Clarke SHHHAIR MAX 50/350 Instruction Manual

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS
ORIGINAL INSTRUCTIONS DL1123
LOW NOISE AIR COMPRESSOR
MODEL NO: SHHHAIR MAX 50/350
PART NO: 2242050

2
INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing this Air Compressor.
Before attempting to operate the machine, it is essential that you read this
manual thoroughly and carefully follow all instructions given. In doing so you
will ensure the safety of yourself and that of others around you, and you can
also look forward to the product giving you long and satisfactory service.
GUARANTEE
This product is guaranteed against faulty manufacture for a period of 12
months from the date of purchase. Please keep your receipt as proof of
purchase.
This guarantee is invalid if the product is found to have been abused or
tampered with in any way, or not used for the purpose for which it was
intended.
Faulty goods should be returned to their place of purchase, no product can
be returned to us without prior permission. This guarantee does not effect your
statutory rights.
ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING POLICY
By purchasing this product, the customer is taking on the obligation
to comply with current WEEE regulations.
This means that this product must not be disposed of with general
household waste. It must be disposed of according to the laws
governing Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) at a recognised
disposal facility.
This product contains valuable raw materials. Metal products should be taken
to your local civic amenity site for recycling of metal products.

3
GENERAL SAFETY WARNINGS
WORK AREA
1. Keep the work area clean and well lit. Floors should always be kept clear.
Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
2. Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool.
Distractions can cause loss of control.
3. The compressor should only be used in areas with adequate ventilation
and should not be exposed to heat or used near flammable substances
PERSONAL SAFETY
1. ALWAYS stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense
when operating the compressor. DO NOT use the compressor while you are
tired or under the influence of medication, drugs or alcohol. A moment of
inattention can result in personal injury.
2. ALWAYS use eye protection when operating compressed air equipment,
and ensure that others in the work area are protected from flying particles
from the front and from the side.
3. ALWAYS protect yourself against electric shock. NEVER operate the
compressor in wet or damp locations.
4. NEVER over-reach. Keep your proper footing and balance at all times to
enable better control of the compressor in unexpected situations.
5. NEVER attempt any complex repairs yourself. If you have a technical
problem contact your local dealer.
6. ALWAYS store the compressor out of reach of children.
7. ALWAYS protect your hearing. Ear protection should be worn when
operating this compressor and it’s associated power tools.
8. NEVER direct the air stream at people or animals, as injury may result.
Compressed air can cause soft tissue damage and propel dirt and other
particles at high speed.
9. NEVER insert your fingers or other objects inside the motor housing. NEVER
operate the compressor without the cover in place.
WARNING: WHEN USING ELECTRICAL TOOLS, BASIC SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS SHOULD ALWAYS BE FOLLOWED TO REDUCE THE RISK OF
FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK AND PERSONAL INJURY
WARNING: READ ALL THESE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO
OPERATE THIS PRODUCT AND KEEP THESE INSTRUCTIONS IN A SAFE PLACE.

4
GENERAL MACHINE USE AND CARE
1. Prior to use, all operators should become familiar with the instructions in this
booklet especially the ON/OFF switch for emergency stopping.
2. ALWAYS maintain the compressor with care and keep it clean for best /
safest performance.
3. NEVER use this compressor if any part is damaged. Have it inspected and
repaired by your dealer.
4. NEVER attempt to modify the air compressor, tank, fittings or attachments in
any way. Doing so will invalidate the guarantee and could result in
personal injury.
5. NEVER abuse the power cable. NEVER pull on the cable when removing
the plug from the socket, or lift the compressor by the power cable.
6. Try to AV O I D using extension leads. Where possible use a longer airline hose
instead.
7. If you have to use an extension lead,ONLY use one that is of an
appropriate power rating and suitable for the work environment. Extension
leads must have an earth connection. Inspect the extension lead regularly
and replace if damaged.
8. ONLY USE RECOMMENDED PARTS: To avoid the risk of bursting, only hoses
with a rated pressure of 10 bar, or more should be used. NEVER attempt to
repair damaged hoses.
9. NEVER abuse the compressor by standing on it.
AIRLINE HOSES
1. ALWAYS ensure that equipment or power tools used in conjunction with the
compressor have a safe working pressure exceeding that of the machine.
2. ALWAYS keep the air hose away from any attached power tools and
ensure that the operator is not restricted by the length of the hose.
3. ALWAYS take care when a long air hose is required in the work area as it
presents a trip hazard. Coil the hose away as soon as the job is finished.
4. ALWAYS avoid kinking or trapping the air hose. ALWAYS replace faulty
hoses and NEVER attempt a repair if a leak is detected.
5. NEVER abuse hoses or connectors. NEVER carry an air tool by the hose, or
yank it to disconnect from the air supply. Keep hoses away from heat, oil
and sharp edges. Check hoses for leaks or worn condition before use and
ensure that all connections are secure.
6. ALWAYS ensure that the air supply is turned off at the machine outlet and
any air pressure vented from within the compressor and any attached
equipment when disconnecting air hoses or other equipment.

