FLEX FX1331 24V Brushless Impact Driver User Manual

Model: FX1331
24V BRUSHLESS IMPACT DRIVER
OPERATOR’S MANUAL

SAFETY SYMBOLS

The purpose of safety symbols is to attract your attention to possible dangers. The safety symbols and the explanations with them deserve your careful attention and understanding. The symbol warnings do not, by themselves, eliminate any danger. The instructions and warnings they give are no substitutes for proper accident prevention measures.
WARNING
Be sure to read and understand all safety instructions in this Owner’s Manual, including all safety alert symbols such as “DANGER,” “WARNING,” and “CAUTION” before using this tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire, and/or serious personal injury.

The definitions below describe the level of severity for each signal word. Please read the manual and pay attention to these symbols.

| This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
---|---
DANGER| DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING| WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION| CAUTION, used with the safety alert symbol, indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in minor or moderate injury.

Damage Prevention and Information Messages
These inform the user of important information and/or instructions that could lead to equipment or other property damage if they are not followed. Each message is preceded by the word “NOTICE”, as in the example below:
NOTICE: Equipment and/or property damage may result if these instructions are not followed.
WARNING
The operation of any power tools can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which can result in severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation, always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields and a full face shield when needed. We recommend a Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side shields. Always use eye protection which is marked to comply with ANSI Z87.1.

GENERAL POWER TOOL SAFETY WARNINGS

WARNING
Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
SAVE ALL WARNINGS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.
The term “power tool” in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery operated (cordless) power tool.

Work area safety
Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.
Electrical safety
Power tool plugs must match the outlet.
Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or
entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected supply. Use of a GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.
Personal safety
Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as a dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool.
Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Keep your hair and clothing away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewelry or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of tools allow you to become complacent and ignore tool safety principles. A careless action can cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.
Power tool use and care
Do not force the power tool. Use the correct power tool for your application. The correct power tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.
Do not use the power tool if the switch does not turn it on and off. Any power tool that cannot be controlled with the switch is dangerous and must be repaired.
Disconnect the plug from the power source and/or remove the battery pack, if detachable, from the power tool before making any adjustments, changing accessories, or storing power tools. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the power tool accidentally.
Store idle power tools out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with the power tool or these instructions to operate the power tool. Power tools are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
Maintain power tools and accessories.
Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the power tool’s operation. If damaged, have the power tool repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits etc. in accordance with these instructions, taking into account the working conditions and the work to be performed.
Use of the power tool for operations different from those intended could result in a hazardous situation.
Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry, clean and free from oil and grease. Slippery handles and grasping surfaces do not allow for safe handling and control of the tool in
unexpected situations.
Battery tool use and care
Recharge only with the charger specified by the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable for one type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.
Use power tools only with specifically designated battery packs. Use of any otherbattery packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
When battery pack is not in use, keep it away from other metal objects, like paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other small metal objects, that can make a connection from one terminal to another.
Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.
Under abusive conditions, liquid may be ejected from the battery; avoid contact.
If contact accidentally occurs, flush with water. If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery may cause irritation or burns.
Do not use a battery pack or tool that is damaged or modified. Damaged or modifiedbatteries may exhibit unpredictable behavior resulting in fire, explosion or risk of injury.
Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or excessive temperature. Exposure to fire ortemperature above 265 °F (130 °C) may causeexplosion.
Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack or tool outside the temperature range specified in the instructions. Charging improperly or at temperatures outside the specified range maydamage the battery and increase the risk of fire.
Service
Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical replacement parts. This will ensure that thesafety of the power tool is maintained. Never service damaged battery packs.
Service of battery packs should only be performed by the manufacturer or authorizedservice providers Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces, when performing an operation where the fastener may contact hidden wiring. Fasteners contacting a “live” wire may make exposed metal parts of the power tool “live” and could give the operator an electric shock.

