Air compressors, cold weather, oil choices.

[Zerk]

I just read piston 300-400F, and screw 170-200. I knew they got warm, but not that hot.

I didn't realize piston ones got this hot. I would be concerned with the screw type of eliminating moisture. But I am guessing most of us have the piston.

 

[IXLR8]

I was running straight 30w oil in my compressor. Any temps below 20dF and it either started hard or tripped the breaker. I changed to a 5w30 synthetic and now it starts fine in temps as low as -3dF, at least that is the lowest I have tried it. I won't go to my non heated shop in temps lower than -5dF as it is just too cold to work on anything. When I changed the oil it was about 20dF out and I ran the compressor non stop for 30 minutes by opening up a valve in the air line. Cylinder head got hot enough so I had trouble leaving my hand on it, but the crankcase barely got warm. I suspect moisture in crankcase could be a real issue as I suspect it never gets hot enough to boil off the water. I will just make sure to change the oil yearly.

 

[ray66v]

I just read piston 300-400F

I would be concerned about a compressor running that hot.

There are things that can be done to help bring that down.

Or, it needs to be replaced with a larger unit.

 

[ray66v]

It is fairly easy to build a closet, or enclosure, to protect your compressor from the cold.

In the winter, my compressor is inside a closet, under my shops second floor staircase.

The closet is insulated, and has an insulated, exterior grade door. I heat the closet to around 55F all winter, with only a 60w light bulb, that is dimmed down.

No cold starts. And, less condensation during cool down.

It also gives me space to store materials that need to be kept from freezing.

 

[TemporaryKubotaOwnerMark]

Well, I appreciate all the feedback. My son replaced the drain valve pipe (it had cracked) today and tightened the belts. Says it starts fine now, but... it was warm by the time he fired it up. I got home too late this evening to check it out, so we'll see what it does in the morning. I'll let you know.

 

[Zerk]

I would be concerned about a compressor running that hot.

There are things that can be done to help bring that down.

Or, it needs to be replaced with a larger unit.

I have no idea. Just what I read. It was refering to air, not surface temp.

 

[Zerk]

Well, I appreciate all the feedback. My son replaced the drain valve pipe (it had cracked) today and tightened the belts. Says it starts fine now, but... it was warm by the time he fired it up. I got home too late this evening to check it out, so we'll see what it does in the morning. I'll let you know.

Why would a loose belt make it hard to start?

 

[bigtiller]

I am curious what Temps they run. No ignition, just friction.

From my Quincy owners manual;

Step 5) Wait for the unit to cool before starting to service. (Temperatures
of 125°F can burn skin. Some surface temperatures exceed 350°F
when the compressor is operating.)

 

[kenmac]

bought this one https://www.aircompressorsdirect.co...r/p4848.html?gclid=CJPR76DIw9ICFYUjgQod6OsJUA several years ago. I've only used Mobil 1 Rarus oil and now Amsoil in it. It Never misses a beat

 

[ray66v]

Why would a loose belt make it hard to start?

When the belt slips, the pump doesn't initially run at normal speed.

Based on the way it sounds, it gives you the impression the pump is having trouble turning.