5
AIR COMPRESSOR SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. ONLY USE WITHIN THE RECOMMENDED OPERATING TEMPERATURE RANGE:
This compressor should only be used in an ambient temperature of
between 0OC and +35OC (never below freezing temperatures).
2. NEVER USE AN AIR COMPRESSOR WHICH APPEARS DEFECTIVE OR IS
OPERATING ABNORMALLY: If the compressor operates unusually or makes
strange noises, switch off immediately and purge the air reservoir. Arrange
repairs with your nearest dealer.
3. BREATHING QUALITY AIR: This compressor should not be used to supply
breathing quality air.
4. SAFETY VALVE: NEVER remove or attempt to adjust the safety valve. The
maximum pressure is factory set. Keep the safety valve free from paint and
other accumulations.
5. AVOID UNINTENTIONAL STARTING: DO NOT move the compressor when it is
connected to the mains power supply.
6. BEFORE EACH USE CHECK THE COMPRESSOR AND HOSE FOR DAMAGED
PARTS: NEVER use the compressor if it has been damaged in any way. Have
the compressor repaired by a qualified service engineer. DO NOT use the
compressor if the On/Off switch does not operate correctly.
7. KEEP THE MOTOR AIR VENTS CLEAR: Keep the motor vents clear and free
from dust. Wipe regularly to maintain an adequate supply of clean air.
AV O I D using in dusty conditions.
8. OPERATE THE COMPRESSOR AT THE CORRECT VOLTAGE: Make sure that the
mains supply voltage is the same as the voltage shown on the label.
9. ALWAYS adjust the pressure regulator to the recommended setting for the
particular spray gun or air tool being used.
10. When using the compressor for painting:
•DO NOT work in enclosed areas or near naked flames.
• Ensure that the area in which you are working has good ventilation.
• Protect your nose and mouth with a suitable face mask.
•ALWAYS check the safety data sheets for substances being sprayed &
ensure manufacturer’s instructions are followed.
11. DO NOT USE THIS COMPRESSOR TO INFLATE SMALL, LOW-PRESSURE OBJECTS:
Items such as children's toys or footballs, these can explode if over-inflated.
12. NEVER STOP THE COMPRESSOR BY REMOVING THE PLUG OR SWITCHING OFF
AT THE MAINS SUPPLY: ALWAYS use the On/Off switch on the compressor.

6
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
Before switching the product on, make sure that the voltage of your electricity
supply is the same as that indicated on the rating plate. This product is
designed to operate on 230V AC 50Hz. Connecting it to any other power
source may cause damage.
This product may be fitted with a non-rewireable plug. If it is necessary to
change the fuse in the plug, the fuse cover must be refitted. If the fuse cover
becomes lost or damaged, the plug must not be used until a suitable
replacement is obtained.
If the plug has to be changed because it is not suitable for your socket, or due
to damage, it should be cut off and a replacement fitted, following the wiring
instructions shown below. The old plug must be disposed of safely, as insertion
into a mains socket could cause an electrical hazard.
If the colours of the wires in the power cable of this product do not correspond
with the markings on the terminals of your plug, proceed as follows.
•TheBlue wire must be connected to the terminal marked Nor
coloured Black.
•TheBrown wire must be connected to the terminal marked Lor
coloured Red.
•TheYellow and Green wire must be connected to the terminal
marked E or or coloured Green.
We strongly recommend that this machine is connected to the mains supply
via a Residual Current Device (RCD). If in any doubt, consult a qualified
electrician. DO NOT attempt any repairs yourself.
WARNING! READ THESE ELECTRICAL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
THOROUGHLY BEFORE CONNECTING THE PRODUCT TO THE
MAINS SUPPLY.
Plug must be BS1363/A approved.
Always fit a 13 Amp fuse.
Ensure that the outer sheath of the cable is firmly held by the clamp
Neutral
(Blue)
Live
(Brown)
Earth
(Green and Yellow)

