Air Compressor Advice Needed

[nashville_bill]

I'm searching for a new air compressor, and I may have found the one for me. Has anyone used a Northstar, 60 gal, 5HP compressor from Northern Tool?

It has good reviews on the Northern Tool website, but you can't always trust online reviews.

******************************************
5 HP, 230V single-phase 3,450 RPM electric motor
Delivers 15.5 CFM @ 90 PSI; 17 CFM @ 40 PSI
Cast iron oil-lubricated 3-cylinder single-stage pump
Copper-finned inter- and after-coolers for heat dissipation and less moisture
Pump runs at 1,180 RPM
4 year warranty
******************************************

Thanks for your input!

Nashville_Bill

 

[jsamhall]

I haven't any personal experience with this particular pump, but it would be helpful to know what you intend to use the pump for as certain metrics such as CFM @ a given PSI are especially important for certain tasks like painting or sanding. Similarly, will this pump be used by just you, or multiple workers at once?

 

[matt_i]

Without ever seeing one, it does appear to have some very good content. I regard the multi-cylinder single stage 90psi as more useful for the average user than a 2 stage 175psi model. And it has an aftercooler which is something most people add on.

Like any manufacturer there's a choice. Every plant gets or makes parts out of spec. It depends what that plant does with them...run them or scrap them out. I can't say what side of the street this one is on. The 4 year warranty is helpful, I would make sure you understand all of the terms and have all the documentation for it assembled and stored in a place that's easily found.

 

[bad_idea]

I do believe NorthStar is Northern's house brand right? If so, then it is a (small) step above Harbor Freight.

 

[The Tool Tyrant]

That is a fairly high RPM compressor, which means it will be louder and run hotter than a slow RPM unit. I would suggest looking for a unit with a 1725 RPM motor as they are generally a higher quality motor...just my 2 cents.

 

[pdl2mtl90]

I have that compressor and use it in my home garage. It was an upgrade from a Craftsman oil-less. I really like. My wife and kids have commented how quiet it is. I use an impact, air ratchet, and cut off tool without issue.

 

[bad_idea]

If you are used to a oil-less, then of course it sounds quiet. Get an old Quincy 325 turning 400 rpms and you would be amazed.

 

[In2toys]

Ditto on the 1725 RPM

 

[The Tool Tyrant]

If you are used to a oil-less, then of course it sounds quiet. Get an old Quincy 325 turning 400 rpms and you would be amazed.

^^^^

 

[greg13]

Stay away from any oil less compressor, they are noisy and just don't last. The slower the RPM the quieter and longer life. If you plan on keeping spend the little extra or look at a quality used compressor.

 

[pdl2mtl90]

If you are used to a oil-less, then of course it sounds quiet. Get an old Quincy 325 turning 400 rpms and you would be amazed.

Want to boost my checking account?!?!

 

[Plastikosmd]

I gotta say 23yrs plus on my 60 gallon oil less
The 2 stage in my other shop is maybe a better choice for cfm but still, they can last!

 

[greg13]

I gotta say 23yrs plus on my 60 gallon oil less
The 2 stage in my other shop is maybe a better choice for cfm but still, they can last!

That is at least twice as old of anyone that I know of. Most of the ones that I know **** out after about 10 yrs.

 

[bad_idea]

Want to boost my checking account?!?!

Keep an eye on CL. I found one in good running shape for $500 a few months back. I'm not ready to buy a big compressor as I am still building the shop or I would have bought it. My point is to buy an older unit in good shape and maintain it. The old Quincy 325's can be rebuilt just like a small engine. The parts support is pretty good.

BUT, for someone who rarely will use it and will not use it hard, any old 60 gallon unit should do it.

 

[tom-ky]

I'm searching for a new air compressor, and I may have found the one for me. Has anyone used a Northstar, 60 gal, 5HP compressor from Northern Tool?

It has good reviews on the Northern Tool website, but you can't always trust online reviews.

******************************************
5 HP, 230V single-phase 3,450 RPM electric motor
Delivers 15.5 CFM @ 90 PSI; 17 CFM @ 40 PSI
Cast iron oil-lubricated 3-cylinder single-stage pump
Copper-finned inter- and after-coolers for heat dissipation and less moisture
Pump runs at 1,180 RPM
4 year warranty
******************************************

Thanks for your input!

Nashville_Bill

The Harbor Freight compressor is a better deal in my opinion as it is 2 stage. They have 2 different versions though. Plus it is cheaper.