Porter-Cable JOB BOSS C3550 User manual

Direct Drive
Oil Lube
Portable Air Compressor
Instruction
manual
IMPORTANT
Please make certain that the person who is
to use this equipment carefully reads and
understands these instructions before
starting operations.
Part No. D28914-035-0
ESPAÑOL: PÁGINA 27
FRANÇAIS: PAGE 53
To learn more about Porter-Cable
visit our website at:
http://www.porter-cable.com
Copyright © 2003 Porter-Cable Corporation
The Model and Serial No. plate is located on the frame.
Record these numbers in the spaces below and retain for
future reference.
Model No.
Type
Serial No.
Model
C3550

2- ENG
D28914
SAFETY GUIDELINES - DEFINITIONS
Indicates an imminently
hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will result in death
or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially
hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in
death or serious injury.
Indicates a potentially
hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in
minor or moderate injury.
Used without the safety
alert symbol indicates a
potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, may result in property
damage.
This manual contains information that is important for you to know and
understand. This information relates to protecting YOUR SAFETY and
PREVENTING EQUIPMENT PROBLEMS. To help you recognize this
information, we use the symbols below. Please read the manual and pay
attention to these symbols.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Some dust created by power sanding, sawing, grinding,
drilling, and other construction activities contains chemicals
known (to the State of California) to cause cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Some example of these chemicals are:
●lead from lead-based paints
●crystalline silica from bricks and cement and other masonry products
●arsenic and chromium from chemically-treated lumber
Your risk from these exposures varies, depending on how often you do this
type of work. To reduce your exposure to these chemicals: work in a well
ventilated area, and work with approved safety equipment, always wear
MSHA/NIOSH approved, properly fitting face mask or respirator when using
such tools.
When using air tools, basic safety precautions should always be followed to
reduce the risk of of personal injury.

3- ENG D28914
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Save these instructions
Improper operation or maintenance of this product could result in serious injury and
property damage. Read and understand all warnings and operation instructions before
using this equipment.
HAZARD
WARNING: Risk of explosion or fire
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen
It is normal for electrical contacts
within the motor and pressure switch to
spark.
If electrical sparks from compressor
come into contact with flammable
vapors, they may ignite, causing fire or
explosion.
Restricting any of the compressor
ventilation openings will cause serious
overheating and could cause fire.
Unattended operation of this product
could result in personal injury or
property damage. To reduce the risk of
fire, do not allow the compressor to
operate unattended.
Always operate the compressor in a well
ventilated area free of combustible
materials, gasoline, or solvent vapors.
If spraying flammable materials, locate
compressor at least 20 feet away from
spray area. An additional length of hose
may be required.
Store flammable materials in a secure
location away from compressor.
Never place objects against or on top
of compressor. Operate compressor in
an open area at least 12 inches away
from any wall or obstruction that would
restrict the flow of fresh air to the
ventilation openings.
Operate compressor in a clean, dry well
ventilated area. Do not operate unit
indoors or in any confined area.
Always remain in attendance with the
product when it is operating.
Always disconnect electrical power by
moving pressure switch lever to the off
position and drain tank daily or after
each use.

