DeVilbiss DAGR Instruction And Maintenance

Service Bulletin

SB-2-055-F

by

AIRBRUSH INSTRUCTIONS AND MAINTENANCE

Replaces SB-2-055-E

Thank you for purchasing your DeVilbiss

®

airbrush! You will find that this high

DAGR

quality, versatile airbrush gives the
demanding professional artist the full range
of performance—from spraying fine lines to
wide backgrounds—with a wide range of
materials—from solvent-based automotive
paints to waterbase inks.

DAGR airbrushes are precision made with
micro machining and high quality
materials. Each airbrush is spray tested
before being packaged in its collector’s tin,
assuring that it meets the tough quality
standards you have come to expect from
DeVilbiss. With proper care, your DAGR
airbrush will provide you with excellent
performance to express your creativity.

SPECIFICATIONS

Operating Pressures:

20 to 50 psi

Maximum Inlet Pressure:

175 psi

Airbrush Plating:

Nickel, copper, chrome

Needle Packing:

PTFE (solvent-proof)

GET READY TO SPRAY

SAFETY FIRST

Please read all safety information on pages
8 and 9.

Connect to Compressed Air

Connect your DAGR airbrush to a
regulated air line or select an appropriate
compressor. The DeVilbiss Airblade
single piston compressor is a compact,
economical choice for the beginner and
will provide approximately 25-30 psi of air
pressure to the DAGR airbrush. At 35-40
psi, the DAGR will produce a high paint
flow for shadow, fade, and background
spray, as well as for detail work and fine
lines.

®

Page 2 SB-2-055-F

Assemble Airbrush to Compressor

Connect the air hose to the compressor
and airbrush, then turn on the compressor.
If using an Airblade
the pressure to between 20 and 30 psi.

®

compressor, adjust

Listen for any air leaks in the compressor
or air hose fittings. Point the airbrush away
from you and press down on the trigger
(#13) to start the flow of air through the
airbrush. Place a small amount of solvent
or cleaner into the cup and pull back on the
trigger. This will clean out any residual
factory testing material that may still be in
the airbrush.

Mix Paint and Fill the Removable Cup

Follow the paint manufacturer’s
instructions and thin the paint with its
proper solvent. Filter it through a nylon
mesh strainer. It is best to "over-reduce" or
prepare the paint relatively thin and make
continuous passes across your work to
achieve the desired shade. This will also
decrease paint buildup on the needle and
cleaning time. The DAGR features a
removable cup. Depending on the amount
of paint you wish to spray, use the
standard 1/3 oz. (9 cc) cup or select an
optional 1/4 oz. (7 cc) or 1/2 oz. (14 cc) cup.
For small amounts of material, simply
remove the cup and fill the cup socket,

which will give you best visibility for close­up work.

GENERAL OPERATION

The DAGR is a double action airbrush for
fine control. Push the trigger down for air
flow and pull the trigger back for paint
flow. For best results during spraying, keep
air flow even when you have stopped paint
flow.

Air Pressure Range

Working pressures vary between 20 and 50
psi, depending on what type of work is
being done, what spray characteristics are
desired, and paint viscosity. Generally,
thicker paints or higher paint flow will
require higher pressures.

Spraying Fine Lines and Detail

To spray a fine line or detail, press the
trigger down for air flow and pull it back
slightly for paint flow while moving the
airbrush very close to the surface. Control
the thickness of the line by adjusting the
distance between the airbrush and the
surface and by adjusting the amount of
paint flow with the trigger. An even finer
line can be achieved by carefully removing

the crown cap (#1) and moving the
airbrush closer to the surface.

NOTE: The needle and nozzle are very
finely machined. A slight bend on the tip
of the needle can result in an uneven
pattern. The crown cap protects the
needle yet still allows fine lines to be
sprayed.

Wide Lines, Fades, and
Background Spraying

For wider lines, fades, and background
spraying, pull the trigger further back for
more paint flow. Increase the distance
between the airbrush and artwork up to six
inches to control the line width. Increasing
the air pressure will also affect the spray
width. The DAGR will spray a background
width of approximately two inches. Speed
of movement controls the density of the
color and fading effects.

Spraying Lines Without Heavy Ends

To spray a fine or wide line without heavy
ends, start moving the airbrush with the
trigger pushed down for air. Then pull the
trigger back for paint flow at the beginning
of the line and stop paint flow at the end,
but continue the motion of the airbrush.

