Air Compressor Questions

[Low50s]

Hello, I am looking for some input on some air compressors that I have my eyes on trying to decide what is the best fit for me and my needs.

I am an mechanic by trade and I do auto repair at home along with servicing a fleet of my personal vehicles and family vehicles and equipment (tractors) I currently have a small buzz box air compressor that I was gifted about 10+ years ago that cant run impacts or any air tools other than the tire gauge but I have made work.

It seems that anymore I need serious air to run 3/4 and 1" impacts along with cutoff tools and DA sanders so I want big volume along with plans for adding tire equipment and small sandblast cabinet in the future. I have it kind of narrowed down to 2 models

First is the Quincy Model# 271CS80VCB from northern tool and equipment they have this at about $2400 and I can pick up in store and has 22.6 CFM at 175 psi and 100% duty rating 3/4" tank outlet ect.
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200350477_200350477

Second is the Northern tool 459242 (House brand) that is right at 2k has 24.4 cfm at (90 psi could not find cfm at full psi ) 100% duty rating but tank outlet is only 1/2" and estimated pump life is 20,000
https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200596487_200596487

are the features from the second one enough to justify the extra $400 to buy the quincy ? or am I looking at all the wrong information to make an informed compressor purchase ?

 

[carl_694]

I was not impressed with the "big box" Quincy compared to others. Quincy requires you purchase a ridiculously priced maintenance kit for warranty, which is a hidden cost. I don't think those Quincy models are all that much better than the house brand. For 2400 you can get a Saylor Beall or Champion. If you buy online, you don't have to pay sales tax. I got my vt-735-80 for 2600 WITH factory aftercooler.

 

[Marctrees]

You will usually be the one man using this.. not multiple simultaneous workers.. correct?

Do you really need quite that much CFM capability ?

?

?

The best bang for the buck currently.. is from (Drum rollll) Harbor Freight.

It is a true 5 hp, 60 gal.

Italian Made ABAC pump, USA made tank, Mexico motor.

Sure.. you can spend alot more.. but realistically look into this.

I have virtually NO HF tools, not my kinda thing... but this particular item is an anomaly.

It is becoming hard to find, being phased out, and BEING SUBSTITUTED by HF w a Chinese three head model.

Be AWARE of that switch.

They have shown BOTH types under the same Cat# at the stores.

Marc

https://www.harborfreight.com/5-hp-60-gallon-165-psi-two-stage-air-compressor-93274.html

https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=361437&highlight=harbor+freight+93274

 

[Marctrees]

If you really want, and are OK w paying for it, I would take my time and search for a REAL US made quincy.

As long as you are aware, as mentioned above, the name is slowly getting whored out, like most other stuff... to produce their newer lower line price units.

People want lower prices, that's what happens.

Marc

 

[Low50s]

If you really want, and are OK w paying for it, I would take my time and search for a REAL US made quincy.

As long as you are aware, as mentioned above, the name is slowly getting whored out, like most other stuff... to produce their newer lower line price units.

People want lower prices, that's what happens.

Marc

Thanks I will start doing some research and keeping my eyes open my area seems to be lacking in the local classifieds unless I have 3ph
This is one of my purchases I’d like to pass to my kid

My wanting that much air is I do like to build cars with people and plan on running 2 die grinders or 2 sanders and based off of a lot of the charts I came across by the time I add then multiply it could want right around 10-13 per “station “ I think

 

[slodat]

I have this compressor: https://www.pacificaircompressors.c...-phase-air-compressor-aftercooler-auto-drain/

I don’t think there’s anything else out there equally spec’d for the money. I am very happy with mine. Needed nothing out of the box. Runs very quiet for what it is.

 

[engineer2]

Ask the local auto repair shops who they would buy a compressor from. The auto shop distributors often sell brand names like Champion, Quincy and Saylor-Beale at a discount.