4- ENG
D28914
WARNING: Risk of Bursting
Air Tank: The following conditions could lead to a weakening of the tank, and result
in a violent tank explosion and could cause property damage or serious injury.
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen
WARNING: Risk from Flying Objects
The compressed air stream can cause
soft tissue damage to exposed skin
and can propel dirt, chips, loose
particles, and small objects at high
speed, resulting in property damage or
personal injury.
Always wear ANSI Z87.1 approved safety
glasses with side shields when using the
compressor.
Never point any nozzle or sprayer
toward any part of the body or at other
people or animals.
Always turn the compressor off and
bleed pressure from the air hose and tank
before attempting maintenance, attaching
tools or accessories.
HAZARD
HAZARD
Drain tank daily or after each use. If
tank develops a leak, replace it
immediately with a new tank or replace
the entire compressor.
Failure to properly drain condensed
water from tank, causing rust and
thinning of the steel tank.
Modifications or attempted repairs to
the tank.
Unauthorized modifications to the
unloader valve, safety valve, or any
other components which control tank
pressure.
Never drill into, weld, or make any
modifications to the tank or its
attachments.
Excessive vibration can weaken the
air tank and cause rupture or
explosion
The tank is designed to withstand specific
operating pressures. Never make
adjustments or parts substitutions to
alter the factory set operating
pressures.
For essential control of air pressure, you
must install a pressure regulator and
pressure gauge to the air outlet (if not
equipped) of your compressor. Follow the
equipment manufacturers
recommendation and never exceed the
maximum allowable pressure rating of
attachments. Never use compressor to
inflate small low pressure objects such
as children’s toys, footballs,
basketballs, etc.
ATTACHMENTS & ACCESSORIES:
Exceeding the pressure rating of air
tools, spray guns, air operated
accessories, tires, and other inflatables
can cause them to explode or fly apart,
and could result in serious injury.
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen

5- ENG D28914
WARNING: Risk to Breathing
WARNING: Risk of Electrical Shock
HAZARD
HAZARD
Your air compressor is powered by
electricity. Like any other electrically
powered device, If it is not used
properly it may cause electric shock.
Repairs attempted by unqualified
personnel can result in serious injury
or death by electrocution.
Electrical Grounding: Failure to provide
adequate grounding to this product
could result in serious injury or death
from electrocution.
See grounding instructions.
Never operate the compressor outdoors
when it is raining or in wet conditions.
Never operate compressor with
protective covers removed or damaged.
Any electrical wiring or repairs required
on this product should be performed by
authorized service center personnel in
accordance with national and local
electrical codes.
Make certain that the electrical circuit to
which the compressor is connected
provides proper electrical grounding,
correct voltage and adequate fuse
protection.
The compressed air directly from your
compressor is not safe for breathing.
The air stream may contain carbon
monoxide, toxic vapors, or solid
particles from the tank. Breathing these
contaminants can cause serious injury
or death.
Sprayed materials such as paint, paint
solvents, paint remover, insecticides,
weed killers, may contain harmful
vapors and poisons.
Air obtained directly from the compressor
should never be used to supply air for
human consumption. In order to use air
produced by this compressor for
breathing, suitable filters and in-line
safety equipment must be properly
installed. In-line filters and safety
equipment used in conjunction with the
compressor must be capable of treating
air to all applicable local and federal
codes prior to human consumption.
Work in an area with good cross
ventilation. Read and follow the safety
instructions provided on the label or
safety data sheets for the materials you
are spraying. Use a NIOSH/ MSHA
approved respirator designed for use with
your specific application.
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen

6- ENG
D28914
WARNING: Risk of Burns
Touching exposed metal such as the
compressor head or outlet tubes, can
result in serious burns.
Never touch any exposed metal parts
on compressor during or immediately
after operation. Compressor will remain
hot for several minutes after operation.
Do not reach around protective shrouds
or attempt maintenance until unit has
been allowed to cool.
WARNING: Risk from Moving Parts
Never operate the compressor with
guards or covers which are damaged or
removed.
Moving parts such as the pulley, flywheel,
and belt can cause serious injury if they
come into contact with you or your
clothing.
WARNING: Risk of Falling
A portable compressor can fall from a
table, workbench, or roof causing
damage to the compressor and could
result in serious injury or death to the
operator.
Always operate compressor in a stable
secure position to prevent accidental
movement of the unit. Never operate
compressor on a roof or other elevated
position. Use additional air hose to
reach high locations.
HAZARD
HAZARD
HAZARD
Any repairs required on this product
should be performed by authorized
service center personnel.
Attempting to operate compressor with
damaged or missing parts or attempting
to repair compressor with protective
shrouds removed can expose you to
moving parts and can result in serious
injury.
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen

