Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your TIMBERTECH AS-186K Airbrush Compressor Kit. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the device and retain it for future reference.
Components Overview
The TIMBERTECH AS-186K Airbrush Compressor Kit includes the following main components:
- Air Compressor Unit: Features a 3-liter air tank, manometer, compressed air regulator, and air filter.
- Double-Action Airbrush Gun: Equipped with a 0.30mm nozzle/needle.
- Air Hose: Approximately 6 feet in length for connecting the airbrush to the compressor.
- Cleaning Brushes: Various sizes for airbrush maintenance.
- Paint Bottles: A set of starter paints.

Figure 1: Complete TIMBERTECH AS-186K Airbrush Compressor Kit, showing the compressor, airbrush, hose, cleaning brushes, and paints.
Setup Instructions
- Unpack Components: Carefully remove all items from the packaging and inspect for any damage.
- Position the Compressor: Place the compressor on a stable, level surface in a well-ventilated area. Ensure the suction pads on the compressor feet provide stability.
- Connect Air Hose: Attach one end of the 6-foot air hose to the air outlet on the compressor's regulator. Securely fasten the other end of the air hose to the airbrush gun's hose connection.
- Power Connection: Plug the compressor's power cord into a standard 110V, 60Hz electrical outlet.
- Adjust Air Pressure:
- Ensure the compressor is powered on.
- Locate the air pressure regulator knob on the compressor.
- To adjust the pressure, pull the knob upwards (Step 1).
- Rotate the knob clockwise to increase pressure or counter-clockwise to decrease pressure (Step 2).
- Read the desired pressure from the manometer gauge.
- Once the desired pressure is set, push the knob downwards to lock the setting.

Figure 2: Instructions for adjusting air pressure by pulling up and rotating the regulator knob.

Figure 3: Close-up view of the compressor's manometer gauge for reading air pressure.
Operating Instructions
Airbrush Operation
The included airbrush is a double-action type, meaning the trigger controls both air flow and paint flow. This allows for fine control over your spray.

Figure 4: Detailed diagram of the double-action airbrush components and trigger function for air and paint control.
- Prepare Paint: Thin your paint to the appropriate consistency for airbrushing. The ideal consistency is often described as milk-like.
- Load Paint: Pour the prepared paint into the 7ml fluid cup on top of the airbrush. Secure the fluid cup cover.
- Power On Compressor: Turn on the compressor. It will automatically start at 3 Bar (43 PSI) and stop at 4 Bar (58 PSI) to maintain consistent pressure.
- Test Spray: Before applying to your project, perform a test spray on a scrap surface to check paint flow and pattern.
- Spray Technique:
- To initiate air flow, press the trigger down.
- To release paint, pull the trigger back while holding it down. The further back you pull, the more paint is released.
- Practice controlling the distance from the surface and the trigger movement for desired effects.
- Finish Spraying: Release the trigger to stop paint flow, then release the trigger upwards to stop air flow.
Maintenance
Airbrush Cleaning
Proper cleaning after each use is crucial for the longevity and performance of your airbrush.
- Empty Paint Cup: Pour any remaining paint back into its container.
- Flush with Cleaner: Add a small amount of appropriate airbrush cleaner or water (depending on paint type) to the paint cup. Spray through the airbrush until the cleaner runs clear.
- Back-Flush: Cover the nozzle with your finger or a cap and press the trigger for air only. This will force air back into the paint cup, bubbling and cleaning the inside.
- Disassemble and Clean: For thorough cleaning, disassemble the airbrush (needle, nozzle, fluid cup). Use the provided cleaning brushes and cleaner to remove all paint residue from each component. Be careful with the needle, as it is delicate.
- Reassemble: Carefully reassemble the airbrush, ensuring all parts are correctly seated.
Compressor Maintenance
Regularly drain accumulated moisture from the compressor's air filter.
- Drain Water: After use, or when you observe water in the moisture trap, ensure the compressor is powered off and depressurized. Press the drain button located at the bottom of the moisture trap to release accumulated water. Do not press this drain button when the machine is working or when the pressure cutoff stops.

Figure 5: Location of the drain button on the compressor's moisture trap for releasing condensed water.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your airbrush compressor kit.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No air flow from airbrush |
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| Uneven or sputtering spray |
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| Compressor frequently cycles on/off or overheats |
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Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | TIMBERTECH |
| Model Name | AS 186K |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Noise Level | 50 dB |
| Maximum Power | 0.2 Horsepower |
| Tank Volume | 3 Liters |
| Air Flow Capacity | 20-23 Liters Per Minute |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 4 Bars (58 PSI) |
| Auto Start/Stop | Starts at 3 Bar (43 PSI), Stops at 4 Bar (58 PSI) |
| Airbrush Nozzle Size | 0.30mm |
| Hose Length | 6 Feet |
| Product Dimensions | 13.39"L x 12.6"W x 5.91"H |
| Item Weight | 12.84 pounds |
Warranty and Support
For any product inquiries, technical support, or warranty claims, please contact TIMBERTECH customer service through your purchase platform or the official brand website.
Optional protection plans may be available for extended coverage. Please refer to your purchase details for more information on available plans and their terms.





