← Back
Troubleshooting Guide

A100 Troubleshooting — Error Codes, Pressure Loss & Pump Problems

The A100 is the most capable sprayer in the Magnum range — and when it stops working, the fix is usually faster than you think. This guide covers every common fault with the exact cause and fix, including part numbers.

⚠️ Safety first — always: Before inspecting or servicing any component, follow the Pressure Relief Procedure: turn power switch OFF → turn pressure control to minimum → move Prime/Spray valve to PRIME → hold gun toward pail and trigger briefly. Never work on a pressurised sprayer.

Error Codes — E01, E02, E05

The A100 shows error codes on the control board when something is wrong. Here is what each means and what to do.

E01

Control board fault or motor overload

Unplug from mains. Wait 45 minutes for the motor and board to cool completely. Plug back in and try again. If E01 returns immediately — the control board or motor needs replacing — part numbers in the A100 guide. Contact your authorised service centre and quote code AFX10.

E02

Motor overcurrent — usually pump blockage

Unplug. Check for dried paint in the pump — particularly if the sprayer was stored without flushing. Remove the ProConnect pump (number in A100 guide) and check for blockage. If the pump turns freely by hand after clearing — restart. If E02 persists after clearing: control board (number in A100 guide).

E05

Pressure sensor or board fault

Unplug. Wait 45 minutes. Try again. E05 is typically a board fault. If it returns: control board (number in A100 guide). Have your series code ready when contacting the service centre — it's on the model tag on the bottom of the unit.

💡 Need the exact part numbers? They're all in the A100 Parts Manual — 14 pages, available instantly.
Get the A100 Parts Manual ☕

Full Troubleshooting Table

ProblemLikely causeFix
Motor does not start Switch OFF or pressure at zero Switch ON. Turn pressure knob clockwise.
No power at outlet Test outlet with another device. Check fuse.
Extension cord damaged or too thin Replace cord. Min. 1.5mm² up to 30m · 2.5mm² up to 50m.
Pump blocked — paint or frost Unplug. If frozen: thaw completely first. Remove pump cover and check fan turns freely by hand before restarting. Forcing a blocked pump destroys the motor.
Pump does not prime Prime/Spray valve on SPRAY Move valve to PRIME. Let fluid run 30–60 seconds.
Inlet filter blocked or suction tube not submerged Clean inlet filter → A100 guide. Push suction tube to bottom of pail.
Pump loses pressure during spraying Suction hose cracked or loose Inspect suction hose → A100 guide. Replace garden hose seal → A100 guide.
Paint too thick or contaminated Strain paint. Thin to recommended viscosity — max 5% water for emulsions.
Fluid filter blocked Relieve pressure (see above). Clean or replace fluid filter → A100 guide.
Paint runs on wall Pressure too low, tip too large, or gun too close Increase pressure. Use smaller tip. Max tip for A100: TRA621. Hold gun 30cm from surface.
Uneven / thin coverage Pressure, tip, or speed incorrect Increase pressure. Use larger tip. Move gun slower. Overlap passes 50%.
Tip clogged Debris or dried paint in opening Engage trigger lock. Rotate tip to UNCLOG position. Trigger briefly into pail. Rotate back to SPRAY.
Motor overheating Ventilation blocked, cord issue, or unregulated generator Clear ventilation slots. Check cord. Generator: minimum 3500W regulated. Allow 45 min to cool before restarting.
Trigger jams Trigger lock engaged Rotate trigger lock lever to unlocked position before use.

Pressure Loss — Step by Step Diagnosis

Pressure loss on the A100 has four common causes. Work through them in this order before calling a service centre:

  1. Tip worn or wrong size. A worn tip loses up to 30% efficiency. Swap tip first — it solves the problem in most cases. Max tip for A100: TRA621 (0.021 inch).
  2. Fluid filter blocked. Relieve pressure. Remove the fluid filter → A100 guide from the outlet manifold. Clean under running water. Replace if damaged — do not run without it.
  3. Inlet filter blocked. The inlet strainer → A100 guide sits at the bottom of the suction tube. Remove and clean.
  4. Pump valves worn. If all filters are clean and pressure is still low, the ProConnect displacement pump → A100 guide has worn inlet or outlet valves. Replace the pump as a complete unit — do not attempt to service valves individually.

TSL — Throat Seal Liquid

The A100 has an Easy Access Door (part V on the component diagram) that opens to reveal the TSL fill point. TSL → A100 guide is a sealing fluid that protects the pump throat seal during operation and storage.

Rule: Before every use, check the TSL level through the Easy Access Door. Add TSL → A100 guide (4oz bottle) if low. Never operate the A100 without TSL — the pump throat seal dries out within minutes of dry running.

ProConnect Pump Removal

The A100 uses Graco's ProConnect system — the pump can be removed without tools in under two minutes. This is essential for clearing blockages and replacing the pump.

  1. Follow Pressure Relief Procedure (see top of page).
  2. Open the Easy Access Door (part V).
  3. Use the pump removal tool included with the sprayer — insert into the pump retaining nut.
  4. Turn retaining nut counterclockwise to loosen.
  5. Disconnect outlet hose and suction hose from pump.
  6. Slide pump out of the drive housing.
  7. Inspect for blockage. Clear or replace pump → A100 guide.
  8. Reinstall: slide in, connect hoses, torque retaining ring to 95 ±7 Nm. Check O-ring → A100 guide at collar — replace if leaking.

When to Call a Service Centre

Some repairs on the A100 require authorised service — particularly anything involving the motor, control board, or drive housing. If you have cleared all filters, replaced the pump, and the error code persists — it is time to contact an authorised centre.

When you call, have ready: your model number and series code from the tag on the bottom of the unit (e.g. Model 17H213, Series A). Mention code AFX10 — AirlessFix users get priority handling.

☕ Get the A100 Parts Manual

14 pages of part numbers, diagrams and service notes for the A100 230V EU. Available in EN, NL, FR, DE, ES. Buy Marc a coffee and download instantly.

Get the A100 Parts Manual ☕