AC Compressor output

[TheSilentChamber]

Anyone know what kind of pressure/cfm a typical AC compressor can put out? I'm thinking of using one for an air suspension setup... I know it can be done- as it is done quiet offen. I know they can put off alot of pressure in a closed loop like AC, but I'm more worried about how long its going to take to fill the tank.

[mazdatech177]

it depends on the compressor.... but i think it may be over-kill for an air suspension setup. i know most blow-off valves are rated between 450-500 psi on ac systems. so that gives you an idea of what kind of pressure is possible if a restriction was present in the system. the volume im sure is more than that of a stock air suspension pump

[TheSilentChamber]

I'm going to have it set to cut off at 140psi. After combing though some books I found that most typical axial style compressors can put out 2-8cfm at 150psi. One I have laying around is a fairly small one so its probably at the bottom end of that range. Reason I'm doing this is because I dont want compressor noise... and I have this compressor laying around. It will need a new "manifold" made so I can tape the lines into it, mounting bracket, oil line, but shouldnt be much trouble.

[curtis73]

This has been discussed at length at the air-ride forums. You can't use an A/C compressor without rigging up some kind of custom oiling system that puts oil in the compressor, then collects it again before the tank. A/C compressors are intensely sensitive to lubrication. It is done frequently, but I just wanted to warn you of the extensive modifications that need to happen. Many guys doing this type of compressor just fill a reservoir every other day or so with mineral oil or ester oil, then drain the tank once a week or so.

There is sufficient SCFM in most compressors to keep up with a modest system. Not ideal, but sufficient. Look to the larger displacement compressors like the Frigidaire A6 or Sanden 7-series pumps. Late model GM Harrison pumps (the big flat radial ones) I hear work pretty well too.

I'm with you on the noise thing. I'm in the beginning stages of putting together an HD air setup for an old classic luxury car, and I'd love to not have that stupid little air compressor buzzing away

[TheSilentChamber]

Yeah I allready know about the oiling.

[TheSilentChamber]

By the way, what forums are you refering to?

[curtis73]

I was referring to http://www.ridetech.com/forum/

That's Air Ride Technology's forum. Good stuff.

[TheSilentChamber]

Thanks for the link, didnt find anything overly usefull that I didnt know. Guess I just know everything ... layout on the forum is very annoying though.

[TheSilentChamber]

Guess this is going to be put on hold for a while, threw the compressor in the trash. If you've never disassembled one of these and tried to put it back together... you should... it will expand your vocabulary.

[curtis73]

hahahaha. I thought I could replace the front seal on an A6 once. I was WRONG.

[TheSilentChamber]

Its like assembling a v10 with all the pistons and connecting rods allready bolted to the crank- and you have to do it all without the block on a stand and with only one hand.

[Moppie]

LOL

So know we know who A/C guys charge so much.
Magic potions are expensive.