Abstract: The invention is directed to a ratchet or hold-down mechanism for a motor which is pivotally connected to a base of a compressor attached to an air receiving tank. The compressor is provided with a base having a pair of legs at one end which terminate at resilient pads resting on the tank. The motor is attached to the compressor base adjacent the legs for limited pivotal movement toward and away from the compressor. A ratchet or hold-down mechanism is provided between the motor and the compressor base to restrict pivotal movement of the motor toward the compressor while allowing the motor to pivot away from the compressor to increase the tension on a belt connected therebetween. The ratchet mechanism maintains tension on the belt in the event that the portable air compressor is picked up by the motor or is accidently tipped on its side. In addition, the ratchet mechanism maintains a minimum tension on the belt during operation of the motor.

Abstract: Apparatus for mounting a compressor and a motor on an air receiving tank. One end of a compressor base is provided with legs which rest on the top of the tank and an opposite end of the compressor base is provided with a tongue which is connected to an adaptor on the tank. Preferably, the adaptor is a check valve which is threaded into a tank opening. The motor is attached to the compressor base adjacent the legs for pivoting towards and away from the compressor to maintain tension on a drive belt interconnecting the motor and the compressor. An optional ratchet mechanism restricts the motor to pivoting only away from the compressor to maintain a minimum tension on the drive belt.