Old Honeywell compressor questions

[slotard]

I just picked up an old Honeywell air compressor off craigslist for $15. It kinda works, but is very slow to build pressure and won't build all that much. I'm trying to figure out where I should start with it... I've never worked on a compressor before, just figured for the price it was worth a shot.

Click any picture for a larger version.

 

[benny42]

Your description sounds like bad reeds. The parts are likely in-stock Grainger parts. For
the price, it was a good gamble, i would have bought it!

 

[metaldad]

That is a relic!.
Old temperature control air compressor

 

[GeneralDisorder]

Sadly not too useful - max working pressure on the tank is 100 psi, virtually all air tools need 90 psi, and that machine is setup for 65 psi. Designed for painting or HVAC control would be my guess.....

If it doesn't build 65 psi and shut off then its probably bad reed valves as mentioned. Still - questionable if its worth fixing with such limited specs.

GD

 

[slotard]

Yeah, it won't be good for running tools but it should be adequate for airing up tires, cleaning things off, etc.

Do I pull the head to check the reeds? How can I tell if they're bad? I've never done anything to an air compressor before.

I figured that for the price, and being all made in the USA, it was worth it.

 

[GeneralDisorder]

Yes pull the head to check the valve plate.

GD

 

[slotard]

well, I pulled the head and the reeds don't seem to be sealing very well. any suggestions as to where I could get replacements?

 

[WWIIjeep]

well, I pulled the head and the reeds don't seem to be sealing very well. any suggestions as to where I could get replacements?

If they're just dirty, you can clean them.

If they're bent, or have lost their "spring" you'll need replacements.

Call the Grainger repair parts department:

1-800-323-0620

Give them the Speedaire model number from the pump and see if they still carry parts for it.

Make sure you get the repair parts department and not the regular order line. The repair parts people have information and parts lists that the regular sales people don't have access to.

 

[slotard]

They're just barely bent. When bolted in they aren't flat against the surface.

 

[dirtydogintex]

If Graingers doesn't offer the reed valves (and it sounds like you need them) as part of a 'kit' don't forget to get gaskets.

Oftentimes the gaskets are listed as separate items....

 

[slotard]

Yep, I called them and ordered the reed valves and gaskets.

 

[larry_g]

A couple of questions?

Is there a pressure gauge on the tank or only on the regulator?
Does the pressure max out on the gauge, what pressure, and does the pump continue to run?
Does the pump ever shut off automatically?

Without us knowing what pressures and times you're getting then all the advice is just a guess. For all I know from your description of the problem things could be working just as designed. You have a small low pressure compressor there.

lg
no neat sig line

 

[bsaint]

Don't forget sometimes rings have something to do with not building air.

 

[dirtydogintex]

.... and cylinder walls.

 

[dandan111]

After the rebuild ,can you put a new pressure switch to raise the psi?