Compressor issues

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Painting and airbrushing
1

I got a used compressor that may have issues. When I turn it on and start to paint, it’s constantly cycling on and off, like 2 seconds on, then 2 off. Drives me a little nuts. The when I stop painting, it’s quiet. This doesnt sound normal; is there a leak or is my pressure too high or too low, or am I using the main pressure valve instead of the AM one I installed with an attached gauge?

Also, separate issue, should I get a fine line by limiting the needle or cutting way back on the air pressure?

2

Sounds to me that you got a compressor without a tank and what you see (hear) is normal operation. My HF ones does exactly that.

Fine lines are more a function of needle travel than cutting back on pressure though the latter can help depending on thinness of your paint.

3

The closer you are to the work surface, the finer the line will be. I would stay in the 15 to 25 PSI range and experiment. Much will depend on the type of paint you are using, and how much you have thinned it, and how fast it dries. Also, remember, the lower the air pressure, the less the paint will be atomized. The point is, in case you missed it, is you just are going to have to experiment :slight_smile:

Sorry, not sure I understand fully your compressor issue. Not enough to give any advice anyway.