Cleaning valves on Quincy QR 325 Compressor

[gregf83]

I recently purchased a QR-325 ROC13 compressor. It builds pressure fine but leaks through the intake so I assumed the discharge valves were leaking.

The discharge valves look a little rough. Do I get these cleaned up with a sand blaster or is a wire brush in a parts cleaner sufficient? I think I mainly want to get rid of any loose bits that could interfere with the valve.

The valve disc and mating surface looks like it would clean up by lapping with some 400-600 grit sandpaper.

 

[Rockable]

I would not blast the sealing surface. It should be lapped to a very smooth finish if you want it to seal. I would try to soak it in carburetor cleaner or similar to soften that carbon. I have a rotary tumbler that uses SS pins and it does a great job on stuff like that.

 

[The Cobbler]

I agree on not using sand blaster . soak them as suggested , maybe some very fine sand paper .

 

[gregf83]

Thanks for the advice. I have zero experience with sandblasting but was thinking I could mask off the valve seats. I'll start with a some cleaner and wire wheels but not sure if I can get the interior of the valves clean enough.

 

[engineer2]

Get a metal coffee can. Heaping tablespoon of dishwasher detergent. Put the parts in and top up with water. Boil on the stove until clean.

 

[oilslick]

I wonder about just putting a check valve on the outlet?