7- ENG D28914
Review and understand all instructions
and warnings in this manual.
Become familiar with the operation and
controls of the air compressor.
Keep operating area clear of all persons,
pets, and obstacles.
Keep children away from the air
compressor at all times.
Do not operate the product when
fatigued or under the influence of
alcohol or drugs. Stay alert at all times.
Never defeat the safety features of this
product.
Equip area of operation with a fire
extinguisher.
Do not operate machine with missing,
broken, or unauthorized parts.
WARNING: Risk of Unsafe Operation
Unsafe operation of your air compressor
could lead to serious injury or death to
you or others.
HAZARD
WARNING: Risk of Serious Injury or Property Damage When
Transporting Compressor
Oil can leak or spill and could result in
fire or breathing hazard; serious injury or
death can result. oil leaks will damage
carpet, paint or other surfaces in
vehicles or trailers.
Always place COMPRESSOR on a
protective mat when transporting to
protect against damage to vehicle from
leaks. Remove COMPRESSOR from
vehicle immediately upon arrival at your
destination.
(Fire, Inhalation, Damage to Vehicle Surfaces)
HAZARD
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen
How To Prevent It
What Could Happen

8- ENG
D28914
GLOSSARY
Become familiar with these terms before operating the unit.
CFM: Cubic feet per minute.
SCFM: Standard cubic feet per minute; a unit of measure of air delivery.
PSIG: Pounds per square inch gauge; a unit of measure of pressure.
Code Certification: Products that bear one or more of the following marks:
UL, CUL, ETL, CETL, have been evaluated by OSHA certified independent
safety laboratories and meet the applicable Underwriters Laboratories
Standards for Safety.
Cut-In Pressure: While the motor is off, air tank pressure drops as you
continue to use your accessory. When the tank pressure drops to a certain low
level the motor will restart automatically. The low pressure at which the motor
automatically restarts is called “cut-in” pressure.
Cut-Out Pressure: When an air compressor is turned on and begins to run,
air pressure in the air tank begins to build. It builds to a certain high pressure
before the motor automatically shuts off - protecting your air tank from
pressure higher than its capacity. The high pressure at which the motor shuts
off is called “cut-out” pressure.
Branch Circuit: Circuit carrying electricity from electrical panel to outlet.
DUTY CYCLE
This air compressor pump is capable of running continuously. However, to
prolong the life of your air compressor, it is recommended that a 50%-75%
average duty cycle be maintained; that is, the air compressor pump should not
run more than 30-45 minutes in any given hour.
SPECIFICATIONS
Model No. C3550
Horsepower Peak 2.5
Bore 2.363
Stroke .890
* Voltage-Single Phase 120
* * Minimum Branch Circuit Requirement 15 amps
* Fuse Type Time Delay
Air Tank Capacity (Gallon) 4.5 ASME
Approximate Cut-in Pressure 120 PSIG
Approximate Cut-out Pressure 150 PSIG
SCFM @ 40 PSIG 5.7
SCFM @ 90 PSIG 4.4
* These compressors can be operated on a 15 amp
circuit if:
1. Voltage supply to circuit must comply with the National Electrical Code.
2. Circuit is not used to supply any other electrical needs (lights, appliances, etc.)
3. Extension cords comply with specifications in owners manual.
4. Circuit is equipped with 15 amp circuit breaker or 15 amp time delay fuse.
If any of the above conditions cannot be met, or if operation of the compressor
repeatedly causes interruption of the power it may be necessary to operate it
from a 20 amp circuit. It is not necessary to change the cord set.
** A circuit breaker is preferred. Use only a fuse or circuit breaker that is the
same rating as the branch circuit the air compressor is operated on. If the air
compressor is connected to a circuit protected by fuses, use time delay
fuses.

