The last couple times I have started my air compressor, it threw the circuit breaker. The motor and the compressor rotate freely. Could you please tell me what might start causing that.
The start capacitor is bad
SOURCE: Start up problem
The problem that you describe is caused by the in-tank check valve and/ or the unloader at the pressure switch. When the compressor cycles off the pressure switch releases the air that remains in the air line thru a small valve. There is a 1/4 " plastic tube extending from the check valve to the switch. Listen for the release of air as soon as the compressor stops. There is a small metal tab that pushes on the unloader valve that may need to be adjusted. The motor does not have enough power to start pumping if there is air/backpressure in the air line. If these parts are working correctly then check the value of the start capacitor and use meter to measure. The cap should test within 95 % of stated value. Parts are available at www.chpower.com. Enjoy
SOURCE: Compressor will not start
It is a good sign that the motor turns freely with and without air. That indicates that you have good bearings and that the intank check valve is in good condition. Next you should check the capacitors and the condition of the windings. Some motors have start and run capacitors and others only have run cap. Remove from the circuit and test with meter having cap. test setting. Most shops will test them for free. The cap should test within 95% of stated ( uf ) value. Replace as needed. Finally check that the flyball switch at rear inside of motor is functioning correctly. At rest, switch is at start winding, then a split second after start, it shifts to run winding. Check contacts are not stuck and that switch is working and lastly that the winding are the color of new penny. Good luck.
SOURCE: air compressor fills, but slows down as the pressure builds
sounds like you need a new check valve which should be somewhere between the compressor outlet piping,tubing,etc and the tank which prevents the air in tank to back feed to the compressor which would cause hard starting and could damage the motor easy way to check is when you shut off the compressor with some air in the tank if the check valve is bad it would continue to bleed air out out the unloader valve .the unloader valve on your unit is most likely part of the pressure switch when the unit shuts of it should only bleed down the pressure in the pump so it would make it easy to start when needed hope i didn't confuse you
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