7
OVERVIEW
DESCRIPTION DESCRIPTION
1 Drain Valve 7 Regulator
2 One Way Check Valve 8 On/Off Pressure Switch
3 Discharge Pipe 9 Air Filters
4 Tank Pressure Gauge 10 Pressure Safety Valve
5 Outlet Pressure Gauge 11 Pump
6 2 x 1/4” BSP Airline Outlet Fixing
Point With Tap
12 Air Tank

8
ON/OFF PRESSURE SWITCH
Switch on - Auto/Off. The compressor will automatically switch off when the
tank pressure reaches the maximum preset pressure (0.8Mpa, 8 Bar, 116psi)
and will run automatically when the tank pressure reaches the minimum
preset pressure (0.6Mpa, 6 Bar, 87psi). In the ‘OFF’ position, the compressor will
not operate. This switch should be in the ‘OFF’ position when connecting or
disconnecting the power cord from the electrical outlet or when changing air
tools.
REGULATOR
1. The regulator adjusts the air pressure to fit an air operated tool, spray gun
of sandblaster.
2. To adjust the outlet air pressure, turn the regulator clockwise or
counterclockwise to suit the type of tool you are using.
SAFETY VALVE
This valve will automatically release compressed air when the pressure in the
tank exceeds the allowed pressure.
DISCHARGE PIPE
This pipe connects the pump head to the check valve. CAUTION: It is hot
when the compressor is running.
CHECK VALVE
The check valve is a one way valve allowing compressed air to enter the tank,
but prevents compressed air in the tank back into the pump.
DRAIN VALVE
This valve located at the bottom of the tank is used to exhaust water from the
tank. Make sure the pressure gauge of the tank is below 1 Bar to open it. Open
the drain valve to exhaust water in the tank, closing it tightly. NOTE: This action
should be done at least every week.
PRESSURE GAUGES
There are 2 pressure gauges on this type of compressor, one shows the
pressure in the tank and the other one shows the outlets pressure after the
regulator has been set.

9
PREPARING FOR USE
CONNECTING THE WHEELS & RUBBER FOOT
1. Unscrew the nut and two washers from the wheel axle.
2. Pass the wheel axle through the
axle hole in the wheel support
frame as shown, with a washer
either side of the hole.
3. Replace and tighten the nut onto
the axle.
NOTE: Make sure that the nut is not
too tight, so the wheel has
free movement.
1. Unscrew the nut and washers from
the rubber foot.
2. Place the rubber foot bolt through
the foot support mount on the
underside of the air tank, as
shown.
3. Replace the washer and nut onto
the bolt and tighten.
FITTING THE AIR FILTERS
1. Remove the transit plugs from the air filter inlets.
2. Screw the air filters into the inlets,
as shown.

10
OPERATION
Before connecting your compressor to the mains supply, check the following:-
1. Firstly, ensure the compressor is on level ground. DO NOT allow it to run if it is
standing on an incline.
2. Check that the mains voltage corresponds with that shown on the data
label on the side of the compressor and the specification page (p18) of this
manual.
3. The ON/OFF switch is in the OFF
position.
STARTING THE COMPRESSOR
CAUTION: DO NOT ATTACH ANY AIR TOOLS TO THE OUTLET UNTIL THE UNIT HAS
BEEN CHECKED AND THE STARTING PROCEDURES HAVE BEEN COMPLETED.
1. Turn the regulator fully clockwise
(+) to open the airflow, making
sure the flow tap is in the closed
position.
2. Push the ON/OFF switch to the
‘OFF’ position and plug in the
power cord.

