Choosing new compressor

[spepin]

So, I have an old, extremely reliable Quincy compressor, (Quincy Air Master 131A20PN3). It's a portable 20 gallon 6.5CFM model. It's served me very well for decades. Unfortunately, I've ordered a blast cabinet, and the 6.5CFM just won't cut it, so I've decided to upgrade my compressor. I'm torn between several models. To me, CFM is more important than PSI. I've seen some 1-stage models with higher CFM, but relatively low PSI (125-135), and some 2-stage with high PSI, but relatively low (14) CFM ratings.

Ideally, I'd like to be in the 15-18CFM range, and no lower than a 100 PSI cut-on point for the pressure switch (which would put me in the 140+ max PSI range).

I do want a 100% cat iron pump, and a USA made machine.

Here's a short list of what I've been considering. Please let me know your thoughts and recommendations:

Ingersoll Rand SS5L5 (1-stage, 15.5 CFM, 100 PSI on, 135 PSI off)
Ingersoll Rand 2340L5 (2-stage, 14 CFM, 135 PSI on, 175 PSI off)
Quincy 2V41C60VC (2-stage, 15.4 CFM, 140 PSI on, 170 PSI off)

I had initially ordered a Chicago Pneumatic RCP-561VNS (2-stage, 15 CFM, 130 PSI on, 165 PSI off), but it got damaged while the shipping company was unloading it. A replacement was sent, but UPS Freight tracking indicated that it had been damaged in transit, and that model now shows an extended lead time, so I'm dropping it from my short list - for now anyway, but please include it for your comments.

I really wish somebody made a smaller (20-35 gallon) horizontal portable compressor with similar specs, but all I find are in the 5-6 CFM range.

Update -- I'll list below the companies I've heard back from regarding Country of Origin:
Chicago Pneumatic -- Pumps are made in China. Baldor motor.
Ingersoll Rand -- Pumps cast in India (made in China). Motors made in Mexico.
Quincy -- Compressor and pump made in Bay Minette,AL. ABB/Baldor motor.
Champion -- (awaiting response)

 

[tom-ky]

The Ingersoll I looked at had a Chinese pump.

 

[engineer2]

Look at Champion and Saylor-Beall.

 

[sberry]

Any of those would probably work fine but I would want one of the 2 stage. So much more headroom and stored energy and with some operator input will blast a lot longer, also work so much better with air tools and hose reels.

 

[matt_i]

Just wanted to point out that the pressure switch on a 170/175psi is highly adjustable.

I run my T30 compressor at 130psi max for reasons of reducing heat and wear on the pump. I have no need for 175psi.

Next comment is always about the perils of making this adjustment, despite it being one of the simplest things that can be done to a compressor: it takes a screwdriver to remove the cover of the pressure switch and a nutdriver to turn the nut. If you don't like where it ended up, take a measurement at the start on the free length of thread and put it back where it started. Nut tighter/spring shorter is higher PSI and nut looser/spring longer is a lower psi.

 

[930dreamer]

Look for a rebuild able vintage made in USA pump.

 

[sberry]

Why start with something that needs rebuild? This is a good place/person to buy new. Get using it.

 

[spepin]

Why start with something that needs rebuild? This is a good place/person to buy new. Get using it.

Exactly. Part of the reason I don't just bolt on a new pump and motor to my old tank is that after 20+ years, I'd rather get everything fresh. Plus new pumps cost almost as much as buying a whole new compressor.

I've reached out to the various manufacturers that I mentioned for details on component Country of Origin, and I'll check out Champion and Saylor-Beall, but I'm curious about the availability of parts down the road -- I'm not familiar with those brands.

 

[The Tool Tyrant]

Look at Champion and Saylor-Beall.

AND, I'll add Quincy QR series to engineer2's suggestions.

Look for a rebuild able vintage made in USA pump.

Again, any of the fore mentioned 3, in "vintage" condition will give many years of continued service with minimal maintenance.
Valve service is usually all that is needed on a high hour pump, as long as it hasn't been run out of oil. Maybe new rings and a hone job, throw in new bearings and oil seals and you're good as new...correction... BETTER than new in the case of most of the cheaper pumps.

