Topic: air compressor query

[rbmgf7]

i just purchased a used craftsman 5HP, 2 phase, 20 gal., horizontal tank; it was the one i was wanting because it pumps out almost 10CFM at 90PSI. the guy said it ran fine and was getting rid of it because he was needing a bigger one. after i got it home (didn't have a way to test it when purchased) and plugged it in, i come to notice a few problems (so the P.O was lying). the lead hose from the pump to the tank had a crack and the pressure release switch wouldn't close after the pump stopped. i fixed the tube for just a couple bucks and run to Lowes. troubleshooting in the manual suggested my pressure switch was bad so, i bought a new one off ebay. after installing the new switch, it still won't stop releasing pressure after the pump stops. apparently it's another problem. my only other solution is that the reeds need replaced. maybe the current ones are so far used that they won't seal properly and leaks air from the tank back into the pump. i do hear a little leaking from the intake side of the pump when the tank is full. any suggestions?

[Gordon]

In my experience, the reed valve either works or it doesn't work.  I've had ones that just snapped off at the flex point due to metal fatigue, but never had one that was in tact but didn't seal properly.  It could still be a possibility, though.

[333]

In my experience, Craftsman is pretty good about parts.  I have a table saw from the 50s, and while they don't have parts for it anymore, I can see the diagram.  Everything 30 years old or less I've tried to get parts for have been no problem.  I got an email last month(and deleted it-DOH) about how they have revamped the parts website, so I don't have the current link, but it should be easy to find.  Just have the model number off the ID plate.

[754]

Often people run their compressers way too hard, for way to long, before they admit to themselves they need a bigger one. Hope they didnt keep using it a long time after they got to that point..

[rbmgf7]

333:

i think this is the link you're talking about
http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action?sid=PSHx20080114x00001h



i did a search for my compressor and can barely find anything on it. sears does list parts for it but only a few items; reeds, motor, pressure switch, etc, unfortunately rings are discontinued. the publishing date on the owners manual dates 1986 so i guess i can say its pretty old model. the guys said he used it for painting so i can bet he did use it for extended periods of time. he claimed to have performed regular maintenance on it but dont know if he was just saying that to satisfy me. i'm sure the reeds could use a change and it's only a few dollars to purchase a new set.

appreciate the help guys

[rbmgf7]

ok, i figured it out. the check valve doesn't work too well without a ball bearing, lol.