Gardner Bender GTK-2 Safety Kit Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of your Gardner Bender GTK-2 Safety Kit. This kit includes a GVD-3504 Non-Contact Voltage Tester and a GFI-3501 GFCI Outlet Tester, designed to help you verify electrical conditions safely. Please read all instructions thoroughly before operation and retain this manual for future reference.

2. Product Overview

The Gardner Bender GTK-2 Safety Kit is a two-piece set of electrical testing tools. The GVD-3504 Non-Contact Voltage Tester allows for quick detection of AC voltage without direct contact, enhancing safety. The GFI-3501 GFCI Outlet Tester is used to check the wiring integrity of 120V AC outlets and to verify the proper functioning of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles.

Figure 1: Gardner Bender GTK-2 Safety Kit components.

3. Setup

3.1 GVD-3504 Non-Contact Voltage Tester

• The GVD-3504 requires one (1) AAA battery for operation. The battery is not included in the kit.
• To install the battery, twist the cap at the bottom of the tester counter-clockwise to remove it.
• Insert the AAA battery, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the battery compartment.
• Replace the cap by twisting it clockwise until secure.
• Before each use, press the power button to perform a self-test. The tip should light up and/or beep to confirm functionality. If it does not, replace the battery.

3.2 GFI-3501 GFCI Outlet Tester

• The GFI-3501 does not require batteries. It draws power directly from the outlet being tested.
• Ensure the outlet is a standard 120V AC, 3-prong receptacle.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Using the GVD-3504 Non-Contact Voltage Tester

This tester detects AC voltage without requiring direct contact with live conductors, providing a safer method for initial voltage checks.

1. Power On: Press the power button. The tip should light up and/or beep, indicating the tester is ready.
2. Verify Functionality: Always test the GVD-3504 on a known live circuit (e.g., a working outlet) to confirm it is operating correctly before use.
3. Test for Voltage: Place the tip of the tester near the wire, outlet slot, light fixture, or circuit breaker you wish to test.
4. Indication: If AC voltage is present, the tester's tip will glow red and an audible alarm will sound. No light or sound indicates no detectable AC voltage.
5. Verify De-energized: After turning off power to a circuit, re-test with the GVD-3504 to confirm the circuit is de-energized before proceeding with work.

Figure 2: GVD-3504 Non-Contact Voltage Tester.

Figure 3: Using the GVD-3504 to test wires for voltage.

4.2 Using the GFI-3501 GFCI Outlet Tester

This tester quickly identifies common wiring problems in 120V AC outlets and tests GFCI functionality.

1. Plug In: Insert the GFI-3501 tester into a standard 3-prong 120V AC outlet.
2. Read Wiring Status: Observe the illuminated LED lights on the tester. Refer to the legend printed on the tester for the corresponding wiring condition.
3. GFCI Test (for GFCI outlets only): If testing a GFCI receptacle, press the "Press for GFCI Test" button on the tester. A properly functioning GFCI outlet should trip (power off). If the GFCI does not trip, it is faulty and requires replacement.
4. Reset GFCI: After testing, reset the GFCI outlet by pressing its reset button.

Figure 4: GFI-3501 GFCI Outlet Tester with wiring legend.

Figure 5: GFI-3501 plugged into an outlet indicating correct wiring.

4.3 General Safety Precautions

• Always assume circuits are live until proven otherwise with a reliable tester.
• Do not use the testers if they appear damaged or are not functioning correctly.
• Always follow local electrical codes and safety regulations.
• If you are unsure about any electrical work, consult a qualified electrician.

5. Media Resources

5.1 Official Product Video: Sperry and GB Outlet Testers

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the testers with a dry, clean cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or immerse in water.
• Battery Replacement (GVD-3504): If the Non-Contact Voltage Tester fails its self-test (no light or sound when powered on), replace the AAA battery.
• Storage: Store the testers in a dry, cool environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 GVD-3504 Non-Contact Voltage Tester Issues

• No Indication (Light/Beep) when Powered On: Check and replace the AAA battery. Ensure the power button is fully pressed.
• False Positives or Over-Sensitivity: The tester may be sensitive to strong electromagnetic fields or closely spaced wires. Try to isolate the test area or use a different testing method if precision is critical.

7.2 GFI-3501 GFCI Outlet Tester Issues

• Incorrect Wiring Indication: If the tester indicates any wiring fault (e.g., Open Ground, Reversed Polarity), do not use the outlet. Consult a qualified electrician to diagnose and correct the wiring issue.
• GFCI Does Not Trip: If the GFCI outlet does not trip when the test button on the GFI-3501 is pressed, the GFCI receptacle is faulty. It must be replaced immediately by a qualified individual to ensure safety.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

Warranty: The product warranty is provided "as listed." Please refer to the product packaging or contact Gardner Bender directly for specific warranty details and terms.

Manufacturer: Actuant

Customer Support: For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact Gardner Bender customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the product packaging or the official Gardner Bender website.