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Looking for input on this used Curtis 5hp compressor..

M

middleclassmods

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Jan 18, 2023
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39
Location
Northern Utah
I have been watching the used compressor market for a while in my area. I found this compressor listed locally for sale on Facebook marketplace. https://www.facebook.com/share/GRfn28yPapnRzJ2k/?mibextid=79PoIi

The seller is a guy that sells estates. Owner is a guy that worked at our local college as the auto tech professor for 28 years after working for GM for 17 years.. He passed away and thus, the seller is selling the estate. I tell you this because it’s all I know about the guy. Based on the pictures, it seems like it’s in pretty good shape. He is asking $650 which is a great buy in my opinion for the specs. True 5 hp, 2 stage, single phase, 60 gallon tank.
What should I be looking for when I go to see it tomorrow? Looking at the site glass, oil looks pretty dirty, but it could just be the photo. I’ve been looking for a compressor that I can use for a blast cabinet (HF) and also to use air tools every once in a while and hvlp paint guns. Based on the cfm it should be great for my needs.
Obviously the price is very enticing and I did send him $100 Venmo to hold it. But I’m ok to walk if it’s not in good shape.

Anyways, thanks for your help and input. I appreciate it. (Pics are attached in case the Facebook post doesn’t link properly.)
 

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mike93lx

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I'd try to run it and see if there is any water in the tank. If it sounds healthy, builds pressure and doesn't have a ton of water in it, it should be good to go

You have a way to load it up? It's going to be extremely top heavy. Removing the motor and pump can be helpful, but they are quite heavy on their own.
 
9

908Jim

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Aug 1, 2013
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I would not hesitate to take a chance on this. First, the pump alone (in running condition) is probably worth $650+. Worst case, you replace the tank for $700. This compressor, all in for under $1500, is a steal in my opinion. Second, you seem to know the guy and how he would take care of his things.

If it were me, I would open the tank drain and see what comes out. A little rusty or milky water is normal. Then, I would drop pressure to zero, close the tank valve, and time how long it took to fill from 0 to cutoff. Listen for any rod knocks. If the pump sounds fine and it fills in a reasonable amount of time, I think you're safe. From this thread post #13, I calculate about 7 minutes from 0 to 175 but somebody should double check me.
 
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kyrbz

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midwest US
I’ve had the same Curtis compressor for probably 20 some years. Mine has the auto drain which helps a lot with preventing rust in the tank. The only issue I’ve had with mine is the cut on/off switch went bad one time which was about $70 to replace if I remember right.
 
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M

middleclassmods

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Northern Utah
IMG_5448.jpegWell I made it home with this compressor. I think it’s going to be a great one. I appreciate all the feedback! I’m super excited! It had quite a bit of water in the tank but it wasn’t rusty, just white. It was set to stop compressing at 125 psi. I emptied the tank and timed it and it took 3:50 to fill to 125 psi. Hopefully that’s good. I didn’t mess with it too much but it seemed healthy. I will just be using this in my home garage. I scored some other way sweet deals. I’ll post some pics tomorrow. :)
 
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mike93lx

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middleclassmods said:
IMG_5448.jpegWell I made it home with this compressor. I think it’s going to be a great one. I appreciate all the feedback! I’m super excited! It had quite a bit of water in the tank but it wasn’t rusty, just white. It was set to stop compressing at 125 psi. I emptied the tank and timed it and it took 3:50 to fill to 125 psi. Hopefully that’s good. I didn’t mess with it too much but it seemed healthy. I will just be using this in my home garage. I scored some other way sweet deals. I’ll post some pics tomorrow. :)
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Well, you ****. :)
 
J

Jswain

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Apr 26, 2013
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Calgary, AB
middleclassmods said:
IMG_5448.jpegWell I made it home with this compressor. I think it’s going to be a great one. I appreciate all the feedback! I’m super excited! It had quite a bit of water in the tank but it wasn’t rusty, just white. It was set to stop compressing at 125 psi. I emptied the tank and timed it and it took 3:50 to fill to 125 psi. Hopefully that’s good. I didn’t mess with it too much but it seemed healthy. I will just be using this in my home garage. I scored some other way sweet deals. I’ll post some pics tomorrow. :)
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Looks like you have yourself a healthy compressor. Change the oil, check it every now & then and drain any moisture everytime you use it and it will last forever.

If it's 2 stage and the tanks good for it I would increase the pressure cutoff to 155ish psi. Then when you're using air tools you never have to worry about the tank dropping beneath line pressure.
 

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H

Hohn

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Jswain said:
Looks like you have yourself a healthy compressor. Change the oil, check it every now & then and drain any moisture everytime you use it and it will last forever.

If it's 2 stage and the tanks good for it I would increase the pressure cutoff to 155ish psi. Then when you're using air tools you never have to worry about the tank dropping beneath line pressure.
Click to expand...
Legit 17.8 CFM from a 5hp unit is very healthy indeed. Congrats to OP!
 
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