kellogg compressor 131 worth $150

[kirecoma]

I've been looking for a older quality compressor on craigslist for a while. This compressor would be plenty big for my needs. I'm unable to find any info with the model #s listed on the unit:
compressor model # 131
unit model # F 141 8 953

The unit looks to me like it's in pretty good shape.
Do you think it's worth $150?

 

[stage20]

yes. it will probably run forever. always try to deal. cant hurt to save a buck.

 

[wild cowboy]

that was a good compressor when new, however, what do you know about the condition?

what pressure does it pump up to, and how quickly?

is it single phase A/C - so you can use it at home or in a small business?

do you own a boroscope to inspect the inside of the tank?

I would be a lot more comfortable with that price in a place like Phoenix, where, due to the near 0% humidity, tanks last about 50 years or more! - otherwise that price may be a bit rich for a likely worn out, internally rusted and possibly unsafe tank.

 

[CNGsaves]

You need to hear it run. Also, drain completely of air and time how long it takes to fill to cutoff pressure like 140 psi.

I'm not seeing a ********* plug that you could remove & look inside tank??

Open up drain at bottom and see what comes out . . little bit of clean water, or nasty brown rust??

Examine closely the bottom of tank which is where rust problems would be.

Overall looks to be in good condition. I'd say take the chance after you've done some investigation. Likely it will run the rest of your life !!

 

[kirecoma]

I just emailed the seller for some additional info. The only info they list in the ad is that he is the 2nd owner and it was used in a dentist office until he bought it from the original owner in the late 90s.

I don't have a boroscope but was planning to drain the tank and see what came out if I went to look at it.

What would be a reasonable time to fill a tank that size from zero for a compressor of that age? (The seller lists the tank size as "40(ish)" galllons.

 

[wild cowboy]

well if it was really used in a dentist's office (looks pretty big for that) if it was used indoors, then it may have lived a low humidity life and could be a good buy, it is likely single phase if used in a dental office (and you want single phase)

I think I would want to see it fill within 2 minutes, and also note the highest pressure it can attain, you want to see 125psi or higher.

another thing to consider is that this particular model I am not seeing any replacement parts for online, so rebuilding the pump will likely not be an option for the future

 

[stratman977]

I bought a dental compressor at auction for $20 a year ago. It was from the 60's. The tank was tin foil on the bottom. Poked a screwdriver through it on one spot. It was a pelton and crane twin pump model. I still use one of the pumps but I scrapped the tank.

Ask yourself would you expect a dentist to know what a moisture drain is or know what regular maintenance is?

 

[wild cowboy]

I bought a dental compressor at auction for $20 a year ago. It was from the 60's. The tank was tin foil on the bottom. Poked a screwdriver through it on one spot. It was a pelton and crane twin pump model. I still use one of the pumps but I scrapped the tank.

Ask yourself would you expect a dentist to know what a moisture drain is or know what regular maintenance is?

he definitely needs to whack the unpressurized tank all-over with a ball peen hammer!