Chapter 3—Starting Up the
Compressor
The initial operation of the compressor is the most critical
time it will ever face. READ ALL OF CHAPTER TWO BEFORE
PROCEEDING TO THE STARTUP CHECKLIST.
3 .1 Inspection After Extended
Storage
If the compressor has been out of service for a long
period of time, make sure the cylinder bore and valve
areas are free of rust and other debris. For valve and/or
cylinder head removal instructions, refer to chapter 4 of
this IOM manual.
Drain the oil from the crankcase and remove the
crankcase inspection plate. Inspect the running gear for
signs of rust and clean or replace parts as necessary.
Fill crankcase with the appropriate lubricant through the
crankcase inspection plate opening. Squirt oil on the
crossheads and rotate the crankshaft by hand to ensure
that all bearing surfaces are coated with oil.
Rotate unit manually to ensure running gear functions
properly. Replace the crankcase inspection plate and
proceed with startup.
3 .2 Flywheel and V-belt Alignment
Before working on the drive assembly, be sure that the
electric power is disconnected. When mounting new
belts, always make sure the driver and compressor are
close enough together to avoid forcing.
Improper belt tension and sheave alignment can cause
vibration, excessive belt wear and premature bearing
failures. Before operating the compressor, check alignment
of the V-grooves of the compressor flywheel and driver
sheave. Visual inspection often will indicate if the belts are
properly aligned, but use of a square is the best method.
The flywheel is mounted on the shaft via a split, tapered
bushing and three bolts (refer to figure 3.2A). These bolts
should be tightened in an even and progressive manner until
torqued as specified below. There must be a gap between
the bushing flange and the flywheel when installation is
complete. Always check the flywheel runout before startup
and readjust if it exceeds the value listed in Appendix B.
Align hub with crankshaft key.
Flywheel
Tighten flywheel bolts in an even and progressive manner.
Flywheel removal holes
(threaded openings)
Split
Crankshaft key
Figure 3.2A (model HG601EE (plain style) shown)
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