Compressor problems

[blenkie1]

Hello all,

I have another problem with my Clarke 10bar compressor. Replaced the (reed?) valves, complete head about a year ago and also the stop/start switch quite recently. Been running great just off a 13amp plug and 25/30m extension lead and very, very occasionaly blowing the odd fuse which I could easily live with. Ran all day with no problems. Read on here they need a 16a plug but this one has ran happily with a 13a plug

Now it won't run at all and just blows the fuses. Changed the plug to a 16a blue plug and plugged it into my welder/generator which has a 16a fuse. It worked ok for a while but one day it started to trip the breaker button on top of the compressor motor. Now it won't fire up at all unless I keep pushing the button on the compressor until it starts to run.

Once it starts to run it will keep on running but it does'nt half make the genny cough when it kicks back in. Also when it first starts its only turning slowly builds up speed but sounds strained? Tried compressor empty still the same and I get the hiss when it knocks off so its releasing pressure.

Think it might be motor releated but not sure. The forums on here talk about capacitors? How do you find/test them?

Plenty of oil as well!

Thanks!

 

[eil]

Your capacitors will be under the plastic cover thats on the motor.

 

[blenkie1]

Thanks

Do you think thats what the problem could be? Can the capacitors be tested or is it just as easy to replace?

 

[danelectro]

Sounds like your start capacitor has had it....IMO

 

[eil]

The problem could well be a number of things but checking the caps would be one of the first things I would do because I have a meter that checks capacitance, not knowing what you have at your disposal for testing, i would suggest marking the cables and taking the caps to a sparky you know or run past a motor rewinds place to get them checked out.

 

[blenkie1]

OK thanks for the replies. Found out you can't test them with a multimeter so will try a sparky. I take it the caps live in the box above the motor the one with the circuit breaker button on the side?