Air Compressor Maintenance - A few tips to keep your small air compressor in top shape!

[@iannluci]

Thank you sir! Bought mine 2nd hand at yard sale for a cheap airbrush...but did not know anything about maintenance on these ! Very helpful video and appreciated

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching the video and leaving a comment! That would be a great compressor for an airbrush!!

[@martinschulz9381]

The water in the tanks comes from the humidity in the air. Good video.

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!

[@perfectjays]

I’ve got the same exact compressor and I wanted to see what was needed for maintenance! This video was perfect, thanks

[@metalwooddesign]

Glad to hear that! Thanks for the comment!!

[@nerfmadeeasy]

I'm so dumb, I did not realize my air compressor had an air filter (despite it literally being an AIR COMPRESSOR ). Thank you for posting this.... Man, I don't deserve power tools.

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching! I appreciate the comment !!

[@flythakidd]

same .

[@martialme84]

Dude, same. XD

[@savage4312]

We learn something new every day

[@markschultz1606]

Same. Got bald spot on the back of me head 'cause I get scratching that nogging for hrs in da shed.

[@j.sherwoodowl4826]

This was very helpful and the bonus was that this is the exact compressor I have. Thanks!

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching and leaving a comment !!

[@bradfordeaton6558]

I've got that same compressor; I use it for little stuff. I've been really happy with it. Thanks for the video.

[@metalwooddesign]

That's great, thanks for sharing! I appreciate the comment!!

[@TYOUNG0168]

Just rebuilt an old Sears compressor from the 80's. I watched your video to ensure that I didn't miss anything. Seems I did just fine. Amsoil Dealer, Tom Young. :)

[@DoroteoVilla]

Thanks! I had this same compressor given to us by a neighbor ten years ago. It had no hoses or a working regulator. Replaced both and it is working strong. Now I need to give it some TLC so it can last for many years to come.

[@metalwooddesign]

Great comment! Thanks for sharing!!

[@technicallysquirrel]

Such a simple and practical video. Thank you!

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching! I appreciate the comment!!

[@m3coupe4me]

Glad I watched this. I'm fairly new to this and didn't realize my offset compressor needed to be tilted to drain. I just did that and a good 1/4 cup of liquid came out. Thanks!

[@metalwooddesign]

Glad it helps! Thanks watching, I appreciate the comment!!

[@paulyyy09]

Drain the tank slowly aswell, incase theirs any gunk in there, if you drain it too quick it will fire out air rather than all the water and crap

[@tonychapman6334]

Just purchased my first air compressor, a 2.5HP unit which will suffice for what I am doing. I did enjoy watching your video and learned a few things, so many thanks my friend.

[@metalwooddesign]

That great! Thanks for watching! I do appreciate the comment!!

[@valuedcustomer9614]

I have the same Craftsman compressor model (mine was manufactured in 2007). Recently it stopped generating pressure beyond 30-40 PSI and would run continuously. I thought it was a bad pressure regulator, but it turned out to be a blown upper head gasket. This gasket seals between the head intake and exhaust chambers, and my gasket had blown out between the chambers. Once I replaced the gasket it worked perfectly.

[@dondercole4249]

Thanks for this great video! I did not know about the drain plug and changing oil on these small compressors.

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching! I appreciate the comment!!

[@mkrug1149]

When you get that much water, and there will be particles of rust eventually, it is a really good idea to put an inline water separator on. I just rebuilt some framing nailers and the one I bought from an auction had so much garbage inside. Worst air tool I had ever rebuilt, and it was very time consuming cleaning out all the debris. Good video.

[@0412videos]

Functionally operates just as it should kzbin.infoUgkxiiMg_x4gIWeXMWfBnDdRnME4qJUAva4w holds pressure perfectly when not in use. Glad one of the other reviews pointed out that the bottom pressure release valve was open; thought it was defective at first.

[@hagendas2727]

Thanks. Everything I needed to know in one video. Cleaning up a decent size air compressor handed down from my Grandpa to my Dad and now to me. Still works like a champ!

[@metalwooddesign]

Neat story, thanks for sharing!

[@Nabo00o]

that's exactly my case as well. Gramps was a big tool and machine collector, but neither me nor my father knew how important maintenance is to these things. Just because they lasted a decade doesn't mean it will last another without proper care.

[@gordbaker896]

If it is that old, throw it away before it blows up.