Page 3SB-2-055-F

Stippling (Dots)

Stippling (coarse or fine dots) can add
special textured effects to artwork. Simply
remove the crown cap (#1) and air cap (#2)
and adjust the air pressure between 5 and
50 psi. Lower air pressure will produce
coarse dots; higher pressure will produce
fine dots. Paint viscosity affects stippling,
as well.

Removing Clogs

The cutaway handle (#21) allows the artist
to remove paint buildup from the tip of the
airbrush without removing the handle and
needle. Just grip the exposed needle
locknut (#19) and pull back while pushing
down on the trigger (#13). More paint will
flow past the needle and tip, clearing the
clog.

Another method is to keep a second
airbrush nearby that has solvent in the cup
and use it to spray the nozzle/needle tip.

A third method is to increase the air
pressure and spray solvent through the
airbrush for a short period.

Crown Cap

The crown cap (#1) is used to protect the
needle when spraying a fine line and to
prevent paint build-up and spitting when
spraying large backgrounds.

Pre-Set Handle

The pre-set handle (#21) has a threaded
adjusting knob (#23) on the back that limits
the amount of the trigger pull back and
needle movement. This controls the
amount of paint being sprayed. Reference
markers are on the knob.

CLEANING AND LUBRICATION

Before Each Spray Session

Spray the appropriate solvent or cleaner
through the airbrush to make sure it is
working properly.

To Clean Between Color Changes

Empty the excess paint left in the cup.
Rinse the cup with solvent and use a paper
towel to wipe out any left over paint.
Fill the bottom of the cup with solvent and
spray it through until the spray is clear.
Fill with the next color.

After Each Spray Session

Increase the air pressure and spray
cleaning solution through the airbrush.
This will help thoroughly clean the paint
passages, nozzle, and needle. Remove the
needle and wipe it clean (see below).

Wipe down the outside of the airbrush
with a solvent-dampened cloth, and soak
the crown cap, if needed.

Do not soak the airbrush body in solvent
unless the air valve has been
disassembled and removed. The air valve
o-ring could swell and cause air flow
problems.

To Clean the Needle

Remove the back handle, loosen the
needle locknut (#19), and remove the
needle (#20). Using a soft cloth folded over
the needle, wipe the residue off the needle
by rotating it. Inspect the needle. If it is
bent or mis-shapen, replace it.

Holding the trigger down, carefully re­insert the needle into the airbrush near the
back and push gently until it seats against
the nozzle and is visible through the tip.
You should feel a slight resistance as the
needle passes through the packing (#6).

Page 4 SB-2-055-F

If the needle stops suddenly, pull it out and
check the trigger for proper positioning,
then re-insert the needle. Release the
trigger and tighten the needle locknut.

Lubrication

To insure smooth trigger action, periodically
remove the needle and coat it with a high­quality lubricant (like DeVilbiss SSL-10
Spray Lube). Wipe the needle with a soft
cloth, leaving it lightly coated. Re-insert the
needle and re-tighten the needle locknut.
Place a few drops of lube in the trigger slot
in the airbrush body.

®

NOTE: Do not use WD-40
oil for lubrication, which will cause the

or light machine

needle to bind as it moves through the PTFE
packing. Do not over-lubricate the needle or
the trigger. The excess lube could be
pushed into the nozzle, causing paint flow
problems.

REPLACEMENT PARTS AND
ACCESSORIES

NOTE: If you must disassemble the
airbrush, please do not use pliers. Tools
are rarely needed. If needed, however, use
a small wrench to unscrew and lightly re-

tighten the head cap (#3), which seats the
nozzle on to the airbrush body. Do not
overtighten!

Nozzle (#4)

If the nozzle becomes worn or damaged, it
must be replaced. Before replacing the
nozzle, protect the needle by pulling it back
slightly. To do this, remove the handle
(#21), loosen the needle locknut (#19), and
carefully pull the needle back through the
nozzle. Remove the head cap (#3) and pull
out the nozzle. If it is stuck, loosen it by
gently pushing the side of it with your
thumb. Pull the nozzle off and replace it
with the new one. Re-assemble the head
cap and tighten it by hand or lightly with a
wrench. Do not over tighten. Re-seat the
needle into the nozzle by gently pushing it
forward until it seats with the fluid nozzle.
Tighten the needle locknut and continue
reassembly.

NOTE: To insure even wear, change the
needle at the same time as the nozzle.

Needle (#20)

DeVilbiss needles are made of precision
machined stainless steel and are designed
for long-term use. However, because of
their long tapers and very fine tips they

can be easily damaged. If the needle point
becomes bent or hooked, it should be
straightened before being pulled back
through the nozzle or the nozzle could
become damaged. If the needle is not bent
too badly, roll it between your finger and a
smooth flat surface to straighten the point.

