Having an issue with identifying an older air compressor? Air compressors have been around in one form or another since the dark ages. If you need help in identifying an older air compressor in order to try to source parts, find a compressor manual, or just get some online guidance on proper use and so on, this is the page to do it!
This page will also provide an opportunity for readers to post photos of their old air compressors so that someone can help identify them!
Table of Contents
- How to Identify an Older Air Compressor
- Help Identifying an Old Air Compressor
- Existing Identifying an Old Air Compressor Pages
How to Identify an Older Air Compressor
Air compressors support various types of tools, which are ultimately spared the strain of running off separate motors. With older compressors, the appeal may center on the rarity of an old machine, or even the novelty in having an outdated piece of machinery that is still operable.
Most air compressors should have a nameplate like the one in the image below. If it does, you should read it as it will have all the information you need!
If your compressor doesn’t have a nameplate, then you should search for distinguishable markings on the tank or the pump like brand names or model numbers.
Identifying an older air compressor can be done with the 4 following steps:
- Check backside of the tank to see if there’s a stamp that lists the year that the compressor was produced along with the manufacturer. If only the manufacturer name is present, do a google search of the brand compressors
- Look along all sides of the air compressor for a patent number, which is often listed near the name of the manufacturer on most older compressors
- Go to google patens and run a search on the patent number (if you find it), this will provide you with basic information on the model including the manufacturer and issue date
- Upload images of the air compressor to a forum like this page where other compressor connoisseurs are likely to recognize the model
Help Identifying an Old Air Compressor
To make it easier for your compressor to be identified, please add at least two photos, preferably four photos, one photo from each side. More photos of an older air compressor almost always leads to faster help.
No photo? Sorry, your posting cannot be approved for this page.
It’s very difficult to identify an older compressor, particularly one without identifying numbers, so in order to get your post approved for this site, at least one, and preferably more, photos must be added to your comment. Please click the “paper clip” icon when you’ve posted the words, and add the photos before you submit. Thanks.
Below there are a number of existing compressor identification requests already posted. As you scroll down the page to the new-question form at the bottom, please have a look at some of them. If you can help identifying another owners compressor it would sure be appreciated by all.
Existing Identifying an Old Air Compressor Pages
Old compressor by Ben Patents Ltd.
Please help identify this Rand 4000
Help identifying old green compressor
Help identifying old compressor pump for parts
Model and name for this compressor
Any idea who made this compressor pump
Identify Lux compressor for information
Info on a 1978 Sears-DeVilbiss-Doerr air compressor
Year of this unknown air compressor
Unidentified Kellogg America break shoe compressor
Vintage DeVilbiss air compressor
Patent number 4065237 that’s all
Info on this vintage air compressor
Identify this 1940’s air compressor
Want to rebuild this compressor but cannot identify it
What oil for old Jacuzzi air compressor
Need assistance to rebuild this old compressor
Please look at this compressor – I have a few questions
What compressor do I have here
Information needed on this 1953 air compressor
Is this a Kelvinator compressor with a riveted air tank
Help with size and RPM of motor for this compressor
If you need help identifying an old air compressor then please leave a comment below with a photo so that someone can help you!
Hi everyone , I have this and no one has been able to tell me where to find parts .
Name, model, year.? All that type of stuff.
This is a Webster, probably a Model 11. No parts available, so it’s roll your own if anything breaks.
Dear Sir, I bought a Campbell Hausfeld 2 stage 80 gallon 5 HP air compressor that was made in 1994 through an auction. The main problem is I cannot locate a model number on the compressor. Without the model #, I cannot order parts for the pump. I have several pictures of the compressor and pump. Any information you can give me will be appreciated.
Thank You
Leon Tamez
It appears I am unable to attach any pictures of my compressor. Please advise me on how to get you pictures.
Anyone know the mfg of this compressor? Tnx
Anyone have an idea?
I imagine you tried to upload some pix. Didn’t work. It’s this site, not you.
You can ask in the contact for them to post for you, or put them up on some public forum/site.
