DeWalt D51822-XE, D51844-XE Instruction Manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

31˚ CLIPPED HEAD FRAMING NAILER

MODEL: D51822-XE

20˚ FULL ROUND HEAD FRAMING NAILER

MODEL: D51844-XE

DEWALT Industrial Tool Co.,

701 East Joppa Road, Baltimore, MD 21286 • 20 Fletcher Road, Mooroolbark, VIC 3138 Australia

(APR04) Form No. 623992-00 D51822-XE, D51744-XE Copyright © 2004
The following are trademarks for one or more DEWALT power tools: the yellow and black color scheme; the “D” shaped
air intake grill; the array of pyramids on the handgrip; the kit box configuration; and the array of lozenge-shaped humps
on the surface of the tool.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Important Safety Instructions for Pneumatic Tools

WARNING: When using any pneumatic tool, all safety precautions, as outlined below, should be followed
to avoid the risk of death or serious injury. Read and understand all instructions before operating the tool.

• Use the tool only for its intended use. Do not discharge fasteners into open air, concrete,

stone, extremely hard woods, knots or any material too hard for the fastener to penetrate.
Do not use the body of the tool or top cap as a hammer. Discharged fasteners may follow

unexpected path and cause injury. (Fig. L)

• Always keep fingers clear of contact trip to prevent injury from inadvertent release of

nails. (Fig. M)

• Refer to the Maintenance and Repairs sections for detailed information on the proper
maintenance of the tool

• Always operate the tool in a clean, lighted area. Be sure the work surface is clear of any
debris and be careful not to lose footing when working in elevated environments such as
rooftops.

• Do not drive fasteners near edge of material. The workpiece may split causing the fastener
to ricochet, injuring you or a co-worker. Be aware that the nail may follow the grain of the
wood (shiner), causing it to protrude unexpectedly from the side of the work material. Drive
the nail perpendicular to the grain to reduce risk of injury. (Fig. N)

• Keep hands and body parts clear of immediate work area. Hold workpiece with clamps
when necessary to keep hands and body out of potential harm. Be sure the workpiece is
properly secured before pressing the nailer against the material. The contact trip may cause
the work material to shift unexpectedly. (Fig. O)

• Do not use tool in the presence of flammable dust, gases or fumes. The tool may produce
a spark that could ignite gases causing a fire. Driving a nail into another nail may also cause
a spark. (Fig. P)

• Keep face and body parts away from back of the tool cap when working in restricted
areas. Sudden recoil can result in impact to the body, especially when nailing into hard or
dense material. (Fig. Q)

BUMP ACTION TRIGGER

• When using the bump action trigger, be careful of unintentional double fires resulting
from tool recoil. Unwanted fasteners may be driven if the contact trip is allowed to acci-

dentally re-contact the work surface. (Fig. R)

TO AVOID DOUBLE FIRES:

• Do not engage the tool against the work surface with a strong force.

• Allow the tool to recoil fully after each actuation.

• Use sequential action trigger.

• When “bump” actuating the framing nailer, always keep tool in control. Inaccurate
placement of tool can result in misdirected discharge of a fastener.

SEQUENTIAL ACTION TRIGGER

• When using the sequential action trigger, do not actuate the tool unless the tool is
placed firmly against the workpiece.

• Do not drive nails onto the heads of other fasteners. Strong recoil, jammed fasteners, or ric-
ocheted nails may result.

• Be aware of material thickness when using the framing nailer. A protruding nail may
cause injury.

• Be aware that when the tool is being utilized at pressures on the high end of its operating
range, nails can be driven completely through thin or very soft work material. Make sure
the pressure in the compressor is set so that nails are set into the material and not pushed
completely through. (Fig. S)

• Do not drive nails blindly into walls, floors or other work areas. Fasteners driven into live
electrical wires, plumbing, or other types of obstructions can result in injury. (Fig. T)

• Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power
tool. Do not use tool while tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or medication. A

moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.

• Always assume the pneumatic nailer contains fasteners and handle it accordingly.

• Always check the pneumatic nailer is in good order prior to use. Do not use the Pneumatic
Nailer if the trigger and the safety mechanism are not working correctly.