9- ENG D28914
To Add Oil To Pump
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPERATE THIS AIR COMPRESSOR
WITHOUT FIRST ADDING OIL TO THE CRANKCASE.
Serious damage can result from even limited operation unless filled with
oil and broken in correctly. Make sure to closely follow initial start-up
procedures.
COMPRESSORS ARE SHIPPED WITHOUT OIL. A small
amount of oil may be present in the pump upon receipt of
the air compressor. This is due to plant testing and does not mean the
pump contains oil.
Multi-Viscosity motor oils, like 10W 30, should not be used
in an air compressor. They leave carbon deposits on
critical components, thus reducing performance and compressor life. Use
air compressor oil only.
NOTE: Use an air compressor oil such as SAE-30 (API CG/CD heavy duty
motor oil). Under extreme winter conditions use SAE-10 weight oil.
1. Place unit on a level surface.
Drain tank to release air pressure before removing the
dipstick.
Make sure air vent (B) in
dipstick is free from
debris. If air vent is blocked pressure
can build in crankcase causing damage
to air compressor and possible personal
injury.
2. Remove dipstick (A) and slowly fill
crankcase with oil. Crankcase
capacity is 8 fluid ounces (236.6 ml).
Oil level should be at the + (full) mark
on the dipstick.
NOTE: If the oil is added too quickly, it will
overflow and appear to be full.
3. Replace dipstick.
Accessories for this unit are available at the store the unit was purchased.
ACCESSORIES
ASSEMBLY
+
-
A
B
+ full
- add
One accessory available for this unit
is the Job Boss ™ Mobility Kit, this
accessory includes retractable
handle, comfort grip, mounting
bracket, pneumatic wheels, shoulder
bolts, and all associated hardware
needed to make this unit more
mobile. Unit shown with
PTA50 Mobility kit,
sold separately.

10- ENG
D28914
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
RISK OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK. In the event of a short
circuit, grounding reduces the risk of shock by providing
an escape wire for the electric current. This air compressor must be
properly grounded.
The portable air compressor is equipped with a cord having a grounding wire
with an appropriate grounding plug (see following illustrations).
1. The cord set and plug with this unit contains a grounding pin. This plug
MUST be used with a grounded outlet.
IMPORTANT: The outlet being used must
be installed and grounded in accordance
with all local codes and ordinances.
2. Make sure the outlet being used has
the same configuration as the
grounded plug. DO NOT USE AN
ADAPTER. See illustration.
3. Inspect the plug and cord before each
use. Do not use if there are signs of
damage.
4. If these grounding instructions are not completely understood, or if in
doubt as to whether the compressor is properly grounded, have the
installation checked by a qualified electrician.
IMPROPER GROUNDING CAN RESULT IN ELECTRICAL
SHOCK.
Do not modify the plug provided. If it does not fit the available outlet, a
correct outlet should be installed by a qualified electrician.
Repairs to the cord set or plug MUST be made by a qualified electrician.
INSTALLATION
Location of the Air Compressor
l
Locate the air compressor in a clean, dry, and well ventilated area.
l
The air compressor should be located at least 12" away from the wall or
other obstructions that will interfere with the flow of air.
l
The air filter must be kept clear of obstructions which could reduce air flow
to the air compressor.
l
The air compressor requires fresh air flow for proper cooling. DO NOT
ALLOW THE COMPRESSOR TO GET WET.
HOW TO SET UP YOUR UNIT
Grounding Pin
Grounded
Outlets
Plug

