There was a retail store chain in North America which some of you may have heard of known as SEARS. (There may still be some Sears outlets around, but they are few and far between any more.)
Sears is a department store selling all kinds of products from all kinds of manufacturers. They also have products manufactured with their own brand name for sale in their own stores and online. Craftsman compressors is one of those products.
The Craftsman brand is the name of their broad range of tools and workshop accessories as well, but on this page, we’re only concerned about the Craftsman compressors.
Over the many years the Craftsman /Sears compressor brand has been available, the actual air compressors have been made for Sears by a range of manufacturers. Therefore, a model number available in 2014 may not have been made by the same company with that same model number available in earlier years. Or, there are so many model numbers, it’s hard to find specific information about that one.
To make it a bit easier to try to find solutions to your Craftsman compressors problem, we’ll add pages with information relating to specific Craftsman models and link them below.
- Craftsman air compressor will not start
- Craftsman unloader valve is not working
- 33 gallon Craftsman compressor keeps tripping the breaker
As well as the specific pages listed which address issues relating to Craftsman and Sears compressor, you can ask your own by using the form below. If you do post a question, please include at least one photo of your compressor. More if you want to focus on the problem area.
Please only post questions and comments about Craftsman / Sears air compressors on this page if you would be so kind. General questions can be posted elsewhere on this site.
I have a Craftsman 919.152830 compressor that has a broken pressure switch (I know it is broken because I was clumsy and broke it myself). I also have a new check valve on order (this was the real problem before I broke the switch). Sears did tell me that my compressor is a 1990 model.
What compressor pressure switch do I need or what will work?
Thanks!
I have a craftsman 30 gallon air compressor electric motor that has a bad bearing. Is there a replacement bearing ,or is there a replacement motor?
I have a Craftsman 33 Gal 6hp model 167340. pressure drops to 80lbs and stays there! check valve is new, took line off of the check valve to pressure switch, no leak. sprayed all connections, no leak. no pin holes on tank. pressure switch diaphragm is in great shape, but can it still leak there?
What is proper way to install a new plastic motor cooling fan on the motor shaft? I am working on a craftsman oil free air compressor? Do I heat the fan in boiling water to expand the hole in the fan or what. I don’t want to break the fan. thanks for help
i have a craftsman 919.175260 compressor that will pump up to around 40 lbs and then starts struggling to go further..i have replaced the pressure switch and check valve. any help would be great
I have a craftsman professional 25 gal 175 psi model:919.167783. After fumbling with the intake and discharge lines and having to replace the aluminum line with a high pressure/heat freight truck plastic line, I found the pressure switch to be leaking at the port where it connects to the copper check valve. Ultimately, I changed out the pressure switch and check valve for brand new parts, but still cannot get the tank to build pressure… Read more »
Craftsman compressor 921.153101, starts and stops then starts and stops,etc., etc. Will not stay running long enough to even put any air in tank. Appreciate any assistance. BTW, in checking the pressure switch, the “contacts” still touch even when the motor stops, so guessing probably not a switch problem. thanks
I have craftsman #919.165230 and after a days work my compressor loses air in tank and I cannot seem to find out where the air is leaking from
I have a craftsman 1.5hp 2 gal compressor and it reaches 25 psi and will not increase although the pump is still running, I have stripped the pump apart all gaskets and reed valves are ok. the piston compression rings are fine. I have air pulling in at the intake and I cannot block the flow on the output, I have found the unloader vavle loose at the regulator. as this is my first regulator… Read more »
I have a 60 gallon Craftsman Professional that I bought new in 2010. I hadn’t used it much but my kids did. It locked up due to low oil level. I bought a new pump on the ‘bay and didn’t notice that the inlet was on the wrong side. All the other dimensions were the same. I kinda procrastinated and couldn’t return the pump. Just being honest! Can I turn the head around to make… Read more »
Can you tell me where I can get a piston rod for my 6hp twin valve oil less compressor?
How does the on off switch assembly go back together on a model number 919.155613 model
I posted a question regarding a stubborn check valve that I cannot remove. Does anyone have any suggestions about buying a new check valve of the same specs that I could add on between the existing check valve and the cylinder head? I have the tools for pipe bending, flaring, etc., so it would not be a problem to do that.
