McGraw 20 Gallon Air Compressor
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- čas přidán 8. 11. 2019
- Unbox, Assembly & Review of Harbor Freight's McGraw 20 Gallon Air Compressor. After 1 week of use, I think I may have found a way to help others with a problem that they may be experiencing with it.
- Auta a dopravní prostředky
You are a natural at genuinely reviewing a product based on your experience. Most others just show either the good or the bad, you showed both sides. Great video, thank you.
Just try to let people know the truth about stuff. Why not, I’m not getting paid or anything:-)
I was a service technician for many years and would occasionally have to work on the oiled compressors. Most of the problems I encountered was motors overheating and shutting down. The problems in about 75% of the calls was the customer was using an extension cord that was too long and the voltage would drop drastically. For a 12ga. 3 wire 120V extension cord, anything longer than 25ft would be a problem. A 15 amp receptacle is adequate for the job. What to do? Use a good quality longer high pressure air hose. No extension cord is ideal. This information pertains to most power tools like table saws, radial arms saw, wood lathes , etc. "Everyday Journey" thanks for your review. It's been helpful for me to decide which compressor to buy and it's this one/Thanks Again.
Thanks for watching. Btw been using this compressor for years now with no problems.
Good tip on the extension cord gauge thing. Also a good tip on being careful with that lower pressure release valve.
No problem. Thanks for watching
Super helpful review, writing this at the half way point. I have a Husky oiled 8 gallon unit that would do that low rev run and quit by tripping my 15a wall outlet in the garage. Since this McGraw does the same, no dice. I appreciate you saving me the headache. Oh, the Husky completely sh-- the bed too, parts of the motor ate itself, fund times, super low usage over 7 years, and I mean low usage, like twice a year topping off a car tire kind of usage.
Running it without the full amperage that it needs can lead to problems. Sometimes you just have to do what you have to do. Thanks for sharing
I have a friend who bought that compressor and had a similar issue on colder days, one thing that he did that really helped was using full synthetic compressor oil it won't fix the problem but will definitely help. FYI when he drained the stock compressor oil he found a lot of metal shavings and as you probably know if left in overtime that will damage the cylinder walls of the compressor, so I had a highly recommend switching to the better oil in flushing the system.
Better oil is definitely a good thing. I don’t really know what kind that they provide but an oil change after the break in period is not a bad idea. The break in helps to wear in all the parts for better seals. All the wear will cause particles to collect in the oil. A change could help a lot
Thanks for the video, seems like this would be a good choice for home weekend car/truck projects.
It seems to be a great deal so far
i had bought the same unit, and did all the same things as you... When mine first locked up like that, i brought it back and they gave me a new one. The new one is about to be unboxed.. The only difference between our stories is that i was not using an extension cord at any point... it was straight into an outlet. Thank you
Sounds like you got a dud on that first one
@@EverydayJourney I think I have more of a power problem, and that's something I wouldn't have thought of cuz I am plugging straight into the wall. My unit was having exactly the same problem, it worked great for the break-in and that day, and then a couple weeks later I tried to start it cold (like 30 degrees) and with 90PSI in the tank and that's when it did the same thing yours was doing.. I expect my new one will do it as well under the same conditions, I'm using in the garage and not usually for long periods of time, ill have to work with it for now. However, thanks to you I now understand what is causing it. Great job on a thorough review too. Thanks Again
Man ! That was one comprehensive review. I like how you speed through the non critical parts while showing the assembly process. Good point about using ext. cords of sufficient gauge. The problem I have is all my breakers are 15 amp. :-(
If you know an electrician or feel comfortable researching it and upgrading the circuit, you could have a 20amp circuit pretty easily. Just make sure it’s done right because electrical fires can do a lot of damage
@@EverydayJourney ~ They sure can and Thanks !
