Great video! Facilitator did an excellent job explaining how a compressor functions that was easy to understand. In addition, you provided a lot of useful information that would have been overlooked had you not taken time to share. Thanks again. Have you created any other videos? dc
+Donald Charity Thanks Donald! I'm glad you found the video series informative. Yes, I have over 200 videos on various topics. Feel free to dig around for anything of interest. Take care, G.
Bought one of these last year for the same price you paid. This one seemed like the best value for the money. 2nd (and last time) I used it, it threw the breaker on the motor several times before it held. Something I hope I can figure out why it is doing it, and can be fixed. Love your vids, as well how you hands do a lot of talking.
+Goat Moag I agree! For my purposes- it was the best value for the money. Hopefully the tripping was just an anomaly. Mines never had that problem. Glad you like the videos! LOL, yeah- if I sit on my hands I can't get any words out! Take care, G.
I bought this same compressor over two years ago and didn't take it out of the box for almost a year. Since opening I haven't had any issues with it whatsoever. I work at a place that sells industrial air compressors and they seem to have a bunch of issues with their unloaded valves and regulators. I paid $149 compared to the others at $800 or more.
Wow. Great review. That valve on the top of the head is maybe a secondary unloader in case the first one doesn't work. That's what I think it is. I can't believe that handle is placed right where you connect the hose at. Ha-ha. Wow. From what I've heard, this is a pretty popular compressor from harbor freight. Off to part two. HERE WE GOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!
+Love2boat92 Thanks man! I'm not sure. If the unloader doesn't relive head pressure due to a failure, this other thing couldn't open since there would still be pressure on the head. It might be a manual unloader of some kind. I really don't know. G.
AT 5:10 in the video where you talk about the tank drain. The one I bought January 2018 has a ball valve located at the bottom center of the tank. It's hard to get hold of because of the short plastic handle so I may add an extension.
That's what I did on my large compressor Damon. I put on a longer nipple to get the ball valve to the front of the tank. I would have done it to this one had the drain been in the right place. Good luck, G.
Good review with points made about user interface items of interest. That mystery head flutter valve is interesting. I've watched all 3 of this set of videos and came back here to ask a question because this is where you mentioned; "I'll be using this between different locations as a somewhat portable unit". How are you going to be filtering out water when this is in the mobile unit mode?
+MRrwmac Thanks Mac! I guess I should have mentioned that...lol. It will have a 25' hose ran to a filter, then onto the hose I will be using. For spraying, I will use a disposable filter at the gun for extra measure. G.
+ghostses So the one coming directly off the compressor will be coiled (at least in a few places if not all) to catch moisture. And another later down the line,. Ok got it. I'd like to see that arrangement. Guess with all the hoses, we might see a review on HF pressure hoses? Haha
+MRrwmac Mac, I don't know if it being coiled makes much of a difference- the distance would be my concern. The length is what gives the time for the moisture to drop out and be filtered. My shop setup is coiled from the compressor to the first filter, but only to keep things tidy. LOL, funny you mention their hoses and a review! I've just purchased a couple of their hybrid hoses and have been testing them out. So far I'm liking them and will post my thoughts as soon as I can. G.
I hope you have better luck with yours than I did mine. I had one,lasted a few months then it would run non stop and bever fully build pressure. I bought a new one and put the old one in the box and returned it. (shady I know...but I was super annoyed mine didnt even last a year) the new compressor again only lasted a month or so and once again it was only building to 90psi or so. took this one apart... I noticed the reed valves in the head were chipping apart.... that was why it would no longer build pressure. I ended up getting the 29 gallon belt driven compressor from harbor freight instead and that one is much more reliable. the reviews also reflect this.
I have Michael. It's been almost 2yrs since posting and it's still working well for me. Granted, I have a large compressor for my shop- and use this one remotely. It's not seen tons of use, but still works well for my applications. It's unfortunate you've had a negative experience with it. From a noise point of view, I know you're liking the belt driven compressor! This one will drive you absolutely bonkers.....lol. Thanks for sharing your experience. It gives other viewers something to consider. Take care, G.