I have a 919-16523 5.5 hp 26 gallon compressor that comes on then shuts off b4 it builds up any pressure. Would it be the run capasator causing this problem?
I have an older Craftsman compressor model #15658 with a stuck check valve. I have tried WD40, tried heating it, and even used a 2ft cheater pipe on an 18″ breakover and it will not bulge. Any ideas how to get it out. The valve will not close allowing the tank to bleed out through it. The unloader valve is good, every thing works good for its age.
I have an 07 Sears 929.167244 compressor with a dead motor, all switches good, 120v gets to motor, brushes look near new, 30ampfuse good on motor. Cannot get anywhere looking up the devilbiss D30106 motor # or ECM motor #E02645-10. Is my compressor trash for no motor replacement available?
Hi, I have a 919.165610 and when I power it on the centrifugal switch is clicking constantly, it still builds pressure albeit slowly. Any help you could offer would be much appreciated
I have Craftsman compressor 25 gal. Model 919.727321 serial #2116048444. For last couple of year compressor usually tripping breakers at cut in pressure. I open it an discover that plastic cover/box for capacitor is broken in few places including holding bolts opening that make it very loose and vibraitin. I suspect that this may be reason for problems. On the box is yellow sticker with numbers KCR49TN2312CX. I can’t find this part anyware. Mayby somebody… Read more »
HI, Appreciate your site and any help. I thought my only problem was a leaky regulator. I have a Craftsman single stage 919.167770. They don’t make the exact regulator anymore and the replacement is very similar looking but the airflow is just the opposite of the original so I had to take the plug out of one side and place in the other in order to install the gauge so I could read it properly.… Read more »
Got a quick question- I bought a replacement pressure regulator for my craftsman model 919.167244 air compressor. Can I just replace the valve/knob assembly- looks like it just screws in or should I change the pipe and all the gauges/relief valve too- seems easier if I can just change the valve
I have a craftsman 26 gallon air compressor just changed the valve pressure switch it turns on to 125 then it just off and when the air drops it doesn’t kick in again I have to unplug the Compressor for a few minutes I plug it back and it works for a few seconds and it dies again
Hi I have a 7 year old Craftsman 26 gallon 1.6 HP 160 PSI Air Compressor, The compressor works fine but loses about 40 PSI of pressure a day. I tried using the soap test but cannot find a leak anywhere. I thought it is was the drain plug but that is fine. We noticed the problem when the pump which is set to auto started turning on several times per day. Where could this unit be losing pressure.
I’m at a lose, I have a craftsman 25 gallon 1.8 hp. Originally the unit was kicking the breaker at around 120 psi. Tore down the pump and discovered a gasket missing and debree in piston and intake. Cleaned everything from new oil, all new gaskets and new reed valves. Test ran the compressor and same thing happen at 100psi. Again tore into the head and found this gasket broke in same area. This time… Read more »
I have a craftsman air compressor twin piston. Recently it would start running rough around 80psi to the point of dimming the lights and tripping the breaker after it continuesly ran. The top of the head would be very hot to the touch. I took the compressor apart and discovered the gasket around one of the reed valves to be missing. I replaced 4 reed valves,all gaskets and new oil. Once all new parts were… Read more »
I have a craftsman twin cyl Mod. 919166330which will not build any pressure. I replaced the check valve and the valve plates. Where else do I look?
I have a Craftsman Model 919.165110 compressor. Put in a new capacitor ( thought that was the problem)..runs for 3 seconds then trips the breaker…any idea’s??
