Recommended oil & maintenance for air compressor?

[Back40]

I inherited my dad's 25+ year old 1hp 12 gal twin cylinder Craftsman air compressor. Seldom used. Run well. Looks like it currently has SAE30 in it. What oil should I use? Any other maintenance suggestions? Thanks!

 

[jldcol]

Inspect the air tanks for corrosion/potential leaks. Drain and dry air tanks. Inspect motor pulleys, and belts. Clean off flywheel fan and cooling fins. Oil motor bearings. Change compressor oil, change it again 1-3 times at 100 hrs. per use and then annually.

 

[oilboy123]

Ditto on above.....change or clean air filter?

 

[Back40]

What oil should I use in the compressor cylinders? Any oil labeled for air compressors? Also, what oil should I used for the electric motor? 3n1?

 

[doitmyself]

Back 40, I only have moderate experience with compressor oils based on the "small" shop compressors I use. Most of these units specify 30W non-detergent. I use oil labeled for compressor use, hoping it has the proper design to prolong the compressors life.

You can argue for synthetic vs. conventional just like for automobiles. Check Pablo's or Gary's site here for synthetic Amsoil if you wish.

I use Mobil Rarus 427, a conventional oil that has served me well. But, I imagine any product labeled for air compressors will work. Google air compressor oil and you will find plenty.

http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/items/4ZF21

 

[oilboy123]

After thinking about this I think that you have a compressor that is older than 25 yrs if you need to add oil to the motor bearings. So take the below with a grain of salt.

The Sears compressor I have I run Amsoil Synthetic Compressor Oil - ISO 46, SAE 20.
I think I bought it about 1993 5hp 30 gallon tank. I had a 5hp 20 gallon one before I sold to a friend. The motor and compressor were exactly the same.

Since my first one is close to the age of yours. I think that you probably take: Compressor Oil - ISO 46, SAE 20. Whether you use syn oil or not is up to you......

Probably anything you find in a store that sells compressors has this viscosity I would think. Sears would be a slam dunk, I think they even have conventional and synthetic oil? If so take your pick.