1. Product Overview
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your KNIPEX tool set, which includes a Forged Wire Stripper, Ultra-High Leverage Lineman's Pliers, and Long Nose Pliers with Cutter. Each tool is designed for specific tasks in electrical and general construction work.
Figure 1: Overview of the KNIPEX tool set, featuring the 8-inch Forged Wire Stripper, 9.5-inch Ultra-High Leverage Lineman's Pliers, and 8-inch Long Nose Pliers.
2. Safety Information
Always observe general safety precautions when working with hand tools. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage to the tools or workpiece.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as safety glasses, when using these tools.
- Ensure tools are clean and in good working condition before each use.
- Do not use tools for purposes other than their intended design.
- Keep tools out of reach of children.
- Do not use tools on live electrical circuits unless specifically rated for insulated work. These tools are not insulated for live electrical work.
3. Setup and Initial Inspection
Upon receiving your KNIPEX tools, perform a visual inspection to ensure there is no damage from shipping. No specific assembly is required for these hand tools.
- Check for any visible defects, such as bent jaws, chipped cutting edges, or damaged handles.
- Ensure the joints of the pliers operate smoothly without excessive play or stiffness.
- Clean any manufacturing residues with a dry cloth if necessary.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 KNIPEX 13 72 8 Forged Wire Stripper (8-Inch)
This multi-functional tool is designed for stripping, cutting, and gripping wires, as well as cutting screws.
Figure 2: The KNIPEX 13 72 8 Forged Wire Stripper, showing stripping holes and screw cutting features.
- Wire Stripping:
- Identify the correct stripping hole for 10-20 AWG solid or stranded wire using the locating ridges.
- Insert the wire into the appropriate hole and close the handles firmly to cut the insulation.
- Pull the tool away from the wire to remove the stripped insulation.
- Screw Cutting:
- The tool can cut 6-32 and 8-32 screws without threading.
- Insert the screw into the designated hole from either the front or back of the tool.
- Close the handles to cut the screw cleanly.
- Wire Cutting:
- The cutting blades are designed for individual wires, NM-B, BX/MC, and battery cable.
- Position the wire or cable between the cutting blades and squeeze the handles to cut.
- Gripping and Looping:
- Use the knurled tip and wide flat jaws for enhanced grip on various materials.
- A dedicated wire looping groove is integrated for forming loops in wires.
- Lock Mechanism: The lock can be operated with either the right or left hand for convenience.
4.2 KNIPEX 09 02 240 SBA Ultra-High Leverage Lineman's Pliers (9.5-Inch)
These pliers feature an ultra-high leverage design for reduced cutting effort and versatile gripping capabilities.
Figure 3: The KNIPEX 09 02 240 SBA Lineman's Pliers, showcasing its robust jaws and cutting edges.
- Cutting:
- The cutting edges are hardened to approximately 64 HRC, suitable for both soft and hard wire.
- Maximum cutting capacities: 4.6 mm for medium hard wire and 3.0 mm for hard wire.
- The ultra-high leverage design requires 25% less effort compared to standard designs.
- Gripping and Pulling:
- Utilize the effective crosswise serrated gripping zone on the jaws for strong gripping and pulling.
- An additional gripping zone below the articulated joint provides powerful leverage for pressing tasks.
- Deburring Conduit Pipes:
- The oval-shaped recess on the back of the jaws is designed for deburring conduit pipes.
- Slightly open the jaws, insert the conduit into the round shape, and rotate to deburr.
Figure 4: KNIPEX Lineman's Pliers demonstrating their cutting capability on a cable.
4.3 KNIPEX 26 12 200 Long Nose Pliers with Cutter (8-Inch)
These long nose pliers are ideal for precision gripping and cutting in confined spaces.
Figure 5: The KNIPEX 26 12 200 Long Nose Pliers, featuring long, half-round jaws and integrated cutting edges.
- Precision Gripping:
- The half-round, long jaws with serrated gripping surfaces provide secure hold for small components.
- High loadable, elastic precision points allow access to tight areas.
- Wire Cutting:
- Integrated cutting edges are induction hardened to approximately 61 HRC.
- Capable of cutting medium hard wire up to 3.2 mm diameter and hard wire up to 2.2 mm diameter.
- Comfort Handles: Equipped with two-color dual component material handles for comfortable use.
5. Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your KNIPEX tools.
- Cleaning: After each use, wipe tools clean with a dry cloth to remove dirt, dust, and debris. For stubborn grime, a mild solvent can be used, followed by thorough drying.
- Lubrication: Periodically apply a light machine oil to the joints of the pliers to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust. Wipe off any excess oil.
- Storage: Store tools in a dry environment to prevent corrosion. Keep them in a tool roll, box, or drawer to protect cutting edges and jaw surfaces from damage.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect cutting edges for nicks or dullness. While KNIPEX tools are designed for durability, severe damage may require professional sharpening or replacement.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your hand tools.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pliers joint stiff or squeaky | Lack of lubrication, dirt accumulation | Clean the joint and apply a few drops of light machine oil. Work the joint to distribute the oil. |
| Cutting edges not cutting cleanly | Dullness, damage from improper use (e.g., cutting hardened materials) | Inspect for nicks. If dull, consider professional sharpening or replacement. Avoid cutting materials beyond the tool's rated capacity. |
| Wire stripper not removing insulation effectively | Incorrect stripping hole selected, dull blades, improper technique | Ensure the correct AWG hole is used. Apply firm, consistent pressure. Inspect blades for wear. |
| Screw cutter not cutting screws | Incorrect screw size, screw not fully inserted, dull blades | Verify screw size (6-32 or 8-32). Ensure screw is fully seated in the hole. Apply firm pressure. |
7. Specifications
Key specifications for the KNIPEX tool set:
- Brand: KNIPEX
- Handle Material: Plastic (Multi-component comfort grips)
- Grip Type: Power / Comfort Grip
- Compliance: REACH and RoHS compliant
- Manufacturer: KNIPEX
7.1 KNIPEX 13 72 8 Forged Wire Stripper
- Model Number: 13 72 8
- Length: 8 inches
- Wire Stripping Capacity: 10-20 AWG (solid and stranded)
- Screw Cutting Capacity: 6-32, 8-32
- Weight: Approximately 9 ounces
7.2 KNIPEX 09 02 240 SBA Ultra-High Leverage Lineman's Pliers
- Model Number: 09 02 240 SBA
- Length: 9.5 inches
- Cutting Edge Hardness: Approx. 64 HRC
- Cutting Capacity (Medium Hard Wire): 4.6 mm
- Cutting Capacity (Hard Wire): 3.0 mm
7.3 KNIPEX 26 12 200 Long Nose Pliers with Cutter
- Model Number: 26 12 200
- Length: 8 inches
- Cutting Edge Hardness: Approx. 61 HRC
- Cutting Capacity (Medium Hard Wire): Max. 3.2 mm
- Cutting Capacity (Hard Wire): Max. 2.2 mm
8. Warranty and Support
KNIPEX tools are manufactured to high-quality standards and are designed for durability and performance. For specific warranty information, please refer to the official KNIPEX website or contact their customer support directly.
For technical assistance, product inquiries, or warranty claims, please visit the official KNIPEX website or contact their authorized distributors.
Manufacturer: KNIPEX-Werk C. Gustav Putsch KG, Wuppertal-Cronenberg, Germany.
