Are Oil Free Air Compressors REALLY Oil Free?
I just helped a friend fix an oil-free Sanborn compressor that wasn't "pumping up" like it should.
When the cover was removed you see an exposed rod going up to a "piston". All exposed, no oil.
The piston sleeve had split. The sleeve is just about as thick as a tin can (if not closer to an aluminum can).
Amazingly, it was still a serviceable part. Around $20.00 for a sleeve, rod, and piston.
So... On this one the motor is connected to the rod with an eccentric and sealed bearing. Where in the world would oil come from???
The oil-free Craftsman in my garage is the same way but has 2 pistons.