Been considering buying an 8 gallon McGraw compressor . Thanks for the video
I'd love to give some advice on it. If only I had unlimited funds, I could test everything and inform the world. You know I'd tell it like it is. Thanks for watching. If you get one, come back here and comment about how you liked or not liked it.
go into the pressure switch that turns the motor on and off, adjust the spring pressure of the switch so it turns on at lower pressure insted of choke no start at 90psi.
never knew u can do that 👌🏿
Yes you can do that but some tools require at least 90psi. If you turn it down, you won’t be able to use those tools
I just put mine together and broke it in as per the instructions. . So far so good. I plugged it directly in to an electrical outlet and it has worked as it should.
I wish I could say the same about the sonic cleaner I bought at Harbor Freight. It does not heat up. Back to the store it goes.
Should a sonic cleaner heat up? I’ve never used one. I thought it was just the sonic waves that were the cleaning action
@@EverydayJourney: Most sonic cleaners will use heat, along with the sonic waves, to clean.
Thank you for the information. I had a issue with a different composer and I had that same issue.
I’m glad I could help. Thanks for watching
Page 4 of the instructions address what you learned by trial-and-error. For this compressor (14 amp), directions state do not use 100 ft. extension cord or longer, and 50 ft. cord requires 12 gauge wire, while 25 ft. cord requires 14 gauge wire.
Yes, just trying to show it to those who may not have read the instructions. Maybe they won’t have to return an item that works perfectly fine
Anytime I see a person using a drop cord smaller than 12ga for things like compressors, table saws, I also notice the equipment is fairly new looking. That's because they keep burning up the motor and have to buy new ones. And for those that asked the difference between oil-filled and oil-less, the oil-filled usually run years longer than oil-less.
You need to use large diameter extension cord, 10-12 ga, and very close to the panel 15A outlet. Or 20A outlet at larger distances.
Great video. Thanks for sharing! A lot of the manufactures seem pretty adamant about not using an extension cord (resistance?) and if you need to work far from the outlet, just get a long air hose to make up the distance. I can't remember what I read exactly or what manufacturer's manual, but it's my understanding that even a 50+ft air hose is just fine.
I had another airline at work but just had the one at home. I just wanted to let everyone know what kind of symptoms they would have if they tried the extension cord too. Might keep them from returning a perfectly good air compressor when, like me, they were doing things wrong
So many people use those 16 gauge three wire cords that are not heavy enough for most power tools
Yep. Have a feeling mine will run fine on a shorter 12/2
I'm buying one of these today for my stepdad. Good to know on the cord. I'll be sure to tell him. Thanks
Ya might have him watch the video, too. • Just sayin'.
The owners manual says not to use extension cords but to plug in the compressor directly into an outlet.
very informing video. thanks. Can you tell me what type of coupler is on the compressor? (universal, industrial or automotive.
Quick disconnect? I don’t really know the difference. I do know that my tools from work connect right up to it.
would you recommend this unit for medium impact wrench use for mild automotive work? is it strong enough for an impact wrench? the model I specifically am looking into buying in combination of the McGraw air compressor 20g is the earthquake xtreme torque stubby impact wrench (model # EQ12SXT). I feel like it wouldn't be enough but could be wrong so just asking. secondly do you think it could also be used/capable/enough to paint vehicles? hopefully you or someone can help. thanks!!!! @Everyday Journey
I do not do these things so I cannot know for sure but I think it would handle both
Voltage drop is why.
3% voltage drop per 100’ of wire is the rule of thumb.
You need to be plugged into an outlet close to the panel and you need a 10-12 gauge cord if you need 100’.
A 16-18 gauge 100’ cord doesn’t have a snowballs chance in my pants of success.
14 gauge for 25’ extension
12 gauge for 50’
10 gauge for 100’
A 20a is better but a 15a in its own should work.
Thanks for the review, good video.
Just trying to explain to some that returning it to the store isn’t the answer. This should help them realize that the means of powering it can make all the difference
I don't own this specific compressor but I do have compressor experience. Often times a compressor will not start when pressurized because there is a check valve that seals the air in the receiver tank from the compressor allowing the pressure in the compressor to bleed to atmosphere allowing the compressor to restart against "0" pressure on motor restart. It's possible that the check valve is not seating when the compressor reaches the 130 lbs. and it allows pressure to stay in the compressor preventing the motor from starting. Electric motor work the hardest at initial start-up. I checked the parts manual and there is an item number 69 described as a check valve
It was definitely the extension cord. Without it, the compressor would work perfectly. Just can’t draw the required amps through it
Mine did the same thing, I brought it back. The new one is sitting in the box behind my truck. I was using a 100' cord on a 15 amp outlet. I feel like an a s s now.
