Air line

[Jd1368]

So I bought the rapid air home garage kit and I’ll be setting it up tomorrow. It’s 3/8 ID. I picked up a combo air filter/regulator/lubricator but accidentally got 1/4”. Will this be ok or should I return for a 3/8?

 

[egdede]

Are you going to be using a nailer or a sander? Different tools have different needs.

Are you sure you want inline lubrication? That oil goes everywhere the air goes...

 

[Gunfixr]

I'd return for a 3/8".
I'd rather have more air than needed all the way to the qd and restrict it there, than not have enough.

 

[Jd1368]

It’s for air tools. Nothing too heavy but basic mechanic work

 

[Jd1368]

My understanding was that inline lubrication was good for mechanic air tools. Can always turn off the lubricator when I need just air

 

[Jswain]

I would return it and get a 3/8. The cost difference right now for you is minimal vs. in a year or two if you decide to upgrade.

You will be good with just a filter/regulator to start. I wouldn't worry too much about an inline oiler either unless you're mounting it right on the tool being used as the oil can deteriorate the air hose it's better to just oil the tool directly.

Also depending on how far you are running the rapid air it may benefit you quite a bit to go 1/2". Depending on length of run and what your compressor maxes out at for psi

 

[1MtnGoat]

Oil the tool not the line. Even if turned off oil will stay in the line and flow for a while. You don't want oil in your tires or coming out of your spray gun into paint.

 

[fluid power]

Check the flow of the regulator if that is available. Just because you have a bigger inlet (3/8) doesn't mean it will automatically flow more air, especially when dealing with regulators and filters.

 

[Hawk]

My understanding was that inline lubrication was good for mechanic air tools. Can always turn off the lubricator when I need just air

Once oil goes through the air line it will always be there. If you are going to spray any paint it using that line, then the paint will have some containments in it.

 

[nadogail]

More Air is more better.

 

[sweetk30]

just watched this one with good info .

supply lines in the shop need to be big in my opinion . my shop is 3/4" then drops to 1/2" to the 3/8" coupler ports .

been using p.b. blaster air tool conditioner for 15+ years and love it . i dont over oil my stuff and i still have my original can . i have taken a few apart to inspect and no major wear or problems seen .