1. Important Safety Information
Always read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before operating the air compressor. Failure to follow these warnings may result in serious injury or property damage.
- Electrical Safety: Ensure the compressor is connected to a properly grounded 120 Volt, 750 Watt (1 Horsepower) power supply. Do not operate in wet conditions.
- Pressure Safety: The maximum operating pressure is 125 PSI. Do not exceed the rated pressure of any tool or accessory. The unit features a safety valve that automatically opens if pressure reaches excessive levels.
- Hearing Protection: Although designed for quiet operation (65 dB), prolonged exposure to noise can cause hearing damage. Always wear appropriate hearing protection.
- Eye Protection: Always wear ANSI Z87.1 approved safety glasses with side shields when operating the compressor or using air tools.
- Moving Parts: Keep hands, hair, and loose clothing away from moving parts.
- Overheat Protection: The compressor is equipped with automatic overheat protection. If the motor overheats, it will shut down automatically. Allow it to cool before restarting.
2. Product Overview
The STEALTH SAQ-1301 is a 3-gallon, 1.0 HP, oil-free, and ultra-quiet air compressor designed for a variety of applications. Its compact and portable design makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Figure 2.1: Front view of the STEALTH SAQ-1301 3 Gallon Air Compressor.
Key Features:
- Commercial-Grade Performance: Provides continuous and stable high-voltage output up to 150 PSI.
- Leading Silent Technology: Operating noise as low as 65 decibels, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Easy Cold Start: Requires low amps for easier startup in cold weather.
- Portable Design: Lightweight aluminum alloy body with rubber reinforced handle and bases.
- Convenient Operation Panel: Integrated LED display and intuitive control buttons for monitoring air pressure and adjusting settings.

Figure 2.2: The SAQ-1301 compressor highlighting its 3-gallon tank, 1.0 HP motor, 150 PSI max pressure, 2.5 CFM, portability, oil-free design, cold-weather start, and long-life cycle.

Figure 2.3: The compressor is suitable for a wide range of applications including roofing nailers, finishing nailers, brad nailers, flooring nailers, and general inflation tasks.
Component Identification:
- Tank Pressure Gauge: Displays the pressure inside the air tank.
- Regulator Knob: Adjusts the output air pressure to the tool.
- Line Out / Tool Pressure Gauge: Displays the regulated air pressure supplied to the tool.
- Quick Connect Coupler: For easy hose connection.
- Drain Valve: Located at the bottom of the tank, used to remove moisture.
- Safety Valve: Releases excess pressure to prevent over-pressurization.
- Rubber Feet: Reduce vibration and enhance stability during operation.

Figure 2.4: The Air Pressure Regulator allows adjustment of the pressure inside the line to the tool being used.

Figure 2.5: The Safety Valve automatically opens to prevent excessive pressure build-up if pressure reaches the preset level.

Figure 2.6: Sturdy rubber feet are designed to reduce vibration and enhance the stability of the compressor during operation.
3. Setup and Initial Use
Unpacking:
Carefully remove the compressor from its packaging. Inspect for any shipping damage. Ensure all components listed in the manual are present.
Placement:
Place the compressor on a firm, level surface. The rubber feet will help reduce vibration. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
Electrical Connection:
Connect the power cord to a grounded 120V AC outlet. The compressor is designed for low-amp startup, making it easier to use in various conditions.
Initial Break-in Procedure:
- With the drain valve fully open, turn on the compressor.
- Allow the compressor to run for 30 minutes with no pressure building in the tank. This helps to properly seat the motor components.
- After 30 minutes, turn off the compressor and close the drain valve. The unit is now ready for use.
4. Operation
Connecting Air Tools:
- Ensure the compressor is off and unplugged before connecting or disconnecting air tools.
- Attach your air hose to the quick connect coupler on the compressor's control panel.
- Connect your air tool to the other end of the hose.

Figure 4.1: The compressor easily connects to various pneumatic tools, such as a finishing nailer, for efficient operation.
Adjusting Air Pressure:
- Plug in the compressor and turn it on. Allow the tank to fill to its maximum pressure (150 PSI).
- Turn the regulator knob (blue knob) to adjust the output pressure displayed on the 'TOOL' gauge. Set the pressure according to the requirements of your air tool.
- The compressor will automatically cycle on and off to maintain tank pressure between 120 PSI (cut-in) and 150 PSI (cut-out).
Video 4.1: Demonstration of the STEALTH Air Compressor's quiet operation, easy setup, and versatility with various tools. This video highlights the low voltage start and sound level comparison.
Applications:
The SAQ-1301 is versatile and can be used for:
- Air Brushing
- Drilling (with appropriate pneumatic drill)
- Nailing (brad, finish, roofing, flooring nailers)
- Sanding (with appropriate pneumatic sander)
- Spraying (paint sprayers)
- Tire Inflation

Figure 4.2: The compressor is shown in a woodworking application, demonstrating its utility for tasks like trim installation.

Figure 4.3: The portable design and sufficient pressure make it ideal for tire inflation for vehicles and other inflatables.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your STEALTH air compressor.
Drain the Air Tank:
Moisture will accumulate in the air tank. To prevent corrosion and ensure proper operation, drain the tank daily or after each use.
- Turn off the compressor and unplug it from the power source.
- Place a suitable container under the drain valve located at the bottom of the tank.
- Slowly open the drain valve to release air and moisture.
- Once all air and moisture have been expelled, close the drain valve securely.

Figure 5.1: The drain valve is used to remove moisture from the air tank after the compressor is shut off, preventing rust and maintaining air quality.
Oil-Free Pump:
This compressor features an oil-free pump, eliminating the need for oil changes and reducing overall maintenance requirements.
General Cleaning:
Keep the compressor clean and free of dust and debris. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the exterior. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your air compressor.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor does not start or stops unexpectedly. | No power; Overheat protection activated; Circuit breaker tripped. | Check power connection; Allow unit to cool down; Reset circuit breaker. |
| Compressor runs continuously or frequently. | Air leak in hose or fittings; Drain valve open; Excessive air tool usage. | Check all connections for leaks; Ensure drain valve is closed; Use air tools efficiently. |
| Low air pressure at tool. | Regulator set too low; Air leak; Compressor not building full pressure. | Adjust regulator knob; Check for leaks; Refer to 'Compressor runs continuously' solution. |
| Excessive noise or vibration. | Loose components; Unit not on a stable surface. | Check and tighten any loose parts; Ensure unit is on a flat, stable surface. |
If problems persist after attempting these solutions, contact customer support.
7. Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | SAQ-1301 |
| Tank Volume | 3 Gallons |
| Horsepower | 1.0 HP |
| Maximum Operating Pressure | 150 PSI |
| Cut-in Pressure | 120 PSI |
| Cut-out Pressure | 150 PSI |
| Air Flow Capacity (CFM @ 90 PSI) | 2.5 CFM |
| Noise Level | 65 dB |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Wattage | 750 Watts |
| Item Weight | 44 Pounds |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 19"L x 18"W x 13"H |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| UPC | 810941030444 |
8. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information:
The STEALTH SAQ-1301 Air Compressor comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product for full details and restrictions.
Customer Support:
For technical assistance, parts, or warranty claims, please contact STEALTH customer support. Keep your model number (SAQ-1301) and proof of purchase readily available when contacting support.
You can also visit the official Stealth Store for more information and product resources: Stealth Store on Amazon





