York Air-Compressor Info

Much of the following information is courtesy of Harold from Ready-Air. The rest I learned along the way.

Things to look for in a York compressor

York compressors came in a few different variations. Here are some guidelines to help you select the proper one:
  • Make sure to get a full size compressor
  • Make sure to get a flange mount head.
  • Make sure to get a long stroke compressor.
  • Get as small a pully as you can find.

Size

Yorks came in two sizes, full and compact. The one you want is the full-size and is roughly 5"W x 5"D x 9"H and weighs several pounds. The shape of the top is octogon.

Head

The head has either compression fittings or flange fittings. If you get the flange-style head, you can buy adaptors from Ready-Air (They call them "manifolds") to convert the compressor fittings to 1/2" pipe thread. Otherwise, you are stuck with A/C specific fittings that are nearly impossible to convert. Your only hope is to get some of the hose with the compressor and use barb fittings to connect to something standard.

You can order the adaptors for $9 each from:
Ready-Air (Therold Industries)
1-800-982-0409

Stroke

The stroke comes in short, medium, and long. To get the most volume and pressure from your on-board-air system, you will want to use the long stroke compressor. The others will work, but if you are going to do this, why not do it right?

If there is a tag on the compressor, the number on the tag will tell you what stroke you have. It will look something like this: F2XXL

XX Stroke
10 = long
09 = med
07 = short
L Discharge direction:
L=left
R=right

If there is no tag, you must remove the clutch and look at the shaft to determine which stroke you have.

  • Remove center bolt (1/2" socket).
  • Remove large washer
  • Run 5/8" coarse thread bolt in until the clutch pops off
  • Look at the shaft where the taper meets the flat end
    • sharp corner (not quite 90 degrees) = long
    • small groove (like for a snap ring) = med
    • 45 degree bevel = short

Pully

When choosing your compressor, try to get one with as small a pully as possible. Some came with huge pullies that would require a high engine RPM to drive well. Most of your air needs will be near idle, and a small pully should help.