Totally stupid question about compressors, sorry

[ckadams00]

So I have a 6gal Porter Cable pancake compressor and a CH 1/2 impact driver. It says 7gal+ "intermittent" and 6gal and below "don't use" - Can someone explain to me why if I'm not using this thing other than intermittent?

Yeah, I'd love to go to and buy a big compressor but for now this is what I have and I'd like to be able to use the impact even if I have to wait to recharge . . . .

Just looking for some guidance - thanks

 

[vartz04]

yes you can use it but youd probably only get 1 or 2 lugs off before it restarts.

They are telling you not to use it because you will more than likely exceed the duty cycle of the compressor. Pump/Motor will over heat and not last very long. That compressor is made for airing up tires/nailers.

I snagged up a used Harbor Freight 21 gallon compressor for $50 on craigslist. Just keep your eyes open and snag up something used that will work better for what you want to use it for.

Heck you could sell your compressor for $75-100 to cover some of the costs. You want something oil lubed (and preferably belt drive but a direct drive will work for light duty) and 20+ gallons.

 

[RECox286]

In essence they are telling you to not use a pair of scissors to cut your one acre lawn.

You can do it, but it's gonna hurt... and leave scars.

Uncle Bob

 

[crewchief888]

i wouldnt want to run a tire shop with a pancake compressor.

for intermittent home use, why not?

we carry one in a tow vehicle when we go wheeling.

one guy will have a generator, another a compressor, another a welder, grinders etc.

i use mine to air up trailer and lawn mower tires around in back of the garage.

 

[ckadams00]

In essence they are telling you to not use a pair of scissors to cut your one acre lawn.

You can do it, but it's gonna hurt... and leave scars.

Uncle Bob

Now THAT makes sense. Thanks Uncle Bob!

 

[Gary S]

#1, you don't rate air tools by tank size, so if your tools are rated like that, I'd be looking into a different brand.

 

[smothers33]

#1, you don't rate air tools by tank size, so if your tools are rated like that, I'd be looking into a different brand.

yeah never seen one rated like that. Usually its rated by cfm. But as other said it'll be running constantly and heat up/wear out the motor. You can do it just don't expect to do it all the time or you'll be buying a new compressor sooner than you want anyways