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Dealing with a jammed nail gun can be incredibly frustrating. Just when you’re in the middle of a project, the gun suddenly stops working, leaving you unable to remove the nails or use the gun altogether. This issue is a common occurrence faced by many nail gun owners.
Having an obstacle preventing you from completing your task can be quite discouraging. You might be unsure about how to fix the problem or simply lack the time to take the gun to a store for repairs. In any case, it is crucial to learn how to unjam a Porter Cable nail gun to ensure you can continue working, especially when you have an ongoing project.
There are a few steps to unjam a nailer gun. Throughout this article, we’ll go over each one so you can get your gun working again in no time.
How to Identify Jammed in the Porter-Cable Nail Gun?
Jammed guns are frustrating and can cause injuries. It’s not always easy to tell how to fix a jammed gun, especially if you don’t have experience with them.
Some of the most common problems that can occur when a Porter-Cable nail gun becomes jammed are as follows:
- Misaligned nails
- Nails that are too long
- Nails that are bent
- An obstruction in the magazine
- A broken driver blade
These problems can stop the gun from firing nails or cause the gun to fire multiple nails at once. If you are not sure what is causing your Porter Cable nail gun to jam, take it to a professional for help. It is always more pleasing to be safe than sorry.
How to Unjam a Porter Cable Nail Gun in Just a Few Steps
If you’ve ever had a nailer gun that jams, you know the frustration. You’re in the middle of a project, and your gun stops working, so you can’t get nails out or use it. Following these steps can help you unjam your porter cable nailer gun so you can get back to your project:
Step 01. Switch off the power source:
When your gun jams, the first thing you need to do is switch off the power source. Remove the air hose by pulling back the connector’s brass ring from the air compressor. This will prevent any more nails from being driven into the gun.
Step 02. Disengage the Trigger Valve:
The second step is to disengage the trigger. This will stop the nails from firing and allow you to work on the gun safely. Also, make sure the safety is in the “on” position, so you don’t accidentally fire the gun while you’re working on it.
Step 03. Remove the magazine:
The next step is to remove the magazine from the gun. For the nail clip to be released, press the release lever at the bottom of the nailer gun. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to release the spring tension to remove the magazine.
Step 04. Inspect the Barrel:
Once the magazine is removed, you need to inspect the barrel for a stuck nail. Look for any obstructions that may be preventing the gun from firing nails. Also, you should check the nail strip in case nails, or wooden pieces can become stuck there.
Step 05. Clear the jams:
Once you have removed the magazine, clear out any jammed fastener from the jammed nail gun. You can use a pair of needle nose pliers to remove the nails from the gun. If any nails are stuck in the chamber, use a nail set to push them out.
If there is an obstruction in the barrel, use a cleaning tool to remove it. Be very careful when doing this, as you do not want to damage the gun.
Step 06. Replace the magazine:
Once you have cleared out all the jams, replace the magazine and snap it into place. Make sure the release switch is in the down position before you put the air hose back on.
Step 07. Turn on the power source:
After replacing the magazine and the hose, turn the power on and test the gun. If it’s still jammed, go back to step one and start again.
If your Porter Cable nail gun is still jammed after following these steps, take it to a professional for help.
The Reasons Why a Nail Gun May Jam
No matter what kind of nail gun you own, it’s always a good idea to know how to unjam it. There are several reasons why nail guns jam, for example:
01. Using Wrong Nails:
If you are using the wrong fasteners for your Porter Cable staple gun, this can cause jams. Make sure you use nails that are the same size and type as your gun.
02. Improper Nail Length:
If the nails are too long, they can jam in the barrel or magazine. Make sure to use nails that are the correct length for your gun.
03. Clogged Air Filter:
If the air filter is clogged, this can cause the gun to jam. Ensure to clean or replace the air filter regularly. Moreover, check the air pressure in your compressor.
04. Damaged Driver Blade:
If the driver blade is damaged, this can cause the gun to jam. Make sure to inspect the driver blade regularly and replace it if necessary.
05. Wrong Direction:
If you are using nails in your nail gun in the wrong direction, this can cause jams. Make sure you are using the gun in the correct direction.
06. No Enough Lubrications:
If there is not enough lubrication, this can cause the gun to jam. This is why it is crucial to lubricate your gun regularly. You should also use the correct lubrication for your gun.
07. Cleaning the Gun:
Cleaning your nail gun is essential, but you need to do it correctly. If you don’t clean the gun properly, this can cause jams. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning your gun.
08. Overloading:
If you try to drive too many nails at once, this can cause your gun to jam. Avoid overloading the gun by driving one nail at a time.
These are some of the most common reasons a nail gun may jam. If you are having trouble unjamming your Porter Cable nail gun, follow those steps to try and fix the problem. If the problem persists, seek the assistance of a professional.
Preventing Future Jams with Proper Use and Maintenance
Even if you do everything right, there is always a chance that your nail gun may jam. However, you can help to prevent future jams by using your gun properly and maintaining it regularly.
The following tips can help prevent jams in the future:
01. Use the Right Nails:
Make sure you use the correct nails for your Porter Cable nail gun. Using the wrong nails can cause jams.
02. Use the Correct Nail Length:
Ensure the nails are the correct length for your Porter Cable nail gun. If the nails are too long, they can jam in the barrel or magazine.
03. Keep the Air Filter Clean:
Ensure to clean or replace the air filter regularly. If the air filter is clogged, it can cause the gun to jam.
04. Inspect and Replace Driver Blade:
Inspect the driver blade regularly and replace it if necessary. A damaged driver blade can cause the gun to jam.
05. Use the Gun in the Correct Direction:
Make sure you are using the gun in the correct direction. If you use nails in the wrong direction, this can cause jams.
06. Apply Enough Lubrication:
Make sure to lubricate your Porter Cable nail gun regularly. You should also use the correct lubrication for your gun. If there is not enough lubrication, the gun may jam.
07. Clean the Gun Properly:
Cleaning your gun is important, but you need to do it correctly. If you don’t clean the gun properly, this can cause jams. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning your Porter Cable nail gun.
08. Avoid Overloading:
If you try to drive too many nails at once, this can cause your gun to jam. Avoid overloading the gun by driving one nail at a time.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent your Porter Cable nail gun from jamming.
In Conclusion
Porter-Cable nail guns are renowned for their reliability and durability, making them a popular choice among users. However, if you find yourself facing a jammed Porter-Cable nail gun, there are steps you can take to resolve the issue. Refer to the instructions provided in this article to attempt fixing the problem and get your nail gun back in working order. With proper care and troubleshooting, you can overcome nail gun jams and continue using your Porter-Cable tool effectively.
Hopefully, our article on how to unjam a porter cable nail gun was helpful. If you are still experiencing problems with your Porter Cable nail gun, seek the assistance of a professional.
With proper use and maintenance, you can avoid future jams and continue to enjoy the benefits of your Porter Cable nail gun. Thanks for reading!
