Speedaire air compressors offer dependable reliability under demanding conditions. This page will provide you with as much relevant information as possible, where you can seek help, download manuals and navigate existing problems and solutions available on this site.
Table of Contents
- Speedaire Information
- Speedaire Models
- Speedaire models 35WC69, 35WC70, 35WC71, 35WC72, 35WC73
- Speedaire Compressor Troubleshooting, Problems & Fixes
- Looking for Official Speedaire Air Compressor Help?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Speedaire Information
Speedaire is a brand of air compressors that is part of Grainger, a leading industrial supply company.
Speedaire offers a range of air compressors designed for various applications, including professional and industrial use. These compressors are known for their durability, performance, and reliability. Grainger also sells other brands of air compressors as well as an extensive variety of industrial-type equipment.
Grainger does not make their air compressors. Over the years Grainger has had several manufacturers making Speedaire compressors and branding them for Grainger.
Some lower-end and lower-priced units are likely made offshore. Other, more industrial-type Speedaire air compressors are reputedly North American-made.
Speedaire Models
Speedaire model 1WD21
Speedaire compressor pump is a two-stage unit used to produce pressure air up to 175 PSIG. The compressor pump features counter balanced, ductile iron crankshaft, tapered roller bearings, and cast iron cylinders for long life. Valves are of Swedish steel, reed type. The unit also features splash lubrication, a visual oil sight gauge, and a balanced fan-type flywheel.
Speedaire model 1WD21 owners manual
Speedaire models 35WC69, 35WC70, 35WC71, 35WC72, 35WC73
These Speedaire air compressor models are two-stage air compressors, oil-lubricated reciprocating compressors.
Speedaire models 35WC69, 35WC70, 35WC71, 35WC72, 35WC73 compressor manual
Speedaire-2Z499-2Z499C – Compressor heads
The Speedaire Compressor Head is an integral part of your air compressor system. It is equipped with a cast iron block and crankcase aluminum head.
Speedaire-2Z499-2Z499C- Compressor head tech sheet
Speedaire 3Z406 Compressors
The Speedaire 3z406 compressors are quite old now and are no longer supported by Speedaire / Grainger. The Speedaire 3Z406 compressor has a horizontal tank about 30 gallons in size, two wheels at the rear, and a handle to drag it along, making this a portable compressor. It came with a 1 HP 120 VAC motor.
Speedaire 3Z180 Compressors
That 3Z180 pump can be powered by either a 3 or 5 HP motor, has a 2-quart oil sump, and a 16.5″ O.D. flywheel.
Speedaire 3Z172
This model of Speedaire is a Champion, Single-Stage Air Compressor Pump. Champion compressor head (air pump) is a single-stage, heavy-duty, industrial unit equipped with a centrifugal unloader for load less starting; counter-balanced, ductile iron crankshaft; tapered roller bearings; and domed cast iron cylinders. The compressor pump also features Swedish steel disc-type valves, finned exhaust tubes, splash lubrication system, visual oil-level gauge and balanced, fan-type flywheel.
Speedaire 3Z495 and 3Z492a
This Speedaire compressor pump model is a two-cylinder, two-stage unit designed to be driven by a 3 or a 5 HP motor.
Speedaire 3Z495 and 3Z492a compressor manuals
Speedaire 3Z174 and 3Z176 compressor manuals
Also known as Dayton Speedaire compressor head (air pump). It is an integral part of an air compressor system. It is equipped with counter-balanced ductile iron crankcase, Timken tapered roller bearings, die-cast aluminum pistons, Swedish steel discs and reed-type valves.
Speedaire 3Z174 and 3Z176 compressor manuals
Speedaire Compressor Troubleshooting, Problems & Fixes
Speedaire Air Compressor Is Constantly Leaking
If you’re experiencing a hissing noise coming from your air compressor system, it’s likely that you have a leak that needs to be addressed. Here are two solutions you can try to fix the issue:
- Inspect the Speedaire tank check valve:
- The tank check valve is responsible for preventing compressed air from flowing back into the compressor tank. A faulty or damaged check valve can cause leaks.
