Hey Jim,

Why would a larger capacity circuit breaker allow a motor to start
instead of stalling? I don't think so. Just lets the "stall"
continue for a few more seconds.

The compressor needs to start "unloaded", and it seems to do that OK
with zero pressure in the system. It seems apparent to me that the
compressor unloading valve is not working when the control opens at
the high pressure set-point. So it traps the high pressure air in the
compressor cylinder and keeps it on BDC, thereby stalling the motor.

Take care.

Brian Lawson,
Bothwell, Ontario.
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On Sun, 13 Jul 2003 18:23:30 GMT, "Jim Stuyck"
wrote:


"Chuck Jurgens" wrote in message
. com...
I have a 10 year old Sears air compressor (919.153131) that has ALWAYS
given me a problem. I've just been too lazy to try to fix it. When
there is pressure in the tank, the compressor will not start.

When there is no air pressure in the tank, the compressor will start
and work just fine. Then, when the upper air pressure is reached, the
compressor shuts off as normal. However, when the pressure in the
tank drops to the low set point, the switch kicks in and the
compressor motor tries to start - but nothing happens.

The motor hums and turns a couple of times but here just doesn't seem
to be enough power to make it run. Then, after just a few seconds,
the breaker will trip.

I am running it on a 15 amp breaker in my house and I have tried to
run it on 15 amp circuits at other houses - same problem. I am NOT
using an extension cord.

Any suggestions??


Yeah: Twenty amp circuit. Seriously. Been there, done that,
though not with the identical model (mine is 25 years old, give
or take). Try that before you decide to spend money/time on
the problem.

Jim Stuyck