KOBALT Quiet Tech 26 Gallon Air Compressor FAILS AGAIN! (Watch this to learn how to fix it)

The KOBALT Quiet Tech 26 Gallon Air Compressor has failed for the second time, and I fixed it easily and cheaply this time. The first air compressor lasted about a year before it became very loud (sounded like it was leaking air from the compressor cylinder area), and would take longer to refill. I returned it (under the 3-year warranty) and replaced it with another, hoping that it was a fluke. Since then, I've learned more about oil-free compressors and how they can be serviced. Companies like California Air Tools off rebuild kits for their compressors, which include the piston cup, cylinder, and reed valves. Generic piston cups and cylinders can also be purchased, but the size has to match the original.

So when the second KOBALT Quiet Tech 26 Gallon Air Compressor started exhibiting the same symptoms after only 6 months, I took apart the head to see what was wrong. The piston ring cup was worn all the way through. I first called KOBALT service to ask if they had rebuild kits, or even just a piston cup. The only replacement parts that they offered were components external to the compressor motor, like air line fittings and parts. KOBALT only solution was to return the compressor and get a new one, which is a huge pita and wasteful. I can take apart the cylinders and replace the parts far faster than the time it takes to return and buy a new one of these compressors.

Therefore I've purchased some replacement piston ring cups that fit. I'm still searching for replacement cylinders, although mine are still in good shape. The only ~69.8mm ID piston cylinders that I can find are longer than this one.

The cylinder ID measures 69.8mm. Cylinder height = 40.5mm
The piston ring ID is 54.36mm. Thickness = 1mm

▼ WHERE TO BUY PARTS
▶ Piston cups that fit and work well - https://amzn.to/3mK38US
▶ Threadlocker, Permanent, High Temp (standard threadlocker will fail due to high temperatures) - https://amzn.to/3LaDZfQ
▶ Replacement 2HP Air Compressor by California Air Tools (They sell all replacement parts for maintenance) - https://amzn.to/3PQNBi9

▼ VISIT OUR WEBSITE
▶ Products we make: https://soulbuilt.us
▶▶ Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/stores/SoulBuilt
▶ Engineering: https://www.engineerable.com

▼ FOLLOW US ON:
▶ Instagram:   / soul.built  
▶ Facebook:   / soulbuilt.us  

How To Fix Broken KOBALT Quiet Tech 26 Gallon Air Compressor (By Replacing The Piston Cups)

The products shown here were purchased by me with the intent to use them. I did not receive any free items, and I am not being paid or compensated for this review. The video, description, and comments may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link, I may receive a commission. Money earned helps to support my channel and bring you more informative videos about engineering, crafting, and DIY.