Compressor starts then slows & stops

by Tom
(Arkansas)

We have a CH Compressor, 20 gallon, 150 PSI. Model# WL651100AJ It starts okay, then when you use it, builds up to 100lbs, after 5 minutes use it looses pressure and won't restart for 15 minutes or so. Restart and it does the same thing each time. Is there a fuse or breaker to replace on the unit, took the cover off and can't locate either. Any input would be appreciated.

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Bill says...

Tom, if you knew me, you'd know how easily I'm confused. :-) And, your post confuses me a bit!

When you say "It starts okay, then when you use it, builds up to 100lbs," I can't tell if it ever gets to the normal cut out pressure level.

Unplug the compressor, drain the tank to zero PSI, close the drain, and plug the compressor back in. Let it run until it stops on it's own accord, and that should be in the area of 120-150 PSI in the tank.

Did it do that alright?

Don't use any air for 15 minutes, and watch the gauge. Does the air pressure change?

If not, open the drain slightly with the compressor plugged in, and bleed the air down slowly to the point where the compressor turns on. What is that pressure level?

Cheers,

Bill




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Compressor starts then slows & stops

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Aug 14, 2011
 Compressor motor can only run when tank < 20PSI / empty tank
by: Anonymous

I have a similar situation. The compressor motor starts and runs at operating speed from an empty tank < 20PSI. It will get to ~100PSI then the motor will stop and the unloader valve will trip. Then I will use my air tools and when it reaches a ~80 PSI, the pressure switch will turn the motor back on. The motor will start, but will run very slowly making a clunk clunk clunk sound and never get to operating speed. Then after a couple of seconds the motor will stop. I will then have to wait a couple of minutes, drain the tank to less than 20PSI and then the motor will turn on again and easily fill the tank to ~100PSI with no problem. I replaced the starter capacitor, unloader valve, pressure switch/regulator. Not sure what else to repair/replace? Any ideas? Thanks RK
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Sounds like it could be the motor start capacitor or the starting winding may not be working properly. It sounds like it's a motor issue, and you need to get it to a shop for testing. An empty compressor starts with less load and less strain on the motor, which may be why it will start empty, but can't overcome the back pressure load when you have 80 PSI in the tank.

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