- Joined
- Sep 20, 2019
- Messages
- 1,392
Today didn't go well. My project was to install an aftercooler on my Husky Pro (Campbell Hausfeld) 7.5 HP, 2-Stage, 80 Gal vertical tank compressor. The plan was to remove the copper pipe between the head and the tank and add pipe fittings and pipe to feed the aftercooler, water separator, and tank return. The pipe is an odd size to me. The OD is 3/4", and the inner is slightly shy of 5/8. It doesn't match the copper pipe I'm used to working with. Each end had a ferrule for a compression fit. The fitting at the tank cooperated without persuasion and has a male 3/4" NPT, so it will be easy to attach a standard copper fitting.
The aluminum part that bolts to the head is the problem. The nut was seized, and even with penetrating oil and heat, the aluminum threads sheared off. The parts guy wants $100 plus tax and shipping, a deal breaker, and also because it leaves me with the same problem of having 3/4" NPTF (fine) and is fitted for the less common copper pipe size. The aftercooler is threaded 3/4" NPT.
I attached a few pictures of the part. In the picture of the head, you'll see the part I removed and the matching part next to it if that helps you visualize what I'm working with. I figure I can make the piece to attach to the head, but I am stumped on how to make the fitting for it, preferably 3/4" NPT or something I can solder/braze - IDK. I figure aluminum is fine, and I also have brass stock. Should I consider cast iron? I don't have experience cutting threads, and I wouldn't know where to start for NPT or NPTF. What do you recommend? And @Firstram, I know you did a similar mod to your compressor and hope you can help.
Thanks in advance!
The aluminum part that bolts to the head is the problem. The nut was seized, and even with penetrating oil and heat, the aluminum threads sheared off. The parts guy wants $100 plus tax and shipping, a deal breaker, and also because it leaves me with the same problem of having 3/4" NPTF (fine) and is fitted for the less common copper pipe size. The aftercooler is threaded 3/4" NPT.
I attached a few pictures of the part. In the picture of the head, you'll see the part I removed and the matching part next to it if that helps you visualize what I'm working with. I figure I can make the piece to attach to the head, but I am stumped on how to make the fitting for it, preferably 3/4" NPT or something I can solder/braze - IDK. I figure aluminum is fine, and I also have brass stock. Should I consider cast iron? I don't have experience cutting threads, and I wouldn't know where to start for NPT or NPTF. What do you recommend? And @Firstram, I know you did a similar mod to your compressor and hope you can help.
Thanks in advance!