​Can an Air Compressor Pump Be Refurbished?

A Comprehensive Guide to Refurbishing Your Air Compressor Pump

If you own an air compressor, you may have wondered whether its pump can be refurbished. The good news is that in many cases, air compressor pumps can be refurbished, giving them new life and extending their usability. In this blog post, we will explore the process of refurbishing an air compressor pump, including assembly and disassembly tips, and provide you with a handy checklist to guide you through the process.

Assembly and Disassembly Tips:

Safety First: Before you start any work on your air compressor pump, make sure to disconnect it from the power source and release all the pressure from the tank. Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and goggles, to protect yourself from any potential hazards.

Take Photos and Label Parts: Before you begin disassembling the pump, take photos of the pump and its components from various angles. This will help you remember the original configuration of the pump and ensure proper reassembly later. Additionally, label each component as you remove it, noting its location and orientation.

Use the Right Tools: Having the proper tools for the job is crucial when it comes to disassembling and assembling an air compressor pump. Common tools you may need include wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and a torque wrench. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions or service manual for specific tool requirements.

Follow the Service Manual: Every air compressor pump is unique, and the manufacturer's service manual will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to properly disassemble and assemble your specific pump. Follow the manual carefully to avoid damaging any components or voiding any warranties.

Clean and Inspect Components: As you disassemble the pump, carefully clean each component and inspect it for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Replace any damaged or worn parts with new ones to ensure optimal performance of the refurbished pump. Some parts of an air compressor pump wear out faster than others, such as the valves, gaskets, air filter elements, and conrod bearing inserts. Keeping clean air filters and water traps in your system minimizes the chance that debris will be lodged into the head and valve system and air tank, so preventative maintenance (changing air filters and oil, and draining the air tank regularly) will go a long way to keeping these higher wear components in good condition.

Lubricate Moving Parts: Before reassembling the pump, apply appropriate lubrication to all moving parts, such as pistons, cylinders, and bearings. This will help reduce friction and extend the life of the pump. This is typically done by applying a small amount of air compressor oil to the components before reinstalling them.

Checklist for Refurbishing an Air Compressor Pump:

  Disconnect the air compressor pump from the power source and release all pressure from the tank.

  Take photos of the pump and its components for reference.

  Label each component as you remove it.

  Use the appropriate tools for disassembling and assembling the pump.

  Follow the manufacturer's service manual for step-by-step instructions.

  Clean and inspect each component for wear, damage, or corrosion.

  Replace any damaged or worn parts with new ones.

  Apply appropriate lubrication to all moving parts.

  Reassemble the pump according to the manufacturer's instructions.

  Double-check the assembly for proper orientation and alignment of components.

  Reconnect the air compressor pump to the power source and test for proper operation.

  Dispose of any old or damaged parts in an environmentally responsible manner.

Refurbishing an air compressor pump can be a rewarding DIY project that can save you money and extend the life of your equipment. However, it requires careful disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly, following the manufacturer's instructions or service manual. By using the right tools, taking proper safety precautions, and diligently following the checklist, you can successfully refurbish your air compressor pump and enjoy reliable performance for years to come.