"Chuck Jurgens" wrote in message
om...
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??

TIA

Chuck Jurgens

No being familiar with Sears. Is this an oil or oil less?

I have an older Emglo, 15 amp, oil. From factory they put 30w oil in
it, it would start up with no air in it, then do the same as what yours
is doing. Hum until it would trip the breaker. Drained the oil, put in
5w30 in it, no problems for at least 8 years.