• Do not load the pneumatic pailer with fasteners when any part of the operating mecha-

nism (trigger or nose piece) is depressed.

• Always take care when skew nailing or when working close to the edge of any material.

WARNING: Use of this product will expose you to chemicals known to the State of California

to cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm. Avoid inhaling vapors and dust, and
wash hands after using.

BEFORE OPERATING THIS TOOL, CAREFULLY READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN
THE “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” SECTION.

FIG. A

FIG. B

FIG. C

FIG. D

FIG. E

FIG. F

FIG. G

FIG. H

FIG. I

FIG. J

• Actuating tool may result in flying debris, collation material, or dust which could harm
operator’s eyes. The operator and all those persons in the general area should wear safety
glasses with permanently attached side shields. Approved safety glasses are imprinted with the
characters “Z87.1”. It is the employer’s responsibility to enforce the use of eye protection
equipment by the tool operator and other people in the work area. (Fig. A)

• Always wear appropriate personal hearing and other protection during use. Under some
conditions and duration of use, noise from this product may contribute to hearing loss. (Fig. A)

• Use only clean, dry, regulated air. Condensation from an air compressor can rust and dam-
age the internal workings of the tool. (Fig. B)

• Regulate air pressure. Use air pressure compatible with ratings on the nameplate of the
tool. (Not to exceed 120 psi, 8.3 bar) Do not connect the tool to a compressor rated at over
175 psi. The tool operating pressure must never exceed 175 PSI even in the event
of regulator failure. (Fig. C)

• Use air hoses rated for safe operation of the tool. Hoses rated for a maximum operating
pressure of 150 PSI or 150% of the maximum system pressure, whichever is greater, must
be utilized. (Fig. D)

• Do not use bottled gases to power this tool. Bottled compressed gases such as oxygen,
carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen, propane, acetylene or air are not for use with pneumatic
tools. Danger of explosion and/or serious personal injury may result. (Fig. E)

• Use couplings that relieve all pressure from the tool when it is disconnected from the
power supply. Use hose connectors that shut off air supply from compressor when the tool is
disconnected. (Fig. F)

• Disconnect tool from air supply when not in use. Always disconnect tool from air supply

and remove fasteners from magazine before leaving the area or passing the tool to another
operator. Do not carry tool to another work area with air supply connected. Do not make
adjustments, remove magazine, perform maintenance or clear jammed fasteners while
connected to the air supply. If the contact trip is adjusted when the tool is connected to the air

supply and nails are loaded, accidental discharge may occur. (Fig. G)

• Do not remove, tamper with, or otherwise cause the tool, trigger, or contact trip to
become inoperable. Do not tape or tie trigger or contact trip in the ON position. Do not

remove spring from contact trip. Uncontrolled discharge could result.

• Do not operate a tool if any portion of the tool, trigger, or contact trip is inoperable, discon­nected, altered, or not working properly. Leaking air, damaged parts or missing parts should

be repaired or replaced before use. (Fig. H)

• Do not alter or modify the tool in any way. (Fig. I)

• Always assume that the tool contains fasteners.

• Do not point the tool at co-workers or yourself at any time. No horseplay! Work safe!
Respect the tool as a working implement. (Fig. J)

• Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while operating a power tool. Distractions
can cause you to lose control.

• Do not carry the tool from place to place holding the trigger. Accidental discharge could
result.

• Always use trigger lock-off when tool is not in immediate use. Using the trigger lock-off
will prevent accidental discharge.

• Do not overreach. Maintain proper footing and balance at all times. (Fig. K)

• Make sure hose is free of obstructions or snags. Entangled or snarled hoses can cause
loss of balance or footing.