11- ENG D28914
Extension Cords
Using extension cords is not recommended. The use of extension cords will
cause voltage to drop resulting in power loss to the motor and overheating.
Instead of using an extension cord, increase the working reach of the air hose
by attaching another length of hose to its end. Attach additional lengths of
hose as needed.
If an extension cord must be used, be sure it is:
• a 3-wire extension cord that has a 3-blade grounding plug, and a 3-slot
receptacle that will accept the plug on the product
• in good condition
• no longer than 50 feet
• 12 gauge (AWG) or larger. (Wire size increases as gauge number
decreases. 10 AWG and 8 AWG may also be used. DO NOT USE 14 OR
16 AWG.)
Voltage and Circuit Protection
Refer to the specification chart for the voltage and minimum branch circuit
requirements.
Certain air compressors can be operated on a 15 amp circuit if the following
conditions are met.
1. Voltage supply through branch circuit is 15 amps.
2. Circuit is not used to supply any other electrical needs (lights, appliances,
etc.).
3. Extension cords comply with specifications.
4. Circuit is equipped with a 15 amp circuit breaker or 15 amp time delay
fuse. NOTE: If compressor is connected to a circuit protected by fuses,
use only time delay fuses. Time delay fuses should be marked “D” in
Canada and “T” in the US.
If any of the above conditions cannot be met, or if operation of the compressor
repeatedly causes interruption of the power, it may be necessary to operate it
from a 20 amp circuit. It is not necessary to change the cord set.

12- ENG
D28914
OPERATION
Know Your Air Compressor
READ THIS OWNER’S MANUAL AND SAFETY RULES BEFORE OPERATING
YOUR UNIT. Compare the illustrations with your unit to familiarize yourself with
the location of various controls and adjustments. Save this manual for future
reference.
Description of Operation
Become familiar with these controls before operating the unit.
On/Auto/Off Switch (A): Turn this
switch ON to provide automatic power
to the pressure switch and OFF to
remove power at the end of each use.
Pressure Switch (B): The pressure
switch automatically starts the motor
when the air tank pressure drops below
the factory set “cut-in” pressure. It stops
the motor when the air tank pressure
reaches the factory set “cut-out”
pressure.
Safety Valve (C): If the pressure switch
does not shut off the air compressor at
its “cut-out” pressure setting, the safety valve will protect against high pressure
by “popping out” at its factory set pressure (slightly higher than the pressure
switch “cut-out” setting).
Outlet Pressure Gauge(D):
The outlet pressure gauge
indicates the air pressure
available at the outlet side
of the regulator. This
pressure is controlled by the
regulator and is always less
than or equal to the tank
pressure.
Tank Pressure Gauge(E): The tank pressure gauge indicates the reserve air
pressure in the tank.
Regulator (F): Controls the air pressure shown on the outlet pressure gauge.
Pull the knob out and turn clockwise to increase pressure and
counterclockwise to decrease pressure. When the desired pressure is reached
push knob in to lock in place.
Universal Quick-Connect Body (G): The universal quick-connect body
accepts the three most popular styles of quick-connect plugs- Industrial,
automotive (Tru-flate), and ARO. One hand push-to-connect operation makes
connections simple and easy. The two quick connect bodies allow the use of
two tools at the same time.
Remote Console (H): Permits remote air regulation and control closer to work
area, includes two high-flow industrial/automotive style compatible quick-
connects, outlet pressure gauge, and a high-flow regulator.
G
E
A
C
B
D
F
H

13- ENG D28914
Drain Valve (I): The drain valve is
located at the base of the air tank and is
used to drain condensation at the end of
each use.
Cooling System (not shown): This
compressor contains an advanced
design cooling system. At the heart of
this cooling system is an engineered fan.
It is perfectly normal for this fan to blow air over the pump head, cylinder
sleeve, and crankcase. You know the cooling system is working when air is
being expelled.
Air Compressor Pump (not shown): Compresses air into the air tank.
Working air is not available until the compressor has raised the air tank
pressure above that required at the air outlet.
Dipstick (J): Indicates the amount of oil in the pump, the
+ mark indicates full and the - mark indicates oil needs to
be added. See Oil paragraphs in the Maintenance section
for instructions.
Motor Thermal Overload Protector (not shown): The
motor has an automatic reset thermal overload protector.
If the motor overheats for any reason, the overload
protector will shut off the motor. The motor must be
allowed to cool down before restarting. The compressor
will automatically restart after the motor cools.
Air Intake Filter (K): This filter is designed to clean air
coming into the pump. This filter must always be clean
and ventilation openings free from obstructions. See
"Maintenance".
Check Valve (L): When the air compressor is
operating, the check valve is “open”, allowing
compressed air to enter the air tank. When the air
compressor reaches “cut-out” pressure, the check
valve “closes”, allowing air pressure to remain inside
the air tank.
Pressure Release Valve (M): The pressure release
valve located on the side of the pressure switch, is
designed to automatically release compressed air from
the compressor head and the outlet tube when the air
compressor reaches “cut-out” pressure or is shut off.
The pressure release valve allows the motor to restart
freely. When the motor stops running, air will be heard
escaping from this valve for a few seconds. No air
should be heard leaking when the motor is running, or
continuous leaking after unit reaches “cut-out” pressure.
M
How to Use Your Unit
How to Stop:
1. Set the On/Auto/Off lever to “OFF”.
J
L
K
I

