Compressor cleanout

[ccasteel]

So my drain valve quit working and I kinda forgot about it for awhile. (At least 6 months) Water built up in the tank and when I finally got around to draining it, I had to remove the drain valve all-together. I have a new valve ready to go in, but I'm curious about any best practices for cleaning out the gunk that built up when it wasn't being drained.

I put some clean water in it to wash out the rusty crap that was there. Now I'm debating spraying some WD40 in to dry up the last of the water before putting the new drain valve back in. Am I overthinking this? Am I underthinking this? Is there a better way to clean it out?

This is my basic home compressor for airing up tires and kids toys. I'm not using it for painting or anything like that. Although, I should probably do the same cleaning on my shop compressor also.

 

[D'Animal]

I’ve never heard of adding oil to a compressor tank.
I drain my tanks when I reset my clocks for Daylight Saving

 

[Waorani]

Yes, you're overthinking it. Let it drain as much as possible then stick your new valve in. Even if you were able to dry the inside moisture will be introduced as soon as you run the compressor.

 

[e9999]

The WD40 won't make any difference long-term, I think. If it were me, I'd stick a borescope in there to have a peek while the valve is off. But I don't think 6 months with some water is going to ruin the tank. If you are bored, you could contemplate sealing the inside but that seems overkill, even for me...

 

[ccasteel]

I ended up adding a little clean water and rinsing it around. I let it drain and dry a couple days, then I stuck the new valve in this weekend. Thanks for the peace of mind.