1. Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the Utilitech 15-Amp 125-Volt Yellow 3-Wire Grounding Plug, Model 4508. This plug is designed for repairing or building extension cords for various environments, including home, job sites, and rugged conditions. It features a 2-pole, 3-wire configuration and powerful cord grips to prevent wire strain and ensure secure connections.
Please read these instructions carefully before installation and use to ensure safe and proper operation.
2. Important Safety Information
- Always disconnect power at the circuit breaker or fuse box before working with electrical components.
- Ensure proper grounding. This plug is a 3-wire grounding type and must be used with a compatible grounded electrical system.
- Do not exceed the specified amperage (15 Amps) and voltage (125 Volts) ratings of this plug or the connected extension cord. Overloading can cause overheating, fire, or electrical shock.
- Use only with appropriate wire gauges for the intended amperage.
- Do not use in wet conditions unless specifically rated for outdoor or wet location use. This product is not explicitly rated for wet locations.
- Consult a qualified electrician if you are unsure about any part of the installation or wiring process.
- Keep out of reach of children.
3. Product Components
The Utilitech 15-Amp 125-Volt Yellow 3-Wire Grounding Plug consists of the following main components:
- Yellow plug housing
- Three metal prongs (two flat blades for hot/neutral, one U-shaped grounding prong)
- Internal terminal screws (brass for hot, silver for neutral, green for ground)
- Cord grip mechanism with screws
An image showing the Utilitech 15-Amp 125-Volt Yellow 3-Wire Grounding Plug. The plug is yellow with three metal prongs (two flat, one U-shaped grounding prong) extending from the top. The bottom part of the plug shows two screws for the cord grip, designed to secure the cable.
4. Setup and Wiring Instructions
Follow these steps to properly wire the grounding plug to an extension cord:
- Prepare the Cable: Carefully strip the outer jacket of your extension cord to expose approximately 1.5 to 2 inches of the insulated internal wires (typically black, white, and green/bare copper). Be careful not to cut the insulation of the inner wires.
- Strip Wire Insulation: Carefully strip about 1/2 inch (12-15 mm) of insulation from the ends of the black (hot), white (neutral), and green/bare copper (ground) wires. Twist the strands of each wire tightly together to prevent fraying.
- Disassemble the Plug: Unscrew and separate the plug housing to access the internal terminals and cord grip.
- Connect Wires: Loosen the terminal screws inside the plug. Connect the prepared wires to the corresponding terminals as follows:
- Connect the Green/Bare Copper wire to the green (grounding) screw.
- Connect the White wire to the silver (neutral) screw.
- Connect the Black wire to the brass (hot) screw.
- Secure Connections: Tighten all terminal screws firmly to ensure good electrical contact. Do not overtighten, as this can strip the screws or damage the wires. Gently tug on each wire to confirm it is securely fastened.
- Secure Cord Grip: Position the cable within the cord grip mechanism. Tighten the cord grip screws firmly to prevent the cable from pulling out or putting strain on the internal connections. The cord grip is essential for safety and durability.
- Assemble Housing: Reassemble the plug housing securely, ensuring all parts fit together properly and no wires are pinched.
5. Operating Instructions
Once properly wired and assembled, the Utilitech 15-Amp 125-Volt Yellow 3-Wire Grounding Plug can be used to connect your extension cord to a compatible 125-Volt, 15-Amp grounded electrical outlet. Ensure the appliance or tool connected to the extension cord does not exceed the plug's 15-Amp rating. Always insert the plug fully into the outlet.
6. Care and Maintenance
- Regularly inspect the plug and the connected cord for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the housing, fraying of the cord, or loose connections.
- Keep the plug clean and free from dirt, dust, and moisture. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
- Do not use the plug if the housing is cracked, damaged, or if any prongs are bent or corroded. Replace damaged plugs immediately.
- Store the plug and extension cord in a dry, protected area when not in use.
7. Troubleshooting
No Power to Connected Device:
- Check Plug Insertion: Ensure the plug is fully inserted into the wall outlet.
- Verify Outlet Power: Test the wall outlet with another known working device to confirm it is live.
- Inspect Wiring: Disconnect power and carefully open the plug to inspect the internal wiring connections. Ensure all wires are securely fastened to their correct terminals and that no wires are loose or corroded.
- Check Circuit Breaker: Verify that the circuit breaker for the outlet has not tripped. Reset if necessary.
- Cord Damage: Inspect the entire length of the extension cord for any cuts, kinks, or damage that could interrupt power.
Loose Connection or Cord Pulls Out Easily:
- Tighten Cord Grip: Ensure the cord grip screws are tightened firmly to secure the cable within the plug housing.
- Re-tighten Terminal Screws: If wires feel loose inside the plug, disconnect power and re-tighten the terminal screws.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Utilitech |
| Model Number | 4508 |
| Amperage | 15 Amps |
| Voltage | 125 Volts |
| Plug Format | Type B (NEMA 5-15P) |
| Number of Wires | 3 (2-pole, 3-wire grounding) |
| Color | Yellow |
| Manufacturer | LG Sourcing |
9. Warranty Information
Warranty details for the Utilitech 15-Amp 125-Volt Yellow 3-Wire Grounding Plug are not provided in this manual. Please refer to the original product packaging or contact Utilitech customer service for specific warranty terms and conditions.
10. Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or inquiries regarding the Utilitech 15-Amp 125-Volt Yellow 3-Wire Grounding Plug, please contact Utilitech customer support through their official website or the contact information provided on the product packaging.
