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My 15 year old air compressor is having problems. It's a Craftsman 5hp, single cylinder, oil-free model with an integral, vertical 22 gal tank. It hadn't experienced heavy usage until I started doing all the coping on my build. The problems started with the compressor getting even noisier than usual. Then the time to fill the tank to 100psi increased dramatically. Then less pressure in a "full" tank. And now it barely builds to 35-40 psi.

I checked and cleaned the filter, that's not the problem. And I keep the tank drained of condensation. Sears doesn't offer this model any more and I'm not sure about parts. Does it make sense to get this thing rebuilt, the motor seems good? Or should I salvage the tank and find a standalone compressor? Or just go buy a replacement compressor/tank? (I'd rather buy car parts.)

If I go the replacement route, any recommendations on brand? HF, Craftsman, Eastwood...? I don't think any of them are made in the US anymore.

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Cheers, Tom

My Car9 build: viewtopic.php?f=35&t=14613
"It's the construction of the car-the sheer lunacy and joy of making diverse parts come together and work as one-that counts."
Ultima Spyder, Northstar 4.0, Porsche G50/52

If you go to this site http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/brands-products/Craftsman-Parts/Air-compressor-Parts and plug in the model #, you can find out if they still support the model you have.
then check for a rebuild kit - should be a diaphragm and gaskets. if nothing else is worn out, that should do the trick.

Waltj

Walt, thanks. I opened up the compressor and then found the parts needed on the site you suggested. Turns out I needed a "Rod kit" ($75 + shipping and tax.) The piston ring had worn through letting the rod/piston chew up the cylinder sleeve. I amazed it was pumping any air at all.

So after the UPS man arrives with the parts kit I should have a "nearly new" compressor for a lot less money than a lower volume replacement machine. Thanks again

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Cheers, Tom

My Car9 build: viewtopic.php?f=35&t=14613
"It's the construction of the car-the sheer lunacy and joy of making diverse parts come together and work as one-that counts."
Ultima Spyder, Northstar 4.0, Porsche G50/52

That is a very handy link, I was surprised to see my 25 year old DeVilbess/Craftsman still listed.
Unfortunately in my case most of my parts are no longer available.
So mine will probably get tossed when it's day finally comes, especially considering how long I have had it.
Nice to know in advance where I stand though, thanks for posting.

Al

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Super Seven 3.4

Rebuild kit installed and the air tools are spinning like crazy. Thanks again for the tip, Waltj, I'm back in business.

_________________
Cheers, Tom

My Car9 build: viewtopic.php?f=35&t=14613
"It's the construction of the car-the sheer lunacy and joy of making diverse parts come together and work as one-that counts."
Ultima Spyder, Northstar 4.0, Porsche G50/52

Glad I could help. Compressors that make air fast enough to feed die grinders and drills, look to be a little spendy.
I have been looking for an economical upgrade with no success yet. I can't even find one to fix up.

Walt