How to Lubricate a Craftsman 12-Gallon Air Compressor

The importance of maintaining tools is sometimes overlooked while you're busy working on your house or car. While there are jobs that must be done quickly, a broken tool or burnt-up compressor will only slow you down. Many compressors are self-lubricated in a closed system, however, the Craftsman 12-gallon air compressors are oil-lubricated. Regular maintenance includes changing the oil after the first 50 hours of use and every 100 hours thereafter.

Cake pan or cookie sheet
Socket set or wrench
SAE-30 nondetergent motor oil
Gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Check the oil level in the oil sight glass. The oil should reach the top of the red dot inside the glass.
- 2
  Place a shallow pan such as a cake pan or cookie sheet under the compressor.
- 3
  Open the oil fill cap. Remove the drain plug with a socket or wrench, turning counterclockwise.
- 4
  Drain the oil from the reservoir, tipping the compressor slightly if necessary to completely drain the oil reservoir.
- 5
  Replace the drain plug. Do not over-tighten.
- 6
  Add 3 ounces of SAE-30 nondetergent motor oil. Double-check the oil level in the sight glass.
- 7
  Replace and tighten the oil fill cap. Do not use a wrench on the fill cap, finger-tighten only unless the manufacturer's instructions indicate otherwise.
- 8
  Dispose of the used oil according to your local garbage company's rules.

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