by Al
(Bethpage, NY)
I have an old Honeywell (1950’s?) air compressor that I got from my father in law. He has not used it in 10 years. It definitely works.
The motor was replaced. The motor can be used with 110 or 220 …currently it is wired for 110. How can I tell what Model it is. It seems to be leaking oil from the pump part. My questions are.
Is it something that can be used with current power tools?
Can the tank be compromised over the years? There is no rust but I am not sure what the tank is like on the inside.
The oil leaked from sitting over the years. Are the gaskets deteriorated? Are they worth replacing?
I am sorry for all of the questions. I would really love to use this thing but it is a beast and I am new at this but would love to make sure I don’t do anything that can ruin it if it is usable.
It is currently covered in sawdust as it sat next to the table saw in his garage. Thank you for your help.
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First question Al is “Is it something that can be used with current power tools? ” I assume you mean air tools, and if so, the tools themselves don’t care where the compressed air to drive them comes from, just that there is enough air at the right pressure to work the tool. So, to answer this, what tool, what pressure and flow is needed for that tool, and can the compressor provide that?
Second question is “Can the tank be compromised over the years? There is no rust but I am not sure what the tank is like on the inside. ” Yes, it can, but it is difficult to tell. Tank failure is usually by rust through, often the process ends up in a leak, occasionally a tank rupture. When you drain the tank, what is coming out, really rusty water or what?
Next “The oil leaked from sitting over the years. Are the gaskets deteriorated? Are they worth replacing? ” Quite likely they have deteriorated. If the compressor works well, then sure, replace the gaskets. However, in my shop compressor I have a small amount of oil wicking out from the pump sump, and I simply keep a rag on the tank to catch any drips, and ensure that the oil is topped up regularly. That was my solution. May not be yours. Regardless, before you run the compressor again, change the oil.
Last “I don’t do anything that can ruin it if it is usable. ” as long as it’s got good oil in it at the right level, then you shouldn’t be able to hurt it by running the air compressor.
