Air Compressor question

[Kenskip1]

OK, Now before I invest in a NEW 60 gallon compressor, I want to run this theory of mine by you and tell me what you think.As of now my 33 gallon Sears compressor is around 12 years old and still functioning well.However it has 1/4 lines from the tank, through the regulator all the way out to the air hose connection. Is it a major hurdle to re plumb this with 3/8 lines and fittings? As of now the tank has 150 lbs and the regulator is set at 120.I have reason to suspect that this 1/4 line is the bottle-neck of this setup.Or should I just use it as it is? While reading one of the boxes a tool arrived in said,"recommended air hose 3/8" I have reason to believe that my 1/2 impact could be having an issue.And before anyone jumpz on my bonz the impact is made by a Florida Pneumatic, has a torque rating of 580 ft lbs.With the tool activated I have 95-100 lbs of pressure at the regulator.
So would it be reasonably safe to assume that a 3/8 hole drilled into the tank and fitted with new plumbing along with a new regulator and pressure switch along with hose and connectors (I will require 11) be a reasonable be worth all the effort, or should I simply drive around the corner and pay Lowes a visit? Thanks you for your time and thoughts.Ken

 

[md21722]

You really don't want to be drilling new holes. To liven up your impact, you can get some high flow fittings and use 3/8" hose, all while keeping the 1/4" NPT threads. Remember that the 90 psi for the impact is the dynamic pressure, meaning the pressure regulator should be set up around 120-125 psi assuming a 25 foot 3/8" hose. You can put a gauge at the tool to verify.

 

[Cope]

You really don't want to be drilling new holes. To liven up your impact, you can get some high flow fittings and use 3/8" hose, all while keeping the 1/4" NPT threads. Remember that the 90 psi for the impact is the dynamic pressure, meaning the pressure regulator should be set up around 120-125 psi assuming a 25 foot 3/8" hose. You can put a gauge at the tool to verify.

This is what I'd recommend whether you keep your old one or buy a new one.

 

[Kenskip1]

So in a nutshell simply replace the 1/4 air hose with high flow 3/8. I suspect that I will have to replace the connections on my tools.My tools require a 1/4 npt and require the male thread.
Ok thanks for the information.

 

[gdocktor3]

I have this same Craftsman compressor pictured. In the end, there is a 1-1/4" plug that I removed, reduced down to 1/2", installed a 1/2" regulator/filter, and now run my 3/8" and 1/2" hoses off that. There is a noticeable difference, especially with that 5hp motor. I use the original 1/4" fitting for filling tires and small 1/4" hose stuff. I also use 3/8" thread x 3/8" body automotive couplers. Basically hi flow couplers in 3/8", not the regular 1/4".

 

[Kenskip1]

GD3 sound like a good operation however, mine is an oil less one that makes way to much noise.I am looking for a picture that I will post. Don't get me wrong as it still functions however as posted my 1/2 impact wrench is not up to par.Here is what I have.