I have a run on the mill 1/5 hp compressor that allows me to change the psi. I’m running a Badger Patriot 105 with it as well.
When I attempt to change the psi level above 20 I see the needle falling back to 20 no matter how high I try to set the level.
While I can make 20 psi work, I’d like to have the option of adusting above 20 if I need to. I’ve already tried to check the hose for leaks to no avail.
Sounds like your compressor might not be capable of producing enough air volume (CFM) to keep up with the demand of the airbrush. Might need to get a more powerful compressor, with a tank on it.
Check behind the intake cover. Mine seemed to breathe hard as well, I have fuzzy pets so I took off the intake cover. Found a cardboard disk covering most of the inlet. I removed it put it back together and can run upwards of 25psi.
Also while cranking up your pressure, hold the trigger down and turn to desired psi, that should stablize the drop while using.
What’s the make and model of your compressor, and what are its pressure specs, whether in a manual, or on a data plate fixed to the compressor someplace? I take it that “1/5” is a typo and you mean it’s 1.5 hp?
Did it use to produce 20 psi in the past?
I have a Craftsman 1 hp compressor with a 3-gallon tank, rated to up to 125 psi. I routinely brush at 20 psi, so unless yours is specifically rated for a lower maximum, I think the others are spot-on with suggestions of maintenance and quick repair.
Have you checked for air leaks? If the unit runs while brushing, you may not hear the leak. Depending on the age of the unit it could be ready for shelf ware after all Christmas is nearing.[blns]
Thanks for the thought- you’ll have to forgive me- the intake cover is the cover on the casing that covers the fan? I’m handy enough to take some things apart, but don’t know all of the terminology.
It’s a CE brand compressor. I’m reading off the label on the side of the machine that it’s rated for 1/5 HP, 110-120 V, 60 Hz, 1750 RPM, 25 L/Min
The last part of those specs is where I think you’re going to run into problems. 25L/Min is about .883 CFM, and the H-1s demand isn’t all that far below that (.5 CFM at 20 PSI). Trying to get the pressure higher is just going to increase the air volume demand. I had a compressor similar to what you have for a little while and it always gave me fits with trying to get it to spray properly with my Paasche H. The compressor I have been using for years since giving up on that one runs about 2.75 CFM, and all of my airbrushing issues are a thing of the past. I still think a more powerful compressor with greater air volume capability and a storage tank are going to be the ticket.
This is what I’m using, just to give you an idea about the specs and features you should be looking for.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006ACB6D2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Or go with a CO2 tank [H]. Silent, dry and constant pressure.
I have a cheapo backup compressor in case I run out of CO2 - which happens once every 1.5-2 years.
No worries on termanology, yes the housing that covers your fan. Sorry for the delay. Hope it helps.