Framing nail gun splitting lumber

[n74tg]

Yes, it has started splitting a fairly high percentage of the boards I nail with it, especially if I am nailing anywhere near the end of the 2x4.   I haven't adjusted the pressure at the compressor since I've had it (that setting seems to have worked well in the past if memory serves).  All the lumber has been #2 southern pine.


Should I lower my pressure on the compressor?  If not that, then what...thanks

[MountainDon]

Hmmm. I've not run into that. Rather the other way around; air nailing results in fewer splits.

This is 2x material, or 1x ?

What happens when you drive a common nail by hand in the same places? Does it split. When hand driving and encountering splits, flattening the point with a hammer blow usually works to cut down the slpits. That way the fibers are cut/torn, rather than been pushed aside or split.

I believe lowering the air pressure too much will only cause the nails to not be driven all the way. But try it and see if it prevents splits; finish by hand.

Try filing the nail points flat?? 

[Jens]

Is your lumber frozen?  That makes a big difference.  I always run my nailers on about 125 psi.  usually only have a problem with splitting if the lumber is frozen, but sometimes KD lumber does it as well.  I miss the fresh off the tree doug fir from out west!  Heavier, and wet, but much better IMO.  Make sure your nails are placed about 1" minimum from the end of the board.

[phalynx]

It could just be a bad batch of wood.  I have had that happen on many sticks and then it just stops.

[NM_Shooter]

Mine will split lumber if I over-drive the nail.  Lower your air pressure and try it again.

-f-

[bayview]

   You may be over driving the nails.  Pressure may be to high or the contacting element may need to be reset. 

   I run my paslode framing nailers at about 90-100 psi.  Exceeding 120 psi will blow the seals.

   Downloaded directly from paslode . . . It should be, move down to DECREASE drive depth.

[n74tg]

Your picture shows that if you move up or down you increase drive depth.

No, the lumber is not frozen.

All lumber is 2x southern pine stock.

Some is new lumber, some is old lumber. 

I'll check what pressure the compressor is on, but I think it's about 100 psi.

Framing nailer is a Porter Cable unit.

[bayview]

   Downloaded directly from paslode . . . It should be, move down to DECREASE drive depth.