- Start by turning off the compressor and unplugging it from the power source to ensure safety.
- Locate the tank check valve, which is typically situated near the compressor tank. It is usually connected to the tank with a pipe or fitting.
- Carefully inspect the valve for any signs of damage, such as cracks or worn-out seals. If you notice any issues, it’s likely that the check valve needs to be replaced.
- Obtain a replacement valve from the manufacturer or a reputable supplier and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it properly.
- Once the new check valve is installed, turn on the compressor and listen for any hissing noises. If the leak persists, proceed to the next solution.
- Apply soap to the system connections:
- Leaks can occur at various connection points in the compressor system, such as fittings, hoses, or pressure switches.
- Mix a solution of soapy water by combining water and a small amount of dish soap in a spray bottle.
- With the compressor turned off and unplugged, carefully spray the soapy water onto the system connections one by one.
- Observe closely for any bubbles forming, as they indicate air escaping and a leak present. Pay particular attention to areas where you suspect a leak based on the sound.
- If you find a connection that is leaking, it may need to be tightened or have its seal replaced. Use appropriate tools to tighten the fittings or consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended solution.
- Once you have addressed all the identified leaks, clean off the soapy water from the connections and ensure they are dry.
- Plug in and turn on the compressor, then listen for the hissing noise. If the sound has stopped, the leaks have been successfully fixed.
Speedaire Air Compressor Runs But Fails to Generate Air Pressure
If your air compressor is running but not generating air pressure, there are two common culprits that could be causing the issue: a faulty gasket or a malfunctioning pump. Here’s what you can do to diagnose and potentially fix the problem:
- Check the gasket:
- Start by turning off the compressor and unplugging it for safety.
- Locate the gasket, which is typically found between the compressor head and the cylinder. Inspect the gasket for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or deformation.
- If your compressor is running but fails to generate air pressure it’s highly likely that there is an issue with the gasket between the low-pressure and high-pressure compartments of the compressor. This indicates that air flowing from one side to the other is not undergoing sufficient pressurization.
- Inspect the pump:
- A malfunctioning pump can also cause a lack of air pressure. The pump is responsible for compressing the air, so any issues with its components can hinder its functionality.
- Turn off the compressor and unplug it for safety.
- Check the pump’s intake filter to make sure it is not clogged or dirty. A clogged filter can restrict airflow and prevent proper compression. Clean or replace the filter as necessary.
- Examine the pump’s piston rings and cylinder walls for damage or excessive wear. Worn-out or damaged components can result in air leakage and reduced compression. If you notice any problems, you may need to replace the piston rings or have the cylinder repaired by a professional.
- Inspect the pump’s valves, including the intake and discharge valves, for any obstructions or damage. Clean or replace the valves if needed.
- Once any necessary repairs or replacements have been made, plug in the compressor and turn it on. Monitor the air pressure buildup to determine if the problem has been resolved.
Speedaire Air Compressor Fails to Stop
If your compressor fails to stop when the tank pressure reaches the cut-out pressure, it is typically due to a faulty pressure release valve or a malfunctioning pressure switch. Here’s what you can do to address these issues:
- Faulty pressure release valve:
- Start by turning off the compressor and unplugging it for safety.
- Locate the pressure release valve, which is usually situated on or near the tank.
- Inspect the valve for any signs of damage or malfunction. If the valve is stuck in the closed position, it will prevent pressure from being released properly.
- If you find any issues with the pressure release valve, it should be replaced to ensure safe operation of the compressor.
- Obtain a new pressure release valve from the manufacturer or a reputable supplier and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it correctly.
- Once the new valve is in place, restore power to the compressor and test its operation. The compressor should stop running when the tank pressure reaches the cut-out pressure. If not, move on to the next step.
