"Proctologically Violated©®" wrote in message
...
Awl--


Q3:
The dipstick appears to be vented! Why? And is this important? I
haven't
noticed this on other compressors.



Just as the pressure on top of the piston changes as it moves up and down in
the cylinder, it changes on the bottom of the piston too. I can't think of
any belt driven compressor that I've ever seen without a crankcase vent.
And yes, it is improtant that it remain open, otherwise the pressure
pulsations from the piston movement or pressure buildup from piston ring
leakage will eventually blow out crankcase seals.

I personally only check my compressor oil level about once a month except on
the 5000 psi paintball compressor at work, which is checked before every
startup, but it also cost about $8K.

Shawn