11
3. Pull the ON/OFF switch to the On(Auto) position and let the pump run.
4. Turn the regulator fully counterclockwise. The compressor will build to
maximum preset pressure and then shut off.
5. Turn the regulator clockwise to bleed off the air. The compressor will restart
at a preset pressure (about 6 bar).
6. Turn the regulator counterclockwise to shut off the air and push the ON/
OFF switch to the ‘OFF’ position.
7. Attach the airline and tool to the
airline outlet and turn the flow tap
to the open position and pull the
ON/OFF switch to the ON/AUTO
position.
NOTE: When finished with the
compressor, ALWAYS release
any unused compressed air
in the system.
MOISTURE IN THE COMPRESSED AIR
Moisture in the air will change to water when air is compressed or the
temperature drops. When humidity is high or when the compressor is in
continuous use for a long time, water will collect in the tank. If you use a paint
spray or sandblast gun, moisture will be carried from the tank through the
airline and mix with the spray material. This condensation will cause water
spots in a paint job, especially when spraying other than water based paints. If
sandblasting, it will cause the sand to clog the gun rendering it ineffective. To
reduce these effects, a dry filter in the airline (see page 23), located as near to
the gun as possible will help eliminate this moisture.
SAFETY VALVE
The safety valve should be checked
under pressure occasionally by
unscrewing the knurled head of the
valve and pulling it out. If there is air
leakage after releasing the valve
head or the valve is stuck and can’t
be activated or closed, it MUST be
replaced before using the
compressor.
NOTE: ALWAYS remember to screw
the valve head back in
place once tested.

12
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE REMEDY
Compressor does not start
or restart.
1.No electrical power,
Wire connection loose.
1.Make sure the
machine is connected
to power. Check wire
connections.
2.Fuse blown. 2.Change fuse.
3.Circuit break. 3.Reset the circuit
breaker, check for low
voltage conditions.
4.Thermal overload
switch open.
4.Turn air compressor
off, wait until the
motor is cool and the
overload switch is
closed, then try and
restart.
5.Pressure switch is
ineffective.
5.Replace pressure
switch.
Fuse blown/circuit
breaker trips repeatedly.
1.Incorrect fuse size,
circuit overloaded.
1.Check for correct
fuse (13A), or use a
time delay fuse.
Disconnect other
electrical appliances
from the circuit or
operate the
compressor on its own
branch circuit.
2.Defective check valve
or unloaded.
2.Repair or replace
valve. NEVER
disassemble the
check valve under
pressure, release tank
pressure first.

13
Motor stalls or runs slowly. 1.Voltage is too low. 1.Check for low
voltage conditions.
2.Low power due to poor
connection.
2.Check connections,
eliminate extension
cord if used, check
circuit with voltmeter.
3.Motor short circuit. 3.Replace motor.
Return to CLARKE
dealer or contact
CLARKE Service
Department.
4.Check valve is
blocked.
4.Disassemble check
valve to check if it is
blocked and replace
is necessary. NEVER
disassemble the
check valve under
pressure, release tank
pressure first.
Thermal overload
protector cuts out
repeatedly.
1.Low voltage. 1.Eliminate extension
cord if used, check
with voltmeter.
2.Clogged air filter. 2.Clean filter (see
maintenance
section).
3.Lack of proper
ventilation/room
temperature too high.
3.Move compressor to
well ventilated area.
4.Check valve
malfunction.
4.Replace
valve.Return to
CLARKE dealer or
contact CLARKE
Service Department.
5.Compressor valves
failed.
5.Replace valve
assembly. Return to
CLARKE dealer or
contact CLARKE
Service Department.
PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE REMEDY

14
Knocks, rattles, excessive
vibration.
1.Loose bolts, tank is not
on a horizontal plain.
1.Tighten bolts, move
tank to a horizontal
plain.
2.Defective bearing on
eccentric or motor shaft.
2.Replace bearing
and/or motor shaft.
Return to CLARKE
dealer or contact
CLARKE Service
Department.
3.Cylinder or piston ring is
scored.
3.Repair or replace as
necessary. Return to
CLARKE dealer or
contact CLARKE
Service Department.
Tank pressure drops when
compressor shuts off.
1.Loose drain cock. 1.Tighten drain cock.
2.Check valve leaking. 2.Disassemble check
valve assembly, clean
or replace.
3.Loose connections at
pressure switch or
regulator.
3.Check all
connections with soap
and water solution
and tighten.
Excessive moisture in
discharge air.
1.Excessive water in tank. 1.Drain tank after
every use.
2.High humidity. 2.Move to area of less
humidity, drain air
tank more often in
humid weather and
use air line filter. NOTE:
Water condensation is
not caused by
compressor
malfunction.
PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE REMEDY

