I borrowed a friend's Porter Cable 2-1/2 inch, 15ga. finish nailer to
install a window. It doesn't sink the nails far enough, even when I have the
max air pressure set.
My friend says you can't do anything about that, but don't Porter Cable
nailers usually have a depth adjustment? If so, where would it be and what
does it look like? I haven't used one of these before, so any help would be
appreciated.
If it doesn't have a depth adjustment, what else can I try? Could it not be
sinking them because it hasn't been oiled in a while? Anything else I should
check?
Thanks!
It's a Model FN250A, and even when I bump up the air pressure to 100-120, it
still doesn't penetrate all the way through the pine window jamb into a 2x6.
Here's a link to a page with photos. The adjustment for the depth is
specifically pointed out.
http://www.newwoodworker.com/reviews/pcfnnailer.html
I have the FN250B, so there shouldn't be much difference.
Possible reasons for your issue:
* If you don't hold the gun against the surface firmly, the recoil will
cause it to kick back, leaving the nail partly driven. This gets worse
with higher pressure and harder wood. Practice on some scrap pieces to
improve your technique.
* The depth adjustment mechanism isn't seated properly. If it's "jumped
the track" up or down from its proper position, the depth won't be
right. The wheel just moves the safety shoe up and down, so check for
that.
* You ARE using 16-gauge nails, aren't you? That's the only size that
will work right.
* Open the front and check for jams. Debris might be stuck in there.
Other things you can't do much about:
* It's actually broken. To the repair shop it goes.
* The internal rubber seals are worn out, letting the air leak past
instead of pushing the nail. You're supposed to add 6 drops of oil each
day it's used, but if it sits too long, the rubber might dry out anyway.
* There's metal between the sill and the 2x6, or you're hitting a nail
or screw.
What kind of wood are you nailing? Is it really hard? I've used mine
successfully on mesquite, which is pretty darn hard. On the other hand,
I've seen nails just bounce off of knots. That's why you're supposed to
wear eye protection.
Good luck. Let us know what you figure out.
Most nailers have a small wheel adjustment. Make sure you put a drop
of oil into the intake before use (use the recommended oil), check for
proper air pressure, and run a few test shots.
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