Symptoms
- Trigger pulls but nothing feeds
- Coil advances unevenly or skips nails
- Gritty or gummed-up feel around the magazine
- Works for a while then stops feeding
Likely causes
- CommonShingle grit and dust built up in the feed mechanismAsphalt granules work into the coil track and jam the pawl that advances nails.
- CommonCoil loaded backward or misalignedCoil nailers are sensitive to correct loading direction and tension.
- PossibleInsufficient air pressureRoofing nailers often need higher PSI than framing nailers to cycle reliably.
- Less commonWorn feed pawl or springA mechanical wear part that needs replacement after heavy use.
What to do
- Disconnect air and remove the coil before inspecting the magazine.
- Brush out and blow out shingle grit and dust from the coil track and feed pawl area with compressed air.
- Reload the coil following the manual's orientation exactly, keeping proper tension on the coil.
- Check compressor output against the tool's recommended PSI range and increase if it's on the low end.
- Reconnect air and test-fire into scrap material, watching whether the coil advances one nail per shot.
- If feeding stays inconsistent after cleaning and correct loading, the feed pawl or spring may be worn and need replacement.
- Clean the tool after every roofing job, since grit buildup is the most common recurring cause.
Tools and parts
- Compressed air/blower
- Small brush
Coil roofing nails (correct gauge)Search: “coil roofing nails for pneumatic nailer”
Feed pawl/spring kitSearch: “roofing nailer feed pawl spring replacement”
When to call a pro
If cleaning and correct loading don't restore feeding, a tool repair shop can replace the feed pawl or spring.
Safety
Use caution
Disconnect air before clearing jams and keep the tool pointed away from yourself and others.