Yeah, I'm happy with my new 29 gallon for sure. I don't know if they plan on adding this feature to the other models, but the 29 gallon I just purchased has a little red digital display meter for hour run time that shows total hours the pump has ran. its an outstanding feature, since you can keep a very good track of maintenance. First oil change at 100 hours, 500 hours every one there after. Though to be honest, I'm gonna change mine at the ten hour mark just to be safe, and then every 500 hours after....
I've lightly used mine for about 2 yrs.Never wanted to run.Always hitting reset Now the oil is black even after changing the oil.Think I'm going to buy another and return like yourself
Have you noticed water in the oil? Got the same compressor in Dec 2015. Noticed a white milky oil liquid in the inline filter today. Is this something I should be concerned about? The compressor is in a non heated garage, unless I'm going to be working out there then I'll turn the a/c on. Drained the oil, it was black with a grit texture to it.
I haven't noticed, but I haven't really looked at it. I don't use it all that much. Did you follow the break-in procedure, then change the oil after doing so? Or are you just changing the oil for the first time? I would expect some grit and it being dark after the break-in since the rings, etc are being seated in. Me, I wouldn't be too concerned about it, for what they cost, especially if you're trapping the oil in the separator. If you're getting oil out of the air line, you could try a better separator. Also, empty the tank after each use. It will help with condensation. Good luck, G.
Hi G. Done a bit of maths for you. HP = 745. 110V x 14A = 1.54Kw = 2hp 2.5hp works out as 1.86Kva with a power factor of.82 which is about right for an inductive load such as a motor. Make sure your wiring can take 17A ;) So as always, just like when your buying an amplifier (PMPO vs RMS) they sell the highest power their numbers can muster, rather than the usable power. Hope that helps and all the best.
+Sirus Thanks Sirus! I knew someone could verify the stated output. At this site, I'm running it on a 20amp circuit with 12/2 wiring so all should be good for me- or at lest it has been....lol.
This 21 gallon one is notorious for have left over metal shavings in the milling process. I filled my new one up yesterday and drained it before I ever ran it, yep large shavings of metal came out. then I refilled it and ran for literally 3 seconds and drained again, saw fairly good sized spots of metal. refilled again and ran for several minutes, gonna drain and do it one more time. maybe excessive but oil is cheap. I got the warranty but still, metal isn't supposed to be in there
Hmmm mine either. Did the break in for 30mins and drained with no shavings at all. I was impressed. I may drain again just to be on the safe side since yea oil is very cheap.
The "unloader" valve that is screwed directly into the head is a Cold Start Valve. The explanation is accurate. On my model (69091), the Cold Start Valve is attached through a T connector on the feed line. The problem I am having is that it closes too quickly and the built up head pressure keeps the motor from turning over, hence the hum people are reporting. My temporary fix is to use an object, such as a nail or paperclip, to press open the button on the valve until the motor can get running.
Yeah, somewhere in the comments on one of the 3 videos I'd posted a link to a replacement valve. I don't know if it was exactly the same, but I think it was under 10 bucks. It sounds like the spring is getting weak on yours. I don't know if they can be taken apart to stretch the spring a little, or if they're sealed up. Good luck, G.
The part number is CS25-100 and Grainger has it for $4 (plus shipping). Here's a link: www.grainger.com/product/CDI-CONTROL-DEVICES-Brass-Air-Cold-Start-Valve-36JN39. I tried it and the spring still is not strong enough. You can take them apart once, so I may try stretching the spring. I'll post back if I have any luck.
I went back to the original valve and spring and stretched the spring by elongating it. That really didn't work, so I took an assorted spring from a Harbor Freight spring kit that was about 2" long and the right diameter. I then cut it with wire cutters not exactly in half. It took a little trial and error, but I got the right length to keep the valve open until the compressor could get up to speed. It now is able to start on its own when the tank pressure drops to 95 psi. Problem "solved"! Here's a link to the spring kit: Item #67562. www.harborfreight.com/200-piece-assorted-spring-set-67562.html
Too bad stretching the spring didn't work- but that's a good solution you came up with! Hopefully it will be the last time you need to mess with it. Thanks for the followup, G.
