Need an education on air compressors

[pds0006]

Got my granddaddy's air compressor and after 35+ years I'm pretty sure it needs some maintenance. It's seen use but other than changing the foam air filters it's the original unit. I know it's a Champion pneumatic, model 20CV20 but the Champion site has nothing on it. I don't even know enough about motors to say if it's oil or air cooled; I put some oil on the foam before I put it in (see picture). I'd appreciate any help getting some education on my compressor; I figure it has at least another 35 years if I treat it right.

 

[68-camaro]

The compressor is diffinately air cooled, I would change oil in the compressor. Depending on your climate and where the compressor is located should dictate what type of oil to use. There is a thread on compressor oil types you could read. Check your belts for cracks, after that many years they are probally bad. Can't see what kind of motor is running it probally electric which should really need no maintance. Some of the old electric motors had a place to oil the end bearings, usally a liitle spring cap to raise and oil.

 

[Cyberbear]

First, turn the flywheel by hand to see if it will turn smoothly w/o any odd noises and to verify it has compression, all this before belts or oil change. Would not want to waste money on a questionable unit. Next, check oil level and try to run it for a short period of time to make certain all is well, and it actually pumps air. After all that, do a full maintenance check and enjoy the A/C.