ULTRA QUIET & OIL FREE

AIR COMPRESSOR

OwnER'S MAnUAL

CALIFORnIA AIR TOOLS

20040SPCAD

4.0 HP
20 gALLOn
SOUnD PROOF CAbInET
220 vOLTS 60 HERTz

WWW.CALIFORNIAAIRTOOLS.COM Customer Support 1-866-409-4581

 AIR COMPRESSOR

TAbLe OF CONTeNTS INTROduCTION

IntroductIon __________________________________2

Important Safety InStructIonS _______________5

aIr compreSSor componentS__________________7

pre-operatIon checklISt ______________________8

package contents & assembly____________________8
Inspect for damage _____________________________8
Save packaging ________________________________8
compressor location ___________________________8
electrical power ________________________________9 thank you for purchasing a california air tools, Inc.
air compressor.
operatIng the aIr compreSSor ________________9
Introduction ___________________________________9
assembly _____________________________________9
test run & Break-in period______________________10 record the model and serial numbers indicated on your
daily operation________________________________10 air compressor’s nameplate:

maIntenance _________________________________11
draining the air tank & air dryer _________________11
changing the air filter__________________________11
model no. ________________________________________
testing for leaks ______________________________11
cleaning _____________________________________11
Storage ______________________________________11

trouBleShootIng ____________________________12 Serial no. ________________________________________

SpecIfIcatIonS________________________________13
electrical circuit _______________________________13
air passage drawing ___________________________13
date of purchase: _________________________________
Warranty ____________________________________14

product regIStratIon ________________________16

Store/dealer: _____________________________________

2 Customer Support: 1-866-409-4581

 AIR COMPRESSOR
how to find a local service center:
even quality built equipment might need service or repair parts.
Contact the California Air Tools Customer Service department:
Phone: 1-866-409-4581
Online: WWW.CALIFORNIAAIRTOOLS.COM
please provide the information below:
Model number and Serial number and specifications shown on the
Model number/Serial number plate.
Part number or numbers shown in the parts list section of the
owner’s manual for your air compressor model.
A brief description of the trouble with the air compressor.
do not return your air compressor for service or parts to the
store/dealer where purchased.
DANGER
IMPORTANT SAFeTy
INSTRuCTIONS
Safety messages & Signal Words: SHOCK

There is a danger of electric shock.

Use only undamaged electrical cords.
DO NOT touch bare wires or receptacles.
DO NOT operate air compressor in wet weather or in wet
conditions.
DO NOT touch air compressor or cords if hands or feet are
wet.
Ensure that all cords are free of damage before connecting
to the power supply.
Ensure that you have a sufficient electrical supply for
supporting the requirements of the motor.
Improper installation of the grounding plug is able to result
in a risk of electric shock. When repair or replacement of the
cord or plug is required, do not connect the grounding wire
to either flat terminal. The wire with insulation having an
outer surface that is green with or without yellow stripes is
the grounding wire.
This product must be grounded. In the event of an electrical
short circuit, grounding reduces the risk of electrical shock
by providing an escape wire for the electric current.
This product is equipped with a cord having a grounding
wire with an appropriate grounding plug. The plug must be
plugged into an outlet that is properly installed and
grounded in accordance with the local codes and
ordinances.
This product is for use on a nominal 220-V circuit and has a
grounding plug similar to the plug illustrated in sketch A.
Only connect the product to an outlet having the same
configuration as the plug.
Do not use an adapter with this product.

Customer Support: 1-866-409-4581 3

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WARNING WARNING

RISK TO BREATHING FLYING OBJECTS

Dust or dust-like particulates caused by Flying objects can cause injury to the eyes, head and
power-sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling or any other parts of the body.
other construction-like activities can contain Air-powered equipment and power tools are capable
contaminants that are harmful to breathe. of propelling items (metal chips, fasteners and
Always use your air compressor in a well-ventilated particulates) at high speed into the air and could
and clean area. result in injury.
Never breathe the air that comes directly out of the Always wear approved head and eye protection.
air compressor or air hose. This air is not suitable for Never point the air stream at any part of your body,
breathing. or at another person or animal.
Always wear approved safety equipment. When When operating the air compressor, make sure all
performing dust-creating activities, securely wear other people and animals maintain a safe distance.
properly-fit face masks or respirators.
Do not move the air compressor when the air tank is
If you feel ill from breathing while operating your air under pressure.
compressor, stop and seek medical attention
immediately. Never use the air hoses to pull or move the air
compressor.
Keep the air compressor on a flat surface.