[@stevedoingstuff3960]

@@gordbaker896 I came here from watching a video of a guy showing his blown up air compressor. Definitely has me a little nervous to take good care of mine...

[@Elle-gc6fh]

Many tanks have a 'take out of service date' on them. The tank might not be the best heirloom item. Consider replacing at least the tank portion of your air compressor. Here's a video of one that failed: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZ7Cd31shcanaqs

[@rosscoghlan]

This was extremely helpful. i love the pace of your video by the way. Great stuff

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you, glad to hear it was helpful! I appreciate the comment!!

[@ms79ta]

Thank you! I don't think anything you said was too basic for those of us that know nothing about them. I have my father's now and have never used one. 👍

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you! I appreciate the comment!!

[@danteerskine7678]

​@@metalwooddesignI didn't know that air compressors need compressor oils. I have one that I recently bought for cheap, the brand is total and it's manual clearly states "replace oil with 15w40" multi grade engine oils

[@JT_70]

I’ve never been diligent about draining the air or the moisture from my upright 26 gallon compressor. I replaced the drain valve with an extended tank drain valve assembly which makes it very easy and convenient to drain it now. They’re available on Amazon and from HD. After seeing the KZbin showing an exploded small tank, I’m concerned about having this huge tank in my garage. It’s 15-18 years old.

[@lisahook3270]

That's a case of maintenance deferred...... with your 200 yrs experience did anybody think instead of patching the tank, you throw it away? Because it was obviously so rusted to the point it had a hole in it! Glad I saw this! I was in the market for a used air compressor and so now I'm not. Thank you for posting!

[@metalwooddesign]

Wonderful comment, absolutely great idea to do some research before jumping into anything. The patch job was just replacing the drain valve with a new on that's easy to open, so it's drained with each use. Thanks for the comment!

[@barryhenshaw9321]

Really good info dude! I'm going to be all over ours tomorrow. And added push I just watched about an exploded shop compressor, so Thx again :)

[@kamilpeza7664]

Cleaning the air compressor with an air compressor!! I wish I had two!

[@apackwestbound5946]

I own what I believe is exactly the same compressor. bought it from Sears decades ago. I'm ashamed to admit I did not know about the sight gauge being the drain hole as well. I have added oil as needed but never changed it. I didn't think about the air filter either. I guess the only thing I've done right is store it inside and drained it after each use. It has been a wonderful little compressor. Thank you for the "education" and the effort you made in putting this video togethr. -Respectfully

[@metalwooddesign]

Glad it's helpful! Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment!!

[@JMGFsC]

Litrally solved all questions I had on my new compressor, amazing insight!

[@metalwooddesign]

Glad to hear! Thank you for watching and leaving a comment!!

[@Johnslist]

Excellent, I'm even more impressed when I run into someone with my exact model! I picked one up from a home gamer who didn't maintain it and I got it running, but now I want to properly maintain, this covered exactly what I need. In filling the oil, you showed the sight glass, but didn't say how high to fill. I'll seek the manual as suggested, thumbs up.

[@metalwooddesign]

Middle of the sight glass is just right. Thank you for watching! I appreciate the comment!!

[@mahkuntizitchy2083]

Were you not paying attention when you watched the video?? 4:49 he say's EXACTLY what you "missed"!!!

[@ZIGAFPD1]

I have this same model compressor and this video was very helpful! Thank you for sharing your knowledge!

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching! I appreciate the comment!!

[@Nitephall]

Very helpful, thanks. The drain spigot on my tank is weird. You have to screw it in to get it to drain. Screwing is out closes it.

[@Paul-ro6py]

Thanks for the overview. Off to service my compressor.

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching and leaving a comment!

[@thurm101]

Great video. I have a small oil-free compressor. The information was useful. I was surprised to see all of that water come out. Always drained. But not I see why.

[@metalwooddesign]

The drain valve was getting bad and hard to open. Having a good valve that works well is the best since it's more likely to get drained often. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!

[@sylkelster]

Drain cocks are a PITA on larger compressors because you have to kneel down and sometimes need a tool to open them. It's such a hassle people often forego the important step of draining the tank. Install a 1/4" NPT elbow, a small threaded pipe section or nipple to hold accumulated water, then a small 1/4 turn ball valve, and lastly a hose barb to attach a small hose to an appropriate location. I like to use all brass or stainless for the pipe sections.

