact
OpEratiOn
Page 4 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Item 64592 64596
Grounding
SaFEty
check with a qualified electrician if you are in doubt as to whether the outlet is
properly grounded. Do not modify the power cord plug provided with the compressor.
never remove the grounding prong from the plug. Do not use the compressor if the power cord or plug
is damaged. if damaged, have it repaired by a service facility before use. if the plug will not fit the outlet,
have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
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cord having an equipment-grounding conductor
worn cord immediately.
and a grounding plug. The plug must be
plugged into a matching outlet that is properly
installed and grounded in accordance
with all local codes and ordinances.
2. Do not modify the plug provided –
if it will not fit the outlet, have the proper
outlet installed by a qualified electrician. Grounding
pin
3. Improper connection of the equipment-grounding
conductor can result in a risk of electric shock.
The conductor with insulation having an outer 125 Vac 3-prong plug and Outlet
surface that is green with or without yellow (for up to 125 Vac and up to 15 a)
stripes is the equipment-grounding conductor.
7. This compressor is intended for use on a
If repair or replacement of the electric cord or
circuit that has an outlet that looks like the one
plug is necessary, do not connect the equipment-
illustrated above in 125 Vac 3-prong plug
OpEratiOn
grounding conductor to a live terminal.
and Outlet. The compressor has a grounding
4. Check with a qualified electrician or service plug that looks like the plug illustrated above
personnel if the grounding instructions are in 125 Vac 3-prong plug and Outlet.
not completely understood, or if in doubt as to
8. The outlet must be properly installed and grounded
whether the compressor is properly grounded.
in accordance with all codes and ordinances.
9. Do not use an adapter to connect this
compressor to a different outlet.
Symbology
ScFM
Cubic Feet per Minute flow
at standard conditions ~ Alternating Current
Item 64592 64596 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Page 5
Specifications
installation
read the EntirE iMpOrtant SaFEty inFOrMatiOn section at the beginning of this
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manual including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product.
note: For additional information regarding the parts listed in the following pages,
refer to the Assembly Diagram near the end of this manual.
Functions
regulator
tank Outlet
Gauge Gauge
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power
Switch
air
Outlet
2nd air
Outlet
(64596 only)
MaintEnancE
Drain
Valve
Page 6 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Item 64592 64596
Breaking in the air compressor
1. Turn Power Switch OFF 4. Turn Power Switch to AUTO.
and unplug Power Cord.
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5. Let unit run for 30 minutes. Air will expel freely
2. Fully open Drain Valve. through the Drain Valve.
Operating instructions
inStallatiOn
read the EntirE iMpOrtant SaFEty inFOrMatiOn section at the beginning of this
manual including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product.
OpEratiOn
1. Connect a 1/4″ NPT air hose (sold separately) 2. Consult air tool’s manual for needed accessories.
to the Air Outlet. The air hose must be long
enough to reach the work area with enough extra
length to allow free movement while working.
General Operation
1. Close Drain Valve. 4. Turn Power Switch to AUTO.
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note: As long as the Power Switch is set to AUTO, the 7. Adjust the Regulator Knob so that the air
operation of the Air Compressor is automatic, controlled output is enough to properly power the tool,
by an internal pressure switch. The Air Compressor will but the output will not exceed the tool’s
turn on automatically when the air pressure drops to 105 maximum air pressure at any time. Turn the
PSI, and will turn off automatically when the knob clockwise to increase the pressure and
air pressure reaches 135 PSI. counter-clockwise to decrease pressure. Adjust
WarninG! tO prEVEnt SEriOUS the pressure gradually, while checking the
SaFEty
inJUry anD DEatH FrOM Outlet Pressure gauge to set the pressure.
EXplOSiOn:
Do not adjust the internal 8. Use the air tool as needed.
pressure switch. Any change to the
9. When finished, turn the Power Switch OFF.
automatic pressure levels may cause excess pressure to
accumulate, causing a hazardous situation. 10. Unplug the Air Compressor.
6. Make sure the air tool’s throttle or switch is in the 11. Bleed air from the tool then disconnect the tool.
OFF position. Connect the air tool to the air hose.
12. Open the tank’s Drain Valve slowly to gradually
release tank pressure and any built-up moisture.
Close the Drain after air and moisture have
drained out. Do not remove the Drain Valve.
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Emergency Depressurization
If it is necessary to quickly depressurize the Air Compressor, turn the Power Switch OFF.
Then, pull on the ring on the Safety Valve to quickly release stored air pressure.
