Air compressors are very useful tools that will need some regular maintenance. If you use your compressor often, you should bring it in for maintenance on a regular basis. If you use it more occasionally or are between service check-ups, here are a few things to keep in mind for do it yourself repair. 

Air Compressor Repair Kits

There are several types of repair kits for air compressors, and each comes with the right tools for certain jobs. The kit you will get the most use out of is also known as a service kit. Running as low as $50.00 and as high as $150.00, these kits include parts to repair connecting rodassemblies, gaskets, the air filter, and other parts that are commonly worn down. It is highly recommended that you invest in such a kit when you purchase your air compressor, if possible. This way, you are ready to tackle the most common problems. Other parts that might break down over the life of the air compressor, such as piston rods, are rarely enough damaged that you can purchase them individually as problems come up.

Navigating the Inside of the Machine

In addition to a service kit, make sure you have both a regular and a Phillips-head screwdriver on hand as well as a good light source. A flashlight is handy, but since you will need both hands for most repair jobs, a droplight is more useful. It does not need to be a particularly fancy model, and a serviceable droplight can be purchased for under $20.00. If your compressor is an oil model, be sure to have a rag on hand to clean up any leaks. Once you have opened up the compressor, move patiently and carefully. Familiarizing yourself with the repair manual is always a good idea. While air compressors are not particularly delicate, they do have a lot of parts that can be knocked loose, causing more problems.

Removing and Replacing Parts

Most of the inerior parts of an air compressor are held in place with either screws or clips. When removing a clip, do so firmly, but make sure not to pull too hard if there is no give. Bending or breaking a clip can cause the replacement part to be left slightly loose, which will cause a rattling sound in the compressor and may lead to further damage down the road. In the case of screws, be sure that you tighten them fully when putting them back in. Although it is not necessary, having a magnetic screwdriver can be a big help in handling replacements within the machine, as it ensures that the screws will not fall into the compressor.

The best part about repairing an air compressor yourself is that the more you do it, the better you will become. Start by practicing routine  maintenance on the machine, such as cleaning the air filter regularly. The more you familiarize yourself with your model, the better you will become at handling it on those occasions where something drastic goes wrong.