Use and Care Manual

Your Earlex SprayStation

5500 comes equipped with a Viscosity Cup (26), which will help you determine the thickness

of the paint. To test a liquids viscosity, dip the viscosity cup into the material and fill up to the top, lift free and time how

long it takes for the paint to empty the viscosity cup. Stop when the continuous flow ends from the bottom of the cup.

The time determines the material viscosity and the need for the paint to be thinned before being sprayed (Fig.1).

If the paint requires thinning, start with a 10% dilution of the paint. To do this, fill a quart container with the required

paint. The viscosity cup supplied with the unit holds 1/10 of a quart. Block the hole in the viscosity cup and fill up with

the required thinners. Add the thinners to the paint and stir well.

If the paint requires further thinning, dilute the paint by another 5% (5% will be equal to half a viscosity cup) with the

required thinners and measure the viscosity. If the paint is not at its recommended viscosity, repeat the above step.

Follow the manufacturer’s guide for thinning in conjunction with a spray gun. If in doubt please contact the manufacturer

of the paint. The viscosity cup will help you determine the correct thickness of the paint. Paint is “thinned” by adding

the substance which the paint is based upon. If a water-based paint then water is added, if oil-based then mineral

spirit.

As some paints, wood preservatives and other sprayable materials contain particles that have differing qualities, please

ensure that, when filling the paint container of the spray gun, the paint is filtered through either a funnel with a filter on

it or through nylon tights or stockings. This will ensure that no large particles enter the paint container, so preventing

blockages and providing you with trouble-free spraying. Ensure that suitable ear protection, face mask, gloves and

goggles are worn at all times when spraying.

To put the unit together, place the top section with the handle on top of the turbine and secure.

Fill the paint container with the material to be sprayed. Take care not to overfill. Stir well. For a better finish always stir

coating. Use of a paint stirrer/mixer/paddle with a drill is reccommended.

Take the spray gun unit and with the Clamp Lever (22) turned fully anticlockwise, locate the spray gun unit into the

Paint Container (17). Rotate the paint container until the 2 pins locate into the recesses in the Yoke (23). Now turn the

Clamp Lever (22) clockwise to secure the container to the Lid (20). Do not over-tighten.

Place the motor unit onto a clean and level floor space, free from any loose debris, liquids or dust sheets that could

block the motor inlet. Uncoil the Air Hose (29) and attach it to the back of the spray gun and the other end to the Earlex

SprayStation

5500. Uncoil the supply cord from the base of the unit and plug in.

ALWAYS KEEP THE MOTOR UNIT AS FAR AWAY FROM THE SPRAYING AREA AS POSSIBLE TO PREVENT

PAINT CONTAMINATING THE MOTOR. MASK ANY AREA YOU DO NOT WISH TO SPRAY.

Once you have set up and are ready to spray, switch on the unit. No paint will be sprayed from the gun until the spray

gun Trigger (25) is pulled.

Before spraying objects we suggest you spend time practicing on cardboard or newspaper until you have got used to

OPERATION

SPRAY PATTERNS

The gun has 3 different spray patterns – Horizontal, Vertical and Round (Fig.2). The horizontal and vertical spray patterns

are recommended for large surfaces. The round spray is used for small objects or for areas - such as corners – that

are difficult to reach. To change the spray patterns simply rotate Air Cap (2) until it clicks into the positions as shown in

(Fig.2). The overall size of the selected spray pattern can be varied by turning Air Cap Ring (1). When viewed from the

front, rotate it anticlockwise to increase the pattern size, or clockwise to reduce the pattern size (Fig.8).

Questions? Call toll free: 888-783-2612

Fig.8

PAGE 1
Questions? Call toll free: 888-783-2612 Your Earlex SprayStation 5500 comes equipped with a Viscosity Cup (26), which will help you determine the thickness of the paint. To test a liquids viscosity, dip the viscosity cup into the material and fill up to the top, lift free and time how long it takes for the paint to empty the viscosity cup. Stop when the continuous flow ends from the bottom of the cup.
PAGE 2
Questions? Call toll free: 888-783-2612 PAINT VOLUME The volume of paint sprayed is easily adjustable (Fig.3). Completely close Fluid Adjusting Screw (12) by turning clockwise as far as it will go. Whilst pulling the Trigger (25), begin turning the Fluid Adjusting Screw (12) anticlockwise until the volume of paint you require is obtained. If the spray contains too much paint turn the Fluid Adjusting Screw (12) clockwise to reduce it.
PAGE 3
Questions? Call toll free: 888-783-2612 After cleaning your spray gun and before fitting the needle, dip the tip into some petroleum jelly which will lubricate Gland Washers (16) as the Needle (9) is inserted. The external surfaces of the spray gun can be wiped clean with a cloth soaked in thinners. PERIODIC MAINTENANCE Gland Washers (16) prevent leakage of air pass the needle. This leakage reduces the performance of the spray gun and must, therefore, be kept to a minimum.