FIG. K

FIG. N

FIG. L

FIG. M

FIG. Q

FIG. R

FIG. S

FIG. T

EXTERNAL TOOL PARTS

PUSHER

MAGAZINE

TRIGGER

CONTACT
TRIP

DEPTH
SETTING

EXHAUST

D51822 Clipped Head D51844 Full Round Head

Height 12-3/4'' (32.4 cm) 12-3/4'' (32.4 cm)
Width 5'' (12.7 cm) 5'' (12.7 cm)
Length 18 5/8'' (47.3 cm) 20 3/4'' (52.7 cm)
Weight 7.3 lb (3.40 kg) 7.4 lb (3.44 kg)
Magazine Angle 31˚ 20˚
Recommended 70 - 120 psig 70 - 120 psig

Operating Pressure (4.9 to 8.3 bar, (4.9 to 8.3 bar,

5 to 8.5 kg/cm2) 5 to 8.5 kg/cm2)

Air consumption per 7.2 cfm @ 100 psi 7.2 cfm @ 100 psi
100 cycles 203.9 l/m @ 6.9 bar 203.9 l/m @ 6.9 bar
Air consumption per .072 cfm @ 100 psi .072 cfm @ 100 psi
single shoot 2.039 l/m @ 6.9 bar 2.039 l/m @ 6.9 bar
Loading capacity Up to 80 Nails Up to 65 Nails

TOOL SPECIFICATIONS

D51822 Clipped Head D51844 Full Round Head

Nail Lengths 2'' - 3-1/2'' (50 mm - 90 mm) 2'' - 3-1/2'' (50 mm - 90 mm)
Shank Diameters .113'' - .131'' (2.9 mm - 3.3 mm) .113'' - .148'' (2.9 mm - 3.8 mm)
Nail Stick Angles 31˚ - 34˚ 20˚ - 22˚
Shank Types Smooth, Ring, Screw Smooth, Ring, Screw

NAIL SPECIFICATIONS

FIG. P

FIG. O

ASSEMBLY

CAUTION: Disconnect air line from tool and remove fasteners from magazine before making adjustments.

Trigger

In accordance with the ANSI Standard SNT-101-2002, the DEWALT Nailers are assembled with a sequential action trig­ger. A bump action trigger kit is available for purchase from DEWALT as an optional accessory. For a replacement trigger
contact your authorized service center or call 1-800-4-DEWALT.

The gray trigger with imprinted on the side, (Cat.# D510023 kit) is the single sequential action trigger and causes
the tool to operate in this mode.

The black trigger with imprinted on the side, (Cat.# D510020 kit) is the bump action trigger and permits the tool
to be actuated in this manner.

For defining the use of the sequential action trigger and bump action trigger, see the Actuating Tool section of this
manual.

TRIGGER REMOVAL (FIG. 1)

1. Remove r ubber grommet (A) from the end of the dowel pin (B).

2. Remove dowel pin.

3. Remove trigger assembly from trigger cavity under the handle of the tool housing.

TRIGGER INSTALLATION (FIG. 2)

1. Select either the sequential or bump action trigger to be installed on the tool.

2. Inser t the trigger assembly into trigger cavity making sure that the trigger spring (C) is placed around trigger valve
stem (D).

3. Ensure that the contact trip guide (E) is pushed fully upward so that it is flush with the tool housing and aligned
with the housing holes.

4. Inser t the dowel pin (B) through the tool frame and trigger assembly as shown.

5. Push the r ubber grommet (A) onto the end of the dowel rod.

Air Fitting

The DEWALT framing nailers have a standard 3/8" pipe thread for the air fitting. The tool is assembled with a 3/8" to 1/4"
adapter installed in the end cap.

TO INSTALL AN AIR FITTING

1. Wrap the male end of the fitting with teflon tape prior to assembly to eliminate air leaks.

2. To install a 1/4" fitting: screw the fitting into the 3/8" to 1/4" adapter in the end cap of the tool and tighten firmly.

3. To install a 3/8" fitting: screw it directly into the end cap. If an adapter is in the end cap, remove it prior to insert-
ing the fitting.

OPERATION

Preparing the Tool (Fig. 3, 4)

WARNING: Read the section titled “Important Safety Instructions for Pneumatic Tools” at the beginning of this manu­al. Always wear eye and ear protection when operating this tool. Keep the nailer pointed away from yourself and others.
For safe operation, complete the following procedures and checks before each use of the nailer.

1. Before you use the framing nailer, be sure that the compressor tanks have been properly drained.

2. Lubricate the tool following these directions:
a. Use DEWALT Pneumatic Tool Oil or a non-detergent S.A.E. 20 weight oil. DO NOT use

detergent oil or additives as they will damage O-rings and rubber parts.

b. Use a Filter-Regulator-Lubricator in the air line between the compressor and the tool

when possible.

c. If a lubricator is not available, add 5 to 10 drops of oil in the air fitting a least twice a

day or every 4 hours of use.

