Compressor builds up to 60 psi then shuts off...

by Jason
(Orient, Ohio, USA)

I have an air compressor I purchased from Harbor Freight a couple years ago.

It is a 3 HP, 21 Gallon, 115 PSI Cast Iron Vertical Air Compressor with a heavy duty 3 HP rated motor.

Long-life oil lubricated compressor with precision machined cast-iron sleeve. Twin capacitor motor with thermal overload protection.

Once the compressor reaches 60 psi the motor stops running and begins to buzz like it is locked up.

I haven't taken the motor apart yet as that is why I'm posting on here first to see if this is something that I could repair for $40-50 myself or if I'm better off to just scrap the thing and save up for a new one. Harbor Freight item number is 93271, the compressor is still for sale on their site if you'd care to look at it to glean any additional information I didn't provide.

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Bill says...

Jason, it sounds like the motor has issues, and cannot handle the increasing load of the pressure in the tank any more.

If it were me, I'd take the motor off, and take it to a motor repair shop and ask them to test it. It might only need rewinding, which might be in your price range.

Good luck,

Bill