Curtis Toledo D96 compressor runs like under heavy load

by Jim
(Belmont Ohio)

I have a Curtis Toledo D96 compressor that sat for a couple of years unused. it runs and builds air pressure but it gets slower and slower until i get scared of burning up the motor. it acts like its running under a real heavy load. it seems to me like maybe something internal isnt working properly that is supposed to take that pressure off the pump. can you point me in the right direction?

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Bill says...

Jim, as the tank pressure builds, the motor does come under heavier load. This capacity is built into the air compressor. If the motor starts lugging as the pressure grows, then, consider the following:

• do you have a clean power supply


• eliminate any extension cord


• empty compressor, remove and clean check valve into tank


• if lubed, is oil in good shape

Having said that, it could also be motor related; a run capacitor that's failing or the motor itself needs rebuild.

If you don't notice anything untoward on the pump side, and you do the checks noted, then I suspect you need to get the motor checked.

Cheers,

Bill