How-To Blogs & Videos

Cold weather exposes weak links in any compressed air system. Thick oil, sluggish controls, and moisture turning to ice can push your motor and pump past their limits. Before the first freeze, take ten minutes to document your compressor: model and serial, motor HP, rated CFM and PSI, and the lowest ambient temperatures you expect. With those details, you can choose compatible parts and settings that keep your shop running. This guide explains why compressors struggle in the cold, which oils and …

There’s no sound more frustrating in a workshop than the failed attempt of an air compressor to start. Instead of the satisfying roar of a motor kicking on, you get a hesitant hum, a lonely click, or, worst of all, silence. When this happens, your project stops, but the solution is often simpler (and cheaper) than buying a new unit. At Master Tool Repair, we know these symptoms are clues. Here is your definitive guide to diagnosing the three most common air compressor motor issues and gett …

The Brain of the Beast: Understanding Your Pressure Switch The pressure switch is the unsung hero of your air compressor system. Most users only interact with it when they need to slightly tweak the cut-in or cut-out pressure—the "basics of adjustment." But a pressure switch is far more than a simple toggle. It's the central command unit, dictating when your motor runs, ensuring safe operation, and managing the critical start-up cycle. When it fails, your entire operation grinds to a halt. …

Your air compressor is a powerhouse, a workhorse essential to your operation. We all know the importance of regular oil changes and clean air filters, but there's a small, often overlooked component that is absolutely crucial to the pump's longevity: the crankcase breather or vent. Think of it as the "lungs" of your compressor's crankcase. If it can't breathe, your entire pump suffers. The Critical Role of the Crankcase Breather In an oil-lubricated reciprocating air compressor, the crankcase co …

A well-maintained air compressor is the lifeblood of your workshop or job site. It runs reliably, recovers quickly, and lets you focus on the task at hand. But hiding in plain sight—a small, often-forgotten component—is a silent saboteur capable of causing catastrophic, expensive damage: the clogged air compressor filter. It sounds minor, but ignoring this critical piece of preventative maintenance is like running a marathon while breathing through a straw. Here is a breakdown of wha …