 

[89GLH]

I bought a Quincy QT-54 9 years ago because of one fact - the entire unit is made in the USA. I don't know what others are talking about with the maintenance kit, Amazon has the filters and oil for cheap. Distributors are gonna mark it all up if you buy through them, naturally. I didn't buy the IR from Tractor Supply since the parts are all made overseas then assembled here.

I would also suggest a 2 stage if the one you listed isn't. The compressor head looks like a single, I could be wrong though.

 

[Toothaker]

You ought to look at the Ingersoll Rand 5 HP compressor at Tractor Supply. Their price is $1K for a compressor which is capable of 15.8 CFM at 90 PSI. I just bought one - for just a little less than list price. SKU # 349612999

Note: the compressor has a reducer from the factory. The tank is threaded with 3/4" NPT, and then there's a reducer which takes it down to 1/2" NPT. I mention it because the OP mentioned outlet sizes on various models.

I agree with Marc, the HF unit is a good compressor - if you can find one. HF switched to that three headed thing months ago, so the good ones are on the floor at some locations, but not around here.

 

[bob15]

Between the two listed, I would take the Quincy. That being said, have you looked at used? There are plenty of Quincy-sized machines for better than half that price. Look for: IR, G-D, Quincy, Saylor Beall, Champion, etc

 

[DerekV]

I have this compressor: https://www.pacificaircompressors.c...-phase-air-compressor-aftercooler-auto-drain/

I don’t think there’s anything else out there equally spec’d for the money. I am very happy with mine. Needed nothing out of the box. Runs very quiet for what it is.

Now that right there is a nice compressor

 

[8mpg]

I might be the minority here...but I'd get the Harbor Freight and start buying cordless tools. I have slowly started converting to to cordless impacts, ratchets, etc. I love them Same power no lugging a hose. No listening to the compressor run. I have been using a small harbor freight 20gal compressor for the last few years. I havent needed to run an paint gun though.

 

[slodat]

Now that right there is a nice compressor

It is great out of the box- mechanical auto drain, after cooler, quality magnetic starter, etc. it appears all is US made- pump, motor and tank anyway.

 

[Marctrees]

Be aware that ALL of the lower price point IR compressors now have imported compressors, mostly India.

Marc

 

[Toothaker]

Be aware that ALL of the lower price point IR compressors now have imported compressors, mostly India.

Marc

That's true. They don't try to hide it either. The data plate is right there on the front of the compressor pump with COO clearly marked as India. The electric motor and tank are USA made.

 

[Marctrees]

Lo50s- OK.. so in your case.. I would keep an eye on Craigslist around you, certainly including major areas like Mpls.

Majority of comps like you want will be 3phase, although should be able to find a 5 hp single phase w/o too much trouble.

Don't forget.. alot of guys here run stuff w VFD's, I have no experience w that.

You are open to used for a good unit?

Marc

 

[Marctrees]

Here's a few interesting possibles.. the first one is a great price, but is 3phase.

Check into that VFD thing and see what you think.

Marc



https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/hnp/tls/d/air-compressor/6665958897.html

https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/ank/tls/d/air-compressor/6688953456.html

https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/csw/tls/d/aire-5hp-80-gallon-air/6679580773.html

https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/hnp/tls/d/ingersoll-rand-type-30-air/6687586523.html

https://minneapolis.craigslist.org/csw/tls/d/air-compressor-5hp-2-stage-80/6653975477.html

 

[Low50s]

Marc I will check those links when I get a chance to sit down tonight I ran across this 80 gal champion today called the guy seems like it should fit my bill thoughts? 5hp 175 psi 20.2 cfm

https://cedarrapids.craigslist.org/tls/d/champion-5hp-compressor-80/6688204858.html

 

[Marctrees]

Your link does not work, but I found it anyway.

Yup, something like that looks great.. very good price from what I know.

Keep in mind.. when looking at a used comp.. good to do a pump up test.. from zero to like 160 or whatever, TIMED w a timer.. then use tank volume and formula.. confirm pumpup time is in correct ballpark.

