pressure switch

[Ramper]

My used compressor has a pressure switch that cuts out at 100 PSI. I am looking for a little higher PSI. It is a 5 HP 220 and lots of the switches I can find are rated to only 3 HP. Any suggestions?

 

[stoveboltgunnut]

have you adjusted it? I know TSC in my nieghborhood carries a 150 PSI cut in switch.

 

[Ramper]

It is factory set and not adjustable. there is a security torx on the screw head.

 

[pattenp]

Before you go and jack up the pressure switch make sure your tank is rated for more than 100 PSI.

 

[Zeke]

It is factory set and not adjustable. there is a security torx on the screw head.

Well, someone adjusted it initially. But remember that for every pound higher the compressor takes longer and works harder. Is your low limit set where you'd like?

 

[Steevo]

Before you go and jack up the pressure switch make sure your tank is rated for more than 100 PSI.

Beat me to it on that one . . .

This one will get you what you are looking for:
http://williamsonneelectric.com/69hbu2furnasnewpressureswitchaircompressor.aspx

Or, you could buy this $9.99 security bit set at HF:
http://www.harborfreight.com/100-piece-security-bit-set-91310.html

 

[Ramper]

So are all switches the same just the adjusting screw is more or less tightened?

 

[Steevo]

Pressure switches are all different. Some are designed for low amperage loads and some for higher loads. I don't think you will find any rated for more than 5HP motors, as they tend to burn the contacts even at that level. Small low-amperage pressure switches can be used even for high-amperage motors IF they are just controlling a starter switch that is bearing the amperage load. If you want the pressure switch to bear the load by itseslf, you have to pay the price for a top quality one rated for the load, and they max out at 5HP.

 

[Norcal]

If your tank can handle higher pressures, don't assume it will verify it, and a 5 HP motor will require a magnetic starter.

 

[Ramper]

My unit has a magnetic starter. So just a regular pressure switch should be fine.

 

[Steevo]

If you have a mag starter, then any cheap pressure switch can be used to trigger it.

 

[6768rogues]

As others said, check the rating of the tank. If you can't find anything, I would not do it. It costs more to manufacture a higher pressure vessel, and manufacturers tend to avoid higher costs.
Your motor will work harder as it will be pushing against a greater head when approaching the cut off pressure. You might smoke the motor.
Your compressor pump might blow a head gasket at higher pressures than designed.
I had a 3 cylinder compressor and the pressure switch went bad. It pumped overpressure and blew out a head gasket before the overpressure device opened.