- Malfunctioning pressure switch:
- Turn off the compressor and unplug it for safety.
- Locate the pressure switch, which is typically connected to the compressor motor and the tank.
- Inspect the pressure switch for any visible damage or signs of malfunction. If the switch fails to send the proper signals to the compressor controls, it may need to be replaced.
- Obtain a new pressure switch from the manufacturer or a reputable supplier and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install it correctly.
- Once the new pressure switch is installed, restore power to the compressor and test its operation. The compressor should stop running when the tank pressure reaches the cut-out pressure.
If you have replaced both the pressure release valve and the pressure switch and the compressor still fails to stop at the designated cut-out pressure, it is recommended to contact a professional technician or the manufacturer for further assistance. They will have the expertise and specific knowledge to diagnose and resolve the issue with your Speedaire compressor effectively.
Here is a more general article on air compressor troubleshooting.
Looking for Official Speedaire Air Compressor Help?
Grainger will provide assistance with the Speedaire air compressor. If the problem occurs in a vacuum machine, the air compressor is required. You’ll want to find out which compressor you have in stock. Is there an Air Conditioning Speedier that has a Grainger serial number inside it? In general, it’s a 5-digit sequence like 8×123. This compressor is usually marked with a number and letters followed by 3 or 4 numbers. Once you’ve located the Speedaire compression Grainger Stock number, you will need Grainger support.
For official Speedaire compressor help, it is recommended to contact Grainger directly, as they are the distributor of Speedaire products. Here’s how you can get in touch with them:
- Gather information: You’ll want to find out which compressor you have in stock. Is there an Air Conditioning Speedier that has a Grainger serial number inside it? In general, it’s a 5-digit sequence like 8×123. This compressor is usually marked with a number and letters followed by 3 or 4 numbers
- For U.S.A. Speedaire air compressor clients: Visit the Grainger branch locations web page for the United States to find your local Grainger outlet. You can reach out to them for assistance with your Speedaire compressor. Here is the link to the page: Grainger U.S. branch locations
- For Canadian Speedaire air compressor clients: If you are located in Canada, contact your local Acklands/Grainger outlet for support with your air compressor. Here is a list of Canadian branch locations for Grainger compressors: Canadian Branch locations for Grainger compressors
- For Speedaire air compressor clients outside North America: If you are outside of North America, visit the Grainger website and navigate to your country to find the appropriate Grainger outlet. You can find the list of international Grainger outlets on this page: Grainger international outlets
By contacting Grainger directly, you can get official Speedaire compressor support and assistance from their technical experts who are familiar with Speedaire products. They will be able to provide you with the most accurate and specific guidance for your compressor issue.
Please note that Grainger’s will NOT help you to change a Speedaire compressor part! If you are seeking help as to how to change a part or fix your air compressor yourself, they will not help. You are pretty much on your own unless you post a question on this forum to get some help from other Speedaire owners.
Speedaire compressor help can, and will, help you find parts for Speedaire compressors, even some that are decades old, as long as you have located the compressor stock number and can provide it to their support people when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
The reciprocating compressor is indeed considered one of the most reliable types of compressors. Its long-standing history, simplicity, and ease of service contribute to its reputation for reliability. Reciprocating compressors have a sturdy construction with fewer complex moving. Their design and operating principles are well understood by compressor technicians, making them easier to service and maintain
Speedaire, a Grainger brand, offers a wide variety of high quality pneumatic tools and equipment. Its product line includes compressors, pressure switches, pneumatic cylinders and compressed air filters that are designed to perform under high pressure conditions.
A 20-gallon air compressor is usually sufficient to run any tool with an airflow requirement of 5.0 CFM at 40 PSI or less. This includes most pneumatic nail guns, hobby painters, staplers, wrenches, and bolters that are intended as light- to medium-duty tools and equipment.
Yes, Speedaire is the house brand of the company Grainger. Under their Speedaire brand, Grainger offers a variety of products including a wide range of Speedaire Air Compressors.