Safety
Valve
OpEratiOn
Page 8 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Item 64592 64596
Maintenance and Servicing
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tO prEVEnt SEriOUS inJUry FrOM acciDEntal OpEratiOn:
turn the power Switch “OFF” and unplug the air compressor from its electrical outlet
before performing any inspection, maintenance, or cleaning procedures.
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condition of the air Air Compressor. Check for: Air Compressor with a clean cloth.
• loose hardware,
3. WarninG! if the supply cord of this air
• misalignment or binding of moving parts, compressor is damaged, it must be replaced
• cracked or broken parts, only by a qualified service technician.
• damaged electrical wiring, and
• any other condition that may
affect its safe operation.
Maintenance Schedule
Following are general guidelines for maintenance checks of the Air Compressor.
note: The environment in which the Air Compressor is used, and the frequency of use will affect how
often you will need to check the Air Compressor components and perform maintenance procedures.
OpEratiOn
Daily: Weekly:
a. Make sure all nuts and bolts are tight. a. Inspect Air Filter.
b. Drain moisture from air tank.
Monthly:
c. Check for abnormal noise or vibration.
a. Inspect Safety Valve.
d. Check for air leaks.*
e. Wipe off any oil or dirt from the Air Compressor.
MaintEnancE
Item 64592 64596 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Page 9
Draining Moisture from air tank
The Moisture Drain is located under the Tank. It must be used daily to release all trapped air and
moisture from the Tank. Doing this will eliminate condensation and prevent tank corrosion.
1. Turn the Power Switch off. 3. When all the pressure and moisture is released,
close the Moisture Drain.
SaFEty
Page 10 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Item 64592 64596
troubleshooting
problem possible causes likely Solutions
Compressor does 1. Tank(s) already pressurized. 1. No problem. Compressor will start when needed.
not start or restart 2. Power cord not plugged in properly. 2. Check that cord is plugged in securely.
3. Incorrect power supply. 3. Check that circuit matches compressor requirements.
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4. No power at outlet. 4. Reset circuit breaker, or have outlet
serviced by a qualified technician.
5. Thermal overload switch tripped. 5. Turn off Compressor and wait for it to cool down.
Press reset button. Resume operation.
6. Building power supply circuit tripped 6. Reset circuit or replace fuse. Check for low voltage conditions.
or blown fuse. It may be necessary to disconnect other electrical appliances
from the circuit or move the compressor to its own circuit.
7. Cord wire size is too small or 7. Use larger diameter or shorter extension cord or
cord is too long to properly eliminate extension cord. See Recommended Wire
power compressor. Gauge for Extension Cords in Safety section.
8. Compressor needs service. 8. Have unit inspected by a qualified technician.
Compressor builds 1. Incorrect power supply. 1. Check that circuit matches compressor requirements.
pressure too slowly
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2. Working environment too cold. 2. Move compressor to a warmer location.
3. Safety valve leaking. 3. Listen for air leaking from valve.
If leaking, replace with identical valve with same rating.
DO nOt SEal Or taMpEr WitH SaFEty ValVE.
4. Loose fittings. 4. Reduce air pressure, then check all fittings with a soap solution
for air leaks and tighten as needed. Do not overtighten.
Compressor not 1. Air filter needs cleaning/replacing. 1. Check inlet filter.
building enough Clean and/or replace as needed.
air pressure 2. Check Valve needs service. 2. Have technician clean or replace, as needed.
3. Compressor not large enough for 3. Check if accessory CFM is met by Compressor.
job. If Compressor cannot supply enough
air flow (CFM), use a larger Compressor.
4. Loose fittings. 4. Reduce air pressure, then check all fittings with a soap solution
for air leaks and tighten as needed. Do not overtighten.
5. Hose or hose connections 5. Replace with wider hose and/or hose connections.
too narrow.
OpEratiOn
6. High altitude reducing air output. 6. Higher altitudes require compressors with greater output.
Overheating 1. Air filter needs cleaning/replacing. 1. Check inlet filter.
Clean and/or replace as needed.
2. Unusually dusty environment. 2. Clean and/or replace filter more often or
move unit to cleaner environment.
3. Extension cord used. 3. Eliminate extension cord.
Compressor 1. Loose fittings. 1. Reduce air pressure, then check all fittings with a soap solution
starts and stops for air leaks and tighten as needed. Do not overtighten.
excessively 2. Compressor not large 2. Check if accessory SCFM is met by Compressor.
enough for job. If Compressor cannot supply enough
air flow (SCFM), use a larger Compressor.
Excessive noise Loose fittings. Reduce air pressure, then check all fittings with a soap solution
for air leaks and tighten as needed. Do not overtighten.
Moisture in Too much moisture in air. Install inline air filter/dryer, and/or relocate
discharge air to less humid environment.
