Air compressor fix

[jts560]

Kobalt air compressor wasn't building pressure, so I took it apart and found this:

I am having a hard time locating a replacement piece, the few places I have found online want you to buy an entire pump/motor unit for interior parts ($175 for a 10 cent piece!).

Kobalt service sucks so far, the 1-800 number on the compressor was out of service, and when I called Lowes they said I would need to contact Kobalt and gave me a number to some other business.

What is this piece exactly? The discharge valve? Any suggestions as far as sourcing this part? It is a 1.5hp 20gal model # 233885.

 

[e9999]

couldn't you just buy a piece of similar material and make one yourself, if all else fails?

 

[jts560]

That was a thought, but durability and safety would be a concern.

After some digging, apparently these compressors were made by Sanborn/coleman. I found a part number that matches the number on the valve plate casting and ordered the "valve kit".

The vendor couldn't tell me what exactly the kit includes, so I went out on a limb and spent $10.70 + $10 shipping to, hopefully, repair a failure caused by a part that should only cost a few cents. I can live with that, the compressor was a $30 craigslist find.

I have a new appreciation for good product support. Lowes and Kobalt, you suck.

I found these sites were good sources for compressor parts:

www.mastertoolrepair.com

SITE MAP

 

[se2000]

That looks like your valves. I hope the kit has your parts. If it does, order a second for future. You could make one out of maybe brass or copper or just get an oil type pump. Much quieter

 

[Tools R Us]

On units with a single valve, I have used the end of a feeler gauge with good success. Unfortunately, most things have become disposable, spare parts is an alien concept. Hopefully the correct parts come in the order.

 

[jts560]

I ordered parts the end of September, I found out today that it might be another month before they get here. Ugh.

The feeler gauge is a good idea.

If it craps out on me again I will put an oil pump on it.