Compressor won't build pressure mystery

[calstar]

I recently bought a used Sears 60gal compressor, had a leaking head gasket so I replaced it. I ran it to test and it was up to 80psi when i shut it down, no air leaks. A day later I ran it and the tank pressure gauge stayed at 0, since the gauge was oem and pretty beat I bought and installed a Winter liquid filled gauge. The results were about the same, after 5 minutes the new gauge showed 5psi. There is air getting into the tank, when I open the tank valve air escapes but the volume/pressure is nothing like it was when I initially ran it to 80psi. I took out the check valve, I could blow through it but I could not **** air through so I'm assuming that's OK. So I'm puzzled. One thing I did notice when the compressor is running there seems to be a bit of air blowing out at the intake when I remove the filter(new), don't know if this is typical or not. Ideas? The pics below show the compressor and how I installed the new head gasket, it seemed like there is only one way to install it but......

thanks, Brian

This is the way I positioned the plate and gasket

leaking gasket I replaced

 

[jallyn]

Looks like one or more of the "flapper valves" isn't seating properly. I would take them apart and clean them up. Maybe consider replacing them. They will come in a kit with new fasteners.

 

[stanleyrleonard]

From my limited experience: 1] Always have a schematic laying there as you assemble the compressor [sometimes one inadvertently reverses a gasket or valve plate--I did--personally, I replaced the entire "valve plate and gasket set".
2] And, as an added precaution, I replaced the ferrule.
3] After the first five [5] "run ups", I exhausted the air in the tank and waited 24 hours [DEAD COLD] to TORQUE the head bolts again to spec.

Now, I have a little workhorse that serves me great--hope this helps--Stan

 

[calstar]

3] After the first five [5] "run ups", I exhausted the air in the tank and waited 24 hours [DEAD COLD] to TORQUE the head bolts again to spec.
Stan

Hi Stan, do you have the torque specs handy? If not I'll just google it.

thanks, Brian

 

[calstar]

Looks like one or more of the "flapper valves" isn't seating properly. I would take them apart and clean them up. Maybe consider replacing them. They will come in a kit with new fasteners.

Just ordered the reed valves(aka flapper), $22.95 delivered, figured I might as well replace em when I open it up again(as soon as they arrive).

thanks, Brian

 

[stanleyrleonard]

Hi Stan, do you have the torque specs handy? If not I'll just google it.

thanks, Brian

Mine was Campbell Hausfeld and specified between 49-56 INCH pounds on the head bolts. Recommend you google the manufacturers manual--Stan

 

[pop pop]

Loctite or equivalent on those small screws holding the reeds. If they come loose, bad things happen.

 

[MacMcMacmac]

Despite looking like they are made from melted beer cans, these are actually not bad little pumps. I'm pretty sure DeVilbiss Air Power made them.