Someone here can chime in w the formula, not very complex.

Just as a rough estimate..IIRC, for that comp w 80 gal tank.. it would be very rough ballpark around 8-11 minutes I THINK.. ROUGH ballpark.

Do not depend on this, i'm just sayin it ain't 4 minutes, nor 20.

Formula will tell you.

Input the specs and calculate for target pumpup time so the figure is known before you go test.


Marc

 

[Low50s]

Your link does not work, but I found it anyway.

Yup, something like that looks great.. very good price from what I know.

Keep in mind.. when looking at a used comp.. good to do a pump up test.. from zero to like 160 or whatever, TIMED w a timer.. then use tank volume and formula.. confirm pumpup time is in correct ballpark.

Someone here can chime in w the formula, not very complex.


Marc

Marc

That may be hard to do since he said it has been disconnected to upgrade to a larger unit. owner sounded like an older gentleman and said it was used at his home body shop

Ill fix the link I was trying to do it from my cell phone.

 

[Marctrees]

Done -

https://cedarrapids.craigslist.org/tls/d/champion-5hp-compressor-80/6688204858.html

That actually is one great price.. if the guy sounds decent, I would grab it now.. cause will be gone tommorow.

Marc

 

[Low50s]

Done -

https://cedarrapids.craigslist.org/tls/d/champion-5hp-compressor-80/6688204858.html

That actually is one great price.. if the guy sounds decent, I would grab it now.. cause will be gone tommorow.

Marc

It will have to wait until the weekend if that’s the one I decide on. I’m about 2 hours away and with my toddler at home it makes it hard to decide to go on a whim I may call him back tomorrow

 

[Marctrees]

Well, this one will be gone.. but I just wanted to show that living where you do, lots of possibilitys come up.. and to point out many Guys successfully use the new style VFD's.

Let us know what you find.

Marc

 

[Citation]

The champion looks like a good option. I'm going to throw out an alternative. It may not suit your needs but it's an alternative.

Look at getting a pair of lower end compressors. Just using this one as an example
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-60-Gal-Stationary-Electric-Air-Compressor-C602H/205389936

$550 regular price, ~11 CFM @90 psi. If you can do wiring for two compressors (you will need separate breakers) then a pair of these cost $1100 and will deliver 22 CFM when plumbed into a common manifold.

This twin compressor option has a number of upsides. First you have a fully redundant system if something goes wrong with one compressor the other is still operating.

Second, you have 120 gallons of air.

Third, you can selectively use one or the other and only one tank. You could even plumb both pumps into one tank to speed filling a single 60 gallon tank when you don't need lots of extra air.

Fourth, you don't have to spend all at once. You can start with the single compressor then add the second when you decide you need it. If you never need it then you never buy it.

Downsides are you have to run two circuits for the two compressors. You also have to have space for two compressors. Most lower end compressors such as the one I linked to aren't 100% duty cycle. They are likely something like 75% duty cycle. Almost certainly sufficient for your needs but still something to keep in mind. Finally, you have to actually put the effort into plumbing the two compressors into one another with shut off valves etc. You also need to either get a fancy controller or adjust these so the compressors don't both turn on at the same time (just a few PSI difference is fine).

In cases where someone wants to go new this twin compressor setup is often the cheapest (on paper) way to get 20+ CFM. However it's more complex and it's not like these are 100% duty cycle pumps. Compared to a new Champion compressor this is a good alternative. But a deal like that used Champion, if in good condition, would be my choice vs the twin 60 solution. Still, two compressors may be an easy out of the box solution.

 

[ez-duzit]

I'd get the new Quincy.

 

[Low50s]

Well, this one will be gone.. but I just wanted to show that living where you do, lots of possibilitys come up.. and to point out many Guys successfully use the new style VFD's.

Let us know what you find.

