Bostitch SL1838BC Cap Stapler Kit
INTRODUCTION
The Bostitch SL1838BC is a precision-built tool, designed for high-speed, high-volume nailing and stapling. These tools will deliver efficient, dependable service when used correctly and with care. As with any fine power tool, for best performance, the manufacturer’s instructions must be followed. Please study this manual before operating the tool and understand the safety warnings and cautions. The instructions on installation, operation, and maintenance should be read carefully, and the manual should be kept for reference.
NOTE: Additional safety measures may be required because of your particular application of the tool. Contact your BOSTITCH representative or distributor with any questions concerning the tool and its use call Bostitch Customer Service at 1-800-556-6696 or write to: Bostitch Customer Service, Briggs Drive, East Greenwich, RI 02818. You may also consult www.bostitch.com
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
EYE PROTECTION which conforms to ANSI specifications and provides protection against flying particles both from the FRONT and SIDE should ALWAYS be worn by the operator and others in the work area when connecting to air supply, loading, operating, or servicing this tool. Eye protection is required to guard against flying fasteners and debris, which could cause severe eye injury.
The employer and/or user must ensure that proper eye protection is worn. Eye protection equipment must conform to the requirements of the American National Standards Institute, ANSI Z87.1, and provide both frontal and side protection.
NOTE: Non-side shielded spectacles and face shields alone do not provide adequate protection.
CAUTION: Additional Safety Protection will be required in some environments. For example, the working area may include exposure to noise level which can lead to hearing damage. The employer and user must ensure that any necessary hearing protection is provided and used by the operator and others in the work area. Some environments will require the use of head protection equipment. When required, the employer and user must ensure that head protection conforming to ANSI Z89.1 is used.
AIR SUPPLY AND CONNECTIONS
WARNINGS
- Do not use oxygen, combustible gases, or bottled gases as a power source for this tool as tool may explode, possibly causing injury.
- Do not use supply sources that can potentially exceed 200 P.S.I.G. as a tool may burst, possibly causing injury.
- The connector on the tool must not hold pressure when the air supply is disconnected. If a wrong fitting is used, the tool can remain charged with air after disconnecting and thus will be able to drive a fastener even after the air line is disconnected possibly causing injury.
- Do not pull the trigger or depress the contact arm while connected to the air supply as the tool may cycle, possibly causing injury.
- Always disconnect the air supply:
- Before making adjustments;
- When servicing the tool;
- When clearing a jam;
- When the tool is not in use;
- When moving to a different work area, accidental actuation may occur, possibly causing injury.
LOADING TOOL
WARNINGS
- When loading tool:
- Never place a hand or any part of the body in the fastener discharge area of the tool;
- Never point the tool at anyone;
- Do not pull the trigger or depress the trip as accidental actuation may occur, possibly causing injury.
OPERATION
WARNINGS
- Always handle the tool with care:
- Never engage in horseplay;
- Never pull the trigger unless your nose is directed toward the work;
- Keep others a safe distance from the tool while the tool is in operation as accidental actuation may occur, possibly causing injury.
- The operator must not hold the trigger pulled on contact arm tools except during fastening operation as serious injury could result if the trip accidentally contacted someone or something, causing the tool to cycle.
- Keep hands and body away from the discharge area of the tool. A contact arm tool may bounce from the recoil of driving a fastener and an unwanted second fastener may be driven possibly causing injury.
- Check the operation of the contact arm mechanism frequently. Do not use the tool if the arm is not working correctly as accidental driving of a fastener may result. Do not interfere with the proper operation of the contact arm mechanism.
- Do not drive fasteners on top of other fasteners or with the tool at an overly steep angle as this may cause deflection of fasteners which could cause injury.
- Do not drive fasteners close to the edge of the workpiece as the wood may split, allowing the fastener to be deflected possibly causing injury.
- This nailer produces SPARKS during operation. NEVER use the nailer near flammable substances, gases, or vapors including lacquer, paint, benzine, thinner, gasoline, adhesives, mastics, glues or any other material that is — or the vapors, fumes, or byproducts of which are — flammable, combustible or explosive. Using the nailer in any such environment could cause an EXPLOSION resulting in personal injury or death to the user and bystanders.
