Air compressor problem

titlehunter

I was given an old portable compressor that worked fine but was filthy. I made the mistake of rinsing it off with water (being careful not to get the electrical connections wet). Now the compressor motor makes a humming noise like it is trying to start, but is "stuck". Can this be repaired and how?

InPhase277

What kind of motor is it? Maybe the water just seized a bearing. A little oil may help. The compressor head may be seized too so it might not be the motor.

AllanJ

Possible mistake number two might be starting it before letting it dry out thoroughly.

Unplug it and then try to rotate the motor shaft and all other visible mechanical parts just a little. Should you feel grittiness or hear crunching sounds you would need to stop and disassemble and clean things from the inside.

__________________
The average homeowner who lost his house in the Oklahoma tornadoes should move for good and not rebuild. Too much complexity watchdogging the contractor. Too much a chance to be defrauded.

J. V.

Single phase motor right? Take the capacitor cover off and remove the capacitor or capacitors. Clean it and let it dry. Turn the motor shaft to make sure it is free and turns nice and smooth. Allow motor and controls to dry out completely. If you have compressed air available (no pun intended), blow out motor and pressure switch. Check all wiring as you may have loosened something.
Since it worked before you cleaned it, you know it had to do with the water or water pressure.

Note: Look on the bottom of the motor for a weep hole. These are designed to allow condensate to drip out of the motor. If it is clogged up, the motor may be full of water.