Marc

Making the trip tonight to check out the champion and buy if we can make a deal.

It was posted about 2 compressors and I want to avoid the double wiring as that would tie up lots of power and space. I wanted a vertical over horizontal but I would not rule out horizontal if the deal was there.

 

[Low50s]

So the compressor came home with me! owner had the owners manual and everything to go with it so I am pretty excited. it came with a factory tank drain but he said long time ago it took a **** and was capped off so I wish that was still around. but otherwise I think I got a decent deal on the system as of now.

 

[Marctrees]

So, just to confirm, show the link or photo of what you got and price.

For the drain.. I think you will have a 1/2 female thread hole... Put a galv steel 90 in that ("Street L" probably)then like a 12" or so ****** to get it outside the footprint of the big tank..., then ball valve.. then maybe something after that if you like.

I did that, then 90'd up, then the ball valve at knee level, and dumps into a 5 gal bucket next to the unit.

No problem at all w the valve up high, sheeet, that pressure will blow it alll out.

The 5 gal bucket is needed not for the drained water volume, but to provide a deep enough vessel so you can open the valve under full pressure all the way, and splash will be mostly contained.

Looking forward to seeing your new Baby !!

Very happy for you, saved a bunch of $.

Are you happy ?

Marc

 

[Low50s]

So, just to confirm, show the link or photo of what you got and price.

For the drain.. I think you will have a 1/2 female thread hole... Put a galv steel 90 in that ("Street L" probably)then like a 12" or so ****** to get it outside the footprint of the big tank..., then ball valve.. then maybe something after that if you like.

I did that, then 90'd up, then the ball valve at knee level, and dumps into a 5 gal bucket next to the unit.

No problem at all w the valve up high, sheeet, that pressure will blow it alll out.

The 5 gal bucket is needed not for the drained water volume, but to provide a deep enough vessel so you can open the valve under full pressure all the way, and splash will be mostly contained.

Looking forward to seeing your new Baby !!

Very happy for you, saved a bunch of $.

Are you happy ?

Marc

I feel like a kid on Christmas right now I am very excited to get it hooked up. I ended up with the one from Cedar Rapids it’s an 80 gallon r15 pump 5hp motor
I ended up getting it for $600 so I saved $50 and I got tons of good conversation so it was worth it. Also gave me 2 belts a new belt guard oil for the pump. And loaded it onto the truck with his skid loader and assisted me strapping it down.

I was looking at the factory style auto drain online and I am wondering if it’s worth doing an auto drain or just installing new ball valves

Here’s the pic I’ll upload more when I get it unloaded

 

[FTG-05]

Definitely a contender for the monthly "You ****!" Award!

 

[Bluejoe]

Hey like to find one of those from HF. What do I look for that stands out on good one then bad Chinese made other then pump. I’m renting a garage and wouldn’t want a expensive one disappearing. I wouldn’t want any getting stolen but that’s the chance I take with Garage rental.

 

[Marctrees]

Blue - ALL the info you need is in Post 3, mostly in the links.

Marc

 

[engineer2]

Obviously the motor got replaced. Hopefully a high quality Baldor or similar.

 

[Low50s]

Obviously the motor got replaced. Hopefully a high quality Baldor or similar.

It’s a WEG motor so it’s an inexpensive one but right now I care if it works if it dies I can always replace with another my big thing was pump and tank size

 

[Low50s]

Just wanted to give a little update on this compressor.

I added oil last week still have not had a chance to hook power up to it yet. When adding oil I noticed that it was wet around the compressor pump at the bottom to find out that the low oil switch copper crush washers were leaking. I removed the pump and removed my valves and noticed a small teeny spot in one of the cylinder walls so I think I am going to remove the head hone and install a rebuild kit while I have it down. I have found all parts from pacific compressors but the copper crush washers as of now.

 

[Low50s]

Any paint that matches the old champion green? I am going threw and adding a refresh to the pump