MAINTAINING THE TOOL
WARNINGS
When working on air tools note the warnings in this manual and use extra care when evaluating problem tools.
TOOL SPECIFICATIONS
All dimensions in inches unless otherwise specified.
SL1838BC | |
Description | 18ga Cap Stapler |
Engine Type | Oil-Free |
Operation Pressure Range | 70-120 PSI (4.9 to 8.43kg/cm2) |
Maximum Operation Pressure | 120 PSI (8.43 kg/cm2) |
Fastener Type | SL5035 Series |
Fastener Gauge | 18 Gauge |
Fastener Range | 3/4” – 1-1/2”(19mm-38mm) |
Magazine Capacity | 163 |
Length | 11-1/4” (286mm) |
Width | 6-1/4” (159mm) |
Height | 10-1/2” (267mm) |
Weight | 3.9lbs. (1.77kg) |
Operating Pressure:
70 to 120 p.s.i.g. (4.9 to 8.43 kg/cm2). Select the operating pressure within in this range for best fastener performance. DO NOT EXCEED THIS RECOMMENDED OPERATING PRESSURE.
Air Consumption:
The SL1838BC requires 2.83 cubic feet per minute or C.F.M. (80.1 liters per minute or LT/MIN) of free air at 80PSI (5.6 kg/cm2) to operate at a rate of 60 fasteners per minute. To determine the appropriately sized air compressor, take the actual rate at which the tool will be run, and compare the required C.F.M. (LT/MIN) to the compressor’s free air delivery (C.F.M./ LT/MIN) at 80 PSI (5.6 kg/cm2).
For example, if your fastener usage averages 30 fasteners per minute, you need 50% of the tool’s C.F.M. required to operate the tool at the rate of 60 fasteners per minute. In this case, be sure that your air compressor can deliver a minimum of 1.42 C.F.M. (40.2 LT/MIN) at 80 PSI(5.6 kg/cm2) for optimum performance
FASTENER SPECIFICATIONS
NOTE:
BOSTITCH tools have been engineered to provide superior customer satisfaction and are designed to achieve maximum performance when used with precision BOSTITCH fasteners engineered to the same exacting standards.
BOSTITCH cannot assume responsibility for product performance if our tools are used with fasteners or accessories not meet the specific requirements established for genuine BOSTITCH fasteners and accessories.
TOOL OPERATION
EYE PROTECTION which conforms to ANSI specifications and provides protection against flying particles both from the FRONT and SIDE should ALWAYS be worn by the operator and others in the work area when connecting to air supply, loading, operating, or servicing this tool. Eye protection is required to guard against flying fasteners and debris, which could cause severe eye injury.
The employer and/or user must ensure that proper eye protection is worn. Eye protection equipment must conform to the requirements of the American National Standards Institute, ANSI Z87.1, and provide both frontal and side protection.
NOTE: Non-side shielded spectacles and face shields alone do not provide adequate protection.
BEFORE HANDLING OR OPERATING THIS TOOL:
- READ AND UNDERSTAND THE WARNINGS CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL.
- REFER TO “TOOL SPECIFICATIONS” IN THIS MANUAL TO IDENTIFY THE OPERATING SYSTEM ON YOUR TOOL.
TRIP OPERATION MODE
Warning: Always disconnect air supply before making adjustments as accidental actuation may occur,
possibly causing injury.
The SL1838BC features a selectable trigger system that allows the user to choose between the following modes of operation:
- Contact Trip Operation
- Sequential Trip Operation
CONTACT TRIP:
The common operation procedure on “Contact Trip” tools is for the operator to contact the work surface to actuate the trip mechanism while keeping the trigger pulled, thus driving a fastener each time the work surface is contacted. This will allow rapid fastener placement on many jobs. All pneumatic tools are subject to recoil when driving fasteners. The tool may bounce, releasing the trip, and if unintentionally allowed to recontact the work surface with the trigger still actuated (finger still holding the trigger pulled) an unwanted second fastener will be driven.