3. Be sure that there are no fasteners in the magazine. Lock the pusher in the back position.

4. Check for smooth and proper operation of contact trip and pusher assemblies. Do not
use tool if either assembly is not functioning properly. NEVER use a tool that has the
contact trip restrained in the up position.

5. Check air supply. Be sure that air pressure does not exceed recommended operating
limits; 70 to 120 psi, (4.9 to 8.3 bar, 5 to 8.5 kg/cm

2

).

6. Connect air hose.

7. Check for audible leaks around valves and gaskets. Never use a tool that leaks or has
damaged parts.

Cold Weather Operation

WARNING: Read the section titled “Important Safety Instructions for Pneumatic Tools” at the beginning of this manu­al. Always wear eye and ear protection when operating this tool. Keep the nailer pointed away from yourself and others.
For safe operation, complete the following procedures and checks before each use of the nailer.
When operating tools at temperatures below freezing, complete preparation procedures outlined above and follow the
directions below.

1. Make sure compressor tanks have been properly drained prior to use. Always drain the compressor tanks at least
once daily while using the nailer. This is especially important in cold weather because any moisture in the air in the
tanks will condense in the cold temperature.

2. Keep the tool as warm as possible prior to use.

3. Put 5 to 10 drops of DEWALT Pneumatic Tool Oil or winter weight pneumatic oil containing ethylene glycol in the
end cap.

4. Lower air pressure to 80 psi or less.

5. Actuate the tool 5 or 6 times into scrap lumber to lubricate O -rings.

6. Turn pressure up to operating level (not to exceed 120 psi) and use tool as normal.

7. Re-lubricate with DEWALT Pneumatic Tool Oil or winter weight pneumatic oil containing ethylene glycol in the end cap
at least twice a day or after 4 hours of use.

Hot Weather Operation

Tool should operate normally. However, keep tool out of direct sunlight as excessive heat can damage bumpers, O-rings
and other rubber parts.

Using the Lock-off (Fig. 5)

WARNING: Always wear eye and ear protection when making adjustments to
the tool.
Each DEWALT nailer is equipped with a trigger lock-off switch (F). To engage the lock-off
switch, rotate it to the right. To disengage the lock-off switch, center it. The trigger should
always be locked off whenever any adjustments are made or when tool is not in use.

Actuating the Tool

WARNING: Always wear eye and ear protection when operating tool.
The tool can be actuated using one of two modes: single sequential action trigger
mode and bump action trigger mode. The trigger installed on the tool as described in
the Trigger section of this manual determines the mode of operation.

F

FIG. 5

FIG. 4

FIG. 3

D

E

B

C

A

FIG. 2

A

B

FIG. 1

SEQUENTIAL ACTION TRIGGER - (GRAY)

The sequential action trigger’s intended use is for intermittent nailing where very careful and accurate placement is
desired.

To operate the nailer in sequential action mode:

1. Depress the contact trip fir mly against the work surface.

2. Depress the trigger.

CAUTION: A nail will fire each time the trigger is depressed as long as the contact trip remains depressed.

BUMP ACTION TRIGGER - (BLACK)

The bump action trigger’s intended use is for rapid nailing on flat, stationary surfaces.
Using the bump action trigger, two methods are available: place actuation and bump actuation.

To operate the tool using the PLACE ACTUATION method:

1. Depress the contact trip against the work sur face.

2. Depress the trigger.

To operate the tool using the BUMP ACTUATION method:

1. Depress the trigger.

2. Push the contact trip against the work sur face. As long as the trigger is depressed, the tool will fire a nail every
time the contact trip is depressed. This allows the user to drive multiple nails in sequence.

CAUTION: Do not keep trigger depressed when tool is not in use. Keep the lock-off switch rotated to the right (OFF)

when the tool is not in use.

Loading the Tool (Fig. 6)

CAUTION: Keep tool pointed in a safe direction when loading nails.
CAUTION: Never load nails with the contact trip or trigger activated.