I’m glad I didn’t take mine back. Have used it lots of times now and it works like a charm.
Never use an extension cord smaller than 12 gauge wire ( 25 feet ) or 10 gauge for 50 feet on compressor motors. The small orange 16 gauge cords have too much voltage drop and will eventually burn out the motor. 10 gauge is much larger wire than 16 gauge. The bigger the number, the smaller the wire.
The smaller the wire in an extension cord the greater the resistance. Voltage equals Current times resistance.
V = C x R
The voltage drop created along the extension cord subtracts from the voltage getting to the motor. That is why the motor could not start up under a load.
You figured the problem out by trial and error, but I wanted to explain the reason why so you will know what was actually happening.
For the price, the compressor is a good bargain and works fine for non-professional type service like home shops, etc. It cannot provide continuous 100 percent duty cycle service for large air sanders that require constant high air volume.
Super high volume air compressors run on 240 volts and have two large cylinders to deliver the high volume required for air powered sanders.
Exactly! Especially the part about burn up the motor. I'll add that with lower voltage the motor will use more current which is what causes the motor to run hot. Getting cheap on an extension cord assuming you absolutely have to use one will cost lots more in pump replacements.
Hey man great video. I’m looking at one but I never had an oiled one only oil free. Do the oiled ones have a benefit?
Keep it oiled with clean oil, should last a long time
I had the exact same problem with my air compressor where it will not turn on because it did not have enough power because of the extension cord and I did the exact same thing you did and just connected to an outlet in the garage and it worked fine
I really didn't think about it until I had the problem. After figuring it out, I thought I'd share it with others so they might learn from the things that I've done wrong
Thanks bud 👍 just got one!
Mine is still working as it should. Just had to use it for another video that I’ll be posting soon. Thanks for watching
Great information. Thanks...
Any time
Example why Harbor freight is one of the few places that I generally by the extended warranties on the higher dollar stuff. Any problems, they take it back and give you a new one. They never question it, argue with you etc... they just give you a new one. Much better and more dependable than buying an extended warranty from that huge store who's name starts with a W. Harbor Freight is second to none on extended warranty.
Luckily I’ve only had to return a few things to them. It’s always an easy transaction
If you found metal shavings in the oil, you should also inspect the check valve. Debris in the valve will allow pressure to resist start up. Does the control valve keep hissing more than a few seconds when it stops pumping air? A bad or weak start solenoid could also make problems.
My only problem was the use of the extension cord. After this project, I plugged it in directly and have never had a problem since
@EverydayJourney yeah, that'd do it with a long, thin wire adding a lot of resistance. I don't know why anyone even sells 16 guage extention cords. They're not good for much.
So it's been over 2 years now, so I am wondering how the compressor is holding up. I'm going to buy a compressor soon and I have been considering this one a lot. I have to wonder if having a heavy duty extension cord would solve the problem. I have one that is a Yellow Jacket brand and it's pretty thick and I think it's a bit more than a 15 amp cord. Hope you see this before I make the purchase, but it's not going to be for about another week at least I think.
Still working fine. A thicker gage cord would help but, as others have mentioned, a longer air hose is really the answer
I have a couple questions. Would you say the difficulty of getting the motor going while under pressure was due to the cold oil, the extension cord or both? I plan on using a compressor indoors plugged directly into an outlet on a 20amp circuit. Also, does anyone know the gauge of wire that is typically used in home wiring on a 20amp circuit? I ask because of the extension cord comment I saw below.