Sorry, you got your last post in before I finished mine. All three of the fore mentioned pumps have readily accessible parts. All three pumps are manufactured in the USA, unless something changed recently.

If money isn't an issue, then I would first go with a Quincy QR 325. Second choice would be either the Champion R15B pump or the SB 705...I don't have a bad word to say about either one. The Champion is easier to do valve service on as it only requires standard hand tools. The SB is easy, but does require either a face pin spanner (newer design) or custom (easy to make) slot plug wrench (old design) depending on the age of the pump.

All 3 pumps run at low rpm and come with 1725 rpm motors, which naturally makes them quieter running pumps.

I think you'd have a hard time finding ANYONE on this forum that has anything negative to say about any of these 3 compressors.

Sorry, you got that last post in before I completed this. All three pumps are manufactured in the USA and parts are readily available as well.

 

[spepin]

Thanks for the additional info, Tool Tyrant. I looked at the QR-25 units, but they're a bit out of my budget. I'm trying to stay under $2k all in.

 

[Ing3018]

At the sub $2k price point, you are not likely to be able hit all the criteria you listed.
I lucked into a Saylor Beall and spent a few bucks on new valve disks, piston rings, cylinder homing and new gaskets. Very easy rebuild project.
My advice is to look for a used industrial air compressor.

 

[spepin]

At the sub $2k price point, you are not likely to be able hit all the criteria you listed.

Every one of the models I listed are under $2k and hit all the criteria I listed. Just waiting on confirmation of Country of Origin for the pumps. I know "Made in USA" doesn't guarantee that all components are made here.

 

[Pontiac787]

What about this guy - https://www.aircompressorsdirect.com/Industrial-Air-IV5076055-Air-Compressor/p67979.html

On air compressors direct it’s listed as commercial grade where the Chicago is labeled consumer. I don’t know the COO of the pump however.

 

[The Tool Tyrant]

If you're stuck on 'brand new' with a budget of 2k, then forget any of the 3 I mentioned.

If you're going to be doing a good amount of blasting, then 'buy once / cry once'. A decent blast cabinet requires a good deal of air, so why spend 2k on a compressor that may be 'okay'...for awhile or... https://www.compressorworld.com/cha...r-two-stage-80-gallon-230v-1-phase-vr5-8.html

or... www.compressorworld.com/5-hp-two-st...-air-compressor-single-phase-vt-735-80-1.html

 

[lbpd716]

Thought this was an interesting watch on CFM ratings..

 

[sberry]

If you had a comp you been using g for decades then you are probably not a real youngster. Don't worry about buying a new unit to rebuild. You likely can't wear one out if you try. If you really do replace it or fix the thing. Anyone buy or choose a new car based on its rebuild ability?
I got a champ I haven't taken great care of especially in the early days, use it every day since 72 and a lot for 20 years, been on for 45 years. Put a rod bearing in it, 2 bearings and start cap in the motor and it's got 1000's,, of hours, probably somewhere 6, maybe 8 k and that could be conservative. A home body or part timer could never put that kind of service on one.

 

[spepin]

If you had a comp you been using g for decades then you are probably not a real youngster. Don't worry about buying a new unit to rebuild. You likely can't wear one out if you try. If you really do replace it or fix the thing. Anyone buy or choose a new car based on its rebuild ability?

Great point.

 

[spepin]

If you're stuck on 'brand new' with a budget of 2k, then forget any of the 3 I mentioned.

If you're going to be doing a good amount of blasting, then 'buy once / cry once'. A decent blast cabinet requires a good deal of air, so why spend 2k on a compressor that may be 'okay'...for awhile or... https://www.compressorworld.com/cha...r-two-stage-80-gallon-230v-1-phase-vr5-8.html

or... www.compressorworld.com/5-hp-two-st...-air-compressor-single-phase-vt-735-80-1.html

Good points also. I wouldn't say I'll be doing a good amount of blasting - just want to be prepared for when I do.

