help the new guy w/compressor..pics inc.

[Bob!]

ok,i picked this compressor up from my uncle. he had it wired with this, in first pic ...magnetic starter??
now from reading a few post on here i have read if the motor is thermally protected you dont need the M.Starter..is this correct?
you can see in pics i had already started wiring without it,going straight through the pressure switch,but i started second guessing myself. so here is the pics of what i'm working with. would it be safe to wire it up with out the starter?

 

[kingchevy]

Looks like someone replaced that motor at sometime. It looks too small for that pump and the specs on the tank. It only draws 15 amps, it's not really putting out 5hp.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

The magnetic starter isnt just for protecting motors with integral overload protection. Its also needed if the PS isnt rated for the HP rating of the motor.

What is the FLA on the motor? I dont see it in the pic.

The HP rating on the motor is the usual "SPL" bullsh*t.