Operation – RIDGID R8804 User Manual

Page 15

ADJUSTING THE VARIABLE SPEED

See Figure 8.
The trigger pressure, speed selection, material type, tem-
perature, and nozzle diameter will all affect the material flow
rate. When using a tube or pack with a smaller diameter
nozzle, use a slower speed rate or the material could be
forced around the seal at the rear of the tube.
� Use the variable speed selector knob to set the maximum

speed rate desired for proper bead width and material
feed rate.



Change the amount of pressure applied to the switch
trigger to increase or decrease the speed of material
delivery up to the maximum speed set by the variable
speed selector.

LOADING CAULK

See Figures 9 - 10.
� Lock the switch trigger by sliding switch lock up.
� Using a utility knife, cut off the tip of the spout on a tube

of caulk. Cut the tip at a 45˚ angle. Remove as little as
possible, taking into consideration the size of the “bead”
of caulk you need.

� Check for a second inner seal at the base of the spout. If

found, insert the puncture tool inside the spout to break
the seal before using. If using a partially filled tube, use
the puncture tool to remove any hardened material from
the tip.

NOTE: An inner seal is usually found only in cardboard
caulk tubes.

� Depress the plunger rod release trigger and pull the

handle of the plunger rod away from the caulk gun. Con-
tinue pulling until piston reaches the back of the carriage
frame.

� Load the caulk tube into the carriage frame, making sure

it is well seated at both ends.

ELECTRONIC OVERLOAD PROTECTION

The caulk gun is protected by an electronic overload protec-
tion feature. If too much pressure is exerted on the tube,
the motor will shut down. This helps to prevent damage
to the tool and the caulk tube. If the motor shuts off, make
sure that:
� Nozzle tip is cut
� �Inner seal in the caulk tube is broken
� Hardened material is removed from the nozzle
� Caulk tube is not damaged or frozen
� Plunger rod is free of caulk/adhesive materials
Release the trigger and wait for 3 to 5 seconds to allow the
electronics to reset. If the motor again shuts off, move the
variable speed selector to the middle position and press the
trigger again. If the motor continues to shut off, try another
tube of material or take the tool to an authorized service
center.

OPERATION

Fig. 8

VARIABLE SPEED

SELECTOR

LOW SPEED

HI SPEED

Fig. 9

Fig. 10

PLUNGER

ROD

CAULK TUBE

PLUNGER ROD

HANDLE

SPOUT

PUNCTURE

TOOL

CARRIAGE

FRAME