FS-Curtis CA Series Two-Stage Recip

CA5, CA7.5, CA10, CA15, CA25

AirCompDX - Field Reference for Air Compressor Techs

FS-Curtis CA Series Two-Stage Recip

5–25 hp two-stage cast-iron recip pump, belt-driven, air-cooled.

Type
Two-stage reciprocating
Power
5–25 hp
Flow
17–92 cfm @ 175 psig
Pressure
175 psig
Cooling
air
Drive
belt
Lubrication
oil-lubricated
Models
CA5, CA7.5, CA10, CA15, CA25
Years produced
CA platform in production since 1990s; iron pump lineage back to 1854 Curtis heritage.
Sound level
~78–84 dB(A) @ 1 m open frame.
Weight
80-gal CA5 ~600 lb; 120-gal CA15 ~1,000 lb.
Ambient range
40–104 °F.
Motor efficiency
TEFC industrial, 1.15 SF typical.
Warranty
Long pump warranty (dealer-verified).
Control modes
  • Start/Stop
  • Continuous Run w/ Unloader
Typical applications
  • Auto shops
  • Farms
  • Small manufacturing

Specs & intervals below are from publicly published OEM literature and long-standing field practice. Torque values, exact revision-dated part numbers, and safety-critical settings vary by serial number — always cross-check the unit’s OEM manual and nameplate before ordering parts or performing service.

Fluid
Spec: FS-Curtis Extend synthetic or SAE 30 non-detergent
Change interval: 2,000 hr synth / 500 hr mineral
Torque guidance

Head torque per OEM sheet; belt tension ½" midspan deflection.

Always verify torque values against the OEM service manual for the specific serial number.

Wear parts
CategoryIntervalSource
Inlet filter500 hr / annually
Reed valvesInspect 2,000 hr
V-beltsAnnually
Piston rings6,000 hr
Head gasket kitWith each top-end

Consumable part numbers change by revision and region — pull the current number from the OEM portal.

Preventive maintenance
Daily
  • Check crankcase oil level
  • Drain tank moisture
  • Listen for valve tick / knock
  • Verify unloader operates on cut-out
Every 500 hr
  • Change crankcase oil (mineral) or verify PAO/synthetic at manufacturer interval
  • Clean or replace inlet filter
  • Check belt tension & sheave alignment
  • Torque head bolts to spec if any weeping
Annual / 2,000 hr
  • Pull head; inspect reed/disc valves and seats
  • Check ring gap and cylinder wear
  • Torque head bolts to OEM spec in cross pattern
  • Test safety valve
  • Inspect crankshaft & rod bearings on splash-lube units
Every 4–6,000 hr
  • Top-end rebuild (rings, valves, gaskets)
  • Inspect rod bearings and crank end play
  • Verify aftercooler condensate drain
Common faults & first checks
  • Slow build — valve wear
  • Interstage moisture — cooling airflow
Strengths
  • Cast-iron heavy-duty pump
  • Long service life on synthetic
  • Multiple duty ratings
Weaknesses
  • No integrated controller — pressure switch operation
Field notes

FS-Curtis is a long-standing US-market recip and screw brand.