Adding air dryer to compresser.

[wantacoe]

I am adding a air dryer to my compressor. I have 3/4 copper at the dryer to make the bypass and connections similiar to the one in pic. I would like to test it before hooking it to compressor. I can find expandable plugs to block ends off but how can I pressurize it and put a gauge in so I can tell if there is a small leak?

 

[Lumpy102]

Are you able to solder copper? My thought would be to solder a copper tee to the inlet, add required bushings to attach a Schrader valve and a gauge to the 2nd and 3rd legs of the tee, and solder a reducer and ball valve to the outlet. Pressure up with a tire chuck and watch the gauge for pressure drop.
looking at the photo, you can just close the valve on the discharge and skip the reducer and valve on that end

 

[wantacoe]

Yes, That should work. Here is a pic of my actual set up. Thanks

 

[carlaisle]

If you don't want to run the dryer, why not just leave it off? Why all the valves?

I don't think you're going to find any expandable plugs that will hold the pressure you need to test. Lumpy's method or something similar will work fine. I'd just cap one end and attach a quick disconnect to the other, hook it up to my air source, and watch.