[@hubertrobinson8825]

I use all brass fittings on my air compressors and drain them daily after use I also leave the drain valve open too until I'm ready to use it again

[@rg6569]

Great Vid! Just received my FIRST Viking air compressor, studied the manual, now learning all I can from 'Those Who Know'!! Cheers ;} )

[@pattyspring4410]

A REALLY good video on how to clean the AC.

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks! I appreciate the comment!!

[@Okiescrapper]

good job on this video I should do one or a set on maintenance of tools and equipment in the shop

[@dennisjuniorrodriguezfigue6942]

Like the tutorial. I am planning on buying used air compressor so I will check for all these things.

[@metalwooddesign]

That's great, Thank You for watching ! I appreciate the comment !!

[@thewholls7176]

I also leave the drain plug out and the large end bung on the tank to let it air dry inside then I give it a little spray inside with rust converter after flushing the rust chips and rusty water out with a garden hose....... that increases tank life

[@robertheinkel6225]

If you are replacing the drain valve, buy the style that opens with a half turn. It makes draining a tank very easy.

[@daleleibfried8648]

Quarter turn ball valve

[@SybilDefense]

Even a winged stop-cock valve. Just make sure it's pressure rated (metal). A small piece of tubing let's you direct the outflow into a can or from wherever you don't want it

[@scorchedearth1451]

On my compressor I made a transparent hose instead of the drain valve. With on the end a ball valve. Water runs directly into the hose, instead of accumulating in the tank itself. When you use a thicker hose, it can hold more water. You could even build a system that automatically blows off the water.

[@metalwooddesign]

That's a great idea. Basically a hopper for the water to go to so it never sits in the tank. Thanks for sharing!!

[@hagendas2727]

Good idea

[@markrodgers1965]

Can you expand on this ?

[@maxwang2537]

Don’t get the idea. As I understand, it seems a great idea but not necessarily. Why the normal design is this way it is is because the minimal of water gets into the hose then the air is drier. Your way saves the drain in the tank but brings all the drain into the hose which is meant not to have water, so defeats the purpose.

[@royster3345]

He means a seperate short piece of clear hose with a valve on the end to collect any water in, and release it from. It would be seperate from your normal airline.

[@generalporkchop1817]

My old 1975 craftsman compressor had an oil change maybe 3 times in 40 years. I rarely drained it. I just retired it last month. Still worked great. Probably ready to explode.

[@gauravvij67]

The more the oil carryover from wear the less the rust, I don’t think oil compressors need an oil change as there’s no combustion byproducts. Just use em for an hour or two to get them hot every now and then to burn off moisture

[@tiyanakbantot5721]

Thanks brother, well explained with a clear voice, i am super grateful for your video😀😀😀👍👍👍

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching! I appreciate the comment!!

[@ConradoBarion]

Hi bro I'm glad watching your video i had a problem regarding my compressor 8 year i never used it what I'm going to do

[@samuelturner1540]

Very helpful, thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching and leaving a comment!

[@glenalguire6960]

Just a safety note , if u have to weld up a hole caused by rust on your compressor tank , scrap it it’s absolutely deadly if it lets go

[@NM-do8qi]

I just bought another air compressor to clean the bung hole on the one i have

[@donniebowden9643]

😆

[@Tracks777]

amazing stuff

[@reecepedro3632]

i know Im asking randomly but does someone know a tool to get back into an instagram account..? I somehow lost the account password. I appreciate any tips you can give me.

[@chrishansen7326]

I always use the remaining air pressure in ye tank to drain the moisture in the tank

[@Azureazurakai2534]

Me too

[@Malcomb35]

Wow! I've had the same craftman air compressor for 12 years and haven't touched or checked the oil, filter or drain plug ever ...didn't even know it had a drain plug lol .....

[@Solder-Flowz]

You may want to buy one of those cheap usb inspection cameras and have a look inside if there's rust. If it's eaten away, it can blow up like a bomb. Check videos on youtube.

[@madshamrin]

This video deserved more views man..

[@metalwooddesign]

I appreciate the comment! Thanks for watching the video!!

[@cawa2576]

Thanks for the information 👍

[@gabrielmayorga7050]

Thanks for the info I have that exact model.

[@martinsalinas7869]

Wow thx for your time making this video!

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks!

