4 Gallon, 2 HP Peak
Pancake Compressor
Model 38898
ASSEMBLY and OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93011
www.HarborFreight.com
Copyright© 1999 by Harbor Freight Tools®. All Rights Reserved.
No portion of this manual or any artwork contained herein may be reproduced
in any shape or form without the express written consent of Harbor Freight Tools.
For technical questions and replacement parts, please call 1-800-444-3353
REV 11/04; 10/05; 02/06
SPECIFICATIONS
Motor 1-3/4 HP Rated
Electrical 120 V~, 11 Amps, 3450 RPM, Single Phase, 60 Hz
Power Cord 3 prong grounded 14 AWG X 3C, double insulated, UL listed, 20’ long
Air Outlet Fitting 1/4” NPT barbed
Drive Type Direct
Pump Stage Single
Air Tank Size 4 Gal.
Pressure Range Pressure Switch On at 80 PSI; Pressure Switch Off at 115 PSI
Air Delivery 4.2 SCFM at 90 PSI; 5.2 SCFM at 40 PSI
Pressure Disconnect Automatically releases pressure if overloaded to 120 PSI
Oil Requirement Standard non-detergent 30 weight compressor or motor oil
Weight 51 Lbs.
Note: When using extensions cords (not included) - To avoid circuit breaker and
voltage drop problems, we recommend using only 12 gauge x 50 foot extension
cords (Item #41444 or #45287), available from Harbor Freight Tools).
FEATURES OF THIS COMPRESSOR
1. This small, portable compressor is ideal for use in shops with limited storage space.
2. 80-115 PSI operating range is ideal for most shop uses including air tools, spraying,
tire inflation, air cleaning, etc.
3. Pressure switch maintains correct operating pressure at all times.
4. Pressure gauge gives continuous, real-time readout of current pressure delivery.
5. Maximum pressure disconnect safety valve prevents over-pressurization of tank.
6. Delivers enough air for continuous use in most applications.
7. Sturdy construction will deliver years of satisfactory service.
8. Your compressor is fully assembled when you receive it.
#233060
Warning: Fill compressor with oil before using;
running with NO or LOW OIL voids warranty.
Optimal oil tank capacity is 7.8 ounces.
SAVE THIS MANUAL
You will need the manual for the safety warnings and cautions, assembly instructions, operating
procedures, maintenance procedures, trouble shooting, parts list, and diagram. Keep your invoice
with this manual. Write the invoice number on the inside of the front cover. Keep both this manual
and your invoice in a safe, dry place for future reference.
The Warnings, Cautions, and Instructions discussed in this instruction manual cannot
cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur. It must be understood by the
operator that common sense and caution are factors which cannot be built into this product, but must be supplied by the operator.
Page 2 SKU # 38898
NOTICE
REV 08/01; 01/02; 03/04; 11/04; 10/05; 02/06
SAFETY WARNING & CAUTIONS
WARNING: When using pneumatic equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed
to reduce the risk of personal injury and hazards.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THIS TOOL!
1. KEEP WORK AREA CLEAN. Cluttered areas invite injuries.
2. OBSERVE WORK AREA CONDITIONS. Do not use tools in damp, wet, or poorly lit locations.
Don’t expose to rain. Keep work area well lit. Do not use electrically powered air compressors in
the presence of flammable gases or liquids.
3. KEEP CHILDREN AWAY. Children must never be allowed in the work area. Do not let them
handle machines, tools, or hoses.
4. STORE IDLE EQUIPMENT. When not in use, tools must be locked up in a dry location to inhibit
rust. Always lock up tools and keep out of reach of children.
5. DO NOT FORCE THE TOOL. It will do the job better and more safely at the rate for which it was
intended. Do not use inappropriate attachments in an attempt to exceed the tool’s capacities.
6. USE THE RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOB. Do not attempt to force a small tool or attachment to do
the work of a larger industrial tool. Do not use a tool for a purpose for which it was not intended.
7. DRESS PROPERLY. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry as they can be caught in moving parts.
Nonskid footwear is recommended. Wear restrictive hair covering to contain long hair.
8. USE EYE AND EAR PROTECTION. Always wear ANSI-approved chemical splash goggles when
working with chemicals. Always wear ANSI-approved impact safety goggles at other times. Wear
a full face shield if you are producing metal filings or wood chips. Wear an ANSI-approved dust
mask or respirator when working around metal, wood, and chemical dusts and mists.
9. DO NOT OVERREACH. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Do not reach over or across
running machines.
10. MAINTAIN TOOLS WITH CARE. Keep tools sharp and clean for better and safer performance.
Follow instructions for lubricating and changing accessories. Inspect hydraulic lines and seals
periodically and, if damaged, have them repaired by an authorized technician. Inspect all hoses for
leaks prior to use. The handles must be kept clean, dry, and free from oil and grease at all times.
11. REMOVE ADJUSTING KEYS AND WRENCHES. Make it a habit to check that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from the tool or machine work surface before plugging it in.
12. STAY ALERT. Watch what you are doing, use common sense. Do not operate any tool when you are
tired.
13. CHECK DAMAGED PARTS. Before using any tool, any part that appears damaged should be
carefully checked to determine that it will operate properly and perform its intended function.
Check for alignment and binding of moving parts; any broken parts or mounting fixtures; and any
other condition that may affect proper operation. Any part that is damaged should be properly
repaired or replaced by a qualified technician. Do not use the tool if any switch does not turn on and
off properly.
14. REPLACEMENT PARTS AND ACCESSORIES. When servicing, use only identical replacement
parts. Use of any other parts will void the warranty. Only use accessories intended for use with this
tool. Approved accessories are available from Harbor Freight Tools.
15. DO NOT OPERATE TOOL IF UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS. Read
warning labels on prescriptions to determine if your judgment or reflexes are impaired while taking
drugs. If there is any doubt, do not operate the tool.
16. MAKE SURE ALL EQUIPMENT IS RATED TO THE APPROPRIATE CAPACITY. Do not attempt any operations or hook up any equipment that would not meet the rated capacities of this tool.
Page 3 SKU # 38898