MaintEnancE
Safety Valve “pops” Safety valve needs service. Pull on the ring on the Safety Valve. If it still pops, replace.
Air leaks from Loose fittings. Reduce air pressure, then check all fittings with a soap solution
pump or fittings for air leaks and tighten as needed. Do not overtighten.
Air leaks from tank Defective or rusted tank. Have tank replaced by a qualified technician.
Drain moisture from tank daily to prevent future corrosion.
Item 64592 64596 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Page 11
parts list and Diagram
1 Screw 8 38 Screw 4
2 Flat Washer 8 39 Pump Head Cover 2
3 Pump Head 2 40 Pump Head Cover Clamp 2
4 Screw 4 41 Shock Pad 4
5 Range Limiter 4 42 Lock Nut 4
6 Valve Block 4 43 Nylon Pipe 1
7 Seal 2 44 Lock Nut 1
8 Valve Board 2 45 Sleeve 1
9 Valve Block Clamp 2 46 Lining 2
10 O-Ring 2 47 Elbow 1
11 Screw 2 48 Flexible Tube 1
12 Cylinder 2 49 Check Valve 1
13 Piston Cap 2 50 Thermal Reset Capacitor 1
14 Piston Ring 2 51 Screw 2
15 Connecting Rod 2 52 Thermal Reset Cover 1
16 Screw 4 53 Protector 1
17 O-ring 4 54 Bolt 4
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18 Tube 2 55 Cushion 4
19 Screw 6 56 Foot Pad 4
20 Ground 1 57 Tank 1
21 Fan Housing 2 58 Drain Valve 1
22 Fan 1 59 Nut 2
23 Screw 2 60 Joint 1
24 Crank 2 61 Screw 2
25 Bearing 2 62 Safety Valve 1
26 Left Crankcase 1 63 Regulator 1
27 Bearing 2 64 Pressure Gauge 2
28 Rotor 1 65 Quick Connect 1
29 Stator 1 66 Control Panel 1
30 Spring Gasket 4 67 Bolt 6
31 Bolt 4 68 Pipe 1
32 Right Crankcase 1 69 Elbow 1
33 Spring 2 70 Power Cord Buckle 3
MaintEnancE
note: Some parts are listed and shown for illustration purposes only, and are not available individually
as replacement parts. Parts may not be interchangeable. Specify number when ordering.
Page 12 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Item 64592 64596
64592 assembly Diagram
38
39
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40 35
36
1
2 37
3
4 17 18 76
5
6
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7
8
6
9
4
10
11
12
13
34
14 33
15
16 32
31
68 59 69
30
29
28 70
27
26 71
25
24
23 41 66
22
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21 72
42 75 67
20 73
19 74
43
44 65
45
46
64
47 62
63
61
48 60
59
49
58
MaintEnancE
57
50
51 56
52 55
54
53
Item 64592 64596 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Page 13
64596 parts list
part Description Qty part Description Qty
1 Screw 8 40 Screw 2
2 Flat Washer 8 41 Pump Head Cover 4
3 Pump Head 2 42 Inlet Filter Silencer Male 1/4″ NPT 1
4 Seal 2 43 Pipe 1
SaFEty
note: Some parts are listed and shown for illustration purposes only, and are not available individually
as replacement parts. Parts may not be interchangeable. Specify number when ordering.
Page 14 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Item 64592 64596
64596 assembly Diagram
SaFEty
inStallatiOn
OpEratiOn
MaintEnancE
Item 64592 64596 For technical questions, please call 1-888-866-5797. Page 15
limited 90 Day Warranty
Harbor Freight Tools Co. makes every effort to assure that its products meet high quality and durability standards,
and warrants to the original purchaser that this product is free from defects in materials and workmanship for the
period of 90 days from the date of purchase. This warranty does not apply to damage due directly or indirectly,
to misuse, abuse, negligence or accidents, repairs or alterations outside our facilities, criminal activity, improper
installation, normal wear and tear, or to lack of maintenance. We shall in no event be liable for death, injuries
to persons or property, or for incidental, contingent, special or consequential damages arising from the use of
our product. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the
above limitation of exclusion may not apply to you. THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS.
To take advantage of this warranty, the product or part must be returned to us with transportation charges
prepaid. Proof of purchase date and an explanation of the complaint must accompany the merchandise.
If our inspection verifies the defect, we will either repair or replace the product at our election or we may
elect to refund the purchase price if we cannot readily and quickly provide you with a replacement. We will
return repaired products at our expense, but if we determine there is no defect, or that the defect resulted
from causes not within the scope of our warranty, then you must bear the cost of returning the product.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.