15
Compressor runs
continuously and air
output is lower than
normal/low discharge
pressure.
1.Excessive air usage,
compressor too small.
1.Decrease usage or
purchase unit with
higher air delivery.
2.Clogged intake filter. 2.Clean or replace.
3.Air leaks in piping (on
machine or in outside
system).
3.Replace leaking
components or
tighten as necessary.
Return to CLARKE
dealer or contact
CLARKE Service
Department.
4.Broken inlet valve. 4.Replace compressor
valves. Return to
CLARKE dealer or
contact CLARKE
Service Department.
5.Piston ring worn. 5.Replace piston and
cylinder. Return to
CLARKE dealer or
contact CLARKE
Service Department.
Compressor runs
continuously and safety
valve opens as pressure
rises.
1.Defective pressure
switch.
1.Replace switch.
Return to CLARKE
dealer or contact
CLARKE Service
Department.
2.Defective safety valve. 2.Replace safety
valve with genuine
replacement part.
Return to CLARKE
dealer or contact
CLARKE Service
Department.
Excessive starting and
stopping (auto start)
1.Excessive
condensation in tank.
1.Drain tank more
often.
PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE REMEDY

16
MAINTENANCE
Air leaking from release
valve on pressure switch.
1.Check valve stuck in an
open position.
1.Remove and
replace check valve.
NEVER disassemble
the check valve under
pressure, release tank
pressure first.
Daily Weekly Monthly 3
Monthly
Drain the condensation from the air
receiver via the drain valve
X
Check for air leaks X
Remove air filter element and
clean or replace as required
X
Inspect non-return valve (clean or
replace as required). CAUTION:
Ensure that the tank is empty of
compressed air for this operation
X
Manually test the safety valve by
pulling the valve head out
X
Tighten cylinder head bolts X
Clean and check valve assembly,
replace gaskets/valves if worn or
damaged
X
PROBLEM PROBABLE CAUSE REMEDY

17
REPLACING THE AIR FILTERS
The compressor must be completely depressurised before carrying out this
procedure.
1. Unscrew the air filter from the
pump head assembly.
2. Unscrew the air filter cover and
clean or replace the air filter.
3. Screw the air filter cover back
together and screw back onto
the pump head assembly.
STORAGE
• When not in use, store the hose and compressor in a cool dry place.
• Drain the tank of all compressed air and moisture/condensation.
• Disconnect the hose and hang on top of the compressor to avoid
damage.

18
SPECIFICATION
Please note that the details and specifications contained herein are correct
at the time of going to print.
Product
Model ShhhAir Max 50/350
Operating Temperature Range 0OC - 35OC
IP Rating IP20
Overload Protection Device Automatic Thermal Protector
Protection Class Class I
Duty Cycle S3 50% 10mins Cycle Time
Dimensions Fully Assembled (D x W x H) 700 x 390 x 680 mm
Weight 44 kg
Motor
Type 2 x Induction - 3.5 HP
Power Supply 230 V/ 50 Hz
Rated Input Wattage 2500W
Rated Input Current 11A
RPM @ 230V 2850 rpm
Compressor Pump & Tank
Receiver Tank Capacity 50L
Tank Max. Design Pressure 11 Bar/160psi
Outlet Size 2 x 1/4” BSP
Bore 63.7mm
Stroke 13mm
Displacement 480 l/min
Free Air @ 7 Bar/101psi 155 l/min
Max. Operating Pressure 8 Bar/116psi
Min. Operating Pressure 6 Bar/87psi
Environmental
Sound Pressure Level 66 dBA
Sound Power Level 86 dBA
Uncertainty Factor 2.5 dBA

19
COMPONENT DIAGRAMS & PARTS LIST
PUMP ELECTRIC DIAGRAM

20
EXPLODED DIAGRAM