Compressor issues

[Stmar]

I have a small Campbell Hausfeld compressor, portable, and I made the mistake of loaning it out. When it came back it airs up but when you go to use it the pressure rapidly goes down. Let off on the trigger of the air gun for example and it builds pressure up but as soon as you pull the trigger it goes down again. The main gauge stays up but what I would call the working gauge goes down. Pic is of the gauges. Anybody have a clue as to what would be wrong? The gauge on the right is the one that goes down.

 

[William1]

It sounds like the regulator is sticking.

 

[Stmar]

Any easy way to unstick it or do I have to tear it apart? I assume the regulator is between the two gauges??

 

[Tughill Tom]

Twist that red knob counter clock wise a bit and see what it does

 

[Ramos]

Twist that red knob counter clock wise a bit and see what it does

I agree, sounds like the compressor itself is doing its' job. Stuck or broken regulator. If it needs replaced, find a way to drain the tank before removing.

 

[Stmar]

Twist that red knob counter clock wise a bit and see what it does

I have tried manipulating the red knob but will give it another try. That was my initial thought, that he had messed with the settings, but can't seem to make any difference no matter where I turn it.

 

[William1]

Some regulators you can take apart, clean re-grease the orings and put it back together, others, you cannot.
Typically, it the the piston attached to the knob that sticks, though debris in the valve can do that as well.
The tool borrower may of let too much water accumulate in side and tipped it over, letting rust from the tank enter the regulator. Or it could be simply time to service. Little compressors must be drained all the time or too much water accumulates and that too, can cause sticking.
I'd blame the problem on age.

 

[Stmar]

Thanks for the help. I think I got it, took apart the red knob and there was an adjustment nut that was not engaging with the knob. Cleaning and lubing is a good suggestion, will definitely do that before I use it too much, I usually use my big compressor unless I have to go remote.
Thanks again, so much knowledge on this forum, learn something new every day.