Cold Starting

[Jaybolt]

I service Makita tools for a Building Supply firm. Our contractors have trouble with the MAC5200 Air compressors not wanting to start in cold weather. The compressors trip the thermal overload breaker on the motor and after resetting the breaker several times, the breaker becomes weak and will not allow the compressor to run even in warm weather. I have had to replace several breakers because of this problem. Does anyone know of a solution for this cold start problem? Has anyone tried a synthetic or light weight oil and does it help when starting in cold weather. We see this problem at 30 degree F or lower.

[CHARLIE]

There is a lighter weight oil for compressors available (10w instead of 30w). The other problem that a lot of people have with compressors is running them on cords that are way too long and not of sufficient gauge to handle that amp. draw at start up especially in cold weather.