Free compressor score?

[Monkey Radio]

Picked this up from my neighbor today. It's a 1952 DeVilbiss model 330. I think with a little clean up and some parts should be good to go for the new garage. Looking forward to something quieter than the craftsman that I have. I was wondering how to check the tank any idea's? Also has 110 and 220 motors

 

[Al Bundy]

I would have the tank pressure tested to be safe. It could have been full of water for 40 years, especially if it wasn't being used. I'm not sure. but I wouldn't think a compressor built in the '50's will be quiet compared to anything.

 

[kv501]

I would have the tank pressure tested to be safe. It could have been full of water for 40 years, especially if it wasn't being used. I'm not sure. but I wouldn't think a compressor built in the '50's will be quiet compared to anything.

If he's talking about an oiless Craftsman compressor I guarantee you it will be quieter.

To test it fill it with water to a pressure 50% greater than what it is rated at. Tap around with a hammer while testing. Fluid is used because if it ruptures, you will get a squirt of water, not an explosion. You can rig it up with a pressure washer, using a valve to slowly bleed the pressure in.

 

[Spam16v]

Personally, I'd scrap the tank, get a bigger one, and mount up that hunk of iron on some serious capacity.

 

[bad_idea]

I have heard of doing hydrostatic testing at home with a hand pump. i do not think i would try to use a pressure washer.... i got an older compressor myself and took the tank into work and tested it after work one day (i have access to those kind of toys). highly recommend hydrostatic testing. i agree that it is much safer to blow it up with water rather than air.

i guarantee that compressor will be much quieter. with the size of those pulleys i would guess it turns at about 500-800 rpms. worse case scenario you need a new tank and a rebuild on the pump. call it $100 for a rebuild kit if you can get one. and scour cl for a tank. absolute worse case you say screw this sh!t and get $40-50 in scrap value.

 

[Toolman12]

YA what Spam16v said

 

[Charles (in GA)]

Thats a two stage pump.

Charles

 

[olytdi]

That's an awesome find! Tank easily tested. This has a hydraulic unloader for effortless starts. Also is clearly rebuild-able.

Just picked-up a two stage 80gal Quincy for cheap myself. You'll love these old chuggers.

 

[YZ Rider]

Open up one of the big plugs and use a borescope to see the condition of the tank. There's no need to scrap anything. I got a '58 DeVilbiss tank and I don't doubt it at all. I have a newer tank that I use as a reserve and the newer tank is MUCH thinner than my old, main tank.