How-To Blogs & Videos

If you own an air compressor, you’ve heard it: that sharp psshhh sound the moment the motor shuts off. To the untrained ear, it sounds like a problematic leak. To a pro, it’s the sound of a healthy machine. That sound is created by the unloader (or bleeder) valve. While it’s one of the smaller components on your compressor, it plays a massive role in ensuring your machine actually starts up the next time you need it. What is an Unloader Valve? The unloader valve’s primary …

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 …

Unloader Valve Adjustment. Screw Unloader valve in to an approximate point where needle of the valve contacts the pump unloader pin. Attempt to blow air through the Unloader valve while turning the valve one round at a time. When you are able to blow air through the valve. Turn it in one more round and lock it down with the lock nut.The pump unloader pin should retract when the pump starts up.It is normal for an air flutter to vent from the unloader valve while running. This is the action o …