WARNING
WARNING

HOT SURFACE FIRE

Air compressor surfaces become hot during EXPLOSION

operation.
DO NOT touch hot surfaces, because they can cause Exercise caution when using pressurized air.
severe burns.
To prevent injury and for your general safety, only
Do not touch the air compressor’s cylinder head. use high-pressure hoses, fittings and couplings
During operation, the cooling fins of the cylinder designed for use with air compressors.
head and delivery pipe become hot.
Inspect all hoses, fittings and couplings for leaks
Allow the air compressor to cool before touching it. and wear. When leaks and wear are detected, stop
DO NOT place a storage cover on the unit during use and replace those items immediately. Do not
operation. Only place a cover on the air compressor repair.
after it has thoroughly cooled down. Never leave pressurized air in the air tank when
performing maintenance.
Never leave the air compressor unattended with the
power supply in use and the air hose connected.

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WARNING WARNING

EXPLOSION EXPLOSION FIRE

Improper care could lead to the air tank bursting or Use caution to minimize risk of fire or explosion.
exploding. It is normal for the air compressor motor and
Drain air tank daily or after each use to prevent pressure switch to produce sparks while operating. If
moisture buildup in the air tank. sparks come in contact with vapors from gasoline or
solvents, they may ignite and cause a fire or
Rust can weaken the air tank and cause leaks or
explosion.
bursting. If rust is detected, replace tank
immediately. Do not try to repair the air tank by Abrasive tools such as grinders, drills and other
welding, drilling or modifying it in any other way. tools are capable of making sparks that can ignite
These modifications can weaken the air tank and flammable materials.
cause a hazardous condition. Always operate the air compressor a safe distance
If air tank develops a leak, replace the air tank away from flammable items. Use in well-ventilated
immediately. Never repair, weld or make areas.
modifications to the air tank or its attachments. Never exceed the maximum rated pressure.
Never make adjustments to the factory-set
pressures.
Never exceed manufacturer's maximum-allowable
pressure rating attachments.
Because of extreme heat, do not use plastic pipe or
lead tin solder joints for a discharge line.

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LOCATIONS OF PROduCT LAbeL

IMPORTANT LAbeLS
a

Read these important labels before operating.

These labels provide important safety and maintenance
information. These labels should be considered as permanent B
parts of the air compressor. Should any of these labels become
illegible, damaged or removed, please contact California Air Tools
Customer Service department at 1-866-409-4581 for
replacements.
c

6 Customer Support: 1-866-409-4581

 AIR COMPRESSOR

Customer Support: 1-866-409-4581 7

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pre-operatIon checklISt Inspect for damage

before using the air compressor, make sure the air tank is not
damaged, inspect all parts for damage, and check that all pipes
package contents are firmly connected.
do not use the air compressor if any damage is found. If
damaged, have an authorized service center inspect and test the
model: 20040Spcad air compressor to ensure that is working properly.
package contents:
Save packaging
* Air Filters (4)
Save all outside packaging in case you ever need to return the
* 3’ Tubing (for auto drain valve) product for service or repair.
* Owner's Manual
WARNING
Install the air filters.
1. Screw the four air filters into the 4 ports located on
the top left and right sides of the motor heads.

