Tow behind compressor - help needed please

Code54 · May 7, 2011

I just got a 1965 Chicago Pneumatics tow behind gas (4 cyl) air compressor. That appears to run good. I have not idea how to use this and have a bunch of questions.
I have a regular 220v 60 gal compressor I normally use and was wondering if it is safe and possible to use the hoses from that compressor on this one. I realize this has a different fitting on it (crab claw quick connect or something like that) but if I necked it down and put a reg. 3/8 in hose on it would it be safe and useable. It looks like it is not putting out any more pressure than a normal home compressor (I forget exactly but I think it was at about 100 psi) and believe it is 125 CFM. The main thing I want to use it for is sand blasting parts (have a pressure blaster) and want to hook it up and try it out. I don't want to buy a bigger blaster since I only do some parts here and there and am not too sure I am not going to sell the compressor down the road.
There is one outlet (outlet 1) then there is two more, the 2nd and 3rd are both on the hose reels. I know they are for the reg hoses but what is outlet one really for, an extra hose that is not normally attached to the compressor?
Any idea where I can get a parts manual or even and owners manual as I am not positive on how to change the oil. I am also guessing there is an oil separator on this but am not sure what I need to do to maintain it.
Anyway idea or thoughts would be a great help.
Thanks!

CurlyDave · May 7, 2011

Typically these are used to power a jackhammer and possibly some sandblasting equipment.

It might be worth enough to sell it and get a more suitable, new compressor for your needs.

Code54 · May 7, 2011

I was also thinking the same thing. I like it and all and may just use it for a few sand blasting tasks then sell it off. Other than an oil leak it runs perfect and seems to build and hold pressure perfectly. Any guesses on what they are worth?

2458n · May 8, 2011

Hard to tell but I have bought old Jeagers for 300-1000 dollars. These had pistons and one had a rotary type pump. Diesel brings more as does more CFM's. These things run a sandblaster well -like very few electric can.

Code54 · May 8, 2011

I believe this is a rotary pump and man it does put out the air. Messed around today and got it plumped to my old Harbor Freight pressure blaster -WOW, as fast I could move the wand was as fast as the paint flew off. It never had the slightest drop in pressure, I couldn't believe how well it works. I have one old leak I need to fix but it looks like it is not a big deal at all. Where do you find parts and a repair manual for these things?
THANKS

Egon · May 8, 2011

The rotary compressors are usually used in high volume situations. The piston ones get the high pressure work.

You should be able to find a pressure rating on the tank and compressor as well as the PSV's.

You can plumb up your own intake manifold using the proper pressure rated pipe and hoses.

It might not have a proper separating unit on it but the tank should have a drain valve.

Note: it might be worth while testing the tank as corrosion over the years may hve taken it's toll.

Code54 · May 9, 2011

I noticed it does an auto purge thing when it shuts down and I found the filter that has some mesh wire stuff and oil in it. Do you know of any where I can learn how this works and what each part is/does. I also would love to know what kind of oil I should use in the compressor area. Would love to change it but not sure what to put in it and dont want to make a mistake.
THANKS

Egon · May 9, 2011

Fraid I can't help for any of those questions.

Filters are many and varied.

Check with some Industrial Compressor Companies like Ingersol Rand repair or parts department about the filter.

Any of the oil company sales representative would be able to answer the oil question.

[may involve going to a bulk dealer]

What used to be used and what is used today may be a little different but having said that my memory fails on what was used.

Code54 · May 12, 2011

Thanks - I read something on it about turbine oil (made with Mineral oil) so I do have a starting point now (found an old label and clean the heck out of it and got a wee little info)
thanks for the ideas and I will follow up on them.