I can certainly consider stretching my budget a bit for one of those two. I was hoping to stay with a brand that is offered on Grainger/Zoro.com as I have a 25% discount due to the multiple shipping damage issues I've had, but I guess that isn't necessarily a deal breaker. I'd rather buy a "legacy" compressor that I can feel good about passing down to my kids. I'm assuming the pumps in the SB and Champion machines are made here? Apparently, in the "prosumer" price range, Made in USA doesn't necessarily mean that all the major components are made here.

 

[sberry]

I edited last point about service life. Most new comps today outlast the owners. Wore some tools right out. Had a guy run a wire wheel constant for 2 months once. Painted 50 cars and trucks, another dozen tractors.

 

[spepin]

Thought this was an interesting watch on CFM ratings..

Saw this the other day too. Wasn't surprised considering the grade of compressor he was testing. I wouldn't expect that kind of marketing license with compressors in this size though...

 

[Ing3018]

Every one of the models I listed are under $2k and hit all the criteria I listed. Just waiting on confirmation of Country of Origin for the pumps. I know "Made in USA" doesn't guarantee that all components are made here.

I was thinking of the COH criteria and lower speed motor (not one of your listed goals).

 

[spepin]

If you're stuck on 'brand new' with a budget of 2k, then forget any of the 3 I mentioned.

If you're going to be doing a good amount of blasting, then 'buy once / cry once'. A decent blast cabinet requires a good deal of air, so why spend 2k on a compressor that may be 'okay'...for awhile or... https://www.compressorworld.com/cha...r-two-stage-80-gallon-230v-1-phase-vr5-8.html

or... www.compressorworld.com/5-hp-two-st...-air-compressor-single-phase-vt-735-80-1.html

Looks like Zoro has the Champion model you mentioned, and with the discount, it comes in at $1,886. I think I just made up my mind!

 

[AmericanMechanic]

Is Jenny brand an option? I don't know much about them, but i think they may be USA made?

 

[CGT80]

I saw a really great quality used compressor on craigslist list in the socal/ just east of LA area. I would love to have it but already have almost the same one. $550 for something that would be $3-4 k for a new equivalent model. It is old. It would be at least 17 cfm at 175 and as high as 25-30 if it is the model I expect. Cast iron, pressure lubricated, slow turning but it should be a 5 or 7.5hp and 80 gallon tank. It is a Westinghouse air brake company unit. My bigger one is 5hp 20 cfm running at 170psi, will do 250 psi. For my blast cabinet and cnc plasma, as well as die grinders, i wouldn't settle for anything smaller. It more than keeps up with blasting, but I need to upgrade to high flow couplers and test it.

Sent from my SM-G955U using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[The Tool Tyrant]

Looks like Zoro has the Champion model you mentioned, and with the discount, it comes in at $1,886. I think I just made up my mind!

Hold on! I checked Zoro, the VRV5-8 is NOT the same compressor. This compressor is Champion's 'Centurion' (value) line. This pump uses 'reed' valves NOT 'disc' style valves as the R15B pump uses. The Centurion pump runs @ 1035 RPM vs. 710 RPM of the R15B.
Visually, they almost look the same, but the big clue is the R15B has a centrifugal unloader, while the Centurion does not.

 

[Citation]

Hold on! I checked Zoro, the VRV5-8 is NOT the same compressor. This compressor is Champion's 'Centurion' (value) line. This pump uses 'reed' valves NOT 'disc' style valves as the R15B pump uses. The Centurion pump runs @ 1035 RPM vs. 710 RPM of the R15B.
Visually, they almost look the same, but the big clue is the R15B has a centrifugal unloader, while the Centurion does not.

The question is will the OP use the thing enough to matter? I've been trying to recall if my father's 5hp champion was an R15B or VR pump. He used it with out issue for at least the decades including painting and body work as well as sandblasting.

