Compressor Issues

[kdubaz]

I bought a 220v Craftsman professional compressor a few years back, and I was super happy with it. After a year or two, it started making a squeaking noise with turn on, but it still worked. Then yesterday, it just stopped working.

Well I tested it all, and going down the chain everything has power, including the motor, which eliminates the pressure switch. If I arc one of the wires that's mounted internally to the external casing, the motor will crank, so I'm guessing it's a ground issue.

Anyways, this leaves me with a dillemma. I have to have a compressor, there's no question about that. Thing is, I don't want to spend a fortune on one, but I do want one that'll last for a good 10 years or so. I do some small paint work, but most of my concerns are being able to turn a D/A or impact without too many issues. My 17.5 cfm Craftsman did me right for a while, but now it's dead.

On the flip side, I could just buy a new motor, but it's $350 - about half the price of the compressor. If it turns out that the motor isn't the problem, well then I'd be out $350 and be even more screwed.

Any suggestions?

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Does it hum or do anything? It could be a starter condenser or the switch that controls the start condensers. Also could be the overtemp in the motor if it has one. Does it have a magnetic starter box?

If the pump turns over by hand, it probably is OK, sounds like a motor/electrical issue. I'd take the motor to an electric motor shop. Here are several I found in the Phoenix metro area.

Foster Electric Motor Service, 490 East Frye Road, Chandler, AZ 85225
http://www.fe-azp.com/services1.htm

Precision Electric, 1106 S. Center Street, Mesa, AZ 85210
http://www.precisionelectric.com/
480 835 0960

Keller Equipment Co, 4206 E. Winslow, Phoenix, AZ 85040
602 437 3015

Charles

 

[kdubaz]

You really think that I should just have the motor fixed as opposed to replacing it? I guess I'm just concerned that it might be more than just the motor.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

If the pump seems to turn and pump, the tank is good, then the motor or pressure switch has to be the problem. Taking the motor to the shop will cost you little or nothing, and either confirm it or leave you looking elsewhere. The fact that it runs when you touch the hot wire to the case is disturbing, you could have a short to ground somewhere. Its just that if you are otherwise happy with the compressor, I'd at least check out the motor. Also look for rubbed or shorted wires.

Charles

 

[stupidjet]

capacitor??

 

[Charles (in GA)]

capacitor??

Condenser..... capacitor, same thing (at least I use the terms interchangeably)

Charles