[@AutoDrdiy]

Hi, your blue shop air compressor is almost identical to the one I use. It is suppose to be continuous duty, but discovered that the belt-enclosure, directs all of the air of the cooling air, under the compressor case, instead of over the cylinders, heads, and charge tube. I tossed the guard, air flow now cools target areas. I am certain this was a deliberate attempt by the manufacturer, to shorten its life duration. Especially, if it ever ran under continuous duty situations. As well, I installed a brass elbow, with 6" extension pipe and ball valve, to allow water to collect in brass pipe, away from metal tank. Tank corrosion, sets up a very dangerous situation, on the smaller compressors, for the ones using 30 year old craftsmen compressor's, set them outside away from your proximity, while under pressure, or buy a new one. Be safe.

[@metalwooddesign]

The extension is a good idea to get the water away from the bottom of that tank right away.

[@kanndavidson-9152]

Thank you. This was a good video and information. Just what i was looking for

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching and leaving comment!

[@Ballistixwear]

I like the “Poppptd”sound too. 😁

[@emersonguimaray5499]

Muy buen video, gracias 🙏🏽 saludos

[@CuriousKL]

All one can do is change the pump oil if applicable and drain the water at least a couple times per month. In my case, my compressor is located in an unheated building. I do not use my compressor that much in the winter except to reset tire pressure or to blow out a vacuum canister. Most my use is during the more temperate months. One thing I did was that I eliminated the pin cock altogether because a pin cock is crap to begin with. I utilize a ball valve. I added a 1 inch fitting to a 90° elbow, then a 2 inch pipe followed by a ball valve. First I turn of the auto on switch and decrease the pressure, then I simply kneel down and turn the valve to the 'open' position, allow to drain then return the valve to the 'closed' position. The allow the compressor to replenish the air.

[@metalwooddesign]

That's a great idea. A good valve that's easy operate means the tank actually gets drained. Thanks for the comment!

[@jointman429]

do you have a video on My great Grandpa's Air compressor😂 but seriously thanks for the tips

[@edwardsarah957]

Helpful for this diyer! Thanks

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for the comment and watching the video!!

[@guysolis5843]

If I need to clean the inside of my tank due to rust how can that be done and how will I know that needs to be done? Thanks, great video..

[@metalwooddesign]

I don't know of a good way to clean them. Best is to drain frequently to keep the water out which means a good valve that opens easy. If the tank is corroded enough that it's a safety concern I would just replace it. Have fun and stay safe!

[@stubbsy2873]

Very helpful brother thank you 👍

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you! I appreciate the comment!!

[@walshesworkshop]

Very useful, thanks. I’m just working my way around an old Clarke Jumbo and haven’t a clue what I’m doing 😬

[@metalwooddesign]

That sounds great ! Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave a comment !!

[@wk7060]

I would vacuum the tank out good one time, to help dry the moisture inside.

[@mangakamotlomelo1532]

I have not been able to use my Ryobi 2.oHp 50L compressor since 2021 after my house burned cause Iam staying in the Flat so I can't use my tablet saw, my jigsaw, Cercularsaw and my metersaw cause they are making noise I would like to maintain them thanks for sharing on how to maintain my compressor

[@feedback_m1323]

That was SOOO helpful, thank you

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching! I appreciate the comment!!

[@thewholls7176]

When i change the oil i use synthetic multigrade with liqui moly friction reducer added since they always start cold and end up running hot…. So far so good…….

[@stevefromlondon9175]

Thank you for that info Regards Steve UK London

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching in the UK! I appreciate the comment!!

[@agnew82]

thank you!

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching and leaving a comment!

[@williame.portman4026]

Very good tips

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you! I appreciate the comment!!

[@jermaineharriott5345]

great teaching

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you. I appreciate the comment!

[@CarlosRodriguez-hb3vq]

I like to open the drain, turn on the compressor, then tip it so the drain points down. It blows all the moisture out and the water that comes out is clear for me.

[@metalwooddesign]

That's a great tip! The drain is offset for clearance so you have to rock the tank in both directions to get the water out. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!!

[@robmoss2257]

I have the same compressor and didn't know it had a air filter or I had to change the oil. Thanks

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching and leaving a comment !!

[@rg2metairie]

thanks, just what I needed to know.

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!

[@digidrum2003]

Awesome....thank you!

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for the comment!

