Product Description
286527X TF-501 Air Compressor – Bendix Pulley Drive Replacement
The 286527X TF-501 air compressor is a heavy-duty pulley-driven compressor designed for commercial truck air brake systems and industrial vehicle air supply applications. This compressor is in stock and ready to ship from Ace Motor Parts. It is manufactured as a premium replacement unit engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications for Bendix TF-501 compressors used throughout the heavy-duty trucking and equipment industries.
In air brake equipped vehicles, the compressor is responsible for producing the compressed air required to operate the braking system. Air is pumped into storage reservoirs where it becomes available for service brakes, parking brakes, suspension controls, and other pneumatic equipment installed on commercial vehicles. Reliable compressor performance is essential for maintaining consistent braking pressure and proper system operation.
The TF-501 compressor platform has been used for decades on a variety of heavy truck engines and specialty equipment due to its rugged construction and dependable airflow output. The pulley drive configuration makes this unit suitable for belt-driven compressor systems commonly used on medium and heavy-duty truck applications.
Compressor Construction and Operation
The TF-501 is built around a two-cylinder reciprocating piston design which provides stable air delivery during continuous operation. Each cylinder compresses incoming air during the piston stroke, allowing the compressor to generate a steady supply of compressed air while the engine is running.
With an airflow output of approximately 12 cubic feet per minute at 1250 RPM, the TF-501 is capable of maintaining the air supply required for modern air brake systems even under demanding operating conditions such as frequent braking or high accessory air usage.
This compressor utilizes a belt-driven pulley system connected to the engine. Engine oil is supplied to the compressor through a dedicated lubrication line which ensures internal components remain properly lubricated. The compressor housing is designed to dissipate heat through a combination of engine coolant circulation and external airflow, helping maintain stable operating temperatures.
During operation, the compressor works with the vehicle’s governor and unloading system to regulate air pressure within the reservoirs. When system pressure reaches the upper limit, the compressor temporarily unloads. Once air pressure drops during brake use, the compressor resumes pumping to restore the air supply.
Key Features
- Direct replacement for Bendix TF-501 pulley drive compressors
- Durable two-cylinder reciprocating piston compressor design
- Pulley drive configuration for belt-driven installations
- Approximately 12 CFM airflow capacity at 1250 RPM
- Water-cooled and air-cooled compressor housing
- Right-side air inlet and outlet configuration
- Heavy-duty construction designed for commercial vehicles
- Replacement unit built to meet or exceed OEM specifications
- In stock and ready for shipment from Ace Motor Parts
Technical Specifications
| Part Number | 286527X |
| Compressor Model | TF-501 |
| Drive Type | Pulley Drive |
| Mounting Style | Base Mount – 4 Hole |
| Cylinders | 2 |
| Bore x Stroke | 2.625 in x 1.50 in |
| Displacement | 16.5 cu in per revolution |
| Air Output | Approx. 12 CFM @ 1250 RPM |
| Maximum Speed | 3000 RPM |
| Horsepower Requirement | 4.9 HP @ 3000 RPM / 100 PSI |
| Cooling System | Water and Air Cooled |
| Minimum Coolant Flow | 2.5 GPM |
| Minimum Unload Pressure | 60 PSI |
| Maximum Inlet Temperature | 250°F |
| Maximum Discharge Temperature | 400°F |
| Air Inlet Location | Right |
| Air Outlet Location | Right |
| Discharge Type | Flange |
| Weight | 41 lbs |
Typical Vehicle and Equipment Applications
The TF-501 pulley drive compressor is commonly used in heavy-duty truck air brake systems as well as specialty vehicle platforms and industrial equipment. Examples of equipment manufacturers and vehicle types where this compressor design may be found include:
- Heavy-duty highway trucks and semi-tractors
- Commercial vocational trucks
- 18-wheeler tractor units
- Blue Bird bus bodies
- White Motor Company trucks
- Ford heavy-duty truck platforms
- Fiat-Allis construction equipment
- Allis-Chalmers industrial equipment
- Eaton and Waukesha powered systems
- Specialty vehicles from Crane Carrier and Hann Motors
Bendix Interchange Numbers
| 102651 | 108930 | 285932 |
| 285952 | 285957 | 285961 |
| 285962 | 285963 | 285964 |
| 286133 | 286527 | 286692 |
| 286767 | 286872 | 288060 |
| 288061 |
International Harvester Service Interchange
| 398567C92 | 874706R92 | 874707R93 |
| 990177C91 | 990187C91 | 997104R91 |
| 997109R91 |
Additional Industry Cross References
| 286527BN | ZZ286527X | TF-501 |
| EL13060 | EL13060X | 102698X |
| 286526X | 286528RX | 286528X |
| 286529RX | 286529X | 286560X |
| 286567X | 286580X | 286582X |
| 286586X | 286589X | 286591X |
| 286592X | 286595X | MID286527X |
A cross-reference listing indicates that this compressor may be used as a replacement for the part numbers shown. Always confirm mounting style, port configuration, and application compatibility before installation.
Importance of the Compressor in Air Brake Systems
Commercial vehicles rely on compressed air to operate their braking systems safely and effectively. The compressor continuously supplies air to the system reservoirs so brake chambers can apply braking force whenever the driver presses the brake pedal.
If a compressor becomes worn or loses efficiency, the system may experience slow pressure recovery or inadequate air supply. Replacing a worn compressor helps restore proper system performance and ensures the vehicle maintains the air pressure required for safe braking operation.
Browse our complete inventory of air brake compressors or explore our selection of surplus air brake compressors for heavy duty trucks.