Scooby, I tried a better air filter but it really didn't help all that much. I don't have a solution, but if you come up with one- let me know. As you know, this thing is crazy loud. Take care, G.
It should drive a 1/2 gun, but it really depends on what you're looking to do. In short bursts it should work, but you might need to wait for it to refill if you stay on the trigger longer. A larger compressor would be my personal preference- but we all have different needs. Good luck, G.
+lynchburgcsi57 I have the belt driven model, and its still somewhat loud, but not as loud as the direct drive models, and not as loud as my 30 year old Wards compressor. My old compressor was an 11 gallon, 1HP model, never had trouble with it until the tank slowly rusted and I noticed a pinhole leak in the tank so I took it out of service before the tank failed under pressure. I can't remember for sure how long it took my old compressor to get up to pressure and shut off, but I know the 29 Gallon one I have now takes about 7-8 minutes. The old compressor only went to 110PSI, the new one is 140PSI. Haven't used my new compressor too much yet, I've got about 4-1/2 hours on it, and it will soon be receiving its first oil change after break in. So far I like the new compressor...anxious to see if it starts up in the winter LOL. My old compressor had a hard time starting in cold weather sometimes.
+lynchburgcsi57 You're not kidding man!...lol. I can't speak for the 29 but did consider it just because it was belt driven. The cost is what drove me to this unit- knowing full well in advance it was going to drive me crazy. G.
lynchburgcsi57 Unless you shell out the money for one of the rotary type compressors you'll always have the noise no matter what brand you buy. The rotary compressors are so quiet you can hardly know they're running unless you are right next to it. The only drawback is the price. If I were using mine 24/7 it would be a great investment, but for the occasional project the one I have does just fine.
I bought this same unit based on good reviews around the web, this thing sucks. It takes like 4 minutes to pump up and it kicks back on pretty quickly, this is a very light duty unit and not for anything other than VERY light use. It's crazy loud and pretty weak.
About 4min with an empty tank to cut off is about what I get as well. It takes about 1min to reclaim for me with no air usage. I will agree, it's for light duty/intermediate use. "Crazy loud" is an understatement in my opinion...lol. I can't stand hearing it run. For my application though, it fits the bill. Good luck finding something that fits your needs. Take care, G.
One big problem with the harbor freight's 21 gal compressor and maybe all there stuff is that there are no parts available. The manual says the check valve compression nut is 3/8 inch but it is 10mm with metric threads and I had i figure that out because their tech support has the same manual that comes with the compressor. Fortunately the compressor is cheaper than the parts to fix the darn thing.
+2point0T They do seem to be hit and miss on parts for sure. I have ordered parts for my horizontal band saw and 6x8 green house with success. LOL, yeah- their manuals are something else! Mine doesn't get hardcore use- but it's been working great so far. I can't stand how loud it is though...lol. Take care, G.
Most manufactures will state a break-in procedure to seat the rings. Then flush out the contaminated oil and refill. I always break in my compressors, but folks can do what they want. Take care, G.
Great video! Facilitator did an excellent job explaining how a compressor functions that was easy to understand. In addition, you provided a lot of useful information that would have been overlooked had you not taken time to share. Thanks again. Have you created any other videos? dc
+Donald Charity
Thanks Donald! I'm glad you found the video series informative. Yes, I have over 200 videos on various topics. Feel free to dig around for anything of interest. Take care, G.
Bought one of these last year for the same price you paid. This one seemed like the best value for the money. 2nd (and last time) I used it, it threw the breaker on the motor several times before it held. Something I hope I can figure out why it is doing it, and can be fixed.
Love your vids, as well how you hands do a lot of talking.
+Goat Moag
I agree! For my purposes- it was the best value for the money. Hopefully the tripping was just an anomaly. Mines never had that problem. Glad you like the videos! LOL, yeah- if I sit on my hands I can't get any words out! Take care, G.
I bought this same compressor over two years ago and didn't take it out of the box for almost a year. Since opening I haven't had any issues with it whatsoever. I work at a place that sells industrial air compressors and they seem to have a bunch of issues with their unloaded valves and regulators. I paid $149 compared to the others at $800 or more.
