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Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 86 Likes: 2
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OP
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 86 Likes: 2 |
Hi,
I have a Sweetwater aq101 rocking piston compressor. Last year I installed a pressure gauge coming right out of the compressor (9” of line in between compressor and gauge). When I turned the compressor on the needle would rapidly oscillate between two values. I assumed this might be because of “how rocking pistons work”. This spring I went to turn the compressor on and the gauge was jammed. Opening up the gauge I found that the gear on the needle was completely worn out. I assume this is from several months of oscillating back and forth.
Any suggestions on how I might better set up a new gauge so that this doesn’t happen again?
Thanks in advance.
Ted
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Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 1,381 Likes: 46
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Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 1,381 Likes: 46 |
IMHO you get what you pay for. I THINK a liquid filled gauge will cure the oscillating and a higher quality gauge will last much longer.
Last edited by wbuffetjr; 04/12/20 03:14 PM.
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Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 2,278 Likes: 558
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Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 2,278 Likes: 558 |
An oil filled gauge will sure help. Another must on this type of pump is an in-line orifice of sorts. Best way to do this is fill the inside of hose barb going to gauge with solder then drill a very small hole in center. 1/32" would be sufficient for airflow, if it was liquid in the line, 1/16" would be ok. This will baffle the pressure and allow a much steadier reading.
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Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 86 Likes: 2
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OP
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 86 Likes: 2 |
This is an interesting idea Snipe. If I get a better oil gauge, do you the solder modification is a “nice to have” or a “must have”?
Last edited by ted_1209; 04/12/20 07:31 PM.
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Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 15,175 Likes: 503
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
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Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 15,175 Likes: 503 |
As mentioned, a liquid filled gauge will dampen the bouncing of the needle on the gauge. A liquid filled gauge should last on that compressor at least 8-10 years.
aka Pond Doctor & Dr. Perca Read Pond Boss Magazine - America's Journal of Pond Management
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Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 2,278 Likes: 558
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Joined: Oct 2018
Posts: 2,278 Likes: 558 |
This is an interesting idea Snipe. If I get a better oil gauge, do you the solder modification is a “nice to have” or a “must have”? We use this in several of our aircraft systems to stabilize critical readings in certain avionics that still use what we call "steam" gauges (direct, non electrically modified signal). I won't say it's a must have, but it takes the pulse down to a buffered level without changing actual pressure values.
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Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 86 Likes: 2
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OP
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 86 Likes: 2 |
Very helpful, thanks everyone. I will order a liquid filled and see what happens, and modify with solder if needed
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