WARNING

• Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling and other construction activities contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth
  defects or other reproductive harm. Some examples of these chemicals are:
  – Lead from lead-based paints.
  – Crystalline silica from bricks, cement, and other masonry products.
  – Arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber.
  – Your risk from these exposures varies, depending upon how often you do this type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals:
  – Work in a well-ventilated area.
  – Work with approved safety equipment, such as dust masks that are specially designed to filter out microscopic particles.
  – Avoid prolonged contact with dust from power sanding, sawing, grinding, drilling, and other construction activities. Wear protective clothing and wash exposed areas  with soap and water.
  Allowing dust to get into your mouth or eyes or to lie on the skin may promote absorption of harmful chemicals.

SYMBOLS

IMPORTANT: Some of the following symbols may be used on your tool. Please study them and learn their meaning. Proper interpretation of these symbols will allow you to operate the tool better and safer.

surface speed, orbits, etc. per minute
0| Off position| Zero speed, zero torque…
1 ,2,3,…
1,11,111,| Selector settings| Speed, torque, or position settings. Higher number means greater speed
| Infinitely variable selector with off| Speed is increasing from 0 setting
| Arrow| Action in the direction of arrow
| Alternating current (AC)| Type or a characteristic of current
| Direct current (DC)| Type or a characteristic of current
| Alternating or direct current (AC / DC)| Type or a characteristic of current
| Class II tool| Designates Double Insulated Construction tools.
| Protective earth| Grounding terminal
| Li-ion RBRC seal| Designates Li-ion battery recycling program
| Read the instructions| Alerts user to read manual
| Wear eye protection symbol| Alerts user to wear eye protection
| Wear ear protection| Always wear sound barriers (ear plugs or ear mufflers) to protect your hearing.
| Always operate with two hands| Alerts user to always operate with two hands
| Do not use the guard for cut-off operations| Do not use the guard for cut- off operations

SYMBOLS (CERTIFICATION INFORMATION)

Laboratories.
| This symbol designates that this component is recognized by Underwriters Laboratories.
| This symbol designates that this tool is listed by Underwriters Laboratories, to United States and Canadian Standards.
| This symbol designates that this tool is listed by the Canadian Standards Association.
| This symbol designates that this tool is listed by the Canadian Standards Association, to United States and Canadian Standards.
| This symbol designates that this tool is listed by the Intertek Testing Services, to United States and Canadian Standards.

FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTIONS AND SPECIFICATIONS

Compact Impact Driver

NOTE: All charging times are subject to environmental temperature and the battery pack condition.

ASSEMBLY

WARNING
Detach the battery pack from the tool before making any assembly, adjustments or changing accessories. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of starting the tool accidentally.

TO ATTACH/DETACH BATTERY PACK (FIG. 2)
Lock the variable-speed trigger switch “OFF” on the tool by placing the direction-of-rotation (forward/center-lock/reverse) selector in the center position before attaching or detaching the battery pack.
To attach the battery pack:
Align the raised rib on the battery pack with the grooves in the tool, and then slide the battery pack onto the tool.
NOTICE: When placing the battery pack onto the tool, be sure that the raised rib on the battery pack aligns with the groove inside the tool and that the latches snap into place properly. Improper attachment of the battery pack can cause damage to internal components.

To detach the battery pack:
Depress the battery-release button located on the front of the battery pack, to release the battery pack. Pull the battery pack out and remove it from the tool.

REMOVABLE BELT CLIP (FIG. 3)
Your tool is equipped with a removable belt clip that can be positioned on the side of the tool for convenient transport.
Install the belt clip onto the tool:
a. Remove the battery pack from the tool.
b. Align the rib and the hole of the belt clip with the opening and the threaded hole on the base of the tool, respectively.
c. Insert the screw and securely tighten the screw with a screwdriver (not included).
Remove the belt clip from the tool:
a. Remove the battery pack from the tool.
b. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screw that attaches the belt clip to the impact driver.
c. Remove the screw and the belt clip.