Why will photos not up load? https://1drv.ms/a/s!Atd7U1564qUSgo0fSZ14kpr-bcNLFQ So here is a link to the lot As I posted below but not able to upload photos as needed and ask Hello I have a stumper. IVE CALLED EVERYONE I know and dont know ON line OFF line etc. I have 2 hp WAGNER dual voltage 110/220 Original frame or U frame single phase VINTAGE motor On a tank that has MANCHESTER TX tag (steel) that approved the tank in 84. It should =still be good right? lol THe 2 stage compressor with 18 inch pulley is like new yet old IT… Read more »
Maybe the pix need to be marked public or something. OneDrive won’t show them.
Hello I have a stumper. IVE CALLED EVERYONE I know and dont know ON line OFF line etc. I have 2 hp WAGNER dual voltage 110/220 Original frame or U frame single phase VINTAGE motor On a tank that has MANCHESTER TX tag (steel) that approved the tank in 84. It should =still be good right? lol THe 2 stage compressor with 18 inch pulley is like new yet old IT has NO tag NO numbers Only a CAPITAL ”D” in a circle. No one has any idea except a guy chimed on and said POSSABLY Ranger, Shultz or low… Read more »
Howdy,
I purchased this older air compressor which I believe is a two stage with pistons stacked side by side. The motor is a Century which I do not believe is original. The tank had a worn off sticker that said Smith & Sons. I want to start making repairs but need to identify it, I have attached photos! Appreciate any help.
Here are da pics I tried posting these with the original but obviously they did not post
Sorry, still no go.
If it’s working, you’ll see a thumbnail between the text area and name box.
Which it’s not, at the moment. Sorry.
Trying to identify this compressor. I don’t know how old it is. Came on a 50 gallon tank with 1 hp motor. Does not have much in terms of markings
Again we are at a loss about this compressor. How old is it? Who made it? Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.
What is this?
You tried to post pix? Not your problem. The site was screwed up.
Try again – your pix will show as thumbnails as you post them, if it’s working.
If not. use the contact form, maybe they can take the pics and post for you.
I am afraid I didn’t include all photos. What is it?
I picked this up for $20 it was inside of a crate it’s full of new oil has great compression when he turn it over by hand I wanted to use it as an air compressor but I don’t know a thing about this one and I cannot find any markings besides some numbers hand stamped in the back that don’t pull up anything any help would be appreciated.
If you tried to post pix, they didn’t make it. You’ll see a thumbnail of it if it’s going to make it.
I cant seen to get any pics to attach. I’ve used multiple browsers and still cant get any to attach.
Yeah, not your problem. The site is screwed up. Again or still, not sure which.
Use the contact form, maybe they can take the pics and post for you.
Picked this up for $20 and dont know a thing about it. It was inside a garage in a crate and has new oil and great compression turning it by hand. Wanes to use it for an air compressor but don’t know anything so any help would be appreciated.
I recently purchased this compressor and was told I may have a gem here. I have Google for.days and can’t seem to find any info please help.
If you tried to post pix, they didn’t make it. You’ll see a thumbnail of it if it’s going to make it.
Pics- please help identify
Look here – it’s a refrigeration pump.
I need help identifying this old bruner air compressor with a Wagner induction motor. No year on it, I have pictures of the model number. I’ve done some research but had no luck. Someone know what this compressor this is?
I have a Brunner air compressor. I’m having trouble identifying it. I do have the model numbers, I will post them on this comment. It runs, it runs pretty good actually, it’s quiet. All the research I have done on it, I only came across one air compressor that looks familiar. There was no info on it though.
I have an old Sears Compressor Mdl 106.173842 air compressor 220 VAC. I bought it new in ~ 1974 and has worked mostly flawlessly until just now. It is 3 Hp Single stage, dual cylinder compressor, rated @ 150 psi max,6.0 scfm @ 90psi. The problem now is that at elevated pressures (estimate the top 1/3 of its range before pressure switch turns it of- it makes a hell of a racket. Sounds like something internal is about to come loose. If parts are available for the internals of the compressor i would certainly consider rebuilding. Not sure if parts… Read more »
There are parts available. Just doodle 106.173842 and you’ll find a few.
