Curtis e-50 air compressor econoline

[ManOnTheCouch]

What would an old one in working condition be worth? I know Curtis is a great name in air compressors. There's an old "econo line" 80 gallon that I know is for sale in working condition. Here's a pic of a similar one at this link.

https://www.purplewave.com/auction/121031A/item/M9008

Anything I should check for if I go to look at it? How long should it take from empty to full if working within specs etc?

 

[wanderer]

I can’t believe that one brought 1100 bucks. I would be thinking $500 max if it’s single phase and even less if it is three phase. don’t think you can get parts for a Curtis, I’d look at it as three components, tank, motor, pump. Tank is probably worth 200 max, motor a few hundred if it’s single phase, pump up to a few hundred as well.

 

[ManOnTheCouch]

Parts are all still available. It's single phase with a Baldor motor. Pump is two stage rated for 17.4 cfm and max 175 psi. I think I might pull the trigger on it at $400

 

[wanderer]

Parts are all still available. It's single phase with a Baldor motor. Pump is two stage rated for 17.4 cfm and max 175 psi. I think I might pull the trigger on it at $400

at 400, i would also.

 

[Brand X]

Disc valve pump. Super reliable . I had mine compressor for about 21 years,and not one issue. Bought it from Pacific air in Portland .The Curtis Master-line was a step above, but the low rent E-50 pumps is still one heck of a quality pump. All parts are available for it, but probably will not need them, if ran with a quality Syn oil from the start.. New **** is not even in the same ballpark.

 

[ManOnTheCouch]

So, I bought it. It runs like a top, and I can’t believe how quiet it is. It runs at a very low rpm compared to many of the newer compressors. Prior to buying it, I tested it by running from empty to when the pressure switch shut it off at 155 psi. It took just over 6 1/2 minutes to fill the 80 gallon tank. I’m impressed.

Now for an oil change. Any recommendations on oil?

Also, I plan to repaint it just so it looks better. Any suggestions on what paint to use?

 

[Brand X]

I have used this brand from Pacific air for over 20 years. Little spendy but good for around 6000 hours or so.. I change it out way be that though..

https://www.pacificaircompressors.c...-full-synthetic-reciprocating-compressor-oil/

These guys know Curtis stuff, and are good to deal with..

 

[ManOnTheCouch]

Quick update.

I painted this Ford tractor blue with Rustoleum hammered silver accents.

 

[sberry]

Nice, good color, well worth a shot of paint. As for oil one of the synthetics would be good for life of the unit.

 

[nadogail]

May you enjoy the compressor for many years in good health.