Ramper
Well-known member
Is there any issue in running synthetic compressor oil in OLD compressors? I know that some people say you should not run synthetic in old small engines because of seal issues, but waht about compressors?
Synthetic in OLD compressors
- Thread starter Ramper
- Start date
djkeev
Well-known member
Not running synthetic on an older car was a Very early problem in the industry. Today, those problems are solved and there are no worries.
Compressor oil? I don't know but imagine the same technological advancements apply to those oils as well.
Dave
Compressor oil? I don't know but imagine the same technological advancements apply to those oils as well.
Dave
RECox286
Well-known member
Most, if not all, literature I have seen, regarding older compressors, suggest
SAE non-detergent 30 weight. Not sure why, but I'd stick with the mfg's
recommendation. If it ain't broke...
Uncle Bob
SAE non-detergent 30 weight. Not sure why, but I'd stick with the mfg's
recommendation. If it ain't broke...
Uncle Bob
My backup cheapo HF compressor used to trip the thermal breaker and shut off for a while if I used it for a continuous application. Changed it to synthetic, and now it will run as long as I need it without stopping, so it is obviously running much cooler.
Some manufactures like redline and amsoil make specific single weight non detergent synthetic compressor oil, which would be the best choice. I've used standard synthetic automotive oil (mobil 1) without issue though.
Not really addressing your question directly, but I now run synthetic in all my compressors.
Some manufactures like redline and amsoil make specific single weight non detergent synthetic compressor oil, which would be the best choice. I've used standard synthetic automotive oil (mobil 1) without issue though.
Not really addressing your question directly, but I now run synthetic in all my compressors.
Outlawmws
Well-known member
The issue with any "engine" that runs without an active filtration system is suspended particles. The detergent keeps them in suspension so the filters can take them out. Without a filter that stuff is potentially getting where you don't want it. With non detergent it will settle out and form the infamous layer of crud on the bottom of the compressor case, which also keeps it out of the sensitive areas...
buening
Well-known member
I agree with Outlaw, only non-detergent oil gets put in my compressor. I also use non-detergent oil on my old Kohler powered John Deere lawn tractor, as it too is splash lubricated without an oil filter.
317?
buening
Well-known member
chris142
Well-known member
Cars use a pressurized oil system so there's a better chance of a leak vs an old splash lubed compressor. Syn should be fine in an older compresser.
1977 214
I was going to ask how it was running if it was a 317. Used to have one, it was a kohler, splash lube, but with opposing cylinders. The uphill one always starved of oil if you mowed on a sidehill.
bsaint
Well-known member
I was told by an experience air compressor tech that synthetic oil influences the seal between the rings and the cylinder adversely.
It should only be ran after the compressor has been deemed "broken in." After that its fine.
It should only be ran after the compressor has been deemed "broken in." After that its fine.
It influences them very good :E . Mineral oil, on the opposite, can make them seize faster - I mean all the cheap, poor quality that is sold nowadays.
oilslick
Well-known member
I run syn am soil 20wt in my 1967 Quincy 325 and it is happy.