SEQUENTIAL TRIP:
The Sequential Trip requires the operator to hold the tool against the work before pulling the trigger. This makes accurate fastener placement easier. The Sequential Trip allows exact fastener location without the possibility if driving a second fastener on recoil as described under “Contact Trip”. The Sequential Trip Tool has a positive advantage because it will not accidentally drive a fastener if the tool is contacted against thework surface – or anything else – while the operator is holding the trigger pulled.
SELECTINGTHE TRIP MODE:
To ensure safety, the user must lock the trigger (as described above) before changing the trigger system. To change the trip mode, rotate the mode switch in the counterclockwise direction. The mode switch will lock automatically when the indicating arrow is pointing down to the 3 nail icon stamped into the tool frame (Contact Trip Mode) or to a single nail icon stamped in the tool frame( Sequential Trip Mode). Unlock the trigger to resume tool operation.
AIR SUPPLY AND CONNECTIONS
WARNING: Do not use oxygen, combustible gases, or bottled gases as a power source for this tool as tool may explode, possibly causing injury.
FITTINGS:
Install a male plug on the tool which is free flowing and which will release air pressure from the tool when disconnected from the supply source.
HOSES:
Air hoses should have a minimum of 150 p.s.i. (10.6 kg/cm2) working pressure rating or 150 percent of the maximum pressure that could be produced in the air system. The supply hose should contain a fitting that will provide “quick disconnecting” from the male plug on the tool.
SUPPLY SOURCE:
Use only clean regulated compressed air as a power source for this tool. NEVER USE OXYGEN, COMBUSTIBLE GASES, OR BOTTLED GASES, AS A POWER SOURCE FOR THIS TOOL MAY EXPLODE.
REGULATOR:
A pressure regulator with an operating pressure of 0 – 125 p.s.i. (0 – 8.79 kg/cm2) is required to control the operating pressure for safe operation of this tool. Do not connect this tool to air pressure which can potentially exceed 200 p.s.i. (14 kg/cm2) as tool may fracture or burst, possibly causing injury.
OPERATING PRESSURE:
Do not exceed the recommended maximum operating pressure as tool wear will be greatly increased. The air supply must be capable of maintaining the operating pressure at the tool. Pressure drops in the air supply can reduce the tool’s driving power. Refer to “TOOL SPECIFICATIONS” for setting the correct operating pressure for the tool.
FILTER:
Dirt and water in the air supply are major causes of wear in pneumatic tools. A filter will help to get the best performance and minimum wear from the tool. The filter must have adequate flow capacity for the specific installation. The filter has to be kept clean to be effective in providing clean compressed air to the tool. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions on proper maintenance of your filter. A dirty and clogged filter will cause a pressure drop which will reduce the tool’s performance.
LOADING STAPLES
WARNINGS:
EYE PROTECTION which conforms to ANSI specifications and provides protection against flying particles both from the FRONT and SIDE should ALWAYS be worn by the operator and others in the work area when loading, operating or servicing this tool. Eye protection is required to guard against flying fasteners and debris, which could cause severe eye injury.
The employer and/or user must ensure that proper eye protection is worn. Eye protection equipment must conform to the requirements of the American National Standards Institute, ANSI Z87.1 and provides both frontal and side protection. NOTE: Non-side shielded spectacles and face shields alone do not provide adequate protection.
TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL INJURIES:
- Never place a hand or any other part of the body in nail discharge area of tool while the air supply is connected.
- Never point the tool at anyone else.
- Never engage in horseplay.
- Never pull the trigger unless your nose is directed at the work.
- Always handle the tool with care.
- Do not pull the trigger or depress the trip mechanism while loading the tool.
Loading the Staples:
- Pull the pusher all the way back.
- Allow the pusher to rotate down into the notch in the magazine.
- Load the staples.
- Slide the staples all the way forward.
- Pull back on the pusher.
- Allow the pusher to rotate up out of the notch in the magazine.
- Allow the pusher to slide forward in contact with the staples.
