Changing the Oil in an Air Compressor

by Matt
(Chicago, IL)

I have an older air compressor and I need to change the oil, but I don't have the manual. How do I determine how much oil to put in once I have drained the old oil out? Will it be roughly the same amount going in as what came out?

Thanks

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Hi Matt:

Look carefully around the base of the compressor head, and often right around the oil drain plug to see if there is a sight glass.

I suspect you've done that, and there's not. But just in case.

When you remove the fill cap for the oil on your unit, is there any type of dipstick to tell you the oil level, you know, like the ones in a car or sometimes in the lawnmower?

Failing that, you've hit the nail on the head.

Since it's not good for the compressor health to overfill the sump, if there is no other way for you to determine the correct oil level, then yes, catch all the oil you drain out, and add just a little bit more than that when you add the fresh oil.

If it's an older unit it will have consumed some of the oil, and that quantity will depend on how old your unit is, which is why I suggest you add a little extra.

Don't forget please that the old oil is hazardous waste and should be disposed of safely.

Cheers,

Bill