1. Product Overview
The Graco RAC 5 Reversible Switch Tip is a high-performance component designed for use with airless paint sprayers. It is suitable for both residential and professional coating applications. This tip features a reversible design for easy clog clearing and includes a OneSeal gasket to prevent leaks at the tip guard.
Image 1.1: Graco RAC 5 Reversible Switch Tip (Model 286315). This image displays the tip and its associated gasket, highlighting its compact design.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in serious injury or property damage.
- Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, gloves, and respiratory protection, when using this product and associated paint spraying equipment.
- Keep the product and any associated equipment away from heat sources and open flames.
- Do not use this tip with flammable materials unless the entire spraying system is specifically rated for such use and all safety precautions are strictly followed.
- In case of a leak from the tip or sprayer, immediately stop operation, depressurize the system, and clean up any spills.
- To clear clogs, always reverse the SwitchTip as instructed in the operation section of this manual. Never attempt to clear clogs with your fingers or any other body part while the system is pressurized.
- Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for proper handling, usage, maintenance, and disposal of the tip and all related equipment.
3. Setup and Installation
- Ensure System is Depressurized: Before installing or removing the tip, ensure your airless paint sprayer system is completely depressurized according to your sprayer's manual.
- Inspect Components: Verify that the RAC 5 Reversible Switch Tip and the OneSeal gasket are clean and free from damage.
- Insert Gasket: Place the OneSeal gasket into the tip guard. Ensure it is seated correctly.
- Insert Tip: Insert the Graco RAC 5 Reversible Switch Tip into the tip guard, ensuring the spray direction arrow points forward.
- Attach to Sprayer: Thread the tip guard assembly onto your airless spray gun. Hand-tighten securely. Do not overtighten.
- Test Connection: After installation, slowly pressurize the system and check for any leaks before beginning to spray.
4. Operation
The Graco RAC 5 Reversible Switch Tip is designed for efficient paint application and easy clog clearing.
4.1 Spraying
- Ensure the tip is installed correctly with the spray arrow pointing forward.
- Maintain a consistent distance and angle from the surface for an even finish.
- Refer to your paint sprayer's manual for specific operating pressures and techniques.
4.2 Clearing Clogs (Reversible Feature)
- Stop Spraying: Release the spray gun trigger.
- Engage Safety Lock: Activate the trigger safety lock on your spray gun.
- Reverse Tip: Rotate the Graco RAC 5 Reversible Switch Tip 180 degrees so the spray arrow points backward.
- Clear Clog: Point the gun into a waste bucket and briefly pull the trigger to clear the clog.
- Return to Spray Position: Release the trigger, engage the safety lock, and rotate the tip back to the forward spraying position.
- Resume Spraying: Disengage the safety lock and resume spraying.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance extends the life of your Graco RAC 5 Reversible Switch Tip and ensures optimal performance.
- Cleaning After Each Use: After each use, thoroughly clean the tip and tip guard with the appropriate solvent for the material sprayed (e.g., water for latex paints, mineral spirits for oil-based paints).
- Remove and Inspect: Remove the tip and gasket from the tip guard. Clean both components separately. Inspect the tip for wear or damage and the gasket for tears or compression.
- Soaking: For stubborn residue, soak the tip in the appropriate cleaning solution for a short period.
- Storage: Store the clean tip in a tip saver fluid or submerged in solvent to prevent drying and clogging.
- Gasket Replacement: Replace the OneSeal gasket if it shows signs of wear, cracking, or no longer provides a tight seal.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues encountered with the Graco RAC 5 Reversible Switch Tip.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tip Clogging | Dried paint, debris in material, worn tip. | Use the reversible feature to clear clogs (Section 4.2). Filter paint. Replace worn tip. |
| Uneven Spray Pattern | Partially clogged tip, incorrect pressure, worn tip. | Clear clogs. Adjust sprayer pressure. Replace worn tip. |
| Leaking at Tip Guard | Damaged or improperly seated OneSeal gasket. | Inspect and reseat gasket. Replace gasket if damaged. Ensure tip guard is hand-tightened. |
| Reduced Flow | Clogged tip, insufficient pump pressure. | Clear clogs. Check sprayer pump and filter. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Graco |
| Model Number | 286315 |
| Model Name | RAC 5 |
| Tip Size | 315 (0.015 inch orifice, 6-inch fan pattern) |
| Recommended Uses | Painting (residential and professional coatings) |
| Material | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Aluminum Alloy, Brass, Stainless Steel |
| Maximum Pressure | 4050 PSI (Pound per Square Inch) |
| Item Weight | 0.81 ounces (0.02 Kilograms) |
| Product Dimensions | 5 x 4 x 1 inches |
| Included Components | RAC 5 HandTite Tip Guard |
| Special Features | Reversible for clog clearing, Airless application |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1 Warranty Information
This Graco RAC 5 Reversible Switch Tip comes with a one-year warranty against manufacturer defects. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
8.2 Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to inquire about replacement parts, please visit the official Graco store or contact Graco customer service.
Official Graco Store: Graco Official Store