 

[The Tool Tyrant]

The question is will the OP use the thing enough to matter? I've been trying to recall if my father's 5hp champion was an R15B or VR pump. He used it with out issue for at least the decades including painting and body work as well as sandblasting.

The 'Centurion' model may be absolutely fine for him, I just wanted him to be aware that the Zoro offering is NOT the same compressor on the link that I attached.

 

[spepin]

The 'Centurion' model may be absolutely fine for him, I just wanted him to be aware that the Zoro offering is NOT the same compressor on the link that I attached.

Thanks for that -- I guess that would explain the "V" model prefix. I don't spray cars, use a plasma cutter, etc. My compressor gets only occasional use (air tools when I need them, or some upcoming occasional abrasive blasting). I certainly don't need industrial power and quality like a mechanic or paint & body shop would. Just a home garage air compressor.

So far, my choices have been narrowed to Quincy and Champion (IR has yet to respond regarding COO, and there was an earlier post stating the pump seen was made in China, so until I hear otherwise, I'm cutting them from my list).

As far as the differences in the Champion RV-8 and VRV-8, would it really be worth the $900 difference in end price?

As I mentioned - I don't need continuous duty pressure lubricated, etc., but I don't mind buying quality. The question is -- where do you draw a line at price vs quality for the amount of use this will get? I'm sure at the rate that I use them, any of these brands will give me 20+ years of service.

 

[engineer2]

Price perspective:
Our Champion VR5-8 was $2600 in 2016. Current list price is $4,490, but many dealers discount to around $2650. Your local automotive equipment dealer might give good discounts and offer free delivery. Lots of auto repair shop owners are cheap, I used to work in that industry.

If you can bump your budget up a little, you can get one the will last you the rest of your life. The low-speed models (Champ, S-B Quincy) pop up on CL frequently, but often have years of use on them.

 

[Citation]

Thanks for that -- I guess that would explain the "V" model prefix. I don't spray cars, use a plasma cutter, etc. My compressor gets only occasional use (air tools when I need them, or some upcoming occasional abrasive blasting). I certainly don't need industrial power and quality like a mechanic or paint & body shop would. Just a home garage air compressor.

So far, my choices have been narrowed to Quincy and Champion (IR has yet to respond regarding COO, and there was an earlier post stating the pump seen was made in China, so until I hear otherwise, I'm cutting them from my list).

As far as the differences in the Champion RV-8 and VRV-8, would it really be worth the $900 difference in end price?

As I mentioned - I don't need continuous duty pressure lubricated, etc., but I don't mind buying quality. The question is -- where do you draw a line at price vs quality for the amount of use this will get? I'm sure at the rate that I use them, any of these brands will give me 20+ years of service.

Given what you need you might consider some of the cheaper 80 gallon models made by Coleman or Campbell Hausfeld.

Here is a dewalt banded compressor that meets your needs for $900
https://www.homedepot.com/p/DEWALT-...Vz-DICh2d1g5kEAkYAiABEgL6qPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

 

[strutaeng]

Thought this was an interesting watch on CFM ratings..

Sheesh! What a disappointment!

So how do the folks that use impact guns with pancake/hot dog compressors do it to remove lug nut on their cars? Do they wait all day to let their compressor catch up? I've always thought an impact was more like a continuous duty tool, maybe not.

I tried an impact once on a 6 gallon "Job Boss" that had a stated 6.0 CFM @ 90 psi stated right on it, and didn't work for squat (maybe for like 10 seconds)...Gave up on pneumatic impacts and small air compressors after that.

 

[spepin]

Happened to be at Tractor Supply yesterday with a friend, and they had some Ingersoll Rand compressors on display. So sad to see reputable American brands with Chinese pumps. I guess they have to trim costs to stay relevant with entry level buyers.

I inserted a photo below, but for some reason it doesn't show up, so I added a link to it.

https://1drv.ms/u/s!Aj3aXcsPwDT2grocsL7dqccAMctT2w

 

[trbomax]

Look at Champion and Saylor-Beall.

Saylor Beall are made in Michigan.I have one and they are good units,resoably quiet too.