M41 Air Compressor

[Canadian Gunner]

Hi Guys: I have very early M41 (1954) with an air compressor that doesn't appear in any of the manuals. It draws air through the air cleaner and doesn't have an unloading valve cover on top... just the four bolts for the head gasket and one big (1 1/4 inch) bolt head in the middle of the top. I can't find an ID plate on it so any advice as to type and servicing would be welcome.

The problem I'm having is that when I apply the brakes, air dumps backwards through the compressor to the air cleaner... it sounds like a little tornado in there! Of course, I can't keep any appreciable pressure in the system as a result!

Help!

 

[NDT]

Are you sure about your diagnosis? Sounds more like your air pack has failed, and on the early trucks, those vent back to the air cleaner.

 

[Canadian Gunner]

I was hoping for a simple stuck check valve! Oh well I'll pull the darn thing tomorrow and overhaul it. Thanks!