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Post by Polamnus on Jan 27, 2005 20:10:21 GMT -5
Hi all, I figure there's no denying it, I'm a full-on-wrencher, something I'd never have guessed just a few years ago. That being said, I'm considering making the investment towards a decent air compressor. There's just too many things I could use one for, but have absolutely zero experience with them, so I don't know what I'm looking to spend.
I know horsepower ratings aren't really that critical, and the CF/M is a better rating to look at. I've seen some in the $100-$150 range that look nice, but don't want to end up having to upgrade later. If I'd be better off saving up for something better, I'm willing to do that, but all in all don't really know where to start.
Planning a trip to Harbor Freight in the next couple of weeks, so any input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance,
Pol
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Post by LarryBart on Jan 28, 2005 2:10:01 GMT -5
Pol HI:
Using and buying, I have a full range of air tools in my collection amassed over many years driven by the need for the tool. May I suggest that when you go to Harbor Freight you check out the air tools you would likely be using and read the working Pressure usually 90psi. and then consider the CFM required to run the tool without interruption for a few minutes. Most all compressors today with 5gal. air tanks maintain 90psi as there working pressure and will go easily to 120psi if need be.
What tools you are considering as and addition to your collection drives the compressor to buy. I have a portable tank attached to my compressor to increase the cfm available when spray painting and running my 1/2 impact and for off site tire filling and a full tank has enough air at 125psi to run a 1/2 in. inpact gun to replace a tire, this allowed me to stay with compressors $100.00 and below. The selection where you are going is wide enough to enable you to pick-up a 120v outfit for this price that will serve you for many years.
Regards LBart
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Post by 30coupe on Jan 28, 2005 9:51:38 GMT -5
Hey LBart, how big is your portable tank. My compressor is a 20 gal., and it drives me nuts. I can't run my 3" cutoff, spray paint or sandblast. I'm always waiting for more air. I thought of running two side by side to a common T fitting, then using a single line from there. Would this help me get more workable time?...30coupe
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Post by jetmechmarty on Jan 28, 2005 10:01:28 GMT -5
If you don't want to upgrade later, save your money until you can spend $500 to $800. A single stage compressor with a 60 gal tank should do almost anything you will want to do with compressed air.
A unit with a cast iron pump should last a lifetime for a hobbyist/homeowner. A "V" pump design will run cooler and increase output.
Quality units may be purchased at places like Grainger in the $700-800 range. Harbor Freight and the like will have large enough units cheaper.
If you use a little compressor and use it a lot, you will soon want one that does more. Check out a variety of air tools for their requirments and shop from there.
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Post by LarryBart on Jan 29, 2005 2:01:38 GMT -5
30Coupe:
I am running a 2 1/2 hp 110V 10 Gallon direct drive compressor with a 10Gal. portable tank plumbed in with a quick disconnect and shut-off valve. When turned on this gives sufficient cfm when setting the compressor to 125psi and adjusting the regulator to the tool I am using.
LBart
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jack
Junior Member
Posts: 99
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Post by jack on Jan 29, 2005 7:29:33 GMT -5
If it were me, I'd look for a deal on good used two stage 3 to 5 hp with atleast a 30 gallon take. A larger tank would prolong the working time before the compressor kicks in and a dual stage compressor does'nt have as much condensation build up in the tank as a single stage because they run cooler.
I have a extremly old Curtis compressor thats rated at 1 1/2 to 3 hp dual stage,that gets worked well passed it's ablilities every time I throw the switch and I've purchased it some twenty years ago and sometimes I need to take a break for the tank build up but i don't mind.. Jack
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Post by arkansawyer on Feb 10, 2005 21:54:50 GMT -5
I have a Sears compressor and tank I bought about a year ago. It's 6hp and 30 gallon vertical tank. The unit was priced at $329 alone in the store but was $299 online with several tools and some fittings and hose. I went to the store with this part # and they had them in stock. I have been happy with it. It almost keeps up with a sandblast gun, just a few pauses here and there are needed.
The store had the bare unit sitting there for $329. Why would anybody pay $30 more without the tools and other stuff I got?
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Post by gdjohnson on Feb 10, 2005 23:14:36 GMT -5
I have a Sears 5 hp belt drive compressor that I've had for over 15 years. It's got a 20 gallon tank which is a bit on the small size but it works. I'm feeding it 220 volt power so it doesn't have to work as hard to keep up with my air needs. I run air tools and paint guns (not at the same time) with no real trouble. Every year I change the oil in the compressor head and keep the air intake filter clean and it keeps going.
Greg
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Post by pops on Mar 12, 2005 10:26:16 GMT -5
I bought a Black Max 3 hp 115v compressor from Sam's a few years ago. Has about a 15 gal tank and does just fine for general purpose stuff. I wouldn't try a sandblaster on it, though. The pressure switch appears to be its weak point, being made mostly of plastic and a replacement switch will run you 50 bucks. And the noise! Lordy, lordy it will run you out of the shop. That's because it's of the oil-less design, I think. If I had it to do over, I'd find one at a pawn shop, belt driven, oil type. I had one years ago and sold it. Wish I could remember why.
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Post by Hammerin on May 17, 2005 20:35:37 GMT -5
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Post by cassidy on May 19, 2005 18:15:44 GMT -5
Pol --
What did you end up getting?
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Post by Polamnus on May 19, 2005 22:39:09 GMT -5
Actually, I ended up postponing the decision.  My engine rebuild started adding up(just hefted the beast back into the frame today, whew) in costs and my job search went into high gear which started costing some money for airfare for interviews so I decided to put the compressor on hold until life got a little more calm again. Fortunately, I scored a new job and will be moving from NY state to Lawrenceville, GA wednesday of this week! Unfortunately, I wont have the chance to test fire the engine until after I move, the suspense is killing me. Once I get settled, I'll revisit the issue, although I have been wondering if a "my-first-welder" might be a better investment at this point. Will let you all know how it goes, but I appreciate the suggestions and advice regardless. I'll pick one up eventualy and will bear in mind all this advice when I do. Best to all, Pol |
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Post by arkansawyer on May 30, 2005 19:13:21 GMT -5
After using my compressor for a while, I have grown to hate the noise it makes. Belt drive compressors are much quieter. Mine's also "oil-free" which means the piston is made of some kind of phenolic looking stuff. I wonder how long it's going to last.
Welcome to the South.
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;D Long time ago I tried one of those little 5 hp single cylinders but then I had to wait all the time for it to pump up enough pressure all the time. About 400.00.
geat deal ;D ;D ;D 