Simple Steps for Maintaining Power Tools

Heed these helpful pointers to keep your tools performing at their best: Each tool should be blown out, wiped down, and properly oiled. Maintenance is the foremost key to keeping your tools in optimal working condition. Before we get started, please note: it is fairly common for contractors and other professional craftsmen to leave their tools to weather the, well - weather, on their own. We highly recommend that tool-users keep their equipment in a dry and temperate environment whenever possible. No man would like to lay tossed in the back of a truck in the storms, and snow, and freezing rain - your tools don't either. That said, please remember these tips - and keep your tools running smooth and accurate.

- Your power tools - especially your screw guns, grinders, and sanders need to be blown out after every use. The tool's vents, chuck, and generally any other opening on the tool require special attention when blowing out. It would truly surprise you to know how much debris is found in tools that don't get properly cleaned. This debris clogs internal mechanisms limiting- even quiting- the tool's performance entirely. It is so crucial to keep your tools clean and to blow them out with every use - it will make a world of difference in your tool's performance. Do it!

- Wiping your tools down is truly as simple as wiping them down. Although simple, this step is vitally important in keeping your tools running at their best.

- Oiling your (pneumatic air) tools is another crucial step. The "one drop" rule is generally the most effective method of oiling pneumatic guns. Simply plop one drop of oil into the end of your gun (before use) for every 3,000 nails shot. In other words, just "one drop" of oil for every 3,000 nails. Be weary of over-oiling! Over-oiling creates a sludgy, sloppy build-up that causes the gun to stick and perform poorly. Under-oiling is another common misstep that causes the tool's o-rings to dry-up and crack. Under-oiling also creates a metal upon metal friction within the gun that can cause additional internal breakage.. An expensive fix for just missing a drop of oil.. Just remember: "One drop every 3,000 shots," and your gun should stay smooth and precise.

- Please, periodically (and routinely) top off the oil in your air compressor as well. The more you use your compressor, the more you need to check and refill the oil. Secondly, it is hugely important to drain the compressor's tank after every use. If the tank goes undrained for even a short amount of time, it can cause irreparable rust damage to the tool.

It is easy to forget to maintain our power tools, but in following these few - and simple - upkeep steps, your tools will be much happier to work for you. Preventative maintenance is vital to the longevity and positive, powerful performance of your tools.