1. Pull the nail pusher (H) back until it latches.

2. Drop appropriate collated nail sticks into loading slot on top of magazine. See tool
specifications to determine appropriate nail sizes and angles.

3. Pull the nail pusher a second time to release latch, and carefully allow the pusher to
slide forward until it makes contact with the nails.

Dry Fire Lockout

To protect from internal damage, the DEWALT Framing Nailers are equipped with a dry fire lockout, which prevents the
tools from actuating when the magazine is nearly empty. When approximately 4 or 5 nails remain in the magazine and
the tool ceases to operate, follow the loading instructions to reload sticks of collated nails.

Depth Setting (Fig. 7)

WARNING: Always disconnect tool from air supply before adjusting depth.
Fastener driving depth can be adjusted using the depth adjustment on the nose piece of
the tool.

1. To drive the nail less deeply, press the adjustment button (M) and slide the contact
trip (E) down. Release the adjustment button.

2. To sink a nail farther, press the adjustment button (M) and slide the contact trip (E)
upward to the extent desired. Release the adjustment button.

MAINTENANCE

Daily Maintenance Chart

ACTION Lubricate tool with 5-10 drops of DEWALT Pneumatic Tool Oil
WHY Prevents failure of O-rings
HOW Insert drops into air fitting on end cap of tool
ACTION Drain compressor tanks and hoses daily
WHY Prevents accumulation of moisture in compressor and nailer
HOW Open petcocks or other drain valves on compressor tanks. Allow any accumulated water to drain from

hoses

ACTION Clean magazine, pusher, and contact trip mechanism
WHY Permits smooth operation, reduces wear, and prevents jams
HOW Blow clean with compressed air. The use of oils or solvents is not recommended as they tend to attract

debris

ACTION Before each use, check to ensure all screws, nuts and fasteners are tight and undamaged
WHY Prevents jams, leaks and premature failure of tool parts
HOW Tighten loose screws or other fasteners using the appropriate Allen wrench or screwdriver

Repairs

To assure product SAFETY and RELIABILITY, repairs, maintenance and adjustment should be performed by authorized
service centers or other qualified service personnel. Always use identical replacement par ts. Refer to the
Troubleshooting Guide at the end of this section.

Accessories

Recommended accessories for use with your tool are available for purchase from your local dealer or authorized ser­vice center. If you need assistance in locating any accessory for your tool, contact: DEWALT Industrial Tool Co., 701
East Joppa Road, Baltimore, MD 21286 or call 1-800-4-DEWALT.

CAUTION: The use of any other accessory not recommended for use with this tool could be hazardous.

Guarantee

Applicable to hand help Power Tools, Lasers and Nailers.

Three Year Limited Warranty

DEWALT will repair, without charge, any defects due to faulty materials or workmanship for three years from the date of
purchase. Please return the complete unit, transportation prepaid, to any DEWALT Service Centre, or any authorised ser­vice station.

For warranty repair information, call 1800 654 155.
This warranty does not apply to

• Accessories

• Damage caused where repairs have been made or attempted by others.

• Damage due to misuse, neglect, wear and tear, alteration or modification.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights under the provisions of the Consumer
Guarantee Act 1993 (New Zealand only), Trade Practices Act 1974 and State Legislation (Australia only).

In addition to the warranty, DEWALT tools are covered by our:

FREE ONE YEAR SERVICE CONTRACT

DEWALT will also maintain the tool for free at any time during the first year of purchase. This includes labour, parts and
lubrication required to restore the product to sound mechanical and/or electrical condition. Normal wear parts are not
covered in this service. Carbon brushes worn more then 50% will be replaced.

NOTE: 3 Year Warranty is not applicable to items deemed as consumables. Radial arm saws are covered by a one (1)
year warranty only. DEWALT Reserves the right to review its warranty policy prior to launch of any new business
development products.

30 DAY NO SATISFACTION GUARANTEE

If you are dissatisfied with any DEWALT power tool, laser or nailer, for any reason, simply return it to the point of pur­chase with your sales receipt within 30 days for a replacement unit or a full refund.

FREE WARNING LABEL REPLACEMENT: If your warning labels (Fig. 8) become illegible or are missing, call 1800-654­155 for a free replacement.

M

E

FIG. 7

H

FIG. 6

FIG. 8