RISK TO BREATHING

Dust or dust-like particulates caused by

power-sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling or any
other construction-like activities can contain
contaminants that are harmful to breathe.
Always use your air compressor in a well-ventilated
and clean area.
Never breathe the air that comes directly out of the
air compressor or air hose. This air is not suitable for
breathing.
Always wear approved safety equipment. When
performing dust-creating activities, securely wear
properly-fit face masks or respirators.
WARNING If you feel ill from breathing while operating your air
compressor, stop and seek medical attention
immediately.

compressor location
EXPLOSION FIRE use on flat Surface
For proper operation, the air compressor must be placed on a flat
Use caution to minimize risk of fire or explosion. surface with an incline no greater than 15 degrees.
It is normal for the air compressor motor and
pressure switch to produce sparks while operating. If maintain a clear area
sparks come in contact with vapors from gasoline or It is very important that the air compressor is positioned so that
solvents, they may ignite and cause a fire or there is adequate airflow around the machine. There must be at
explosion. least 2 feet of obstacle-free space surrounding and above the air
compressor.
Abrasive tools such as grinders, drills and other
tools are capable of making sparks that can ignite
flammable materials. use in areas with clean air
Always operate the air compressor a safe distance For proper operation and to maximize the longevity of the air
away from flammable items. Use in well-ventilated compressor, it is very important that the air drawn into the air
areas. compressor is clean. The air compressor should not be used in
areas where dust or particulates are in the air. This will damage
Never exceed the maximum rated pressure. the motor and impair proper operation.
Important: Always use the air filter, properly installed.

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electrical power
electrical power requirements

DANGER

SHOCK

There is a danger of electric shock. electrical extension cord

Use only undamaged electrical cords. Inspect all electrical extension cords to ensure that they are free
DO NOT touch bare wires or receptacles. of damage
DO NOT operate air compressor in wet weather or in wet When using an extension cord, use a heavy-duty cord that is no
conditions. more than 25 feet long and at least 14 gauge.
DO NOT touch air compressor or cords if hands or feet are use only a 3-wire extension cord that has a 3-blade grounding
wet. plug.
Ensure that all cords are free of damage before connecting
to the power supply. OPeRATINg THe AIR COMPReSSOR
Ensure that you have a sufficient electrical supply for
supporting the requirements of the motor. Save this manual for future reference.
Improper installation of the grounding plug is able to result
in a risk of electric shock. When repair or replacement of the Introduction
cord or plug is required, do not connect the grounding wire
to either flat terminal. The wire with insulation having an
outer surface that is green with or without yellow stripes is
the grounding wire.
This product must be grounded. In the event of an electrical
short circuit, grounding reduces the risk of electrical shock
by providing an escape wire for the electric current.
This product is equipped with a cord having a grounding
wire with an appropriate grounding plug. The plug must be
plugged into an outlet that is properly installed and
grounded in accordance with the local codes and
ordinances.
This air compressor features a compact structure, stable,
This product is for use on a nominal 220-V circuit and has a performance, a high airflow rate, easy operation and low
grounding plug similar to the plug illustrated in sketch A. maintenance. because the air compressor produces no oil in the
Only connect the product to an outlet having the same airflow, it can be used for air supplies that need oil-free air.. The
configuration as the plug. motor directly drives the pistons and does not need any
Do not use an adapter with this product. lubrication or oil to function for a long period of time.

assembly
1. Attach the air hose to a 1/4” universal/Industrial Male Quick
before using the air compressor, refer to the serial label for Connector. Attach the air hose to the air compressor.
voltage and amperage requirements. Make sure you have a 2. Install the (4) air filters into the 4 ports located on the top right
sufficient electrical supply for supporting the motor's requirements. and left of the motor heads.
use a dedicated 220 Volt 60 Hertz circuit 3. Make sure the “manual” drain valve is in the off position and
Low voltage and/or an overload circuit can cause the motor's that the air compressor power switch is in the OFF position
overload protection system circuit breaker to trip. 4. ensure that the power supply you are going to use is operating
Contact a electrician for help. normally. use a dedicated ( 220 Volts 60 Hertz) outlet.
5. Insert the power supply cord into the power supply socket.