That's cool Bryan. I haven't had any problems with mine either. It just works and the price was right. Take care, G.
Wow. Great review. That valve on the top of the head is maybe a secondary unloader in case the first one doesn't work. That's what I think it is. I can't believe that handle is placed right where you connect the hose at. Ha-ha. Wow. From what I've heard, this is a pretty popular compressor from harbor freight. Off to part two. HERE WE GOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!
+Love2boat92 Thanks man! I'm not sure. If the unloader doesn't relive head pressure due to a failure, this other thing couldn't open since there would still be pressure on the head. It might be a manual unloader of some kind. I really don't know. G.
***** No problem. I've never seen anything like it before.
+Love2boat92 Me neither! G.
AT 5:10 in the video where you talk about the tank drain. The one I bought January 2018 has a ball valve located at the bottom center of the tank. It's hard to get hold of because of the short plastic handle so I may add an extension.
That's what I did on my large compressor Damon. I put on a longer nipple to get the ball valve to the front of the tank. I would have done it to this one had the drain been in the right place. Good luck, G.
Great video! Thanks!!!
+Thomas Lam
Glad you liked it Thomas! Good luck, G.
Good review with points made about user interface items of interest. That mystery head flutter valve is interesting. I've watched all 3 of this set of videos and came back here to ask a question because this is where you mentioned; "I'll be using this between different locations as a somewhat portable unit". How are you going to be filtering out water when this is in the mobile unit mode?
+MRrwmac Thanks Mac! I guess I should have mentioned that...lol. It will have a 25' hose ran to a filter, then onto the hose I will be using. For spraying, I will use a disposable filter at the gun for extra measure. G.
+ghostses So the one coming directly off the compressor will be coiled (at least in a few places if not all) to catch moisture. And another later down the line,. Ok got it. I'd like to see that arrangement. Guess with all the hoses, we might see a review on HF pressure hoses? Haha
+MRrwmac Mac, I don't know if it being coiled makes much of a difference- the distance would be my concern. The length is what gives the time for the moisture to drop out and be filtered. My shop setup is coiled from the compressor to the first filter, but only to keep things tidy. LOL, funny you mention their hoses and a review! I've just purchased a couple of their hybrid hoses and have been testing them out. So far I'm liking them and will post my thoughts as soon as I can. G.
I hope you have better luck with yours than I did mine. I had one,lasted a few months then it would run non stop and bever fully build pressure. I bought a new one and put the old one in the box and returned it. (shady I know...but I was super annoyed mine didnt even last a year)
the new compressor again only lasted a month or so and once again it was only building to 90psi or so. took this one apart... I noticed the reed valves in the head were chipping apart.... that was why it would no longer build pressure.
I ended up getting the 29 gallon belt driven compressor from harbor freight instead and that one is much more reliable. the reviews also reflect this.
I have Michael. It's been almost 2yrs since posting and it's still working well for me. Granted, I have a large compressor for my shop- and use this one remotely. It's not seen tons of use, but still works well for my applications.
It's unfortunate you've had a negative experience with it. From a noise point of view, I know you're liking the belt driven compressor! This one will drive you absolutely bonkers.....lol.
Thanks for sharing your experience. It gives other viewers something to consider. Take care, G.
Yeah, I'm happy with my new 29 gallon for sure. I don't know if they plan on adding this feature to the other models, but the 29 gallon I just purchased has a little red digital display meter for hour run time that shows total hours the pump has ran.
its an outstanding feature, since you can keep a very good track of maintenance. First oil change at 100 hours, 500 hours every one there after. Though to be honest, I'm gonna change mine at the ten hour mark just to be safe, and then every 500 hours after....
Hmm, they added an hour meter- that's cool. Yeah, I would do the first change sooner than later. Hope it serves you well. Take care, G.
