Compressor

[darren paget]

Just to clear up a couple of things.
I originally posted the message in hopes of finding any body else
interested in replacing the OEM compressor. After reading one of the
posts on the Thomas 315 I thought it warranted further investigation.
This looked like a good alternative to the Dana. It produced enough
pressure it was very quite and the price was affordable.
As a side benefit it COULD act as a vacuum pump. The vacuum idea
looked intriguing and I thought it was interesting enough to post. My
intent, personally, was not to use it as a vacuum pump but I thought it
was worth mentioning.
From the comments received, it would appear, that it is possible to
accomplish the dual usage. Even though it would be somewhat complicated
and maybe a bit pricey. This dual use may be worth further investigation
and I may even attempt it at some point in the future.
At this point there are three of us interested in the Thomas
compressor. If one more person would like to replace theirs we will get
a discount on all of them.
We need to order all at the same time and have them shipped to one
place, at which point they can be sent independently to each of us.
Any more comments about dual usage will make good speculation and
will, if any thing else, give us an interesting idea to kick around.
Darren

 

[philip l. stewart]

> At this point there are three of us interested in the Thomas
> compressor. If one more person would like to replace theirs we will get
> a discount on all of them.

Darren,

I'm too interested in improving the air compressor component of the air
suspension system on my Transmode.

I've "rebuilt" the Dana once, using the Cinnabar OEM parts for the
flapper valve and pistons . I didn't know about the poppet valve option
at the time. I even replaced the electric motor, installed new air
filters and cross over line. However, from a deflated start, the pump
still takes 3 to 5 minutes to build up pressure to the 110 psi cut off
point I have the regualator set at. It takes longer than a minute or to
pump from 90 to 110 psi during the "normal" cycling operation. The check
valve, rotary selector valves, air lines, bags and fittings eleswhere in
the system are all tight given that leak down does not happen even when
the system is off and on "hold" for days at time.

Since the Thomas pumps were reported to pump up the system in very short
time, I am still wondering how its performance compares to the Dana
rebuilt with the poppet valves and if the Thomas can withstand the water
spray it will get when mounted in the engine compartment. Again I ask,
does anyone have information on these questions?

Phil Stewart
'
76 Transmode, TN

 

[richard guthart]

Phil,

> I am still wondering how its performance compares to the Dana
>rebuilt with the poppet valves

Can't help with that one. My Dana was factory original and a very tired
one, at that.

>and if the Thomas can withstand the water
>spray it will get when mounted in the engine compartment. Again I ask,
>does anyone have information on these questions?

The Thomas is made out of diecast aluminum with stainles steel valves
and other internal parts of either stainless steel or aluminum that has
been treated for corrosion protection. Upon inspection it appears to be
very well sealed from the elements, and the product spec. sheet claims
"dust and moisture resistant." But direct water spray? I don't know
about that. Mine installs under the kitchen sink so that wasn't an
issue. Might be worth a query to the company at Thomasair or
is there some way you could fabtricate a protective shield to keep it
out of direct spray?

Richard

 

[loren \(skip\) newhouse]

My Dana is in the engine area on the driver's side between and just behind
the radiator and the steering column. I think but don't know for sure that
the location is original. It doesn't show any signs of deterioration due to
water spray.
Skip Newhouse
'75 Avion
Western MD

> Phil,
>
> > I am still wondering how its performance compares to the Dana
> >rebuilt with the poppet valves
>
> Can't help with that one. My Dana was factory original and a very tired
> one, at that.
>
> >and if the Thomas can withstand the water
> >spray it will get when mounted in the engine compartment. Again I ask,
> >does anyone have information on these questions?
>
> The Thomas is made out of diecast aluminum with stainles steel valves
> and other internal parts of either stainless steel or aluminum that has
> been treated for corrosion protection. Upon inspection it appears to be
> very well sealed from the elements, and the product spec. sheet claims
> "dust and moisture resistant." But direct water spray? I don't know
> about that. Mine installs under the kitchen sink so that wasn't an
> issue. Might be worth a query to the company at Thomasair or
> is there some way you could fabtricate a protective shield to keep it
> out of direct spray?
>
> Richard

 

[darren paget]

On my 1976 I also have EL1. I just assumed all the compr's were inside. My
mistake. Which is why I was surprised by the people who questioned the water spray
issue. Darren

> Darren, I should add that I have Electrolevel I so the compressor is inside. I
> don't know how it would stand up to water spray.
> Justin