Not sure of household gauge. My problem was all because of the extension cord. Plugged directly into wall outlet works like it should
It is 14ga for 20amp and 12ga for 25amp according to NEC code. www.usawire-cable.com/pdfs/nec%20ampacities.pdf
I buy tools from Harbor Freight as a diyer and not as a professional. I saw that the roofers, who replaced my roof used a small round air compressor. I agree with them and use whatever works or me and my situation. I have a cousin who uses Snap-on products. It is no the tool that is soo important, but the knowledge and skill behind it. Thank you for showing us, informing us on the product. All you "critics", want to be experts", please dry up and take you smugness elsewhere. This man, I am sure knows the proper use and uses for this product. Where are your videos?
Thanks. No need to get everyone going. Even the haters have their valid points. I just try to show what I know and hope that it helps others on their journey through life
You could also install a "Hard Start Capacitor". ;)
If you know anything about electricity, that was a dump; statement. Even in the manual states what type of extension cord to use. BTWQ where would you install the hard start capacitor?
@@williamgates4399 Get off the sauce old man.
Good video
Thanks
Thanks man!
Always glad to help
If you want to do any roofing work with a compressor you’d be better off to buy one of those twin hot dog compressors with a small gasoline motor,,,they’re very good for that type of job however they are a pain because you have to have someone constantly fill the tank it runs out of gas quite often as the tank is very small.
did you drain and refill the oil after break-in?
No but it would probably be a good idea
Liked your' video. I am heading out to buy a McGraw now.
Central Pneumatic compressor quit on me yesterday. I'm tired of fixing that thing.
The problem with air compressors if you want a good one you will have to PAY big bucks.
I know this is an old video but If you use this for roofing there is a few variables to the function of the compressor.
I will keep this as short as I can. Air compressors are not really meant to be run with an extension cord. The manufacturers claim portable because they installed wheels on it. What this really means is you can move it around the garage. LOL
#1 you can lower the "on" pressure. Inside the switch box there is an adjustment screw. BUT, that will also lower your' high pressure.
#2 A heavy duty extension cord. The variable here is you have to take into consideration the house you are working on may not have a heavy ampere outlet convenient for you.
I'm wondering how you feel about this unit now you have had it for a while. Just curious!
I like what I see here.
I have used it to air up tires, run an angle die grinder, air blow for dust and debris, and of course for roofing. It has not failed me yet. I just drain the tank to around 30psi before trying to let it fill again. As long as I do that, it will start filling and then fill completely. I do notice the cord get warm but not enough to melt anything. If I were leaving it on and unattended, I would NEVER use an extension cord. I like it though
When I try to use I a blow gun I barely get any air pressure. Any idea what that is?
It may be the design of your blow gun. There are some that use a Venturi effect to increase the air that blows out the end. Others only blow the air from the tank and it doesn’t do as well
@@EverydayJourney ah.... Okay thanks
@@EverydayJourney is 1/4 inch line to small you think
I just bought one what gauge extension cord should I use is the max ?
If I remember right, it states that no extension cord should be used
A longer air hose is the better option
Thinking about buying this too. How is it still running today 11/22/23?
Honestly, as long as I plug it into the proper amp circuit and don’t use an extension cord, it has worked every time. Only problem I have had is that I caught the drain valve and broke it off. Cheap replacement valve fixed it
@@EverydayJourney: Have you considered using a larger diameter set of wheels?
I could but that would make it lean forward when standing upright. To fix that, I would need to put spacers or something on the front
Based on the info given it seems like a bad check valve, seriously a good check should resolve your problem, we have the same compressor, it works anywhere and long extension cable or small gauge doesn’t matter still works, 100 foot cable still works, a good check valve won’t allow the resistance to be present during start up. God bless
It says in the manual to NOT use an extension cord.
I saw that. But where I needed it, it was either run it in my living room or run an extension cord out the window. Just thought I’d share the problem for others to recognize
Just a thought here,,,instead of trying to run that thing on an extension cord (which you’re really never supposed to do⚡️⚡️🔥🔥🔥🔥⚡️⚡️🔥🔥)maybe you can get a longer air hose,,,,,,harbor freight sells them cheap.
Only 20 amp outlet I had was inside my house. Couldn’t run it from in there. I just made due. I’ll never have to use it on that side of the house again anyway
You are 100% right. Plug Compressor directly into outlet and pull a long hose where you need it .
