CH 22-gal. compressor won't build to max. pressure and cut off automatically
by Allen
(Waco, TX)
CH model WL650900 is 6 years old. Rated at max. 150 psi it used to max out at 126 psi and cut off automatically but not now. I don't need more pressure than that so I didn't do anything about increasing it to 150 psi.
Now it reaches about 123 psi and won't cut off. When the motor is running it leaks air at the plastic tube connection at the check valve (I checked it with soapy water). When the motor is turned off manually it holds pressure with absolutely no leakage. I assume that the plastic tube and fittings on each are an assembly since the ends do not resemble standard hardware parts. The diagram in the owner's manual does not detail this tube.
Do I have an unloader valve problem or is it just a broken tube and fitting? And do I have to buy the tube and end fittings separately or is the tube a complete assembly with fittings on each end? There are no leaks when the compressor is turned off and it holds pressure at about 122-123 psi.
Bill says...
Hello Allen.
Most compressors have a cut-out pressure switch setting that's below their maximum pressure rating, so that yours is this way is not surprise, or an indication of a problem.
I'd sure like to have seen a picture of the plastic tube connection at the check valve.
However, since your compressor tank holds pressure when the motor is turned off, that tells me that the check valve is fine.
If, when the compressor is running, there is an air leak at that tube, then I suspect it's pressure related, and when the tank pressure get's to you 123 PSI, you compressor has to press harder to get air into the tank with the pressure that's already there, and that "pressing harder" is opening the leak wide enough to offset the pressure of the head, and your compressor can't get past that threshold.
Fix the leak and see what happens, OK? I can't advise you as to how I would fix it, as I can't see what the existing fitting set up is.
Cheers,
Bill
