I Hate Damage!
if you're going to pursue the claim, it would be better to not mess with the "evidence" or condition.
the tree sap
is good evidence
if still possible, carefully document everything with pictures, preferably with a macro-lens or mode, especially the sap
$600.00 is not that high, especially around here (so-cal)
seems like the minimum to switch on the compressor is $500.00!
you might consider going through your insurance company, pay the deductable, and your insurance company might pursue the claim for re-imbursement and potentially recover your deductable as well
(it's called "subrogation")