Before you tear it down, I suggest you verify that the belt is intact, and that the pulley and flywheel are secure. Not knowing what the sound is, it might just be a loose key.
If that fails, then you can go looking at the innards.
Good luck.
Please help me identify this compressor.
I recently bought this compressor for $70 and would like to find out information on it along with what I should do to get it in top shape
Fliteway compressor 60 gal tank 5 hp Campbell hausfeld pump 1980 need parts but can you tell me model so I can get parts
thank you
Probably. Please post some pix of the pump.
If you already tried to post with this, it didn’t work – please try again.
This compressor pump is Campbell Hausfeld and quite sure 1980, fliteway 5 hp I need parts but don’t know model, it’s identical to my 1974 but don’t have any info on that one either
I Don’t Have A Clue
This was my husband’s compressor and when he passed, it became mine. Now it’s time for me to downsize and sell this beast. I have no idea how to price it. It runs well, has always been taken care of and plugs into 220. Hopefully the pics will help. Thanks for any input, Janet
Can please help find the owners manual for this air compressor. As you can see i have pretty much all the info on it but when I Google it nothing comes up on it. Can someone please help me. I appreciate it in advance.
Yeah, nothing. Roger might have something on it.
Meanwhile, if you haven’t already, try https://www.campbellhausfeld.com/?target=contact
and use the form or direct email.
Was there anything specific you wanted the manual for?
Found this air compressor and cannot identify it! The motor and compressor work but all the piping from compressor to tank is missing! It’s painted red and blue, but some paint is chipped and it appeared to be originally turquoise blue! The compressor has a big W with AC behind it and the number 6445933! Would like to know the brand if any one can identify it!
This is a Kellogg 201.
Hoping to be able to repair this myself with make a gasket rtv. I made 1 attempt and it worked to seal the leaks but the intricate gasket lines caused the gasket maker to squeeze out into places it should not be stopping the one cylinder from compressing air but at least it sealed off the leaks and allowed the compressor to operate on the other cylinder. I have it apart again to make a second attempt but I’m hoping I didn’t damage the valves too badly that they won’t work.
Model number ppv-50-220
Help to identify compressor.
Hello. I found this piece among other things from my father-in-law, who collected cars and also machinery. I think it is an air compressor, but I don’t know anything else about it. I would appreciate any help to identify it.
Never seen anything quite like it.
Absent scale or a top view, it’s surely a pump, but I’m more inclined to think hydraulic or maybe water.
Hello, thank you very much for your comment. The piece is 21 cm high and the diameter of the wheel is 12,5 cm. It has no visible markings.
Can you post a top view?
I’m sorry, I tried but I can’t attach the image, it must be a bug in my computer. I will try again later or tomorrow. Thanks for your help anyway.
I have finally been able to publish the image from above. Sorry for the delay.
Well, I guess it is an air pump, judging by what appears to be an intake filter on the left cylinder in your leftmost pic. That unscrews so you can clean it, right? And the tube to the other cylinder makes it look like two stage, but it would have to be either smaller diameter or a longer stroke to make any additional pressure. Maybe there’s gears in the sump? I suppose the the larger tube on the second cylinder is the output, but then what’s the smaller thing? Is there air going in or out of that when you… Read more »
Thank you very much for your help. I have tried to remove the cover but I am unable to unscrew two of the screws. I also haven’t noticed any air coming in or out when turning the transmission. I don’t understand anything about how these parts work and just wanted to find out what machine or vehicle it belongs to. I’ve searched the internet, but I haven’t found anything similar. This part was among other things from a relative who collected cars and was also interested in static engines and all kinds of machinery. It seems that we will be… Read more »
You just gave me a clue that might help – DeepL. Where are you / native language? If you don’t mind, of course.