14- ENG
D28914
Before Starting
Break-in Procedure
Serious damage may result if the following break-in
instructions are not closely followed.
This procedure is required before the air compressor is put into service and
when the check valve or a complete compressor pump has been replaced.
1. Make sure the On/Auto/Off lever is in the "OFF" position.
2. Check oil level in pump. See “Oil” paragraph in the “Maintenance” section
for instructions.
3.
Plug the power cord into the correct branch circuit receptacle. (Refer to
Voltage and Circuit Protection paragraph in the Installation section of this
manual.)
4. Open the drain valve fully (counter-clockwise) to permit air to escape and
prevent air pressure build up in the air tank during the break-in period.
5. Move the On/Auto/Off lever to "ON/AUTO" position. The compressor will
start.
6. Run the compressor for 20 minutes. Make sure the drain valve is open and
there is minimal air pressure build-up in tank.
7. After 20 minutes, close the drain valve (clockwise). The air receiver will fill
to “cut-out” pressure and the motor will stop.
The compressor is now ready for use.
Before Each Start-Up:
1. Place On/Auto/Off lever to “OFF”.
2. Pull regulator knob out, turn counter-clockwise until it stops. Push knob in
to lock in place.
3. Attach hose and accessories. NOTE: The hose or accessory will require a
quick connect plug. To use remote console, see "How to Use Remote
Console" paragraph in this section.
Too much air pressure causes a hazardous risk of
bursting. Check the manufacturer’s maximum pressure
rating for air tools and accessories. The regulator outlet pressure must
never exceed the maximum pressure rating.

15- ENG D28914
How to Start:
1. Turn the On/Auto/Off lever to “AUTO” and allow tank pressure to build.
Motor will stop when tank pressure reaches “cut-out” pressure.
2. Pull the regulator knob out and turn clockwise to increase pressure. When
the desired pressure is reached push knob in to lock in place. The
compressor is ready for use.
NOTE: Always operate the air compressor in well-ventilated areas free of
gasoline or other combustible vapors. If the compressor is being used to
operate a sprayer DO NOT place near the spray area.
How to Use Remote Console:
When needed the remote console allows remote air regulation and control
closer to the work area.
Reduce air pressure in tank to 60 psi maximum before
removing or connecting portable control panel and when
connecting hose to tank quick-connect coupler.
1. Turn knobs counter clockwise to loosen knobs securing control panel.
2. Slide console up and away from frame, disconnect air hose from quick
connect (a), and remove console.
3. Connect air hose (sold separately) to quick connect plug (b) and quick
connect (a). The console can then be brought closer to the work site to
rest on the console brackets (d) or be temporarily mounted using the
mounting hole (c).
Can cause serious injury or death. Tank may contain 150
PSI of air pressure. Never connect accessories to
unregulated air. Never operate tools or accessories above marked
maximum pressure.
a
a
b
c
d

