Troubleshooting the Ingersoll Rand P185: Mechanical Adjustment Issues
This guide covers common issues and solutions for Ingersoll Rand portable compressors, including models P185A-SJD, P185A-WJD, XP175A-SJD, and XP175A-WJD. If you're experiencing trouble with your unit’s mechanics, this post will help you diagnose and fix it quickly—no service call required.
These troubleshooting tips also apply to
1. Air Discharge Capacity Is Too Low
Possible Causes:
- Dirty intake air cleaner
- Oversized scavenger orifice
- Excessive discharge end clearance
Solution: Start with the simple stuff—check and replace the air cleaner if it’s clogged. If performance is still poor, inspect the scavenger orifice and discharge end for wear or incorrect spec.
Shop air cleaner elements
Shop scavenger orifice kits
2. Unable to Obtain Correct Engine Speed
Possible Causes:
- Poor engine condition
- Regulation system is out of adjustment
Solution: Run a basic engine health check—filters, fuel, spark, etc. If that checks out, recalibrate your regulation settings to make sure the engine speed is aligned with load demands.
3. Compressor Will Not Unload
Cause: Regulation system is out of adjustment.
Solution: Verify and reset regulation pressure ranges according to manufacturer specs.
4. Oil Seal Leaks
Possible Causes:
- Improperly installed oil seal
- Scored or rough rotor shaft
Solution: Remove and inspect the oil seal. If it was installed incorrectly or damaged during install, replace it. A scored rotor shaft may require resurfacing or part replacement.
5. Air or Oil Lines Are Leaking
Possible Causes:
- Vibration in air or oil lines
- Improper type of lines used
Solution: Use vibration-resistant lines designed for compressor applications, and check for secure fittings and mounting brackets.
Shop air and oil line replacements
6. Compressor Is Overheating
Possible Causes:
- Dirty or clogged oil cooler
- Low oil level
- Loose fan belts
- Faulty temperature shutdown switch
- Incorrect piping
Solution: Clean your oil cooler, check your oil level, and inspect fan belts for proper tension. If those are fine, test the shutdown switch and review the piping configuration.
Shop oil coolers
Shop fan belts
Shop temperature shutdown switches
7. Safety Valve Is Popping Off
Cause: Regulation system is out of adjustment.
Solution: Reset your regulation system to proper pressure settings. Overpressure trips the safety valve.
8. Unit Shuts Down Prematurely
Possible Causes:
- Faulty temperature or pressure shutdown switch
- Defective wiring or loose connections
Solution: Test and replace shutdown switches as needed. Inspect your wiring harnesses and connectors for signs of damage or loose terminals.
Shop pressure shutdown switches
Shop wiring and connector kits
9. Operation of Blowdown Valve Is Erratic
Cause: Debris in the blowdown valve.
Solution: Disassemble the blowdown valve and clean all internal components. Replace any worn parts if needed.
10. Excessive Vibration
Possible Causes:
- Loose fan hub
- Bent or broken fan blades
- Broken compressor or engine mount
Solution: Inspect the fan for damage and tighten all hub bolts. Replace broken blades or mounts to prevent long-term damage to the unit.
Shop fan blades
Shop engine and compressor mounts
11. Worn Wheel Bearings
Cause: Inadequate wheel bearing lubrication.
Solution: Repack the bearings or replace them entirely if wear is present.