
Originally Posted by
Roulston
Okay, ran some tests and have confirmed that the fault is with the compressor. Use a scuba tank to pump up the bags, all okay, applied direct power to the compressor, nothing. Checked solinoids, they seemed fine.
I removed the compressor for some bench testing and after confirming that the comp would not run when power was applied, I striped the motor down.
The fault was easy to see, water had got in and the rotor and stator were a bit rusty, a quick clean and there it was, the man culprit. A brush spring has rusted and failed. rusted right through about one third in. About three loops of the spring just feel out on the floor.
I was able to reshape the remains of the spring to apply pressure on the brush, a reassemble and the motor ran perfectly. Complete reassembly and the whole system runs fine. All this because some water got in to damage a 50 cent part.
I guess what happened was that after driving off last night I hit a pothole, and shortly after noticed the left side was on the bumps. The compressor assembly contains an over pressure value which must have let go when i hit the pothole and because it was fully of crap, dumped all the air. I gave the whole system the clean when apart focusing on the over pressure and other valves.
As the compressor had failed it could not re-pressure the system. The bag seems to be fine and the compressor has not had to run since re-inflating following the rebuild.
Goes to show, we can be victims of those wanting us to buy a complete assembly for the sake of a small cheap part.
Now for the help. The fix will not last and I need to replace the brush spring, a cheap part, but hard to find, I guess. I also need to get back in to refit the trust washer that is still sitting on my workbench, Doh! It is not critical and will be put back in a few days.
So if anyone has an old compressor (motor), it can be a junker, I only need the brush spring. I will try the dealer in case the part can be ordered. I am happy to buy the old one and pay shipping etc, of course.
Anyway, this saga ends well, thanks to all those that offered their guidance, greatly appreciated. Looks like we can get hunting tomorrow.
Cheers,
Tony
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