REMOVABLE BIT CLIP (FIG. 4)
Your tool is also equipped with a removable bit clip that can be positioned on the side of the tool for storing bits.
Install the bit clip onto the tool:
a. Remove the battery pack from the tool.
b. Align the hole of the bit clip with the threaded hole on the base of the tool.
NOTICE: Ensure that the protruding part on the bit clip is kept flush against the step on the base of the tool to keep it steady.
c. Insert the screw and securely tighten the screw with a screwdriver (not included).
Remove the bit clip from the tool:
a. Remove the battery pack from the tool.
b. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screw that attaches the bit clip to the impact driver.
c. Remove the screw and the bit clip.

INSTALL AND REMOVE BITS (FIG. 5)
Your tool is equipped with a quick-change chuck, making the bit installation and removal very easy.
Lock the variable-speed trigger switch OFF by placing the direction-of- rotation selector in the center position.
To install the bit:
Pull the locking sleeve forward (away from the tool), insert the bit as far as it will go into the chuck, and release the locking sleeve to lock the bit.
To remove the bit:
Pull the locking sleeve forward (away from the tool). Pull the bit from the chuck and release the sleeve.
NOTICE: Use only bits with power grooves; other bits can be used with a universal bit holder that has power groove (not included). Do not use a bit that has a damaged shank.
WARNING
Use protective gloves when removing the bit from the tool, or first allow the bit to cool down. The bit may be hot after prolonged use.

ADJUSTMENTS

DIRECTION-OF-ROTATION (FORWARD/CENTER-LOCK/REVERSE) SELECTOR

WARNING
After tool use, lock the direction-of-rotation selector in the “OFF” position (center-lock) to help prevent accidental starts and possible injury.
Your tool is equipped with a direction-of-rotation selector, located above the variable-speed trigger switch. This selector is used to change the direction of rotation of the bit and to lock the variable-speed trigger in the “OFF” (center-lock) position.
a. Position the direction-of-rotation selector to the far left of the tool to tighten bolts/nuts (Fig. 6).
b. Position the direction-of-rotation selector to the far right of the tool to loosen bolts/nuts (Fig. 6).
c. Position the switch in the “OFF” (centerlock) position to help reduce the possibility of accidental starting when not in use.
NOTICE: To prevent gear damage, always allow the impact driver to come to a complete stop before changing the direction of rotation.

NOTICE: The impact driver will not run unless the direction-of-rotation selector is engaged fully to the left or to the right.
WARNING
Battery tools are always in operating condition.
Therefore, the direction-of-rotation (forward/ center-lock/reverse) selector should always be locked in the center position when the tool is not in use or when carrying it at your side.

VARIABLE-SPEED TRIGGER SWITCH (FIG. 7)
Your tool is equipped with a variable-speed trigger switch. The tool can be turned “ON” or “OFF” by depressing or releasing the variable speed trigger switch.
The variable-speed trigger switch delivers higher speed with increased trigger pressure and lower speed with decreased trigger pressure.
NOTE: In “ ” mode pressing the trigger switch will deliver the highest rotation speed within current mode regardless of the pressure exerted on the trigger switch.

LED LIGHT (FIG. 8)
Your tool is equipped with the LED work light.
This provides additional light on the surface of the workpiece for operation in lower-light areas.
The LED work light will automatically turn on with a slight squeeze on the trigger switch before the tool starts running. It will turn off approximately 10 seconds after the trigger switch is released.
Additional LED light functions:
a. The LED light will rapidly flash when the tool and/or battery pack becomes overloaded or too hot and the internal sensors will turn the tool off. Rest the tool for a while or place the tool and battery pack separately under air flow to cool them.
b. The LED light will flash more slowly to indicate that the battery pack charge is at low capacity.
Recharge the battery pack.c. If the LED light does not turn on when you start the tool, or it turns off suddenly during operation, please contact customer service or an authorized service center for assistance.