INSTALLING THE SHORT-STAPLE GUIDE (OPTIONAL)
NOTE: Only use the Short Staple Guide to drive staples from 1/2” to 3/4” long.
- Place the Short Staple Guide on the tool magazine.
- Use the provided screw (MSC4070-8) to attach the Short Staple Guide to the magazine.
LOADING CAPS
Loading the Plastic Disks:
- Pull up on the pusher for the plastic disks.
- Rotate the pusher out of the magazine.
- Load the plastic disks (held together on a plastic pull string).
- Rotate the pusher back into the magazine.
- Pull up and completely remove the plastic pull string.
DIAL-A-DEPTH™ FASTENER CONTROL ADJUSTMENT
The DIAL-A-DEPTH™ Fastener control adjustment feature provides close control of the fastener drive depth: from flush with the work surface to shallow or deep countersink. First set the air pressure for consistent drive in the specific work as described on page 4, then use the DIAL-A-DEPTH™ fastener control adjustment to give the desired depth of drive.
TRIGGER LOCKOUT CONTROL
The trigger lockout control feature on BOSTITCH pneumatic tools provides a trigger lock feature for added safety control. Push the lockout control button in or out to activate or lock the tool trigger.
IN ADDITION TO THE OTHER WARNINGS CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING FOR SAFE OPERATION
- Use the BOSTITCH pneumatic tool only for the purpose for which it was designed.
- Never use this tool in a manner that could cause a fastener to be directed toward the user or others in the work area.
- Do not use the tool as a hammer.
- Always carry the tool by the handle. Never carry the tool by the air hose.
- Do not alter or modify this tool from the original design or function without approval from BOSTITCH, INC.
- Always be aware that misuse and improper handling of this tool can cause injury to yourself and others.
- Never clamp or tape the trigger or contact trip in an actuated position.
- Never leave a tool unattended with the air hose attached.
- Do not operate this tool if it does not contain a legible WARNING LABEL.
- Do not continue to use a tool that leaks air or does not function properly. Notify your nearest Bostitch representative if your tool continues to experience functional problems.
TOOL OPERATION CHECK
CAUTION: Remove all fasteners from the tool before performing the tool operation check.
CONTACT TRIP OPERATION
- With finger off the trigger, press the contact trip against the work surface.
THE TOOL MUST NOT CYCLE. - Hold the tool off the work surface, and pull the trigger.
THE TOOL MUST NOT CYCLE. - With the tool off the work surface, pull the trigger. Press the contact trip against the work surface.
THE TOOL MUST CYCLE. - Without touching the trigger, press the contact trip against the work surface, then pull the trigger.
THE TOOL MUST CYCLE.
SEQUENTIAL TRIP OPERATION
- Press the contact trip against the work surface, without touching the trigger.
THE TOOL MUST NOT CYCLE. - Hold the tool off the work surface and pull the trigger.
THE TOOL MUST NOT CYCLE.
Release the trigger. The trigger must return to the trigger stop on the frame. - Pull the trigger and press the contact trip against the work surface.
THE TOOL MUST NOT CYCLE. - With finger off the trigger, press the contact trip against the work surface. Pull the trigger.
THE TOOL MUST CYCLE.
MAINTAINING THE PNEUMATIC TOOL
WARNING: When working on air tools, note the warnings in this manual and use extra care evaluating
problem tools.
REPLACEMENT PARTS:
BOSTITCH replacement parts are recommended. Do not use modified parts or parts which will not give
equivalent performance to the original equipment.
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE FOR SEALS:
When repairing a tool, make sure the internal parts are clean and lubricated. Use Parker “O”-LUBE or
equivalent on all “O”-rings. Coat each “O”-ring with “O”-LUBE before assembling. Use a small amount of oil on all moving surfaces and pivots. After reassembly add a few drops of BOSTITCH Air Tool Lubricant through the air line fitting before testing.
