Using the Tool

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Complete all steps of PREPARING THE TOOL before using the tool.

First position and closely fit together (rack) the flooring strip with the (metal) mallet. Position the tool on the tongued edge of the flooring strip (see Fig. 18) aligning the driver guide against the front of the flooring strip. Pull and hold the trigger and strike the rubber cap with the rubber mallet. The tool will then drive the cleat at the correct 45 degree angle as shown in Fig. 19 and 20. The proper length of flooring cleat to use with various thicknesses of flooring is also shown in Fig. 19 and 20.

Fig. 19

Fig.20

It is not necessary to hit the rubber cap hard to activate it. Never hit the tool hard with excessive force, as this will damage the tool.

DO NOT USE THE NAILER TO POSITION the flooring strips. Hitting the rubber cap without first activating the trigger will cause severe internal damage to the Nailer.

DO NOT USE THE METAL END OF THE MALLET TO STRIKE THE RUBBER CAP, use the rubber end only.

WARNING: The trigger is a safety device and should only be pulled when the tool is in the proper position on the work surface and before the rubber cap is struck with the mallet. Do not tie or tape down the safety trigger as the tool could discharge if dropped on the rubber cap. The tool will not fire unless the safety trigger is pulled before the mallet blow.

NOTE: When Using Tool to install Pre-finished Flooring

The Porter-Cable FCN200 was designed for installing both unfinished and pre-finished hardwood flooring. Care must be used however when installing pre-finished flooring to ensure that the finish is not damaged by the tool. It is recommended that the tool be inspected for damage [especially the base plate (C) Fig.18] and tested on a sample section to be certain that the tool and technique of use do not mar the finish. This procedure should be followed before each job due to variations in flooring and tool condition.

WARNING: Remove finger from trigger when not driving fasteners. Never carry tool with finger on trigger: tool will fire a fastener if rubber cap is bumped.

WARNING: Keep tool pointed in a safe direction at all times.