Air compressor - repair or replace

[LeeG]

For the past 5 years, I have been using an air compressor given to me by my Dad. It is a 3hp (11amp/220volt) single stage, portable 110/220 Cambell-Hausefield unit he bought new in 1972.

The motor has finally burned out, so it is time to consider my next step. I looked today at replacement motors and it looks like it will be at least $300 to replace the motor with another of decent quality.

I have been concerned about the quality of the tank, as I have no idea how often Dad emptied the tank when he had it. When I got it the drain valve was broken off and looked like it hadn't been used in ages and I got quite a bit (over a quart) of oily water out if it when I drained it and replaced the valve.

I don't use the compressor often - just on weekends - but lately I have been pushing it more with running a plasma cutter and die grinder, so a new unit isn't out of the question.

So, if I choose to repair, what would be a good brand of motor to look for and is there anything specific I should look out for?

If I choose to replace, I'll want something not much if any louder than this one, but that will handle my current needs and reasonable future needs. I don't ever expect to require multiple tools running at once, nor do I expect to be doing any painting or auto body work.

I have been looking at the Eaton Silent Air 5hp system. It is slightly above my comfortable price range at $1900. I'd rather spend somewhere in the $1500 range. Power requirements are not really an issue - I can run whatever single phase power I need. I'd be interested in any ideas you all have.

Thank you.
Lee

 

[rexer]

pm sent

 

[md21722]

11A 230V is roughly 2 HP even though it may have been labeled as a 3 HP. Baldor, WEG, and Leeson all make reasonable motors although some are going to jump in and say otherwise. For the cost of a replacement, you could get a 3 HP compressor from Lowe's or Home Depot for $449-499. The jump to 5 HP is largely driven by use of die grinders and things like that where a smaller compressor will not keep up. The Silent Air may be of value to you, as it should be quieter than what you have today. Any decent 5 HP slow turning air compressor should be about the same or quieter than you have today. The key is to get the pump RPM as low as possible. For example, Champion R15 pumps run 734 RPM in a 5 HP configuration whereas the Quincy QT series generally run 1,000 RPM. IR's T30 V-pumps tend to spin faster, but I'm not convinced they're louder. As a V-pump they have a different noise to them than 2 cylinder inline pump. I strongly suggest you go dual stage whatever you buy. For air tools, dual stage will be superior than any single stage. The 5 HP Eaton's generally use Taiwanese copies of the Saylor Beal 705 pump. You may be happy with one without the Silent Air feature.

 

[yamaha0343]

Awhile back on here there was a thread with a video of an air compressor tank exploding. I know there's probably some sentimental value, but I'd personally want to replace a 45 year old tank.

But with that said, that compressor has had a hell of a run!

 

[md21722]

Awhile back on here there was a thread with a video of an air compressor tank exploding. I know there's probably some sentimental value, but I'd personally want to replace a 45 year old tank.

But with that said, that compressor has had a hell of a run!

Typically they start dripping water and leaking before they explode. The horizontal 20-30 gallon compressors are the most notorious for leaks around the welds. Repairing them is a no-no. Vertical compressors do not need to be leveled as horizontal compressors do to ensure condensate drainage. I have seen 20 year old tanks rust through a weld seam and 60 year old tanks work just fine. A lot depends on how often the tank was maintained. Removing a fitting or two so you can give the tank an internal visual inspection will tell you a lot. A lot of tanks before the late 1970's were made very thick and some today are still thick depending on the configuration.

 

[Lookin4'67Galaxieconv]

Replace!

 

[redmondjp]

If you want to go cheap, you shouldn't have that much of a problem finding a used motor for your existing compressor for under $100.

In the mean time, keep an eye on Craigslist for your area - you can get a pretty decent commercial-grade compressor for $1500 on there. The good deals disappear within a day so you have to check often or set up a notification.

 

[rexer]

Got some info for you, pm me when you get a minute..thanks

 

[AJ1978]

Buy something to last if your willing to spend a few bucks! A champion Gardner Denver with the cast iron cylinder and reed valves will suit your needs x2. Make sure you get a 1725 rpm motor with mag starter! Auto tank drain or pipe one in!
A local distributor sells them for a bit under 2100 80 gallon vertical!
Dad would be something that will last and you can pass down! If you don't want an 80 gallon tank get a 60!
I am about to buy one as my Saylor Beall is down and I'm in need of air in the shop

 

[md21722]

Buy something to last if your willing to spend a few bucks! A champion Gardner Denver with the cast iron cylinder and reed valves will suit your needs x2. Make sure you get a 1725 rpm motor with mag starter! Auto tank drain or pipe one in!
A local distributor sells them for a bit under 2100 80 gallon vertical!
Dad would be something that will last and you can pass down! If you don't want an 80 gallon tank get a 60!
I am about to buy one as my Saylor Beall is down and I'm in need of air in the shop

The Advantage/R Series Champions are the better ones. There is no valve plate or head gasket to blow. They've been making that way since at least the 1940's. The ones with the cast iron cylinders & heads are the Centurion series. They are a more conventional design & are cheaper. Either would likely work for a lifetime in a home shop.

 

[PWC Repair]

There is a reason that old compressor is still pumping air. The old campbell VT series compressor was one of the best small compressors made. I'd rehab it. From that amp draw it sounds more like a true 1.5hp motor. Check Ebay or a farm supply.

 

[rexer]

Lee, having a problem with sending you a pm. still have the Century motor..thanks