GE Vintage Compressor Identity

[CapnKay]

I have an old compressor I got from my Grandfather who knew less about it than I thought. It is a General Electric model 5KH35KG157. Rated at 115v and 1/3 HP and besides being a continuous compressor with no shutoff other than the rocker switch I installed myself, I have no idea what the rest of the ratings mean. I couldn't find much online other than someone was selling a similar one on Ebay with just as little info. I am wondering what I've got here and if there is a way to know what it's max psi is. I don't know much about compressors so I'm not sure if it is even safe to hook up to a tank and run up the pressure. Does a continuous compressor have a risk of exploding without being shut off? Any leads would be of real help. Thanks.

 

[Cruzan80]

Looks very similar to old Craftsman ones I have seen. I have one that has the motor direct drive the compressor (similar to yours, but two different cylinders), as well as seeing a belt driven one. The one I have has a blow-off valve for when air can't be pushed through. Try holding your finger over the end, and see if you get a Puff-puff-puff sound. Mine pushes about 30psi continually for paint spraying.

 

[CapnKay]

Looks very similar to old Craftsman ones I have seen. I have one that has the motor direct drive the compressor (similar to yours, but two different cylinders), as well as seeing a belt driven one. The one I have has a blow-off valve for when air can't be pushed through. Try holding your finger over the end, and see if you get a Puff-puff-puff sound. Mine pushes about 30psi continually for paint spraying.

Thanks for the info. I have mine hooked to a tank right now and there does seem to be a blow off valve on the opposite side with a ball bearing and a twist cap. It seems to max out at around 50psi which isn't great but I guess not terrible. I appreciate the reassurance that it won't blow up on me.