I've lightly used mine for about 2 yrs.Never wanted to run.Always hitting reset Now the oil is black even after changing the oil.Think I'm going to buy another and return like yourself
Have you noticed water in the oil? Got the same compressor in Dec 2015. Noticed a white milky oil liquid in the inline filter today. Is this something I should be concerned about? The compressor is in a non heated garage, unless I'm going to be working out there then I'll turn the a/c on. Drained the oil, it was black with a grit texture to it.
I haven't noticed, but I haven't really looked at it. I don't use it all that much. Did you follow the break-in procedure, then change the oil after doing so? Or are you just changing the oil for the first time? I would expect some grit and it being dark after the break-in since the rings, etc are being seated in. Me, I wouldn't be too concerned about it, for what they cost, especially if you're trapping the oil in the separator. If you're getting oil out of the air line, you could try a better separator. Also, empty the tank after each use. It will help with condensation. Good luck, G.
Thanks, Your second video answered a lot of my questions. Great videos btw, you explain things very clearly.
NathanH
No problem! I'm glad you liked them. Take care, G.
Hi G. Done a bit of maths for you. HP = 745.
110V x 14A = 1.54Kw = 2hp
2.5hp works out as 1.86Kva with a power factor of.82 which is about right for an inductive load such as a motor. Make sure your wiring can take 17A ;)
So as always, just like when your buying an amplifier (PMPO vs RMS) they sell the highest power their numbers can muster, rather than the usable power.
Hope that helps and all the best.
+Sirus Thanks Sirus! I knew someone could verify the stated output. At this site, I'm running it on a 20amp circuit with 12/2 wiring so all should be good for me- or at lest it has been....lol.
This 21 gallon one is notorious for have left over metal shavings in the milling process. I filled my new one up yesterday and drained it before I ever ran it, yep large shavings of metal came out. then I refilled it and ran for literally 3 seconds and drained again, saw fairly good sized spots of metal. refilled again and ran for several minutes, gonna drain and do it one more time. maybe excessive but oil is cheap. I got the warranty but still, metal isn't supposed to be in there
I'd heard of that as well. I guess I got lucky since I didn't find that to be the case with mine. Good luck with it. G.
Hmmm mine either. Did the break in for 30mins and drained with no shavings at all. I was impressed. I may drain again just to be on the safe side since yea oil is very cheap.
If no air go in the tank.how can it be fixs?
If no air goes in the tank- the compressor has a problem and is not pumping. G.
The "unloader" valve that is screwed directly into the head is a Cold Start Valve. The explanation is accurate. On my model (69091), the Cold Start Valve is attached through a T connector on the feed line. The problem I am having is that it closes too quickly and the built up head pressure keeps the motor from turning over, hence the hum people are reporting. My temporary fix is to use an object, such as a nail or paperclip, to press open the button on the valve until the motor can get running.
Yeah, somewhere in the comments on one of the 3 videos I'd posted a link to a replacement valve. I don't know if it was exactly the same, but I think it was under 10 bucks. It sounds like the spring is getting weak on yours. I don't know if they can be taken apart to stretch the spring a little, or if they're sealed up. Good luck, G.
The part number is CS25-100 and Grainger has it for $4 (plus shipping). Here's a link: www.grainger.com/product/CDI-CONTROL-DEVICES-Brass-Air-Cold-Start-Valve-36JN39. I tried it and the spring still is not strong enough. You can take them apart once, so I may try stretching the spring. I'll post back if I have any luck.
That's cool! Do post back if you have an improvement. G.
I went back to the original valve and spring and stretched the spring by elongating it. That really didn't work, so I took an assorted spring from a Harbor Freight spring kit that was about 2" long and the right diameter. I then cut it with wire cutters not exactly in half. It took a little trial and error, but I got the right length to keep the valve open until the compressor could get up to speed. It now is able to start on its own when the tank pressure drops to 95 psi. Problem "solved"! Here's a link to the spring kit: Item #67562. www.harborfreight.com/200-piece-assorted-spring-set-67562.html
Too bad stretching the spring didn't work- but that's a good solution you came up with! Hopefully it will be the last time you need to mess with it. Thanks for the followup, G.
Hey!! I have one too and i have to find a way to make it quieter.
Scooby, I tried a better air filter but it really didn't help all that much. I don't have a solution, but if you come up with one- let me know. As you know, this thing is crazy loud. Take care, G.