I looked in the store can't tell if but does this thing run on a cheesy $15 belt anywhere,no way I'm ever buying a belt compressor again... Extension cord I quit that 30 years ago... Also curious if anyone found its parts source.. I have no faith in compressor durability... I kinda like that $400 Fortress but $239 might seal the steal.... HF compressors don't look cheapo definitely buying there.
Voltage drops with long extension cords specially with small gauge wires.
how tall is it?
Sorry this took so long. Been very busy lately. Assembled height is 39.25 inches.
I have the same compressor and wouldn't buy it again. It also has the problem with not starting when it's cold and the tank is pressurized, even without an extension cord.
I don't think the size of the circuit breaker matters - a breaker doesn't restrict the current until demand exceeds it's rating, at which point it trips. Instead, it could be that the wiring between the breaker and the outlet isn't sufficient gauge, just like using too small of an extension cord.
Regardless of how the problem can be circumvented, it is a design flaw.
Maybe try an oil change. Maybe new oil will not be as viscous. Just something to try
These small motor compressors were never meant for any type of a roofing job,,,yes you can use them,,,and you could also use a child’s hammer to drive a 16 Penny nail into a thick piece of wood,,, however.
Don’t do roofing for a living. Just needed it to finish the job. Then I can use it for its intended purpose
Good video....Off to Harbor Freight. You had tremendous voltage drop on a 100' extension cord aggravated
by a lighter gauge. 100' cords are for hedge trimmers. This compressor is not a portable and meant to
be plugged directly into a garage receptacle. 15 amp circuit would be fine. When all else fails, read the
manual. Thanks!!
I shouldn’t need to use it with the extension cord again now that my roof is finished. I’ll stick to plugging it in directly for shop use now. Thanks for watching
@@EverydayJourney Yeah the extension cord is what did it. It is like putting a resistor in front of your compressor sucking juice. 20 amp circuit doesn't provide "more power" if the compressor isn't asking for it. If it's gonna draw more than 15 amps it will trip the breaker, so if it's not tripping the 15 amp breaker then 15 or 20 amp circuit doesn't matter.
If you had read the manual it is very clear about using extension cords......
I read it enough to start using without damaging it. I then had to use it in a manner that I normally wouldn’t. I just thought I’d share my story to help others realize what might help them. Thanks for watching
Like the fortress 27 gallon better but the McGraw isnt bad for the price
I was tempted. If I did a lot more with air tools, I probably would have bought that one instead
More Air Hose less cord.
Yup
A 100’ ext cord? HS!
Yep. Gotta do what you gotta do sometimes. Just showing people that it really does matter. And also that it isn’t broken. Some will return it thinking that it must be broken
I wish I saw this before I exchanged it😭
Was yours doing the same thing?
@@EverydayJourney yes it was, I used a 15amp outlet without cord and it blew a braker then I got another one did the same thing so I hooked it up to the 20 amp. Then didnt have a problem.. but I thought the first one was bad... I wasted my time basically 🤣
I know. It's 4 years old but this guy is definately no electrician! Problem #1 is a 100 foot extension cord. Manual tells you do not use one because nothing will work at 100 feet. #2 is him thinking plugging into a 20 amp circuit will help. Wrong. This compressor draws 14 amps only and designed for normal 15 amp circuit. The problem is voltage drop and that will damage the motor. 120 from the outlet 100 feet later in 16 gauge wire could be down to 10% less or more. #3 is the oil on a cold day. Go for lightweight synthetic pump oil to thin out on cold days.
You are right. Not an elekt-chicken . I do know all that you are stating. This video was to help others that might be in a similar situation and might be thinking that something was wrong with the compressor. A longer airline would have been the answer but I did not have one, at the time. I did what I needed to do, to get by. Now, i use no extension cord and it has worked like a charm every time I’ve needed it. Thanks for the feedback
it's crap. lasted 1 year used only to inflate tires. buy somewhere else.
Sorry to hear. Mine is still going strong
Same with mine