How to replace reed valves

by Tom Baer
(Dalton, OH)

How old?

How old?

I have an old US Air Compressor. Not sure of the date it was made.It's at least 50 yrs.old. Model number 8881HA.The reed valves were gummed up inside. I took them out to clean them and now I'm not sure how they go back in.Nothing was broke in there, just needed cleaned.How do I know if I've installed them correctly. Any ideas would be appreciated.Thank You.





Bill answers...

Tom, hi. Thanks for writing in.

That's a venerable old compressor you have there. I really appreciate it when folks send in photos. It makes understanding their compressor problems much easier...usually.

In your case, hmmmm, sorry, but I've been in the same boat as you a few times. Taken things apart, sure that I'll remember the sequence of reassembly, and then whoops, CRAFT cuts in, and it's gone. (Can't Remember A Friggin' Thing!)

So, help from all you compressor folks out there. Can anyone provide Tom with some concrete details or does he just do what I do in this circumstance, and that's reassemble and test.

Tom, if, after you reassemble, you turn the compressor on and it generates pressure in the tank, then you've put them in the right way.

If not, take them out and put them in the opposite.

Cheers,

Bill




Comments for
How to replace reed valves

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Sep 08, 2009
 Follow Up
by: Tom Baer

Thank you for the information on the reed valves. I am gunna take it apart and try what you are saying. The reed valves have springs on one end of them, would you think these springs would go into the head first or would it be the opposite? I will check for the bent ends tho. Thanks
Sep 08, 2009
 Reed valves
by: Anonymous

Put them on a flat surface you will see they are bent put the bent side down in the head so as to stop the air from getting out . pressure will push them up between strokes and they will reseat each time





Thanks...

Thanks very much for this advice. The visitors to the www.about-air-compressors.com website are the greatest!

Tom, I hope this helps.

Bill

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