How to Troubleshoot Elliott Air Compressors

Use an Elliott compressor to supply air pressure to your power tools.

FS-Elliott produces a range of oil-free centrifugal air and gas compressors. Elliott has been manufacturing compressors since 1910 and their products are sold around the world. Because they are oil free, they help the environment as well. When problems with the compressor occur, look out for air leaks in the tank and hoses, defective regulators and broken connecting rods. Run through a basic checklist before calling for a service.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Rubber mallet

Instructions

1. Check to see that the AC power cord is securely plugged in if the compressor will not operate. Press the reset button. Adjust the pressure switch if it is not making contact. Have the pressure switch replaced if necessary.

2. Check the tank pressure gauge to see that the tank is building pressure if the compressor is producing little or no air. If pressure is building but there is no pressure to the hose, the regulator could be bad. Have a qualified Elliott service technician replace the regulator. Inspect the belt for looseness. Tighten the belt as needed. Tighten the drain cock under the compressor. Air could be leaking from there. Inspect the air line connections to make sure they are all secure.

3. Remove the compressor head to check for damaged components that could be leaking air. Remove the pipes from the compressor head. Remove the bolts that hold the top of the compressor head in place. Use a rubber mallet and screwdriver to tap beneath the edge of the head. Remove the head. Lift off the valve plate. This is the flat metal plate directly below the head. Check the plate and other components for cracks or damage. If you notice discoloration on the valve plate gaskets, this could indicate a leak. Replace the components as necessary.

4. Unplug the AC power cord and slowly turn the flywheel at the back of the pump by hand. Verify that the pistons rise and fall as you turn the flywheel. If all the pistons are not moving, the connecting rod could be broken. Have a qualified technician investigate this further.

5. Tighten all the bolts on the air compressor if there is excessive noise during operation. Replace the rubber vibration pads if necessary. Ensure that all the feet touch the floor before tightening the compressor down.

6. Ensure that the fuses are the correct amperage if they continue to blow during operation. The head gasket, or seal, could have blown. Replace the head gasket.

7. Clean or replace the air filter element if the pressure builds too slowly in the tank.

References

• FS Elliot: Industrial Air Compressors, Oil Free Compressors
• Portland Compressor: Air Compressor Troubleshooting Guide
• Master Tool Repair: Troubleshooting Your Compressor