Quick Disconnect
(Optional Accessory)

A quick disconnect stem is screwed on to
each airbrush and a quick disconnect
adapter is screwed on to the air hose. This
allows for quick changes between
airbrushes using one hose.

Hose

Use high quality, flexible DeVilbiss braided
nylon air hose. Order DGR-123 (802769)
10’ air hose assembly or DGR-124 (802770)
10’ air hose assembly with quick disconnect.

TROUBLESHOOTING

CAUSE CORRECTION

Skipping:

1. Air pressure too high 1. Reduce pressure

2. Paint too thick 2. Reduce with solvent

3. Airbrush is dirty 3. Refer to Cleaning in Maintenance
Section

4. Nozzle not seated on body 4. Tighten head cap (by hand or lightly
with wrench)

5. Nozzle damaged or cracked 5. Replace nozzle

6. Dried paint on tip of needle 6. Refer to "To Clean the Needle"

7. Nozzle not centered in air cap 7. Clean nozzle & airbrush seats

Spitting:

1. Dried paint on tip of needle 1. Refer to "To Clean the Needle"

2. Airbrush is dirty 2. Refer to "Cleaning and Lubrication"

3. Paint too thick 3. Reduce with solvent

4. Air pressure too low 4. Increase air pressure

Bubbling in cup

1. Loose head cap or nozzle not 1. Tighten head cap (by hand or lightly

seated on body with wrench)

2. Nozzle damaged or cracked 2. Replace nozzle

Page 5SB-2-055-F

CAUSE CORRECTION

Will Not Spray:

1. Clogged nozzle 1. Refer to "Cleaning and Lubrication"

2. Loose head cap 2. Tighten (by hand or lightly with
wrench)

3. Loose needle locknut 3. Tighten

4. Improper air pressure 4. Adjust

5. Paint too thick 5. Reduce with solvent

6. Nozzle damaged or cracked 6. Replace nozzle

7. Vent hole in cup lid is plugged 7. Unplug with toothpick or brush

Sprays Double Line:

1. Airbrush is dirty 1. Refer to "Cleaning and Lubrication"

2. Bent needle 2. Replace or straighten needle

3. Dirt on tip of nozzle or in air cap 3. Flush with solvent or remove and
soak parts

4. Nozzle damaged or cracked 4. Replace nozzle

5. Dried paint on tip of needle 5. Refer to "To Clean the Needle"

Trigger sticks or does not move smoothly

1. Needs lubrication 1. Refer to "Lubrication"

2. Material leaked past packing 2. Thoroughly clean airbrush (including
trigger) and tighten packing (#6) by
inserting small slotted screwdriver
into airbrush body until it contacts
packing nut. Turn slightly clockwise.

Page 6 SB-2-055-F

27

13

15

16

17

18

19

5

22

21

20

2524

26

1

2

3

4

5

7

8

6

9
10
11

12

23

Air Inlet 1/8” BPT

Page 7SB-2-055-F

Ref.

No. Order No. Model No. Description

1 802613 DGR-101 Crown cap
2 802615 DGR-103-35 Air cap (for .35mm nozzle)
3 802616 DGR-104 Head cap
4 802618 DGR-105-35 Nozzle (.35mm)

• 5 –– O-ring (head cap & handle)
6 802619 DGR-106K Packing and nut assembly (PTFE)
7 802620 DGR-107 Air valve casing
8 803644 DGR-308K Air valve kit

• 9 –– Air valve o-ring

10 –– Air valve plunger
11 –– Air valve spring
12 –– Air valve nut
13 803645 DGR-323 Trigger

Ref.

No. Order No. Model No. Description

15 802623 DGR-110K Needle guide, rocker, & spring
16 –– Needle guide and rocker

• 17 –– Needle spring
18 802624 DGR-111 Spring guide
19 802625 DGR-112 Needle locknut
20 802627 DGR-113-35 Needle (for .35mm nozzle)
21 802628 DGR-114 Cutaway handle w/pre-set

• 22 –– O-ring (pre-set needle knob)
23 802630 DGR-116 Pre-set needle knob
24 802631 DGR-117 1/4 oz.(7 cc) cup and lid
25 802632 DGR-118 1/3 oz.(9 cc) cup and lid (standard)
26 802633 DGR-119 1/2 oz.(14 cc) cup and lid
27 802634 DGR-120 Cup lid
28 802635 DGR-121K DAGR repair kit
30 802975 DGR-18-K5 O-ring (head cap & handle) kit (5)

• DAGR Repair Kit 802635 (DGR-121K) includes:

Ref. Description Qty.