I have a Craftsman portable air compressor, Model #921153101. It will build up pressure rather quickly until it reaches about 90-100 psi, at which point, it trickles (1-2 psi per minute) up to over 100 psi. It never reaches the 125 psi cut-out, and the compressor smells like it is getting too hot so I end up manually shutting it off in fear of it over-heating. Any ideas on what this could be, or, is… Read more »
I have a Craftsman air compressor model # 919.167812 that I am having problems with the pressure switch. I have installed 2 and every time the cut switch/ unloader when the compressor reaches the cutoff pressure the motor shuts down and the unloader starts spewing until it reaches the cut on pressure the motor comes on and it stops spewing. If you turn the switch to the off position and the unloader starts spewing until… Read more »
In my 60 gallon, 3.1HP twin cylinder oil lubricated 150 psi compressor, the motor has failed. It was working just fine and now won’t start. Taking off the panel on the motor itself, I can measure 240VAC inside the motor which turns off when I switch off the on/off switch on the pressure switch. The only circuit that is inside the motor that could be keeping it off is the thermal shutdown cutoff. That button… Read more »
Hi – I have a three year old craftsman 33 gallon vertical compressor model 921.165720. rated to 165 psi. Problem started last year and Sears will not service the unit for some reason – at least my local one wouldn’t. From what i could find last year and still holding true this year, the unit runs to about 80 psi and shuts off. They only way to get it back on and continue is to… Read more »
Hi, I have an older 6 gal. Sears model: 919.165281 oil-less pancake, it has no un-loader valve on the (mechanically controlled / electrical contact) pressure switch (AC-0747) 110 on – 135 off. From what I have read in the forums here, it is not necessary, since it is small. However, it seems apparent to me that I should be able to replace the mechanically controlled contact pressure switch with an electrical one (e.g. VA811502PF or… Read more »
I have a craftsman 26 gal oil free direct drive air compressor model #921.64710. it builds pressure up to about 80ish (pretty consistent) and then cuts out. if I let it sit for awhile and turn it back on it will continue to build air and finally reach it max PSI of 150 but does not cut back on after pressure drops from use. I attempted to test the capacitors and if I did so… Read more »
I have a craftsman compressor, 20 gal, 220 volt with 2 piston pump.the loader valve on the regulator was always leaking causing the compressor to kick on and off. I replaced the regulator and the new one leaked. Found the tank check valve was faulty , I repaired that and now when the compressor is running it sounds like it’s missing a beat every so often. can you tell why? Thanks AL.
I have a craftsman 80 gal. Compressor runs but will not go past 50lbs sounds like I’m hearing air coming from some where but not sure what to check. Thanks in advance for your help
I have a Sears compressor model 106.153780 it’s a pretty old compressor. The issue is, when the compressor reaches 70psi the compressor pump seems burdened then the motor bogs down. I quickly shut off the breaker to avoid and damage.
So far I’ve checked:
Pump oil – full
Check valve – Ok (air goes to from pump to tank and not vice versa)
Flappers – seem ok and operating
Any other ideas?
Hi, I have a Craftsman Model # 919165220 20 gallon single stage. It seems to run and fill up fine but occasionally will give a loud high pitched squeal while running. I’ve noticed it’s more likely to do it after the tank has been completely emptied and the pressure passes 30psi as it refills. I’ve tried to pinpoint it with a mechanics stethoscope with no luck. I’ve ruled out any loose fasteners or fittings. The… Read more »
I have a Craftsman 3 gallon 1 hp air compressor bought in 2007. Just used it this morning and went to turn it on again and only heard a clicking sound from the switch box, I believe it is called the pressure switch. I release the pressure after every use. Can I repair this myself or bring it to Sears for repair? If it is worth it.
I have a craftsman 919-164180 that starts but stops immediately i took it apart and put it back together and it turned on twice then started acting up again. I had the stop/start capacitors checked and they tested good although one was kinda warm. Any thoughts?
I have a crafstman model 919137670 compressor. The compressor is not automatically restarting. The intial start will fill the tank to 120 PSI. Regardless of the device that I use once the PSI drops below the recommended PSI for that device the compressor will take about 5-10 minutes before it restarts. I have already replaced the air compressor check valve model # A19718 due to the motor not restarting once the PSI drops below the set PSI level.
Hi, I have a Craftsman Twin Tank air compressor. When I turn it out, the pressure can only build up to 40 psi, it doesn’t go any further. Can you please guide me how to fix it? Thanks.
Can anyone help me with my 6 hp 30 gal 120v Craftsman oil-less single cylinder compressor?
Every time I use it, the surge protector I had it hooked up too would always trip every time the compressor would reach cut out pressure. When I plug the compressor directly to the wall socket without the surge protector, the circuit breaker would trip once compressor hits cut out pressure also. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
I have a craftsman compressor model919.167240 it continualy goes on and off . the switch seems to fine. while looking at it while pressure is building, the switch does not dissengage but the motor will stop. then it will start again. different amounts of time but it constantly does this. Anyone have any ideas?
