Air compressor starts with low pressure

[diggerwolf]

My old, inherited air compressor finally gave up the ghost. Using my backup now. However, it exhibits a weird problem when I use it.

Although it seems to fill, no leaks, and holds pressure, when I first start using it, whether a blow gun or air chuck, the pressure is incredible low at first, then builds up.

What would cause this, and how do I fix it?

Thanks!

 

[finn]

Check valve leaks, letting the tank drain down until the power is turned on and the pump starts.

That or the tank is rusted and has pinhole leaks on the bottom.

 

[RTM]

If the gauges in the first pic are correct, sounds like your regulator is fouled up, and self rights later as it gets used. Or **** in the hose that gets blown out.

 

[The Cobbler]

yeah, sound like the regulator is sticky maybe.
It can easily be replaced with a generic one from anywhere

 

[u3b3rg33k]

I replaced my cheapo regulator with a REAL regulator, and WOW what a difference it makes having one intended actually flow air and not just exist at a low price.

 

[Schurkey]

When I was running single stage air compressors, I took the regulator OFF, because I never needed less than "every PSI it could deliver".

God bless two-stage compressors.

 

[diggerwolf]

I just picked up a new pressure regulator at Lowe's. Thanks!

 

[Citation]

Given the 125psi max pressure you could probably just skip the regulator. Also, you might be able to clean/lube the old one. However, replacement is generally easy.

BTW, it's not clear from the description, are you saying the tank pressure drops or just the pressure out of the regulator is low until you use it a bit? Anyway, if the regulator fixes the problem you will know what the problem was

 

[Schurkey]

When I was running single stage air compressors, I took the regulator OFF, because I never needed less than "every PSI it could deliver".

God bless two-stage compressors.

Given the 125psi max pressure you could probably just skip the regulator.

Yup.

 

[diggerwolf]

Replaced the regulator last night, seems to be working properly now. Thanks!

 

[Hohn]

I replaced my cheapo regulator with a REAL regulator, and WOW what a difference it makes having one intended actually flow air and not just exist at a low price.

100%. Replaced my cheapo that came with it with a standalone Milton with 1/2 NPT ports. Huge difference.