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OPERATION
(continued)
GAS POWERED
Refer to item numbers 12, 16, 17 & 18 in the “System Controls” section of this manual for information on the engine
automatic idle control, kill switch, choke and fuel shut-off valve. Also note the engine throttle arm is locked into a top RPM setting
that will provide maximum service life and does not need to be moved to start or stop the machine. Additional instructions can be
found in the engine owner’s manual. Use the drain valve located on the pump aftercooler or intercooler for cold-starting purposes.
Take additional care to keep dirt/debris from entering the fuel tank or obstructing the air flow through the engine or past the pump.
Make sure the air flow to the regulator is completely closed (gauge attached reads 0 PSI) before attaching air hose and accessory. A
slight
hissing
noise caused by the air flow being directed to atmosphere during engine idle is normal. Store compressor in a warm/dry
location and perform maintenance as indicated in your manuals.
FREEZING TEMPERATURES:
Proper fluid maintenance and warm up procedures are mandatory before attempting to start or operate an air compressor in
freezing temperatures. Water, a natural byproduct of compressed air, could turn into ice and potentially block air flow into,
though, and/or out of the pump, air tank(s), and air line(s). Drain air tanks/ lines after every use and leave drain valves open when
not in use.
If all, or part, of the compressor may be frozen, you must completely thaw the compressor before attempting to start. Gradually
increase the temperature above freezing and then drain moisture from the air tanks, intercoolers, and water traps.
Cold Weather Best Practices:
•
Do not attempt to start a frozen compressor. Thaw completely first.
•
Store your air compressor in a clean, dry area that stays consistently above freezing temperatures.
•
Change the oil in the pump and engine to winter grade (check owner’s manual).
•
Prior to starting, open the tank drain(s) and allow the compressor to run for 45-60 seconds with the tank drain(s) open
before closing to build tank pressure.
•
Using a lubricator with de-icing fluid may also be needed to keep your air lines from freezing up/blocked by ice.
•
Contact your ROLAIR dealer or our factory customer service department if you have additional questions.
High-Altitude Operation:
Due to a decrease in atmospheric pressure air compressor pumps produce less CFM at higher elevations. As a rule of
thumb the output will decrease approximately three percent per 1000 feet of elevation. Also, because air at higher elevations is
less dense and does not cool as well, electric motors cannot be subjected to the full nameplate service factor amp rating and may
need to be upgraded to avoid repeated overheating.
Direct drive or hand-carry compressors built with cold-start valves may need to be modified when operated in higher
elevations. Carburetors on gas-powered air compressors may also need to be rejetted to perform properly at higher elevations.
Contact our factory Customer Service Department if your normally reliable air compressor fails to operate correctly at higher
elevations.
MAINTENANCE
Your new air compressor represents the finest engineering and construction available. Even the best machinery requires
periodic maintenance. Please stick to the maintenance schedule and consider the suggestions that follow to keep your compressor
in peak condition.
NOTE: Always unplug or shut down your compressor and drain the air tanks completely before attempting any type of
maintenance. Wait for compressor to cool before servicing.
IMPORTANT: Replace the oil after the first 50 hours of operation.
MAINTENANCE HINTS:
1)
Use a soap/water solution to check for air leaks.
2) Never clean filters with a flammable solvent.
3) Retorque head bolts only after pump has cooled.
4) Move motor 1/4" and roll belts back on to increase belt tension on electric units.
5) Never weld on air tank(s).
6) Use heat to loosen Loctite seal on drain valves, engine pulleys, and flywheels before
attempting to remove.
MAINTENANCE
(continued)