5 O-ring (head cap & handle) 3

9 Air valve o-ring 2
17 Needle spring 1
22 O-ring (pre-set needle knob) 1

Page 8 SB-2-055-F

The following hazards may occur
during the normal use of this
equipment. Please read the following
warnings before using this
equipment.

HAZARD: SOLVENT SPRAY
CAUSE: During use and while cleaning and

flushing, solvents can be forcefully
expelled from fluid and air passages.
Some solvents can cause eye injury.

SAFEGUARDS: Wear eye protection.

keep the air free of accumulations of toxic
materials.

Use a mask or respirator whenever there is
a chance of inhaling sprayed materials.
The mask must be compatible with the
material being sprayed and its
concentration. Equipment must be as
prescribed by an industrial hygienist or
safety expert, and be NIOSH approved.

HAZARD: FIRE
CAUSE: Solvent and coatings can be

highly flammable or combustible
especially when sprayed.

SAFEGUARDS: Adequate exhaust must be
provided to keep air free of accumulations
of flammable vapors.

Smoking must never be allowed in the
spray area.

Fire extinguishing equipment must be
present in the spray area.

HAZARD: INHALING TOXIC SUBSTANCES
CAUSE: Certain materials may be harmful

if inhaled, or if there is contact with the
skin.

SAFEGUARDS: Follow the requirements of
the Material Safety Data Sheet supplied by
your coating material manufacturer.

Adequate exhaust must be provided to

HAZARD: EXPLOSION HAZARD –
INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS

CAUSE: Halogenated hydrocarbon solvents

– for example; methylene chloride and
1,1,1, – Trichloroethane are not chemically
compatible with the aluminum that might
be used in many system components. The
chemical reaction caused by these
solvents reacting with aluminum can
become violent and lead to an equipment
explosion.

SAFEGUARDS: Guns with stainless steel
internal passageways may be used with

Page 9SB-2-055-F

these solvents. However, aluminum is
widely used in other spray application
equipment – such as material pumps,
regulators, valves, and this gun and cup.
Check all equipment items before use and
make sure they can also be used safely
with these solvents. Read the label or data
sheet for the material you intend to spray.
If in doubt as to whether or not a coating or
cleaning material is compatible, contact
your material supplier.

HAZARD: GENERAL SAFETY
CAUSE: Improper operation or

maintenance of equipment.
SAFEGUARDS: Operators should be given

adequate training in the safe use and
maintenance of the equipment (in
accordance with the requirements of
NFPA-33, Chapter 15). Users must comply
with all local and national codes of practice
and insurance company requirements
governing ventilation, fire precautions,
operation, maintenance, and house ­keeping. These are OSHA Sections 1910.94
and 1910.107 and NFPA-33.

HAZARD: CUMULATIVE TRAUMA
DISORDERS ("CTD'S")

CTD's, or musculoskeletal disorders,
involve damage to the hands, wrists,
elbows, shoulders, neck, and back. Carpal
tunnel syndrome and tendonitis (such as
tennis elbow or rotator cuff syndrome) are
examples of CTD's.

CAUSE: Use of hand tools may cause

cumulative trauma disorders ("CTD's").
CTD's, when using hand tools, tend to

affect the upper extremities. Factors which
may increase the risk of developing a CTD
include:

1. High frequency of the activity.

2. Excessive force, such as gripping,
pinching, or pressing with the hands
and fingers.

3. Extreme or awkward finger, wrist, or
arm positions.

4. Excessive duration of the activity.

5. Tool vibration.

6. Repeated pressure on a body part.

7. Working in cold temperatures.

CTD's can also be caused by such activities
as sewing, golf, tennis, and bowling, to
name a few.

SAFEGUARDS: Pain, tingling, or numb ­ness in the shoulder, forearm, wrist,
hands, or fingers, especially during the
night, may be early symptoms of a CTD.
Do not ignore them. Should you exper ience
any such symptoms, see a physician
immediately. Other early symptoms may
include vague discomfort in the hand, loss
of manual dexterity, and nonspecific pain
in the arm. Ignoring early symptoms and
continued repetitive use of the arm, wrist,
and hand can lead to serious disability.
Risk is reduced by avoiding or lessening
factors 1-7.

Page 10 SB-2-055-F

NOTES