How do I start this compressor?

[wharvey]

I discharged all the air in my compressor and changed the oil in it. When I reconnected power it did not start. I found a little black button inside the power box and when I push it it will begin running but will only run while I have the button pressed. I did this until it reached about 160lbs of pressure in the tank hoping that the automatic pressure regulator would take over. This doesn't seem to work because when I release air it will not turn on and charge to default pressure. Any idea what I'm missing here? Thanks in advance for your help! Here is a picture of my compressor for reference:

 

[kams1973]

Does you compressor have a low oil shut off switch? If so, it's possible the float is stuck.

 

[wharvey]

Good question -- I'll look at the manual and see if I can find something about that!

 

[kams1973]

There should be a reset button on the low oil switch. That may be another thing you want to check. I think the switch is mounted at the base of the pump on the motor side.

 

[bsaint]

You start it with POWER!!!

 

[signcrafter]

Did you choke it and prime it?

 

[wharvey]

lol it looks like the low oil switch was the culprit. Found a little card hanging in the back that said to turn it a 1/4 turn before starting. Looks like it's working good now. Thanks for your help!!!

 

[G1GRANDEUR]

READ the instruction!!

who does it anyways.

 

[kams1973]

Thanks for letting us know the final outcome.