®
AIR COMPRESSOR
2 HP-8 GALLON
40400
ASSEMBLY & OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Due to continuing improvements, actual product may differ slightly from the product described herein.
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93011
Visit our Web site at http://www.harborfreight.com
TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY,
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL WARNINGS
AND INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE.
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 08/01
THANK YOU for choosing a HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS product. For future reference, please complete the
owner’s record below:
Model________ Serial No._____________ Purchase Date__________
SAVE THE RECEIPT, WARRANTY AND THESE INSTRUCTIONS. It is important that you read the entire
manual to become familiar with the unit BEFORE you begin assembly.
Technical Specifications
Tool Name: Air Compressor, 2HP-8 Gallon
Item Number: 40400
Motor: 2 HP
Power Source: Single Phase, 110V, 60 Hz, 3360 RPM, Single Pump
Stage, 8 Gallon
Max.Working Pressure: 115 PSI; Air Flow: 6.0 SCFM at 40 PSI, 5.0 SCFM at 90 PSI,
4.2 SCFM at 115 PSI
Press Switch: 70 PSI
Cylinder and Head: Cast Iron
Piston, Connecting
Rod, Crankcase: Cast Aluminum
Piston Diameter: 1.886"
Cylinder Honing: 45 Degree Cross Hatch
Overall Dimensions: 26" x 11-3/4" x 27"
Outlet Fittings: 1/4” x 18 NPT
Warning: 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.
Safety Warnings. Read all safety warnings before using this tool!
1. Keep work area clean. Cluttered areas invite injuries.
2. Observe work area conditions. Do not use machines or power tools in damp or wet locations. Don’t
expose to rain. Keep work area well lighted. Do not use electrically powered tools 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 extension cords.
4. Store idle equipment. When not in use, tools must be stored in a dry location to inhibit rust. Always
lock up tools and keep out of reach of children.
5. Do not force 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 capacity.
6. Use the right tool for the job. Do not attempt to force a small compressor to do the work of a larger
industrial compressor. There are certain applications for which this product was designed. Do not
modify this compressor tool and do not use this product for a purpose for which it was not intended.
REV 10/01; 08/03
SKU 40400 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 2
Safety Warnings (continued)
7. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry as they can be caught in moving parts.
Protective, electrically non-conductive clothes and non-skid footwear are recommended when working.
Wear restrictive hair covering to contain long hair.
8. Use eye and ear protection. Always wear ANSI approved impact safety goggles. 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 tool cords periodically and, if damaged,
have them repaired by an authorized technician. The handles must be kept clean, dry, and free from oil
and grease at all times.
11. Disconnect power. Unplug tool when not in use.
12. Remove adjusting keys and wrenches. Check that keys and adjusting wrenches are removed from
the tool or machine work surface before plugging it in.
13. Avoid unintentional starting. Be sure the switch is in the Off position when not in use and before
plugging in.
14. Stay alert. Watch what you are doing, use common sense. Do not operate any tool when you are tired.
15. Check for 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.
16. Guard against electric shock. Prevent body contact with grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators,
ranges, and refrigerator enclosures.
17. 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.
18. 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.
19. Use proper size and type extension cord. If an extension cord is required, it must be of the proper
size and type to supply the correct current to the tool without heating up. Otherwise, the extension cord
could melt and catch fire, or cause electrical damage to the tool. This tool requires use of an extension
cord of 0 to 15 amps capability (up to 50 feet), with wire size rated at 16 AWG. Longer extension cords
require larger size wire. If you are using the tool outdoors, use an extension cord rated for outdoor use
(signified by “WA” on the jacket).
20. Maintenance. For your safety, service and maintenance should be performed regularly by a qualified
technician.
21. Drain compressor every day. Do not allow moisture to build up inside the compressor.
22. Make sure all equipment is rated to the appropriate capacity.
23. Avoid explosions and fire. Never place flammable objects near the compressor. Never spray water or
any flammable liquids towards the compressor.
SKU 40400 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. Page 3