MODE SELECTION (FIG. 9)
Your tool is equipped with a speed control panel, located on the foot of the tool. It consists of the drive-control button and LED indicators for working modes.
The drive-control button is used to select among three modes with preset torque, rotation-speed (RPM), and impact-speed (IPM) for intended application. The modes 1 and 2 are the only modes where the speed is controlled by the variable-speed trigger switch.
To select the drive control mode:
a. First, check the active mode. Either depress and release the trigger switch or press the drive control button directly without touching the trigger switch. The LED indicator below the mode number will illuminate to indicate the active mode.
b. Press the drive-control button briefly (less than 0.5 second) to cycle through three modes. Each press changes one torque level. “ ” mode is a special mode for fastening selftapping screws into sheet metal. Use only the specified type of screw and material listed in the chart below. “ ” mode helps to prevent stripping the screw head, snapping the screw off, or damage to work surfaces. In “ ” mode, the tool will stop driving automatically once the screw head is perfectly flush with the work surface.

To select the “ ” mode:
First, check the active mode. Either depress and release the trigger switch or press the drive control button without touching the trigger switch. The LED indicator will illuminate to indicate the current mode setting. See more details in the chart below:

LED indicator displayed on panel| Working
Mode| Purpose| Example of application
---|---|---|---
| 1| Tightening when final appearance is important| Tightening screws into sensitive boards, such as plaster boards
| 2| When tightening, the torque is moderate| Driving screws into hard materials as well as tightening bolts
| | Driving self-tapping screws into sheet metal when final appearance is important| Recommended screw type: # 8 x 1/2”

ON ; OFF

NOTICE: The variety of wood density and metal material may affect the final outcome. The user should select appropriate mode based on the application.
WARNING
Do not change the working mode while the tool is running. Sudden change of torque may cause the loss of control causing possible injury or damage to the tool or workpiece.
NOTE: The LED indicator(s) will turn off approximately 1 min after the trigger switch is released.
NOTE: When the tool is turned on after a break, the working mode will revert to the last used setting.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING
To reduce the risk of fire, personal injury, and product damage due to a short circuit, never immerse your charger or battery pack in fluid or allow a fluid to flow inside them.
Corrosive or conductive fluids, such as seawater, certain industrial chemicals, and bleach or bleach-containing products, etc. can cause a short circuit.
WARNING
If any parts are damaged or missing, do not operate this product until the parts are replaced. Use of this product with damaged or missing parts could result in serious personal injury.
WARNING
Do not attempt to modify the charger or create accessories not recommended for use with this charger. Any such alteration or modification is misuse and could result in a
hazardous condition leading to possibly serious personal injury.
WARNING
To prevent accidental starting that could cause serious personal injury, always remove the battery pack from the tool when assembling parts.

This impact driver must be used only with the battery packs and chargers listed below:

NOTICE: Please refer to the battery pack and charger manuals for detailed operating information.

TIGHTEN AND LOOSEN SCREWS, NUTS AND BOLTS (FIG. 10 AND 11)
Select the “ “ mode as necessary, based on your application. For more details see related section: Mode Selection. For mode 1 or 2: variable-speed control must be used with caution for driving nuts and bolts using socketset attachments.
The best technique is to start slowly, increase speed as the nut or bolt runs down, and then set the nut or bolt snugly by slowing the tool to a stop. If this procedure is not followed, the tool will have a tendency to torque or twist in your hand when the nut or bolt seats.
It is advisable to perform a trial run on a scrap material to determine the best mode selection.
a. Install a suitable bit.
b. Apply just enough pressure to keep the bit engaged on the screw or nut.
c. For mode 1 or 2, apply minimal pressure to the variable-speed trigger switch initially.
Increase the speed only when full control can be maintained.

NOTICE:
a. Always use the correct type and size of bit for your application.
b. When turning in a screw at/near the crosscut end or an edge of wood, pre- drill a hole in order to avoid cracking of the wood.
c. When screw driving in hard wood, one should pre-drill a pilot hole.
WARNING
Do not over-tighten, as the force of the impact driver can break the fastener. Keep the impact driver at a right angle to the fastener to avoid damaging the fastener head.

