How to Use a Craftsman Air Compressor

No garage would be complete without an air compressor. The compressor's electric motor maintains the air pressure in the air tank to run a variety of different air tools including nail guns, impact wrenches, and spray paint guns. By connecting an air chuck to the air compressor, you can check and add air to your vehicle's tires, eliminating the need for frequent service station visits. The Craftsman air compressor is sold and serviced in most Sears department stores. Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

  • Air compressor
  • Air hose
  • Teflon tape
  • Air tools
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the compressor on a firm flat work area. Make sure the power switch is turned off. Plug the power cord into a grounded (three-pronged) electrical outlet.

    • 2

      Make sure there is sufficient oil in the crankcase. Check the oil level by peering into the sight gauge at the bottom of the compressor motor. Remove the oil filler cap and add compressor oil to bring the level up to the full mark on the gauge. Check the oil level after each use.

    • 3

      Make sure the drain valve is closed at the bottom of the air tank by tightening it with and adjustable wrench in a clockwise direction. Turn the power switch on and allow the compressor to run a few minutes. Check the built-in air gauge and make sure the compressor shuts of automatically when the air pressure reaches 100 to 115 pounds per square inch.

    • 4

      Adjust the air control valve to match the maximum allowed air pressure on the air tool that you will be using. Do this by turning the air control valve in either direction until the air pressure gauge reads the correct air pressure for the tool.

    • 5

      Connect an air line to the compressor of sufficient length to reach the work area. Wrap the threaded end of the air hose with two layers of Teflon tape. Thread the hose onto the compressor fitting (located near the air pressure gauge) and tighten it in a clockwise direction with an adjustable wrench.

    • 6

      Connect the air tool of your choice to the other end of the air hose using the quick connect fitting. Pull back on the spring loaded collar on the hose and push it onto the air intake on the tool. Release the collar to secure the connection. To disconnect the tool, pull back on the collar while pulling the air hose from the tool.

    • 7

      Drain moisture from the air tank periodically (check your Craftsman owner's manual) by loosening and removing the drain valve at the bottom of the tank with an adjustable wrench in a counter clockwise direction. When all water has drained from the tank replace the drain valve and tighten it in a clockwise direction.

Tips & Warnings

  • Always use eye protection when using air tools. Use ear protection if you will be working around the compressor for long periods of time.

  • Never leave the air compressor switched on if left unattended. If the compressor does not shut off automatically after the air pressure gauge reaches 115 pounds per square inch, unplug the compressor and have it serviced before using the compressor again. The air tank could burst from excess air pressure.

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