[@LuisRuiz-qc4rg]

Thanks Was very helpful.

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching. I appreciate the comment!!

[@thatguy7085]

Shouldn’t the inside of these things be coated with a rust preventative paint or sealer?

[@MrTNorris67]

I like your video, a little hard to hear, but informative.

[@Serpico1152]

Very good video, I have a 21 gallon vertical Central Pneumatic Harbor Freight compressor that I bought about 12 years ago and did have to replace the leaking top end cylinder gaskets after 2 years but it wasn't very difficult or expensive to do. For the last 10 years it's been pretty trouble free draining the air tank out periodically spring through fall and just before winter and placing it out of service with the valve open for any further moisture drip not needing to use it again until spring, very seldom does any moisture come out of it anymore since I've done this on a regular basis, I change the oil and service the filters each spring, let it run with the valve open for 10 to 15 minutes, then pressurize the system, I also normally like to keep only 40-50 lbs pressure charged in the tank until demand calls for more instead of keeping a full tank of 110-120 psi for safety just to guard against against excessive tank failure damages in the garage in the event of an explosion.

[@paulyyy09]

Very helpful, thanks

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!

[@PlasmaJunkie]

This video is great. Thank you. That water looked super rusty. What do you do to make sure the pressure vessel isn't dangerously rusty? And if it is rusty is there any saving it or must it be replaced/discarded?

[@metalwooddesign]

Because it's a steel tank, the water is going to get some rust color. The tank in the video had a bad valve and hadn't been drained recently. With a good valve it's drained regularly. The best thing to do is drain it every day so you need a good valve that opens and closes easily. If it has deteriorated enough to be a safety concern it should be replaced, or at least pressure tested if that's practical in your particular situation. Thanks for the comment!

[@bobelkiniii1461]

Awesome video

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for the comment! Happy Thanksgiving!!

[@1337FLINT.]

Thanks for the video, i found my bottom gauge a bit loose, i don't know where is water leaking from. Although mine dripping clear water, i just use it for paint miniature. So i should drain this regurarly?

[@metalwooddesign]

Yes absolutely drain regularly. And helps keep water out of the paint. Thank you for watching and leaving a comment!

[@barryparks9410]

Very helpful thanks

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!!

[@albertkazemian603]

Great video, thanks

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you, I appreciate the comment!

[@rogermoreau8834]

Very Informative.

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank your for watching. I appreciate the comment! Merry Christmas!!

[@jasonmccorkle8760]

Thanks

[@monti409]

I have the same air compressor it’s dated 08/2002 . Is there an expiration date for these compressor’s I do not see any indication of the same on the tank. thanks for the vid.

[@metalwooddesign]

I'm not aware of any expiration dates on the smaller compressors. It's a judgment call based on the condition of the tank. Moisture is the problem and that varies greatly based on climate, use and whether you drain the tank frequently. If there's a safety concern it's best to replace it.

[@RandomDoive]

Thanks!

[@mannyaulakh3801]

great video

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you!!

[@andyp6169]

This was so helpful. Thanks legend

[@metalwooddesign]

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks the the comment!!

[@EmmanuelakgAndrew_1]

Great thank you

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching and leaving a comment!

[@shadowopsairman1583]

Any troubleshooting tips?

[@SeanChYT]

Thanks for the video. After changing the oil on my compressor, oil started spitting out the top of the oil cap (which seems to have a breather and check-valve of some kind). Any guesses why that's happening? I have the oil level exactly halfway in the sight-glass, and I used oil meant for air compressors (ISO 68).

[@subirmondal2820]

Thank you sir very good video

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching and leaving a comment!!

[@consciousobjector2507]

I will definitely be checking my bunghole after this!

[@rolandohernandez3664]

Great job

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you. I appreciate the comment! Thanks for watching the video!!

[@diannekipe9142]

I would like to know what it means if the gauge is black? Can it be fixed?

[@petersimon6222]

thanks you this helped a lot

[@metalwooddesign]

Thanks for watching the video and taking the time to leave a comment!

[@clothingalterations.1965]

Leant a lot from your video mate. Thank you 😊

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching! I appreciate the comment!!

[@MarkCari]

Thank you!

[@thomaschetney990]

Thank You for this info!

[@metalwooddesign]

Thank you for watching and leaving a comment!!

[@JV-nt9bp]

Very good 😊