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test run
WARNING
before using the air compressor for the first time, complete a test
run as follows:
1. Turn the power switch to the OFF position. Plug the power
supply cord into a power supply socket. Start the air
compressor by turning the power switch to the ON position.
The pressure gauge reading will slowly rise as pressure FLYING OBJECTS
increases inside the air tank. When the gauge reading reaches
120 -125 PSI, the pressure switch will automatically turn the Flying objects can cause injury to the eyes, head and
power off. This indicates the compressor is working normally. other parts of the body.
2. Turn the power switch to the Off position, unplug the power Air-powered equipment and power tools are capable
supply cord and release the air from the manual drain valve. of propelling items (metal chips, fasteners and
particulates) at high speed into the air and could
At this point proceed to the next step (daily operations) result in injury.
starting the air compressor to continue to use. Always wear approved head and eye protection.
note: If the Air Compressor is not working properly, the Never point the air stream at any part of your body,
pressure gauge will indicate that there is a decrease in or at another person or animal.
pressure in the air tank. If there is an air leak from the
compressor the pressure in the air tank decreases, the When operating the air compressor, make sure all
pressure switch resets and the motor automatically turns other people and animals maintain a safe distance.
back on. Do not move the air compressor when the air tank is
If you detect an air leakage, turn the power switch to the under pressure.
Off position, release the air from the tank by pulling on Never use the air hoses to pull or move the air
the safety valve. unplug the power supply cord and contact compressor.
Customer Support for Assistance.
Keep the air compressor on a flat surface.

daily operation
WARNING
Starting the compressor:
1. Turn the power switch to the OFF position.
2. Attach the air hose to a 1/4” Industrial Male Quick Connector.
Attach hose to the Female Connector on the Air Compressor
HOT SURFACE FIRE 3. Close the manual drain valve.
4. Plug the power supply cord into a power supply socket.
Air compressor surfaces become hot during
operation. 5. Turn the power switch to the ON position.
DO NOT touch hot surfaces, because they can cause 6. Let the motor run and tank fill until motor turns off.
severe burns. 7. Operate air tool normally.
Do not touch the air compressor’s cylinder head.
During operation, the cooling fins of the cylinder 8. To regulate the air to the air hose. have the air compressor
head and delivery pipe become hot. and air tool both turned on and running. Turn the regulator
Allow the air compressor to cool before touching it. knob to the right to increase the pressure and to left to
DO NOT place a storage cover on the unit during decrease the air pressure to the hose and air tool..
operation. Only place a cover on the air compressor
after it has thoroughly cooled down. do not use continously (running) for more than (1) hour.

Shutting down the compressor:

1. Turn the power switch to the OFF position.
2. unplug the power supply cord.
3. Reduce the pressure in the air tank through the air hose.
4. draining the air tank daily from the manual drain valve will help
prevent corrosion in the air tank.

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 AIR COMPRESSOR

MAINTeNANCe
draining the air tank
cleaning
Clean items with a soft brush, or wipe with a moistened cloth using
a biodegradable solvent.
The frequency at which you should drain the air tank depends on do not use flammable liquids such as gasoline or alcohol. Always
the environmental conditions and the amount of operating time keep parts clean from dirt and dust for better performance.
logged.

your air compressor is equiped with an eZ-1 Auto drain Valve that
automatically drains the air tank.
1. Place the drain tube from the auto drain valve into a waste
STORAge
container capable of holding water.
before storing for a prolonged period of time:
2. The Auto drain Valve will open at the beginning of a cycle to
1. Turn off the power supply.
drain the water out of the air tank.
2. disconnect the power cord from the power supply.
3. empty the waste container of water regularly.
3. Release all of the pressure and moisture from the air tank
4. highly recommended to manually drain the air tank
through the manual drain valve.
regularly from the ball drain valve to remove excess water.
4. Clean the air compressor to remove all dirt and dust.
5. draining the air tank protects parts from rust and corrosion.
5. Cover the air compressor with a cover to protect the unit from
dust and moisture.
6. do not stack or store any items on top of or around the air
compressor. damage could occur.

changing the air filter

The air filters are designed to reduce noise and help prevent
particulates in the air from entering and damaging the air
compressor.
After being used for a period of time, the air filter will become
clogged. This will reduce the air intake capabilities of the air
compressor, reducing performance. Therefore, the air filter must be
replaced regularly.
1. Open the lid of the air filter and remove the old air filter element.
2. Replace with a new air filter element and close the lid.

testing for leaks

Make sure all connections are tight. do not overtighten.
A small leak in any hose or pipe connection will reduce the air
compressor's performance.
To test for small leaks, spray a small amount of soapy water on the
area suspected of leaking. If the soap bubbles, replace the broken
part.

