Can regular motor oil be used in a reciprocating air compressor?

I have a 300L air tank w a 2 cyclinder air comp %26amp; electric motor.


I have no idea when the oil was last changed on the compressor and I'm in a dusty environment.


Should I replace the existing oil w/motor oil (thats all I have) or would I be better off leaving it be?Can regular motor oil be used in a reciprocating air compressor?
If Compressor is old it won't matter. If it's new you would want to stick with the Recomended Oil. Any Oil is better that Real Dirty Oil. Change It! It won't hurt it! It could run on almost any oil. Compressors are not that picky. Oil Should be Changed a lot in Dusty conditions. Be Careful some people are giving you answers for A/C Compressors.Can regular motor oil be used in a reciprocating air compressor?
No. Motor oil and lubricants for compressors are different. Different viscosity and additives. It might work or burn it.... best thing to do is to use what the constructor has prescribed.
My compressor manufacturer specified 20W 50W motor oil.


I run synthetic.





Motor oil will be fine in yours, thats all I have ever used in 40 years.
Check specs in manual or manufacturer's site. Or leave be. Or get pro maint.
We use motor oil on our compressor at work. It takes 7 quarts. I know I had to change it the other day. We change it every few months.
No! You need to use air compressor oil. Not motor oil, not air tool oil, but compressor oil.
Leave it alone until you have the proper oil...check out http://www.bartassociates.com/iair.html for more lubrication info