AIR SUPPLY PRESSURE AND VOLUME:
Air volume is as important as air pressure. The air volume supplied to the tool may be inadequate because of undersize fittings and hoses, or from the effects of dirt and water in the system. Restricted air flow will prevent the tool from receiving an adequate volume of air, even though the pressure reading is high. The results will be slow operation, misfeeds or reduced driving power. Before evaluating tool problems for these symptoms, trace the air supply from the tool to the supply source for restrictive connectors, swivel fittings, low points containing water, and anything else that would prevent full volume flow of air to the tool.
MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
Maintenance | Benefit | Procedure | Service Interval |
Inspect trigger performance | Ensure trigger system is in proper working order | Refer to Tool Operation Check section in this manual | Daily |
Drain condensation from air compressor tanks and air filters (if present) | Prevents accumulation of moisture that can impede tool performance | Open drain cock on tanks and air filters and drain all condensate | Daily |
Clean magazine assembly | Prevents accumulation of debris that could cause a jam | Blow clean with compressed air | Daily |
Clean nose assembly | Prevents accumulation of debris that could cause a jam | Blow clean with compressed air | Daily |
Ensure all fasteners remain tight | Prevent loose parts | Tighten all fasteners with appropriately sized hex wrench | Weekly |
Check/clean air inlet air filter | Maintains proper air flow to engine for peak performance. | Remove end cap and use compressed air blow gun to blow filter clean. Replace filter as required. | 25,000 Fasteners, or monthly – if used in dusty location |
Replace no-mar tip | Prevents marks in softwood applications | Remove worn no-mar tip and replace with a new tip (a spare tip is located on the magazine) | 25,000 Fasteners |
Replace swivel air fitting | Maintains proper air flow to engine for peak performance | Remove worn swivel air fitting and replace with new swivel fitting | 50,000 Fasteners |
Replace piston/driver assembly | Maintains consistent drive quality | Refer to replacement part kit instructions | 150,000 Fasteners |
Replace O-rings | Maintains engine for peak performance | Refer to replacement part kit instructions | 250,000 Fasteners |
Replace bumper | Maintains engine for peak performance | Refer to replacement part kit instructions | 250,000 Fasteners |
Replace headvalve | Maintains engine for peak performance | Refer to replacement part kit instructions | 250,000 Fasteners |
Replace engine cylinder | Maintains engine for peak performance | Refer to replacement part kit instructions | 500,000 Fasteners |
TROUBLESHOOTING

AVAILABLE ACCESSORIES
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Bostitch SL1838BC Cap Stapler Kit-FAQS
Can standard staples be used in a Bostitch stapler?
No, standard staples cannot be used in this model. You must use the specific staples designed for compatibility with the Bostitch SL1838BC stapler.
How does a stapler work?
A stapler uses leverage to drive a staple through materials and bend its ends to secure them. In surgical staplers, for example, staples are implanted into tissue to hold it together and prevent leaks.
What are cap nails, and what are they used for?
Cap nails, also called galvanized nails with plastic caps, are versatile fasteners commonly used in roofing projects. They secure materials like tarps, foam insulation, house wraps, and sheathing.
What is staple wire made of?
Most office staples are made of zinc-plated steel wire. The wire is drawn through steel dies to achieve the desired diameter and then formed into staples.
What features should I look for in a stapler?
Key features to consider include:
1. A long handle for added leverage.
2. Extended bases or rubber suction cups for stability.
3. Anti-jam mechanisms for smoother operation.
4. Compact size for desktop use.
Why does my stapler have two settings?
Staplers with two settings allow for:
1. Inward bending of staple points for permanent attachment.
2. Outward splaying of points for temporary attachment, making staples easier to remove.
What happens if staples are left in too long?
Leaving staples in for an extended period can lead to skin marks or scarring, especially in surgical or medical applications. Timely removal is crucial to avoid complications.
How should staples be placed correctly?
To place staples:
1. Align the center mark on the stapler with the center of the material or wound.
2. Press the stapler firmly onto the surface without excessive indentation.
3. Squeeze the handle gently to eject the staple securely.
How do staple stitches work?
In medical applications, staples are used to bring skin edges together. Light pressure is applied to elevate the skin edges, and the stapler is aligned to insert staples accurately, ensuring the wound edges are securely joined.