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 AIR COMPRESSOR

TROubLeSHOOTINg
proBlem poSSIBle cauSe poSSIBle SolutIonS
Let the compressor build pressure in the tank, to
the maximum pressure if possible. brush soapy
Pressure drop in the tank. Air leaks at connections. water on air connections and look carefully for air
bubbles. Tighten leaky connections. If the problem
persists, contact the seller for further advice.

Let the air in the tank flow out until all the pressure
The solenoid valve leaks when is released. Then remove the non-return valve plug
Non-return valve seal is defective.
the compressor is idle. and clean the valve seal. If necessary, replace the
seal and then reinstall all components.
Check that the main voltage corresponds to
specifications. An extension cord that is too thin or
too long can cause a voltage drop and cause the
Overload cutout operated because of motor to overheat. Allow the motor to cool down.
The compressor stopped and motor overheating. Press the Reset button to restart the air
does not start. compressor ensure that the compressor is plugged
into a socket as close as possible to the consumer
unit or fuse box.
Motor windings are burned out. Contact Customer Support.

The motor does not start and

Capacitor is burned out. Replace starter capacitor.
makes a humming noise.
Check that the main voltage corresponds to
specifications. An extension cord that is too thin or
too long can cause a voltage drop and cause the
The motor does not start or starts motor to overheat. Allow the motor to cool down.
Low voltage supply to the motor.
slowly. Press the Reset button to restart the air
compressor ensure that the compressor is plugged
into a socket as close as possible to the consumer
unit or fuse box.
The compressor is noisy with Compressor head gasket broken or
Stop the compressor and contact the dealer.
metallic clangs. valve faulty.

The compressor does not reach Compressor head gasket broken or

Stop the compressor and contact the dealer.
the maximum pressure. valve faulty.

The compressor doesn't seem to The pressure switch needs adjusting. Stop the compressor and contact the dealer.
provide as much air as it did
when new and/or the compressor
cuts off within a much shorter Open the ball valve and release the pressure.
The tank is full of water due to
time period. Open the drain valve and release the water within
condensation.
the tank.

The motor pump unit does not

stop when the tank pressure
Pressure switch defective or needs Stop the compressor immediately and contact
reaches its maximum working
adjusting. Customer Support.
pressure (8 bar or 116 PSI) and
the safety valve vents air.

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 AIR COMPRESSOR

SPeCIFICATIONS

electrical circuit

Pressure
switch
Overload protector
Electric cord
for motor Motor
(MAX temperature 135°C)
Solenoid Red cords for
valve Capacitor

Electric cord
for motor

Earth wire
(Green)

air passage drawing

Air intake Pressure switch

Safety valve
Drain valve
Pressure gauge

Regulator Pressure gauge

Compressor Tank
Filter
Check valve

Solenoid
valve Ball valve

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 AIR COMPRESSOR

CALIFORNIA AIR TOOLS INC. LIMITed WARRANTy

This warranty is limited to Air Compressors distributed by:
California Air Tools, Inc.
8560 Siempre Viva Road
San diego, CA 92154

limited Warranty
California Air Tools Inc. will repair or replace, free of charge, to the original retail customer who purchased a California Air Tools, Inc.
Air Compressor from an authorized dealer, distributor or distributor’s dealer in North America.
This warranty does not transfer to subsequent owners.
California Air Tools Inc. will repair or replace, at its option, any parts of the portable air compressor that are proven by an authorized
service center to be defective in material or workmanship under normal use during the applicable warranty time period as stated below.
This limited warranty covers the cost of the replacement parts and labor for all defects when installed by an authorized service center.
Transportation charges are the responsibility of the customer. Any part replaced under warranty becomes the property of California Air
Tools Inc.
All parts replaced under warranty will be considered as part of original product, and any warranty on those parts will expire coincident with
the original product warranty.

limited Warranty periods

Non-commercial / Non-rental (personal use by a retail customer): 12 months parts and labor
Commercial / Rental (usage for income, business use): 12 months parts and labor
The limited warranty period begins on the date of retail purchase by the original purchaser.