@@ghostses You should check out McMaster part number 8548T31
is this good for like 1/2 inch air impact
It should drive a 1/2 gun, but it really depends on what you're looking to do. In short bursts it should work, but you might need to wait for it to refill if you stay on the trigger longer. A larger compressor would be my personal preference- but we all have different needs. Good luck, G.
I can confirm that these are INSANELY loud. I'm considering replacing mine with the 29 gallon belt driven one.
+lynchburgcsi57 I have the belt driven model, and its still somewhat loud, but not as loud as the direct drive models, and not as loud as my 30 year old Wards compressor. My old compressor was an 11 gallon, 1HP model, never had trouble with it until the tank slowly rusted and I noticed a pinhole leak in the tank so I took it out of service before the tank failed under pressure.
I can't remember for sure how long it took my old compressor to get up to pressure and shut off, but I know the 29 Gallon one I have now takes about 7-8 minutes. The old compressor only went to 110PSI, the new one is 140PSI. Haven't used my new compressor too much yet, I've got about 4-1/2 hours on it, and it will soon be receiving its first oil change after break in. So far I like the new compressor...anxious to see if it starts up in the winter LOL. My old compressor had a hard time starting in cold weather sometimes.
+lynchburgcsi57 You're not kidding man!...lol. I can't speak for the 29 but did consider it just because it was belt driven. The cost is what drove me to this unit- knowing full well in advance it was going to drive me crazy. G.
+William Todd (williamtodd) Good info William! Thanks for sharing, G.
William Todd Thanks for the info! I may consider another brand of compressor. The sound drives me nuts.
lynchburgcsi57 Unless you shell out the money for one of the rotary type compressors you'll always have the noise no matter what brand you buy. The rotary compressors are so quiet you can hardly know they're running unless you are right next to it. The only drawback is the price. If I were using mine 24/7 it would be a great investment, but for the occasional project the one I have does just fine.
Probably too late for this comment, but instead of turning the switch , just swap the pressure guage with the quick connect
Thanks
Mike
Good idea Michael. Take care, G.
I bought this same unit based on good reviews around the web, this thing sucks. It takes like 4 minutes to pump up and it kicks back on pretty quickly, this is a very light duty unit and not for anything other than VERY light use. It's crazy loud and pretty weak.
About 4min with an empty tank to cut off is about what I get as well. It takes about 1min to reclaim for me with no air usage. I will agree, it's for light duty/intermediate use. "Crazy loud" is an understatement in my opinion...lol. I can't stand hearing it run. For my application though, it fits the bill. Good luck finding something that fits your needs. Take care, G.
Do u still have it sense this video
I do. It doesn't see tons of use but still works great. Good luck, G.
Cast Iron ? woooooo
Yes, only the cylinder is cast iron. G.
One big problem with the harbor freight's 21 gal compressor and maybe all there stuff is that there are no parts available. The manual says the check valve compression nut is 3/8 inch but it is 10mm with metric threads and I had i figure that out because their tech support has the same manual that comes with the compressor. Fortunately the compressor is cheaper than the parts to fix the darn thing.
+2point0T
They do seem to be hit and miss on parts for sure. I have ordered parts for my horizontal band saw and 6x8 green house with success. LOL, yeah- their manuals are something else! Mine doesn't get hardcore use- but it's been working great so far. I can't stand how loud it is though...lol. Take care, G.
Here you go for parts specifically for these compressors:
mastertoolrepair.com/portable-oil-bath-air-compressors-parts-61693-p-686894.html
Well I see you found one. I don't think that was the link I used for the valve. G.
dont run it and brake it in just run it when you use it for something
you dont have to brke these in
Most manufactures will state a break-in procedure to seat the rings. Then flush out the contaminated oil and refill. I always break in my compressors, but folks can do what they want. Take care, G.
one guy on utube broke his in and after he tryed to turn it back on the motor only made aq buzzing noise
Hmm. That sounds like a capacitor issue, or perhaps the unloader didn't release the pressure off the head. Hard to say for sure though. G.