MAINTENANCE

WARNING
To avoid serious personal injury, always remove the battery pack from the tool when cleaning or performing any maintenance.
SERVICE
WARNING
Preventive maintenance performed by unauthorized personnel may result in misplacing of internal wires and components which could cause a serious hazard. We recommend that all tool service be performed by a FLEX Factory Service Center or Authorized FLEX Service Station.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
WARNING
When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. Use of any other parts could create a hazard or cause product damage. Periodically inspect the entire product for damaged, missing, or loose parts such as screws, nuts, bolts, caps, etc. Tighten securely all fasteners and caps and do not operate this product until all missing or damaged parts are replaced. Please contact customer service or an authorized service center for assistance.
WARNING
To avoid serious personal injury, always remove the battery pack from the charger/tool when cleaning or performing any maintenance.
CLEANING
WARNING
The tool may be cleaned most effectively with compressed dry air. Always wear safety goggles when cleaning tools with compressed air. Ventilation openings and switch levers must be kept clean and free of foreign matter. Do not attempt to clean by inserting pointed objects through openings.
WARNING
Certain cleaning agents and solvents damage plastic parts. Some of these are: gasoline, carbon tetrachloride, chlorinated cleaning solvents, ammonia and household detergents
that contain ammonia.
STORAGE
Store the tool indoors in a place that is inaccessible to children. Keep away from corrosive agents.

FLEX LIMITED WARRANTY

Chervon North America, Inc. (“Seller”) warrants to the original purchaser only, that all FLEX 24V products will be free from defects in material or workmanship for a period of five years from date of purchase when the original purchaser registers the product within 30 days from the date of original retail purchase and retains their receipt as proof of purchase. THE 5-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY PERIOD IS CONDITIONED ON REGISTRATION OF THE PRODUCT WITHIN 30 DAYS OF PURCHASE AND ONLY APPLICABLE TO FLEX 24V TOOLS, BATTERIES AND CHARGERS. If the original purchaser does not register their product within 30 days, the foregoing limited warranty will apply for a duration of three years. Product registration can be completed online at www.registermyflex.com.
24V Tools: 5-Year Limited Warranty with Registration
24V Batteries and Chargers: 5-Year Limited Warranty with Registration
Corded, 12V and 20V FLEX Legacy Products: 1-Year Limited Warranty, No Registration Benefit
FLEX STACK PACK
Storage System: 1-Year Limited Warranty with Registration
Accessories and Attachments: No Warranty
SELLER’S SOLE OBLIGATION AND YOUR EXCLUSIVE REMEDY under this Limited Warranty and, to the extent permitted by law, any warranty or condition implied by law, shall be the repair or replacement of parts, without charge, which are defective in material or workmanship and which have not been misused, carelessly handled, or repaired by persons other than a FLEX Authorized Service Dealer. This warranty does not cover part failure due to normal wear and tear. To make a claim under warranty, return the complete product, transportation prepaid, to any FLEX Authorized Service Dealer. For Authorized FLEX Service Dealers, please visit www.registermyflex.com or call 1-833-FLEX-496 (1-833-353-9496).
The 5-Year Limited Warranty does not apply to accessories, attachments or parts. The 1-Year limited warranty for FLEX STACK PACK™ Storage System covers only tool boxes and does not apply to system attachments and power tool accessories.
Any implied warranties applicable to a product shall be limited in duration equal to the duration of the express warranties applicable to such product, as set forth in the first paragraph above. Some states in the U.S. and some Canadian provinces do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply.
FLEX is not responsible for direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages. Some U.S. states and Canadian provinces do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations or exclusions may not apply. This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary by state in the U.S. and by province in Canada.
This limited warranty applies only to products sold within the United States of America, Canada and the commonwealth of Puerto Rico. For warranty coverage within other countries, contact your local FLEX dealer.

Contact Us

833-FLEX-496 (833-3539-496)
www.Registermyflex.com

© Chervon North America, 1203 E. Warrenville Rd., Naperville, IL 60563
www.flexpowertools.com
www.registermyflex.com
1-833-FLEX-496 (1-833-353-9496)

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