You tried penetrating oil on those screws, I presume?
Hello again, Doug.
I am Spanish. I understand written English quite well, but I don’t speak or write it well, so I use the deepl.com translator.
Yes, I have put some lubricating oil on the screws, but the problem is that two of them have already deformed slots and there is no screwdriver that fits well and can make the turn.
You are taking a lot of trouble with my compressor and I appreciate it.
Best regards,
Benjamin.
Ah, I see the messed up heads now that you mention it.
I’ve had some success filing flats into screw heads like that, and using a wrench or pliers on it.
And you’ve been patient with me, and I appreciate that, too.
Good luck.
Hi first time here, excellent site and user friendly. I recently came across this air compressor it had been sitting outside for the last 25 years and not in use it was in waist high grass next to and old workshop that was being torn down. The Tank has a build date of 1969, WP 200 built by Kargard, the pump is Jacuzzi Bros I’m guess its a little older than than the tank but not sure. The motor is big and heavy, the tag is barely legible and not at all in some places I think it’s a Dayton,… Read more »
There is no doubt in my mind that this is a home-brew machine. Painted up pretty nice though!
Can’t tell you much as info on Jacuzzi pumps is almost as rare as hen’s teeth.
That might just be because the people with the info don’t come here, though.
Doug thanks for the reply, I’ve kinda changed my thoughts on this and scrapped the idea that I have a Dayton motor the two wires you see for the starting capacitor I had found tied together unshielded inside the end cap of the motors case someone most likely plugged it in and it never ran again, as mentioned it had been been outside uncovered for around 25 years I was told. The centrifugal switch was blow to bits and I took it to a local motor shop and they believe the motor is a Doerr which makes since to me… Read more »
“…the two wires you see for the starting capacitor I had found tied together unshielded inside the end cap of the motors case someone most likely plugged it in and it never ran again, as mentioned it had been been outside uncovered for around 25 years I was told. The centrifugal switch was blow to bits…”
Yep, shorted cap would explain the switch, alright. So the motor shop thought it was FUBAR?
Anyway, if you do something interesting (or not) with it, feel free to post back.
Have fun.
Hi First time here, very informative and user friendly, thank you. I recently found this air compressor outside in waste high grass next to and old workshop that was being torn down, I had to use a shovel to dig it out where it had started sinking into the earth over the years after each torrential rainstorm here south of Houston Tx. The property was being sold and was being clean up all I had to do was dig it out and load it up and it was mine. I’m guessing it’s at least 200lbs the tank is a Kargard… Read more »
Here are the pictures
Trying to confirm the compressor model number, year of manufacturer and any additional info. Also, any idea what it may be worth running or not? Thanks.
Depends on where it is and whether it runs, to a lesser extent. That’s a quality machine.
Thank you for your reply. It does run. Do you know where I may find additional information, specifications, etc?
I hope Roger will be by with some more. Meanwhile, It is a Kellog, But I’m not sure about that motor, It may be a lower powered version, or maybe someone replaced the OE motor. The motor speed and power largely determine the output pressure and/or volume depending on how it’s geared. Is there a plate with horsepower, current, and RPM on it? Also, is there a plate or direct imprint on the tank? That would have date and some rating info on it as well.
Might be a model 340 or even a 352 pump – some images attached with some spex
Well, crap. Attachments seem to be broken again.
Either a 325 or 321 Kellogg.
Can anybody tell me about my Ford Air Compressor?
Hey Christopher,
Can you upload some images so we can see it? Otherwise we’ve not got much hope of identifying it!
Cheers
I’ve been trying to upload images but they haven’t been able to attach for some reason
Hey Christopher,
Try to upload the images now – I’ve just cleared the system.
If you’re still having issues, please send images to aboutaircompressors @ gmail.com and I’ll get them uploaded!
Cheers
I need help identifying this compressor…Thanks!