I have a Craftsman twin cylinder compressor model 106.152581 that lately has been spitting oil out of what I believe to be a breather hole in the bearing cap. This cap is on the same side of the compressor that has the pulley. From my own online research it looks like it could be the cylinder rings. These rings are no longer available on the Sears Parts Direct website. My question is could the problem… Read more »
I have a good one for you… I have an old Craftsman 2 cylinder compressor. At least 40 years old. It originally had a 1hp motor (according to the sticker). It used to have intermittent issues with restarting (centrifugal switch wouldn’t unload) and it would pop the breaker occasionally. Recently it got worse. I have: 1. Rewired with new 12 gauge cord. 2. Replaced the pressure switch (including unloader valve). 3. Replaced the belt. 4.… Read more »
Very informative, interesting, and practical for diagnosing and repairing air compressors. I have a free 15 gal 3 hp Craftsman compressor that is not working and would really like to get going and use for years to come. We live in a throw away society these days and will only get more pronounced with time. I love to be able to service and repair used/older equipment and know that some sweat equity , patience, and… Read more »
i have a craftsman 919.167241 it builds up to about 40-45 lbs of pressure and keeps running but wont build any more pressure . i have to shut it off manually but it holds pressure with out leaking down. where should i start looking for the problem?
First of all – Fantastic WEB site! I’m in the middle of my first compressor repair on my Craftsman 20 gallon. Pretty sure, based on all the articles, my check valve is leaking, since my unloader valve is leaking air now after shutdown. Its been a very slow leak for months, as my compressor (normally left on overnight) would suddenly start up for no reason and fill the tank back up. My check valve is… Read more »
Hello, I have a craftsman 30 gal. air compressor item number 919.167310. It never reaches the cut out pressure and shuts off. It reaches 80 p.s.i. and, though it is still running, the pressure will not rise above 80 p.s.i. I have no leaks, the tube to the check valve get significantly hot (maybe that’s normal given where the other end connects on the motor/piston). Can you give me any ideas what may be wrong?… Read more »
I have an old 919152940 that wont build pressure in the tank. The regulator dial will build to just shy of 20 psi but the tank pressure never moves. Any suggestions?
My Sears Craftsman compressor is about 4 and a half years old, model 921.153101. After operating it for a short time, I lose pressure to the hose. The gauges show compression but if I remove the hose there is no quick release of air. If I push the hose back into the quick connect, pressure returns to the hose but only briefly. Any ideas as to what the problem is???
I ran my Craftsman 4 gallon air compressor 1 HP, without oil for about 15 minutes. Now when I turn it on it just hums for about 4 seconds and then shuts down. Did I cook the cylinder and should I junk the machine? It was almost new. Mike N
I have an old Sears air compressor, 1hp 12 gallon tank model 919.176311. I got from my uncle after he passed, and it worked fine for the past few years, but the other day I went to use it and the motor was just clicking, after a while I tried it again and it will start up like it supposed to but in about 20 seconds it trips the circuit breaker. Its a 20 amp… Read more »
I am trying to rewire an older craftsman 220v compressor 106.174841. The motor has only two lines and I don’t see a ground screw on the pressure switch. How do I connect the 3 wires from the plug to a motor with two wires via a switch with 4 terminals?
Thank you for your help
Hello, I have Craftsman compressor model #919.167783. For a while it was struggling to reach the 150psi cut-off. I opened it up and found that the pair of cyl sleeves were badly worn and my rings had taken a set. I ordered repair kits K-0648 & K-0650 to replace these parts. After installation I found that my compressor would build pressure up to ~30PSI and then sit there, not increase. With compressor off there was… Read more »
compressor fan kit KK-5018 shot out of the compressor in pieces in December of 2014, we replaced it in January 2015 and one week ago it did the same thing. Can you please advise as to why this would be occurring?
So the pressure switch on my Sears compressor 919.195411 is shot. Often won’t shut off and the pressure release valve has to come on. So of course Sears doesn’t make the part anymore and they have no alternate. My options are to buy one they sell for the latest model, but it doesn’t have an unloader valve on it. Is it possible to just add another unloader valve to the side of the tank check… Read more »
919.195410 >> This compressor gets to 140 psi and cuts off and I can run the regulator to 90 psi for my IR impact gun and the gun gets air BUT it will not back a lug off my 1/2 ton truck. This Gun has 600ft lbs and is more than enough to rip a lug off this truck. I actually bought a second gun identical to mine and tried it and the same thing… Read more »