Compressor leaks - where else to look

[DPG]

I have has this Puma model PK6060v for 8 or 9 years. Last year, it developed a leak somewhere that completely drains the 60 gal tank in about a day. I am OK at draining the tank and I see no corrosion anywhere. I do not believe that the problem is with the tank. Any suggestions on how to find the leak?
Also this thing ran great when it was new, now takes about 10 min to fill the tank. Is this somewhat normal?

 

[The Cobbler]

process of elimination using soapy water . check all connections, valves, drain valve , welds etc. check the check valve that enters the tank to see if it is leaking. that size leak should be easy to find. you may have more than 1 leak too.

 

[Ben Buck]

I would suggest not hanging your hose on the gauge that looks as if it reads tank pressure.

Use teflon tape on all fittings, don't strain any fittings that are brass.

I just had a failure of a brass fitting, from my tank to the regulator and filter.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

The regulator, valve and hose on the right side represent a substantial amount of stress on the close ****** in the tank that the valve is screwed onto. I had one crack in the bottom of the thread, and I noticed the compressor cycling more often that normal. I replaced the ****** and installed a new regulator/filter combo and installed a brace rod up to the mounting plate at the base of the motor. The rod has enough tension on it to keep the weight of the filter/regulator from cracking the fitting again.

A leak down in 24 hrs and the poor pumping up to full pressure are not related, you have more than one problem.

 

[taumac]

It's probably the check valve. Remove the line from pump to tank. Put some soapy water it there and see if it bubbles. You can also use a spray bottle with soapy water over all your connections. Check belt also.

Sent from my KFTT using Tapatalk

 

[Todd1803]

The regulator, valve and hose on the right side represent a substantial amount of stress on the close ****** in the tank that the valve is screwed onto.

Not sure this is your problem, but I agree with Charles. I'd hard mount the regulator to something, and run a line from the tank output.

 

[zkling]

Make a quiet room (unplug the fridge), fill the compressor till shutoff. Then get a hose, put one end up to your ear and the other at every fitting. Should help to at least narrow it down.

 

[thightower]

A spray bottle and soapy water.

 

[DPG]

Thanks for all the replies. As Charles in Georgia suggested, it turned out to be the unsupported regulator. I spent half the day mounting and piping the regulator to the front of the compressor and finding another place to hang the hose also. 4hrs later and so far so good. Thanks again for all the suggestions.

 

[mikester]

How often do you drain the tank ? Is there a regular petcock on the bottom of the tank ? Maybe a small piece of rust isn't letting it seal.

I don't know what you have for a drain but I put an elbow, a ****** and a ball valve on the bottom of my tank so its easier to drain.
Also, what brand regulator is that ? Before I bought the Milton that I have now I looked at quite a few other brands. Most of the customer reviews complained about leaks in the regulators.

 

[mikester]

Damn, I type too slow ! Glad to hear you found the leak !