16- ENG
D28914
MAINTENANCE
Customer Responsibilities
Daily or
after
each
use
Before
each
use
●
●
●
●
Every
8
hours
Every
40
hours
Every
100
hours
Yearly
Every
160
hours
●
●1
1- more frequent in dusty or humid conditions
Check Safety Valve
Drain Tank
Oil Leaks
Check Oil
Change Oil
Air Filter
NOTE: See “Operation” section for the location of controls.
To ensure efficient operation and longer life of the air compressor outfit, a
routine maintenance schedule should be prepared and followed. The following
routine maintenance schedule is geared to an outfit in a normal working
environment operating on a daily basis. If necessary, the schedule should be
modified to suit the conditions under which your compressor is used. The
modifications will depend upon the hours of operation and the working
environment. Compressor outfits in an extremely dirty and/or hostile
environment will require a greater frequency of all maintenance checks.
Unit cycles automatically when power is on. When
performing maintenance, you may be exposed to voltage
sources, compressed air, or moving parts. Personal injuries can occur.
Before performing any maintenance or repair, disconnect power source
from the compressor and bleed off all air pressure.
To Check Safety Valve
If the safety valve does not work properly, over
pressurization may occur, causing air tank rupture or an
explosion.
1. Before starting compressor, pull the ring on the safety valve to make sure
that the safety valve operates freely. If the valve is stuck or does not
operate smoothly, it must be replaced with the same type of valve.
To Drain Tank
1. Set the On/Auto/Off lever to “OFF”.
2. Pull the regulator knob out and turn counter clockwise to set the outlet
pressure to zero.
3. Remove the air tool or accessory.
4. Pull ring on safety valve allowing air to bleed from the tank until tank
pressure is approximately 20 psi. Release safety valve ring.

17- ENG D28914
5. Drain water from air tank by opening drain valve (counter-clockwise) on
bottom of tank. NOTE: Tilt tank to drain tank completely.
Water will condense in the air tank. If not drained, water
will corrode and weaken the air tank causing a risk of air
tank rupture.
6. After the water has been drained, close the drain valve (clockwise). The air
compressor can now be stored.
NOTE: If drain valve is plugged, release all air pressure. The valve can then be
removed, cleaned, then reinstalled.
Oil
Drain tank to release air pressure before removing the
dipstick or oil drain plug.
Compressor head and cylinder sleeve are very hot. Do not
touch.
Checking
1. Set the On/Auto/Off lever to “OFF”.
2. Remove dipstick (A) and check oil on dipstick for visual signs of
contaminants (water, dirt, etc).
Make sure air vent (C)
in dipstick is free from
debris. If air vent is blocked pressure
can build in crankcase causing damage
to air compressor and possible personal
injury.
3. Wipe oil from dipstick.
4. Replace dipstick and allow oil to
collect on dipstick.
5. Remove dipstick and check oil level
on dipstick, + mark indicates full and
the - mark indicates add oil. If oil level
is below - mark, slowly add oil until it
reaches the + (full) mark on the dipstick.
NOTE: Use an oil specifically formulated for use in an air compressor, such as
Porter-Cable PAS1 air compressor oil. Oil may be found at the store where the
air compressor was purchased.
6. Replace dipstick (A).
Changing
1. Set the On/Auto/Off lever to “OFF”.
2. Remove the dipstick (A).
3. Remove the oil drain plug (B) and drain oil into a suitable container.
4. Replace the oil drain plug (B).
+
-
A
C
B
(+)Full
(-)Add

