ISM, ISMe, and QSM11 – 012-003   Air Compressor Carbon Buildup

WARNING  Wear appropriate eye and face protection when using compressed air. Flying debris and dirt can cause bodily injury.

Shut off the engine.

Open the drain cock on the wet tank to release compressed air from the system.

WARNING  Air discharge lines can be very hot. Be sure the lines are cool before handling to prevent personal injury.

Remove the air inlet and outlet connections from the air compressor.

Measure the total carbon deposit thickness inside the air discharge line as shown.

NOTE: The carbon deposit thickness must not exceed 1.6 mm [0.06 in].

WARNING  The air discharge line must be capable of withstanding extreme heat and pressure to prevent personal injury and property damage. Refer to the OEM specifications.

NOTE: If the total carbon deposit thickness exceeds specification, remove and clean, or replace the air discharge line.

Continue to check for carbon buildup in the air discharge line connections up to the first connection or wet tank.

Clean or replace any lines and fittings with carbon deposits thicker than 1.6 mm [0.06 in]. Refer to the OEM specifications for cleaning or replacement instructions.

WARNING  Use skin and eye protection when handling caustic solutions to reduce the possibility of personal injury.

WARNING  Wear appropriate eye and face protection when using compressed air. Flying debris and dirt can cause personal injury.

CAUTION  Do not use a sharp object to remove carbon. The sealing surfaces can be damaged.

CAUTION  Avoid getting debris and solvents into the clearance between the piston and bore.

CAUTION  Avoid the use of abrasive products similar to “Scotch Brite™” because any abrasive grit left after cleaning will shorten the life of the air compressor.

Remove the compressor head and valve assembly. Refer to Procedure 012-007 in Section 12.

Remove carbon from the compressor head and valve assembly components with solvent and a nonmetallic brush.

Blow out passages with compressed air.

Clean the compressor cylinder.

Rotate the crankshaft until the piston is at the top of the cylinder bore.

Remove any accumulated carbon and varnish by careful scraping and light application of solvents.

Install the compressor head and valve assembly. Refer to Procedure 012-007 in Section 12.