Compressor oil carryover

[Matti]

I've got an old Curtis C79 5hp compressor. It was used when I bought it 10 years ago. I'm finding that there is some oil in the tank when I drain it. Otherwise wise everything seems fine. I have never noticed the oil level dropping. Is it time to rebuild or do I have more time? Its just light use after my last project. ps I checked the price on a new pump.....$4700! An overhaul kit or ring set are pretty reasonable in comparison.

 

[American Locomotive]

All piston compressors pass oil. If the oil level in the crankcase isn't noticeably changing, I wouldn't worry about it.

Dirty air filters can increase oil consumption (vacuum), and always starting from a completely empty tank can as well.

 

[Matti]

I'll put a new air filter in it and go from there then. I do change it from time to time.

 

[Jswain]

I would probably address the plastic above the head before it becomes a fire hazard. Or is that just an enclosure to reduce the noise?

Oil change would never hurt and you could always remove the side plate to clean out/flush the crank case.

Proper wt oil depending on where you live & temp the compressor is used in ie: heated vs unheated shop or Victoria vs Nunavut

 

[Matti]

Its in an enclosure that is not totally sealed. It reduces noise in my garage by 10db so quite effective. I have a temp gauge with external readout to monitor it so it doesn't get too hot. I noticed the plastic film hanging....will have to look at that as I don't remember using any.
ps I'm in Edmonton

 

[john.k]

A bit of oil stops the tank from rusting ......just check the oil level regularly.

 

[Death Row Dave]

Nothing with a piston for compression is 100% sealed . Just do as suggested , oil change and intake filter change , monitor the level