Hey Dan,
Are you having trouble uploading images? I just tested and it seems ok – let me know
Cheers
Hello, I posted in wrong section before hopefully this is the right one. Im in big need of anyone’s help, trying to find piston rings, and original color and any other helpful information about this 100 year old relic. The motor dates back to 1916 patent. Don’t know about pump. It runs and works, I want to keep this in my family for another 100 years lol. They sure don’t make them like this anymore!
Try Hastings for rings. Measure carefully, and they can often find a fit.
If the brushes wear out, you’ll probably have to “repurpose” brushes for something else.
Good luck.
Looks like a DeVilbiss paint spraying system using an old Saylor Beall compressor pump. Saylore Beall might have some info but it is probably long obsolete.
Trying to identify a compressor given to me
Looking for lots of info, greatly appreciate all help. K.R. Wilson SN# 207. Only building 5psi but still pumps. Ultimate goal repair manual or service manual. Thank you
Hey Randy, please could you provide some pictures? It also sounds like you’ve successfully identified the air compressor – so if you’re looking for some specific advice on an air compressor that won’t build pressure – take a look at this article about fixing an air compressor that won’t build any pressure.
I need help identifying an air compressor. 4065237 patent
This is a Campbell Hausfeld, VT or VS series.
Hi,
can you please help identify this compressor? We need to find a motor for it.
thank you
Never heard of this name before
Hope this picture loads.
Looking for info on this unused air compressor pump.
I have a compressor that I found when renovating an out building. Brand new still attached to a 1×6 on the bottom and cardboard stapled to the board. Would like to know what it is and if it is useful.
Hey Keith – Please attach images otherwise we can’t help identify the compressor. The image upload is now working, but you’ll still need to make sure the images aren’t enormous in file size
Hi,
Am looking to restore this old Air Compressor. Now that i’ve got some of the paint off, I can see a logo, CBS, maybe a model number, H 30424, a date, 16th May 1957 (happy 64th birthday!!) And has S400 stamped on the crank shaft housing. It has two small pistons but looks to not have piston rings but does have a cap on the top of the piston, possibly leather? Looking for any information and tips for restoring.
Thanks,
Nic.
Hey Nic – any pictures to help us out?
I’ve come across an air compressor made by US Curtis manufacturing.
I posted a picture of the serial number. Like to know a value and some history about the piece.
COPELAND COMPRESSOR
Hello, this Copeland compressor was left in the basement when we purchased our home. I’d appreciate any help identifying how old it may be, what it was used for, and is it of any use today?
Identifications:
On bottom part of unit – Copeland, Unit Model #WCWM-0300-TAC-001
208/220 Volts, 3PH, 60 CYC
On red label – Copelametic Model No. 3RK2-0310-CAB
Voltage 230, Hz. 60, R.L.A 18.3, L.R.A. 86.0
On grey label – Ranco Incorporated
Columbus, Ohio
Hi wanting to sell compressor but having difficulty finding information
Pleas help identify. Tank was made in 1947 . Thinking about restoring and using. It works but needs freshened up.
Hi, I was given a large air compressor and I wanted to pull up any info I can on it before setting it up. It’s coming from an old mechanic shop.
Thanks
Hi Moshe,
Unfortunately, your images haven’t been attached, this is a site issue we’re working on resolving. I’ve sent you an email regarding posting pictures on your behalf, our inbox has a size limit of 50MB for attachments. If you send photos via email this may need to be split over several emails.
Thanks
Powering the motor may be your biggest setup issue. Can you tell us us what input it requires?
3ph
This air compressor pump was mounted on a board. I put it on this tank and it pumps up to 120psi, but it sprays oil out the shaft on the other side from the pulley. Anybody tell me what make it is?
This is a Kellogg 210 and you are missing the welch plug on the end of the crankcase. If you can’t find the OEM part, maybe there is a freeze plug from a car engine that might fit. You can also get hole plugs at Lowe’s that might work.
It’s a Kellogg 201. It needs a steel plug in the end of the case.
I found the plug and put it back, but it has popped out twice again. I put a cinch strap around it and so far it is still on. Much less oil coming out. thanks.