disclaimers, limitations of remedies & exclusions

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.

disclaimer of other Warranties

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, this limited warranty is exclusive and expressly in lieu of any and all other warranties,
including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose or any other implied warranties
that may arise from the course of dealing or usage of the trade. California Air Tools Inc. hereby declaims and excludes all other
warranties. To the extent that California Air Tools Inc. products are consumer products under applicable federal and state law with respect
to any customer, the duration of any implied warranties (including but not limited to implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a
particular purpose) are limited to the shortest duration permitted by applicable law or the Limited Warranty period provided herein,
whichever is longer.

limitations of remedies
California Air Tools Inc. shall not be liable to customer, or anyone claiming under customer, for any other obligations or liabilities, including
but not limited to, obligations or liabilities airing out of breach of contract or warranty, negligence or other tort or any theory of strict liability,
with respect to the air compressor or California Air Tools Inc. acts or omissions or otherwise. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable
law, California Air Tools Inc. shall not in any event be liable for incidental, compensatory, punitive, consequential, indirect, special or other
damages, including but not limited to loss of use, loss of income, loss of time, loss of sales, injury to personal property, or liability
customer incurs with respect to any other person, or any other type or form of consequential damage or economic loss.

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 AIR COMPRESSOR
exclusions
In addition to the foregoing disclaimers, limitations and terms, this limited warranty shall not apply to and does not cover accessories, nor
does it cover products that are in any way subject to any of the following:
1. Improper setup, installation or storage.
2. Lack of proper maintenance and service.
3. Accident, damage, abuse or misuse.
4. Abnormal operating conditions or applications.
5. Repair or modification by customer or any third party without written consent of California Air Tools Inc.
6. use under operating conditions or in applications not recommended by California Air Tools Inc.
7. Normal wear.
8. The use of accessories or attachments not recommended by California Air Tools Inc.
9. Repairs without California Air Tools prior written approval
10. Incorrect voltage, improperly wired or failure to have a certified licensed electrician install the air compressor.
11. Acts of god.
The application of these exclusions will be determined at the sole discretion of California Air Tools Inc.

registration
Warranty registration with California Air Tools Inc. is required on all products.
you can mail the enclosed registration form or complete on-line at www.californiaairtools.com under Customer Service Tab.
Warranty is also available by keeping and showing your original receipt from the date of purchase to an Authorized California Air Tools
Service Center.

Service
do not return your air compressor to the place of purchase.
Warranty is available by showing your original receipt with the date of purchase to an Authorized California Air Tools Service Center.

For all customer service inquiries.

Contact California Air Tools Customer Service
1-866-409-4581 M - F (8am - 4pm) Pacific Time

WWW.calIfornIaaIrtoolS.com
go to contact us tab
click on the parts or Service tab for faster service.

Customer Support: 1-866-409-4581 15

 AIR COMPRESSOR

PROduCT RegISTRATION
To register your product, please complete the information below and mail to the mailing address at the end of this page.

1. personal Information:

Full Name (Include Middle Initial): _______________________________________________________________

Mailing Address: _____________________________________________________________________________

City:___________________________________ State:_______________ Zip Code: _______________________

Phone Number: _____________________________________________________________________________

e-mail Address: _____________________________________________________________________________

(Check here to receive product information and offers via e-mail)

(Check here to receive product information from other companies via e-mail)

2. product Information:

date of Purchase: _____________________________________________________________(MM / dd / yyyy)

Model Number: ______________________________________________________________________________

Serial Number: ___________________________________________________________ (Found on name plate)

Purchased Location:__________________________________________________________________________

Purchase Price: _____________________________________________________________________________

Type of Primary use for this Product: Home Recreation emergency Rental Commercial
Other______________________________________________________________________________________

Features Influencing Product Purchase: brand Portability Power Rating Price Warranty
Other Features (describe) _____________________________________________________________________

What other Power equipment are you interested in purchasing in the future? _____________________________

Thank you for registering your product.

Mail to:
California Air Tools
8560 Siempre Viva Road
San diego, CA 92154

Customer Support: 1-866-409-4581