18- ENG
D28914
Air Filter - Inspection and Replacement
Hot surfaces. Risk of burn. Compressor heads are
exposed when filter cover is removed. Allow compressor
to cool prior to servicing.
A dirty air filter will not allow the compressor to operate at full capacity. Keep
the air filter clean at all times.
1. Remove the air filter cover.
2. Remove the air filter from filter cover.
IMPORTANT: Do not operate the compressor with the air filter removed.
3. Place new air filter into filter cover. Refer to the “Repair Parts” for the
correct part number.
4. Replace air filter cover and lock into place.
5. Slowly fill crankcase with oil. Crankcase capacity is 8 fluid ounces (236.6
ml). Oil level should be at the + (full) mark on the dipstick.
Overfilling with oil will cause premature compressor
failure. Do not overfill.
6. Replace dipstick (A).
Motor
The motor has an automatic reset thermal overload protector. If the motor
overheats for any reason, the overload protector will shut off the motor. The
motor must be allowed to cool down before restarting. The compressor will
automatically restart after the motor cools.
If the overload protector shuts the motor off frequently, check for a possible
voltage problem. Low voltage can also be suspected when:
1. The motor does not get up to full power or speed.
2. Fuses blow out when starting the motor; lights dim and remain dim when
motor is started and is running.

19- ENG D28914
Unit cycles automatically when power is on. When doing
Maintenance, you may be exposed to voltage sources,
compressed air or moving parts. Personal injuries can occur. Before
performing any Maintenance or repair, unplug the compressor and bleed
off all air pressure.
SERVICE AND ADJUSTMENTS
ALL MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OPERATIONS NOT LISTED MUST BE
PERFORMED BY TRAINED SERVICE TECHNICIAN.
Before servicing:
• Unplug or disconnect electrical supply to the air compressor.
• Bleed tank of pressure.
• Allow the air compressor to cool.
To Replace or Clean Check Valve
1. Release all air pressure from air tank. See “To Drain Tank” in the
Maintenance section.
2. Unplug outfit.
NOTE: If needed the top panel may be removed to make parts accessible.
3. Using an adjustable wrench loosen
outlet tube nut at air tank and pump.
Carefully move outlet tube away from
check valve.
4. Using an adjustable wrench loosen
pressure relief tube nut at air tank
and pressure switch. Carefully move
pressure relief tube away from check
valve.
5. Unscrew the check valve (turn
counterclockwise) using a 7/8” open
end wrench. Note the orientation for
reassembly.
6. Unscrew elbow fitting from the check valve (turn counterclockwise) using
an adjustable wrench. Note the orientation of the elbow fitting for
reassembly.
7. Using a screwdriver, carefully
push the valve disc up and
down. NOTE: The valve disc
should move freely up and
down on a spring which holds
the valve disc in the closed
position. If not, the check valve
needs to be cleaned or replaced.
8. Clean or replace the check valve. A solvent, such as paint or varnish
remover can be used to clean the check valve.
9. Apply sealant to the check valve threads. Reinstall the check valve and
elbow fitting (turn clockwise).
10. Replace the pressure release tube. Tighten nut.
11. Replace the outlet tube and tighten nut.
12. Perform the Break-in Procedure. See “Break-in Procedure” in the
Operation section.
Pressure Relief Tube
Check
Valve
Nuts
Outlet Tube
Elbow Fitting
In closed position
disc is visible.
In open position
nothing is visible.
Screwdriver

20- ENG
D28914
STORAGE
Before you store the air compressor, make sure you do the following:
1. Review the "Maintenance" section on the preceding pages and perform
scheduled maintenance as necessary.
2. Set the On/Auto/Off lever to "OFF".
3. Turn the regulator counterclockwise and set the outlet pressure to zero.
4. Remove the air tool or accessory.
5. Pull ring on safety valve allowing air to bleed from the tank until tank
pressure is approximately 20 psi. Release safety valve ring.
6. Drain water from air tank by opening drain valve on bottom of tank.
Water will condense in the air tank. If not drained, water
will corrode and weaken the air tank causing a risk of air
tank rupture.
7. After the water has been drained, close the drain or drain valve.
NOTE: If drain valve is plugged, release all air pressure. The valve can then be
removed, cleaned, then reinstalled.
8. Wrap electrical cord onto the cord
wrap as shown.
9. Protect the air hose from damage
(such as being stepped on or run over).
10. Store the air compressor in a clean and
dry location.